Hey film lovers and history buffs! "Dead To Rights," a gripping portrayal of the Nanjing Massacre, is making waves in the Chinese mainland box office. In just eight days, it has smashed records by crossing the 1 billion yuan mark and attracting over 30 million admissions. Talk about a blockbuster hit! 😮
Directed by Shen Ao, this film adapts verified photographic evidence of wartime atrocities during the Nanjing Massacre. The story follows a brave group of Chinese civilians who take refuge in a photography studio during the brutal occupation. Forced to work with a Japanese military photographer, they secretly safeguard film negatives that expose harrowing truths. Their courageous act not only preserves history but reminds us of the importance of truth and remembrance.
The film’s understated yet powerful storytelling is winning hearts, earning an impressive 8.6/10 rating on Douban. Critics have noted that the few, vivid images—like a knife held to a baby or a red river of blood—speak volumes without the need for sensationalism. One Maoyan viewer perfectly summed it up by saying, "The real post-credit scene begins when we step out of the cinema," capturing how the movie resonates deeply even after the credits roll.
Renowned director Feng Xiaoning hailed the film as "a new high point" for Chinese cinema, reflecting on how audiences remain lost in thought long after watching. With updated projections hinting at a total revenue of over 4 billion yuan, "Dead To Rights" might soon rank as the year's second-highest-grossing film, trailing only the animated blockbuster "Ne Zha 2."
This film not only delivers a compelling cinematic experience but also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices that forged modern society. It bridges the gap between a painful past and the vibrant present, urging us to cherish the peace and liveliness of our everyday lives. 🎬✨
Reference(s):
Nanjing Massacre film takes China's box office by storm, tops 1b yuan
cgtn.com
