The war drama "Dead To Rights", a harrowing cinematic portrayal of the Nanjing Massacre during Japan's invasion of China, has ignited profound emotional responses and widespread historical reflection among audiences across China.
Released on July 25, the film has already grossed over 2.1 billion yuan (about 292 million U.S. dollars) in just 17 days -- a remarkable achievement that underscores its powerful resonance with viewers.
As this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, "Dead To Rights" stands at the heart of a wave of new films and theatrical works commemorating this pivotal chapter in history.
Even on weekdays, theaters in Beijing's busiest commercial districts remained packed.
"The film's box office performance has been impressive. It started with a 20-percent screen share in its first week, peaked at 40 percent in the second week, and even now -- after two weeks -- it's still holding strong at 30 percent. What's remarkable is that its ticket sales and audience numbers have consistently outpaced its screen allocation, proving its strong appeal," said Li Hang, operations manager of Beijing Emperor Cinemas.
Set in the aftermath of the fall of Nanjing -- then Chinese capital -- on Dec 13, 1937, "Dead To Rights" follows a group of Chinese civilians who take refuge in a small photography studio amid the chaos.
While the film does not shy away from depicting the immense suffering inflicted upon innocent civilians, it equally emphasizes their quiet courage, dignity, and resistance in the face of unimaginable horror.
"I cried through the entire film. Seeing present-day Nanjing contrasted with images from 80 years ago -- sometimes the exact same locations -- you can't help but feel proud of how far our nation has come," said a viewer.
"I hope more international audiences see this. Many countries overlook this history, but this isn't about hatred. It's about remembering the past and valuing peace," said another audience member.
For many, the film served as a poignant reminder of the cost of war and the value of peace.
"What struck me most was realizing that the peace we enjoy today was built on the sacrifices of countless lives. It's emotional, but also inspiring to see how strong our country has become," shared a moviegoer.
Now entering global release, "Dead To Rights" not only honors the memory of those who suffered and resisted during one of history's darkest chapters, but also delivers a universal message: History must not be forgotten, and peace must never be taken for granted.
"Dead To Rights" sparks reflection with powerful depiction of Nanjing Massacre
"Dead To Rights" sparks reflection with powerful depiction of Nanjing Massacre
The European Union（EU）and France have reaffirmed their support for Denmark's sovereignty over Greenland as concerns are growing over security in the Arctic following the recent statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the strategically important island.
Speaking at a press conference in Brussels on Wednesday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that "Greenland belongs to its people, so it's up to Denmark and Greenland, and only to them, to decide on matters that are concerning Denmark and Greenland."
Noting that the EU is in contact with the Danish government, Von der Leyen stressed that security in the Arctic region is a key issue of concern to the EU.
Also on Wednesday, the European Parliament's political group leaders issued a statement, condemning the remarks made by the Trump administration regarding Greenland and terming them as a "blatant" challenge to international law and to the sovereignty of NATO member Denmark.
They urged the EU institutions to define "concrete and tangible" support for Denmark and Greenland, and stressed that decisions concerning Greenland belong to Denmark and Greenland alone.
"External attempts to alter the status quo are unacceptable," the leaders said.
In a related development, a group of 23 lawmakers sent a letter to European Parliament President Roberta Metsola on Wednesday, emphasizing that if the United States continues to threaten Denmark's autonomous territory, the European Parliament should suspend debates and votes on trade agreements with the United States.
Currently, the European Parliament is deliberating on removing most U.S. import tariffs and maintaining zero-tariff policies on U.S. lobster, with a vote scheduled for January 26 and 27.
Meanwhile, French government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon, citing President Emmanuel Macron, warned on Wednesday that any infringement on Danish sovereignty over Greenland would trigger "unprecedented" consequences.
"If the sovereignty of a European ally were affected, the cascading consequences would be unprecedented," said Bregeon.
"we are closely monitoring the situation and will stand firmly with Denmark to defend its sovereignty," the spokeswoman said.
On the same day, French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu noted the need for serious consideration of recent U.S. signals concerning Greenland.
Lecornu reaffirmed France's "full solidarity with Denmark and the legitimate authorities of Greenland," adding that safeguarding the sovereignty of other countries is an important foundation for safeguarding one's own sovereignty.
Furthermore, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced on Wednesday that France will open a consulate in Greenland on February 6, calling the move a "political signal" over the strategic Danish territory.
The foreign minister said that the U.S. plan of buying Greenland is "absurd" and that this "blackmail" should stop.
He reiterated that France and Europe will continue to support Denmark.
Greenland, the world's largest island, is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, while Denmark retains authority over defense and foreign policy. The United States maintains a military base on the island.
Since his first term, Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire to acquire Greenland. Both Greenland and Denmark have made clear that the island is not for sale. The White House said last week that Trump will not rule out the use of force.
EU, France reaffirm support for Denmark's sovereignty over Greenland
