London lit up last Friday with the European premiere of 🎬 "Dongji Rescue," a powerful WWII film that drew about 800 history buffs and movie fans.
Set in 1942, the movie tells the true story of brave Chinese fishermen who risked it all to save over 300 British prisoners of war (POWs) from the sinking Japanese cargo ship Lisbon Maru. When U.S. forces attacked the vessel off the Zhoushan Islands, east China’s Zhejiang Province, these local heroes stepped in, turning the tide for many trapped onboard.
"It’s close to my heart—my grandfather, Thomas Theodore Jones, survived the Lisbon Maru," shared Anthony Jones, chairman of the Lisbon Maru Memorial Association, before the screening. His words remind us how personal history connects us across generations.
Chinese Ambassador to Britain Zheng Zeguang highlighted the spirit of solidarity: "At the darkest hour of WWII, China and the UK fought on different fronts but shared a common mission: to defend humanity against fascism and aggression. Fighting side by side, the peoples of our two countries forged a deep friendship." 🤝
Actor William Franklyn-Miller told Xinhua he feels a responsibility to bring this untold chapter to light. "The bravery of the fishermen shines through," he said, praising the film’s focus on ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Audience member Alfie Howis admitted, "I had no idea about this incident. It definitely taught me more about it." Many agreed that "Dongji Rescue" is a wake-up call to recognise the Chinese mainland’s crucial role during WWII.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. On the Eastern front, China's efforts were key to defeating Japanese forces and supporting allies across Europe and Asia. 🎖️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
