China Nanjing Massacre film continues to dominate the summer box office. “Dead To Rights” has earned over 1 billion yuan in only eight days. It became the first post-Spring Festival release to hit this milestone. Moreover, it has topped daily box office charts in every provincial-level region for several days, showing strong nationwide appeal.
Directed by Shen Ao, the China Nanjing Massacre film tells the story of civilians seeking refuge in a photography studio during the Japanese occupation. In a desperate attempt to survive, they help a Japanese military photographer develop film. Soon, they discover the negatives reveal shocking atrocities committed across the city. Determined to share the truth, they hide the negatives and risk their lives to smuggle them out.
The director explained that photography once preserved family memories. However, during the Nanjing Massacre, Japanese forces used it as propaganda. Shen Ao stressed that in the film, the studio holds undeniable proof of war crimes the invaders tried to erase. Thus, the China Nanjing Massacre film also aims to educate audiences about untold history.
Critics praised the film for restraint, avoiding excessive violence while letting key images speak for themselves. Viewers recall scenes like a knife held to a baby, rolling heads, and rivers stained with blood. These haunting images move audiences deeply without overwhelming them.
Furthermore, audience reactions show the film’s emotional power. One viewer shared a touching moment when a young girl asked her mother about post-credit scenes. The mother replied that the real scene begins outside, in the peace of modern streets filled with life and food aromas. This, she said, is the miracle born from past sacrifice.
Renowned director Feng Xiaoning described the China Nanjing Massacre film as “a new high point” for Chinese cinema. He noted that audiences remained seated until the credits ended, reflecting deep thought and respect. He believes every Chinese citizen, and anyone with a conscience, will feel moved by this story.
Industry experts now expect “Dead To Rights” to surpass 4 billion yuan in total revenue. If achieved, it will become the second highest-grossing film in China this year, behind only “Ne Zha 2.” The China Nanjing Massacre film demonstrates that powerful historical stories can still inspire and connect with modern audiences.
