China marked a historic cinematic release on September 18, 2025, with the premiere of the Unit 731 film. The event coincided with the 94th anniversary of the September 18 Incident. This incident triggered the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in China’s war of resistance and the World Anti-Fascist War.
The movie depicting the horrors of Unit 731, Evil Unbound, tells the story of Wang Yongzhang, a local vendor, and others imprisoned in the unit’s secret facility. They were deceived with promises of freedom to participate in medical research, only to endure brutal experiments, including frostbite tests, gas exposure, and vivisection.
In many Chinese cities, theaters scheduled first screenings for exactly 9:18 a.m., reflecting the symbolic date of the September 18 Incident. The Unit 731 film also opened in Australia and New Zealand. North American screenings will begin the following day, allowing international audiences to witness the historical events depicted.
Unit 731, in the Pingfang District of Harbin in northeast China, served as a secret biological and chemical warfare research base during World War II. It became the central hub for Japanese biological warfare in China and Southeast Asia. Historical records estimate that the unit’s experiments killed thousands directly, while Japanese biological attacks claimed over 300,000 lives in China.
Experts and historians attended screenings of the Unit 731 film, emphasizing the importance of preserving historical memory. Jin Chengmin, curator of the Exhibition Hall of Evidence of Crimes Committed by Unit 731, said the real history is far more brutal than the film can depict. He added that the movie will educate new generations and highlight the horrors of biological warfare.
Film director Zhao Linshan said the production drew on extensive historical archives for authenticity. He expressed hope that the Unit 731 film encourages viewers to cherish peace and learn from past atrocities.
Early audience responses indicate strong interest. Chinese ticketing platforms reported millions of reservations before the official release. Analysts said the Unit 731 film strengthens awareness of wartime history and reinforces national memory.
The release also has broader significance. It connects cultural education with remembrance and ensures both domestic and international audiences understand the consequences of wartime atrocities. Future screenings in global markets will expand the Unit 731 film’s educational impact.
