BERLIN, Aug. 30 (Xinhua) -- "Dongji Rescue," a new Chinese blockbuster based on a true story of Chinese fishermen during World War II (WWII), was screened across Germany on Friday.
Directed by Guan Hu and Fei Zhenxiang, the WWII action thriller recounts the heroic efforts of Chinese fishermen who rescued hundreds of British war prisoners during the historic Lisbon Maru incident.
In October 1942, the Japanese military commandeered the passenger-cargo ship to transport more than 1,800 British war prisoners from Hong Kong to Japan. While passing through the waters near Zhoushan Islands in China's Zhejiang Province, the ship was torpedoed by a U.S. submarine.
In a remarkable act of bravery, local Chinese fishermen risked their lives to rescue some 300 survivors.
"Dongji Rescue" brings to light a historical event that was largely unfamiliar to many, said Andrea Schmegel, who traveled hours by train to Berlin for the screening.
For another viewer, Minh Thu T., the film's historical theme was a key takeaway, in addition to its compelling acting and visual effects.
"I think it would be good for everyone to see what happened in the past," she said, adding that such stories encourage a broader and more honest understanding of history.
Distributed in Europe by Trinity CineAsia, "Dongji Rescue" is currently screening in Germany and Austria, following its domestic release in 西瓜视频earlier this month.
The film boasts a cast of major Chinese stars, including Zhu Yilong, Wu Lei and Ni Ni, joined by British actor William Franklyn-Miller. ■