Japan formally surrenders, ending World War II. This leads to Allied occupation and significant territorial changes including the Kuril Islands.
Soviet forces invade and occupy the Kuril Islands, including Shikotan, where the story of Giovanni's Island is set.
The Japanese residents of the Kuril Islands are evacuated and repatriated to Japan following Soviet occupation.
The animated film Giovanni's Island is released, depicting the post-war experience of a family on the Kuril Islands.
Junpei and Kanta live peacefully with their family on Shikotan Island before World War II ends.
Soviet forces occupy Shikotan Island following Japan's surrender in WWII, disrupting the lives of residents.
The brothers are separated from their family and forced into a Soviet labor camp on the island.
Junpei and Kanta struggle to survive in the harsh conditions of the labor camp and try to maintain hope.
Junpei begins to build understanding and friendships with some Soviet soldiers, including Tarō.
Despite scarcity, Soviet soldiers help Kanta recover from illness, showing moments of compassion.
Junpei constantly yearns to reunite with his family and leave the island under Soviet control.
Tarō tells Junpei about the story of Giovanni, inspiring hope and resilience.
A limited number of Japanese civilians are permitted to leave Shikotan, but Junpei and his brother remain.
The island remains under Soviet control with strict rules affecting the residents' freedoms.
After years, the brothers are reunited with their family under difficult conditions.
Junpei muses on the complexities of friendship with former enemies and the impact of war.
