August 15 marks a turning point in WWII history: Japan’s surrender anniversary arrives with two maritime dramas hitting theaters side by side.
"Dongji Rescue" revisits the 1942 Lisbon Maru tragedy, where fishermen from the Chinese mainland risked their lives to rescue British POWs from dire conditions onboard the ill-fated vessel.
By contrast, "Yukikaze" reimagines an invading fleet as noble saviors. Critics argue the film whitewashes wartime reality with its polished visuals and patriotic score, fueling broader debates on how nations remember the past.
These films illustrate cinema’s power to shape collective memory. In an age of contested narratives, the stories we choose—and the ones we challenge—determine how history is preserved or rewritten.
Whether you’re a film buff, history enthusiast, or just curious, ask yourself: Which version of these events resonates with you—and why?
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
