A historical drama depicting Chinese fishermen's heroism during World War II has resonated across the Taiwan Strait, with residents of Taiwan attending mainland screenings of Dongji Rescue since its Friday release. The film's portrayal of the 1942 Lisbon Maru incident – where fishermen braved Japanese blockades to rescue British POWs – sparked emotional reactions and online discussions among Taiwan audiences.
Lin Wei-kang, a resident of Taiwan working on the Chinese mainland, called the film "a pulse-pounding tribute to Chinese resilience." He highlighted actor Wu Lei's defiant line – "This sea belongs to the Chinese!" – as emblematic of the story's unifying themes. Chen Wan-yi, another Taiwan viewer, praised the meticulous recreation of wartime fishing villages and wooden rescue boats through industrial-scale sets.
The release coincides with the 80th anniversary of victories in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Recent films like Dead To Rights and the upcoming documentary Mountains and Rivers Bearing Witness have similarly reignited interest in shared wartime history among Taiwan compatriots.
"These stories make me feel connected to those who stood united against foreign threats," said Fan Huai-fang, a young Taiwan resident, describing the films as bridges across generations. Moviegoers emphasized how the productions blend cutting-edge technology with historical accuracy, offering new perspectives on collective Chinese heritage.
