Latest news with #DongjiIsland
Associated Press
10-08-2025
- General
- Associated Press
CGTN: 'Dongji Rescue': Humanity forged in blood and fire
BEIJING, Aug. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The film 'Dongji Rescue,' based on the 1942 sinking of the Japanese ship Lisbon Maru after it was torpedoed by American forces, is the moving story of Chinese fishermen from nearby Dongji Island courageously rescuing the over 1800 British POWs aboard the liner despite Japanese soldiers' firing. It's not just a poignant look back at a forgotten chapter of history. 'Dongji Rescue' embodies the principle that remembering history is not about perpetuating hatred, but about learning from it to safeguard peace. When the Lisbon Maru sank, Japanese forces, instead of mounting a rescue effort, callously sealed the ship's holds and fired upon the prisoners trying to escape. In stark contrast to their brutality and callousness, the local Chinese fishermen, though suffering greatly under the war, showed their principle that 'saving a life is a greater virtue than building a seven-storied pagoda.' Risking their lives, they took their flimsy boats near the sinking ship to rescue hundreds of the POWs. This selfless, borderless act of compassion shone as a beacon in the darkness of war, highlighting the sense of responsibility and commitment of ordinary Chinese in times of crisis. The film's release is especially significant in today's complex and volatile global landscape where some nations are still pursuing hegemonism and unilateralism in international affairs, and conflicts continue to erupt, threatening world peace. Japan's attitude toward historical issues remains deeply disappointing. Instead of acknowledging and atoning for its wartime aggression, it has been attempting to whitewash its history of invasion. Tokyo is distorting textbooks and justifying visits to the so-called Yasukuni Shrine, which actually commemorates over 1,000 convicted World War II war criminals. This is a desecration of historical truth and an insult to the nations Japan victimized. As Guan Hu, director of 'Dongji Rescue,' said, 'Distorting and twisting history is more terrifying than forgetting it. I felt that I should tell everyone the truth through the film.' Through the power of cinema, 'Dongji Rescue' revives the memory of this true history, reminding us that history must not be forgotten, and certainly not falsified. We remember history not to perpetuate hatred or seek revenge against a particular nation but to draw lessons from it – to understand the preciousness of peace and to defend it more resolutely. Many were unaware what happened on Dongji Island in the East China Sea during World War II and China's role in the war. On the 80th anniversary of the War of Resistance, through films and reports, the world has learned how the Chinese fought invaders eight decades ago. These recollections bring to light the atrocities committed by Japan. China will always be a builder of world peace and contributor to global development. By championing the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity, China contributes to global peace and development. Eighty years ago, after 14 years of relentless war, the Chinese achieved their great victory in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression along the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. To mark the occasion, a batch of new films and television dramas remembering the war of resistance has been released to acclaim. The box-office earnings of 'Dead to Rights' have crossed 2 billion yuan ($278.4 million). 'Dongji Rescue' is a film with profound insight and contemporary relevance. While commemorating history, it strengthens our resolve to uphold peace, inspires deeper reflection on history and aspiration for peace worldwide. It teaches us to unite, learn from history, and build a brighter future together. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: Contact: CGTN, [email protected]
Globe and Mail
10-08-2025
- General
- Globe and Mail
CGTN: 'Dongji Rescue': Humanity forged in blood and fire
BEIJING, Aug. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The film "Dongji Rescue," based on the 1942 sinking of the Japanese ship Lisbon Maru after it was torpedoed by American forces, is the moving story of Chinese fishermen from nearby Dongji Island courageously rescuing the over 1800 British POWs aboard the liner despite Japanese soldiers' firing. It's not just a poignant look back at a forgotten chapter of history. "Dongji Rescue" embodies the principle that remembering history is not about perpetuating hatred, but about learning from it to safeguard peace. When the Lisbon Maru sank, Japanese forces, instead of mounting a rescue effort, callously sealed the ship's holds and fired upon the prisoners trying to escape. In stark contrast to their brutality and callousness, the local Chinese fishermen, though suffering greatly under the war, showed their principle that "saving a life is a greater virtue than building a seven-storied pagoda." Risking their lives, they took their flimsy boats near the sinking ship to rescue hundreds of the POWs. This selfless, borderless act of compassion shone as a beacon in the darkness of war, highlighting the sense of responsibility and commitment of ordinary Chinese in times of crisis. The film's release is especially significant in today's complex and volatile global landscape where some nations are still pursuing hegemonism and unilateralism in international affairs, and conflicts continue to erupt, threatening world peace. Japan's attitude toward historical issues remains deeply disappointing. Instead of acknowledging and atoning for its wartime aggression, it has been attempting to whitewash its history of invasion. Tokyo is distorting textbooks and justifying visits to the so-called Yasukuni Shrine, which actually commemorates over 1,000 convicted World War II war criminals. This is a desecration of historical truth and an insult to the nations Japan victimized. As Guan Hu, director of "Dongji Rescue," said, "Distorting and twisting history is more terrifying than forgetting it. I felt that I should tell everyone the truth through the film." Through the power of cinema, "Dongji Rescue" revives the memory of this true history, reminding us that history must not be forgotten, and certainly not falsified. We remember history not to perpetuate hatred or seek revenge against a particular nation but to draw lessons from it – to understand the preciousness of peace and to defend it more resolutely. Many were unaware what happened on Dongji Island in the East China Sea during World War II and China's role in the war. On the 80th anniversary of the War of Resistance, through films and reports, the world has learned how the Chinese fought invaders eight decades ago. These recollections bring to light the atrocities committed by Japan. China will always be a builder of world peace and contributor to global development. By championing the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity, China contributes to global peace and development. Eighty years ago, after 14 years of relentless war, the Chinese achieved their great victory in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression along the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. To mark the occasion, a batch of new films and television dramas remembering the war of resistance has been released to acclaim. The box-office earnings of 'Dead to Rights" have crossed 2 billion yuan ($278.4 million). "Dongji Rescue" is a film with profound insight and contemporary relevance. While commemorating history, it strengthens our resolve to uphold peace, inspires deeper reflection on history and aspiration for peace worldwide. It teaches us to unite, learn from history, and build a brighter future together.
Yahoo
07-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Dongji Rescue' Star Kevin Lee on Playing a War Hero After a Decade as Chinese Cinema's Go-To Bad Guy: ‘I'm Ready for More Than Just the Villain Role'
After nearly a decade of playing memorable villains in some of China's biggest blockbusters, Kevin Lee is finally getting to be the good guy. In 'Dongji Rescue,' the keenly anticipated $80 million Chinese WWII action thriller from Cannes award-winning filmmaker Guan Hu ('Black Dog,' 'The Eight Hundred'), Lee trades his usual combat boots and weaponry for a more sympathetic role as a British POW caught in one of the war's most devastating maritime tragedies. More from Variety 'Black Dog' Director Guan Hu's $80 Million WWII Epic 'Dongji Rescue' Lands European Distribution With Trinity CineAsia 'Black Dog' Director Guan Hu Brings $80 Million WWII Epic 'Dong Ji Island' to Cannes Market With Seventh Art Pictures Beijing International Film Festival Marks Triple Milestone With Star-Studded Opening The film, co-directed by Hu and Fei Zhenxiang, dramatizes the real-life Lisbon Maru incident of October 1942, when an American submarine accidentally torpedoed a Japanese vessel transporting approximately 1,800 British prisoners of war from Hong Kong. Chinese fishermen from Dongji Island ultimately rescued more than 800 survivors in what ranks among the war's most harrowing episodes involving British forces. Lee stars alongside Chinese A-listers Zhu Yilong ('Only the River Flows'), Wu Lei ('Shadow') and Ni Ni ('The Flowers of War'), plus British newcomer William Franklyn-Miller. For Lee, whose breakout role in 'Wolf Warrior' established him as the quintessential Western villain in Chinese cinema, 'Dongji Rescue' represents both a career pivot and a deeply personal project. 'When I first read the script, I was shocked,' Lee tells Variety. 'I'd never heard of the Lisbon Maru incident, yet here was this deeply moving story of ordinary Chinese fishermen risking everything to save British POWs. As a Brit who's lived in China for over a decade, it hit me on many levels.' The role marks a significant departure for Lee, who has spent years perfecting his antagonist craft in films like 'The Battle at Lake Changjin' and 'Snipers.' His character in 'Dongji Rescue,' Lieutenant Colonel H.W.M. (Monkey) Stewart, is based on a real British high-ranking POW, adding layers of historical responsibility to the performance. 'It definitely felt refreshing,' Lee says of the shift. 'I've played antagonists in many Chinese films and always took pride in those roles. But 'Dongji Rescue' let me step into truth and empathy.' The casting came during a particularly hectic period for the actor. 'I auditioned during a quiet period in 2024, running on five hours of sleep after wrapping another project.' he recalls. 'Luckily, negotiations followed soon after.' To prepare for the historically grounded role, Lee immersed himself in research about POW conditions, survivor testimonies, and classic war films. He also watched 'The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru,' the documentary that was China's entry to the Oscars' international category and covers the same incident. 'The documentary hit me hard, emotionally,' Lee admits. 'A lot of tears. These weren't just background names, they were real men with families and dreams, caught in something horrific.' The physical demands of the shoot proved equally challenging. 'The hardest part? Swimming scenes, fighting currents, dodging debris, timing everything for camera,' he says. 'It was intense.' Looking back on his unlikely journey from an aspiring actor making a living as a finance executive in China to action star, Lee describes his entry into Chinese cinema as a combination of fate, opportunity and persistence. The turning point came during a chance encounter with 'Wolf Warrior' actor-director Wu Jing while renewing his visa in Beijing. 'That meeting changed everything,' Lee explains. 'I quit my job in finance, took a leap of faith, and stayed because I worked hard and didn't give up. Against all the odds, it has somewhat paid off.' In 'Wolf Warrior' (2015), Lee played Mad Cow, a mercenary in the villain squad opposite Wu Jing in the action thriller that would launch China's most successful patriotic film franchise. The $89 million box office hit established Lee as the go-to Western antagonist in Chinese cinema and opened doors to a decade of high-profile roles. 'I will be forever grateful for and will always be indebted to Wu Jing for trusting in me,' Lee says. Since then, Lee has built an impressive filmography across some of China's biggest blockbusters. In 'The Battle at Lake Changjin' (2021), he played Colonel Allan MacLean, commanding officer of the 31st Infantry Regiment in the $200 million Korean War epic that became China's then highest-grossing film of all time with $913 million worldwide. He was cast as a hitman in Jackie Chan's 'Kung Fu Yoga' (1017) and in Zhang Yimou's 'Sniper' (2022) and his credits also include 'Super Me,' '100 Yards,' 'Pound of Flesh' and 'S.W.A.T.' Despite his success in the villain space, Lee is eager to expand his range. 'The truth is, I'm a pretty sweet guy off-screen and I'd love a shot at those type of roles,' he says. 'As a foreign actor in China, roles are limited by the scripts. Majority of movies here are either period, war or wuxia [martial arts] movies. Foreign actors in China rarely get cast in rom-coms or comedies, which is a shame.' Having witnessed the rapid evolution of China's film industry over more than a decade, Lee has seen significant changes in how international actors are integrated on set. 'It's changed a lot,' he reflects. 'Now, there's better communication, more inclusion and stronger professionalism.' Lee continues to study monologues, work on his American accent and shoot skits whenever possible. 'I'm deeply passionate about this craft,' he says. As for what's next, Lee sees 'Dongji Rescue' as a potential turning point. 'It allowed me to step into something more nuanced — a role with heart, with dignity and based on a real human being,' he says. 'And I hope it signals to the industry that I'm ready for more than just the villain role.' While China remains home after more than a decade, Lee has his sights set on global expansion. 'Hollywood is a huge goal of mine as well, like any ambitious actor, I guess,' he says. 'The experience I've gained makes me a better actor and storyteller, and I want to bring that experience to new audiences. I'm ready to mix with the best and grow even further.' 'Dongji Rescue' hits U.K. and Irish cinemas Aug. 22, with other European territories following from Aug. 29. It opens in China on Aug. 8. Best of Variety New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week What's Coming to Disney+ in August 2025 What's Coming to Netflix in August 2025
Borneo Post
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Stars light up China's summer cinemas as market seeks rebound
Actress Zhang Ziyi poses during a photocall for the film 'She's got no name' at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, southern France, on May 25, 2024. (Xinhua/Gao Jing) BEIJING (July 16): After a notable box office boost over the Duanwu Festival holiday — powered by Tom Cruise's 'Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning' — and with a wave of high-profile films like star-studded 'She's Got No Name' joining the schedule, China's summer movie season, running from June 1 to Aug. 31, is heating up alongside the weather. With the Aug. 8 release of Guan Hu's 'Dongji Island' announced on Wednesday, the three-month window — seen by industry observers as China's most important movie period second only to the Spring Festival holiday — now boasts a lineup of more than 70 domestic and foreign films, ranging from crime thrillers and historical features to animated fantasies and Hollywood imports. But beneath the packed schedule lies an urgent question: which ones will be this year's runaway hits? It's more than a popularity contest. After a 44 percent drop in 2024's summer takings from the year prior, the Chinese film market is looking to the season for signs of resilience and perhaps revival. That rebound, if it comes, may hinge on whether one or several high-performing films can once again galvanize the public and drive momentum across the board. Some in the industry see 'She's Got No Name,' set for release on June 21, as the season's first real momentum builder. 'If 'Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning,' which opened on May 30, served as a soft launch,' film critic and Shandong-based cinema manager Dong Wenxin told Xinhua, 'then 'She's Got No Name,' packed with stars, may be the one to spark the summer's first real surge.' Directed by Peter Chan and starring Zhang Ziyi, Jackson Yee, Zhao Liying and Lei Jiayin, the highly anticipated noir-tinged thriller is based on a sensational 1945 murder in Shanghai. A sharp re-edit of the 150-minute Cannes version that drew polarized responses last year, the upcoming release runs 96 minutes, now promoted as the first installment of a two-part series. Anticipation remains high: Chan spent eight years on the script, rebuilt historic Shanghai alleyways for the shoot, and framed the story through the lens of gendered violence. Dong sees the next major box office surge arriving in late July, driven by the release of period comedy 'The Lychee Road' on July 25 and historical feature '731,' currently titled '731 Biochemical Revelations' in English, on July 31. In an interview with Xinhua, Rao Shuguang, president of the China Film Critics Association, also expressed particular interest in the two titles, as well as 'Dongji Island.' The Zhao Linshan directed '731,' which stars Jiang Wu and Wang Zhiwen, revisits the horrific World War II-era human experiments conducted by Japan's Unit 731, documenting a painful chapter of history while portraying the Chinese people's heroic resistance. Leading all summer titles in advance interest with over 600,000 'want to see' clicks on film platform Maoyan, the film could emerge as a cultural flashpoint for both its emotionally charged subject and patriotic undertones. Also grounded in history, 'Dongji Island,' starring Zhu Yilong, recounts the true story of Chinese fishermen rescuing over 300 British prisoners of war in October 1942, after the Japanese transport ship 'Lisbon Maru' was torpedoed and left to sink, despite being secretly packed with more than 1,800 prisoners. The same events were previously explored in Fang Li's critically acclaimed 2024 documentary, 'The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru.' Comedy remains a genre with mass appeal. Based on a popular novel by Ma Boyong, 'The Lychee Road' is directed by comedian Da Peng, who also stars in the lead role. The film follows a Tang Dynasty (618-907) official tasked with the near-impossible mission of transporting fresh lychees — typically perishable within days — on a grueling 2,500-km journey from Lingnan in southern China to the capital, Chang'an. His desperate ingenuity in overcoming the logistical challenge becomes a sharp satire of bureaucratic absurdity. Rao said the film's source material already boasts a strong fan base, and its TV drama adaptation has helped warm up audiences ahead of the theatrical release. 'Comedy films are almost a necessity during summer,' he added, noting the film's box office potential. Also among the anticipated local releases are the mystery drama 'Malice,' written and supervised by Chen Sicheng, known for his commercial instincts and previous hits in the suspense genre; an animated fantasy from Light Chaser Animation adapted from the Qing Dynasty short story collection 'Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio;' 'The Stage,' a big-screen adaptation of the comedy of the same name by comedian Chen Peisi; and the animated drama 'Nobody,' which adapts an episode from the acclaimed 'Yao-Chinese Folktales' animation series. Hollywood titles, despite their waning allure in China, remain an essential piece of the competitive puzzle this summer. 'Jurassic World Rebirth' (July 2) brings back dinosaurs and picks up the story after the events of 2022's 'Jurassic World: Dominion.' The franchise's popularity in China, where each of the three previous entries surpassed 1 billion yuan (139 million U.S. dollars) in box office takings, makes it one of the few American titles with breakout potential. Other high-profile imports include 'How to Train Your Dragon' (June 13), 'F1 The Movie' starring Brad Pitt (June 27), and James Gunn's 'Superman' (July 11). Voicing 'cautious optimism' over the summer box office, Rao said the Chinese film market is undergoing structural changes, and that only films with truly 'hardcore' cinematic elements, the kind that can only be fully appreciated in a theater for their uniquely immersive audiovisual power as a modern technological art form, can effectively draw large audiences. From 2017 to 2019, China's summer box office each surpassed 16 billion yuan, with 2023 setting an all-time seasonal high of 20.62 billion yuan. But 2024 saw a steep drop to 11.64 billion yuan. 'Based on the current slate, this summer is unlikely to reach the heights of 2023 or the pre-pandemic years,' noted industry blog Yingshi Fengxiangbiao. 'Still, if a breakout hit surpassing 3 billion yuan emerges, the season could yet outpace last year.' – Xinhua China cinema entertainment movies
