BEIJING, Aug. 10, 2025 — The film “Dongji Rescue” recounts the compelling true story of Chinese fishermen from Dongji Island heroically saving over 1,800 British prisoners of war (POWs) from the Japanese vessel Lisbon Maru after it was torpedoed by American forces in 1942, despite facing gunfire from Japanese soldiers.
Beyond merely revisiting a poignant, yet often overlooked, chapter of history, “Dongji Rescue” champions the principle that historical remembrance serves not to perpetuate animosity, but to derive lessons essential for safeguarding peace.
During the Lisbon Maru’s sinking, Japanese forces reportedly sealed the ship’s holds and fired upon prisoners attempting to escape, rather than initiating rescue efforts.
In stark contrast to such brutality and callousness, local Chinese fishermen, despite enduring severe wartime hardship, exemplified the maxim that “saving a life is a greater virtue than building a seven-storied pagoda.”
Risking their own lives, they piloted their modest boats near the sinking ship, rescuing hundreds of POWs. This selfless, compassionate act transcended borders, shining as a beacon amid the darkness of war and underscoring the profound sense of responsibility and commitment demonstrated by ordinary Chinese during a crisis.
The film’s release holds particular significance within today’s intricate and volatile global landscape, where certain nations continue to pursue hegemonism and unilateralism in international affairs, and ongoing conflicts threaten world peace.
Japan’s approach to historical issues remains deeply concerning. Instead of acknowledging and atoning for its wartime aggression, it stands accused of attempting to whitewash its history of invasion. Tokyo’s actions include distorting textbooks and justifying visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, which commemorates over 1,000 convicted World War II war criminals. Critics contend this desecrates historical truth and insults the nations Japan victimized.
As Guan Hu, the director of “Dongji Rescue,” stated, “Distorting and twisting history is more terrifying than forgetting it. I felt that I should tell everyone the truth through the film.”
Through the cinematic medium, “Dongji Rescue” resurrects this true historical account, serving as a powerful reminder that history must neither be forgotten nor falsified. The purpose of remembering history is not to perpetuate hatred or seek revenge against any particular nation, but to extract crucial lessons – to comprehend the preciousness of peace and to defend it with unwavering resolve.
Previously, many were unaware of the events on Dongji Island in the East China Sea during World War II and China’s broader role in the conflict. On the 80th anniversary of the War of Resistance, through various films and reports, the world has gained insight into how the Chinese fought invaders eight decades ago, concurrently bringing to light the atrocities committed by Japan.
China consistently affirms its role as a builder of world peace and a contributor to global development. By championing the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity, China aims to foster global peace and development.
Eight decades ago, following 14 years of arduous conflict, the Chinese secured their significant victory in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, which coincided with the broader victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. To commemorate this occasion, a series of new films and television dramas remembering the war of resistance have been released to critical acclaim, with “Dead to Rights” reportedly exceeding 2 billion yuan ($278.4 million) in box-office earnings.
“Dongji Rescue” is regarded as a film of profound insight and contemporary relevance. While commemorating historical events, it strengthens the collective resolve to uphold peace, inspiring deeper worldwide reflection on history and aspiration for tranquility. It advocates for unity, learning from the past, and collectively building a brighter future.
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