As the world marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, two Chinese films carrying profound historical memories are making their way to audiences across the globe this summer.
Dead To Rights, a Chinese historical film about the 1937 Nanjing Massacre, premiered domestically on July 25 before its international rollout starting August 7 in Australia, New Zealand, the U.S., and Canada, with subsequent releases in Malaysia, Singapore, Russia, and South Korea.
In Sydney, Australia, the film's artistic portrayal of historical trauma and human dignity left Sydney viewers deeply affected. For many, the horrors of the Nanjing Massacre were not something they had been much exposed to.
"Actually I was (informed about the story of the Nanjing Massacre), but just an overview, just a little bit. I have friends, with the Chinese, so I knew a little bit, but not this deep," said a moviegoer.
Meanwhile, Dongji Rescue, a story of how Chinese fishermen defied gunfire to rescue over 300 British captives from the Japanese ship Lisbon Maru in 1942, debuted domestically on August 8, with international screenings following from August 14 in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, the U.K., U.S., and Canada.
The films collectively highlight the moral courage of ordinary Chinese during the war, with Dead To Rights reflecting national solidarity and Dongji Rescue underscoring China's wartime internationalism.
Together, they chart the spiritual heritage of China during the war of resistance.
"History serves as a profound textbook, offering invaluable lessons that guide our progress. From a global perspective, it also stands as a vital beacon, helping nations worldwide recognize that war is transient while peace endures. Only through peaceful advancement can we steer global development toward a brighter future," said Wang Xuebin, a professor at the Party School of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.
Chinese WWII films spark historical reflection around globe
