The classic story of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor is told through the eyes of two boyhood friends, now serving as officers in the Army Air Corps. Rafe is an energetic young pilot who is selected to fly with the British in Europe while America is still not at war. After Rafe is shot down and presumed killed, however, Danny comforts Rafe's former lover, Evelyn, and the two draw closer. But, when Rafe turns up alive, the two former friends become enemies, and it is through the turmoil of Pearl Harbor that the two may reconcile their differences.

Ben Affleck originally turned down the role of Rafe McCawley.

Admiral Yamamoto:
I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant.

Anachronisms: Due to the obvious difficulties in obtaining antique machinery, some of the military equipment does not exactly match the period, and dates from later in the war. Some of the ships and aircraft were built long after World War II, or have equipment added by their present owners - antique planes and warships are even harder to come by.

Written by Diane Warren
Produced by Trevor Horn and Byron Gallimore
Performed by Faith Hill
Courtesy of Warner Bros. Records