Every so often, a film emerges that not only tells history but invites us to live it. Dongji Rescue brings the 1942 island rescue of British prisoners of war into vivid focus, shining a light on the ordinary fishermen from the Chinese mainland who risked everything to save lives.
Premiered across the Chinese mainland on August 8, the film opens with storm-tossed seas and the tragic sinking of the Lisbon Maru after an American torpedo strike. As the ship begins to list, local crews launch small boats into freezing waters, setting the stage for one of World War IIs most remarkable untold stories.
The directors spare no detail in recreating the salt-stained decks and wind battered islands of Dongji, using IMAX cameras to capture every icy wave and desperate dive in breathtaking clarity. The result is immersive cinema that pulls you into the heart of the rescue.
At the center are standout performances by Zhu Yilong and Ni Ni. Zhu lays bare the quiet resolve of a fisherman thrust into heroism, navigating fear and duty with subtle grace. Ni Ni conveys strength through her gaze and stillness, bringing depth to a character shaped by intimate knowledge of the sea.
First unveiled at the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization Film Festival, the movie made waves again at the box office, grossing 350 million yuan on opening day. Critics and audiences may debate its tone, but most agree that Dongji Rescue honors the human spirit and the power of solidarity in times of crisis.
More than a war epic, Dongji Rescue is a testament to everyday bravery and international humanitarianism. It reminds global audiences that in the darkest moments, ordinary people can become heroes.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
