China – August 23, 2025
A new wave of cinematic storytelling is sweeping across China, as two historical epics, “Dongji Rescue” and “Dead to Rights,” are receiving critical praise and achieving major box office success. Both films, rooted in the solemn history of World War II, delve into patriotic themes, but through distinct and compelling narratives. “Dongji Rescue” tells the true story of Chinese fishermen rescuing British prisoners of war from a sinking Japanese vessel, while “Dead to Rights” explores the Nanjing Massacre from a unique perspective. These productions, released to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, are not only touching audiences’ hearts but also sparking discussions about heroism, history, and humanity. Their success indicates a strong appetite among audiences in China and beyond for powerful stories that honor the past and promote a spirit of peace and justice.
Headline Points
* “Dongji Rescue” a Blockbuster Epic: Directed by Guan Hu and Fei Zhenxiang, “Dongji Rescue” retells the historical event of the Lisbon Maru sinking in 1942. The film, with a reported $80 million budget and IMAX cinematography, has been praised for its stunning visuals and action sequences, which depict Chinese fishermen bravely saving over 300 British POWs. It has been described as a rousing tribute to a little-known humanitarian act.
* “Dead to Rights” Focuses on Historical Evidence: “Dead to Rights,” directed by Shen Ao, takes an unusual and powerful approach to the Nanjing Massacre. The film centers on a group of people at a photo studio who risk their lives to preserve photographic evidence of Japanese atrocities. It has been acclaimed for its emotional depth and for confronting a painful history with a focus on humanity and remembrance, rather than just visceral horror. The film has earned exceptional box office results, demonstrating its widespread impact.
* Global Reach and Commemoration: Both films have extended their reach beyond China. “Dead to Rights,” for example, has premiered in North America, Australia, and New Zealand, with planned releases in Europe and other parts of Asia. This global distribution is part of a larger effort to ensure these historical events are not forgotten. The release of these films coincides with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, adding to their cultural and historical significance.
* Critical Acclaim and Public Response: “Dead to Rights” has garnered an impressive rating on Chinese review platforms and has been praised by both Chinese and international audiences for its powerful and authentic storytelling. While “Dongji Rescue” has been praised for its technical craftsmanship, some reviews have noted a focus on individual heroism that may overshadow the collective effort of the fishermen, a common element in patriotic blockbusters.
* A New Trend in Chinese Cinema: The success of these films highlights a growing trend in Chinese cinema to produce high-budget, well-crafted historical dramas that resonate with a patriotic audience. These films serve as a form of national education and cultural expression, using cinematic tools to tell stories of resistance, sacrifice, and the enduring strength of the Chinese spirit.
