Chinese WWII Film Dead to Rights Dominates Box Office Amid Nationwide Commemoration Campaign

A powerful wartime drama set during one of the darkest periods in modern Chinese history is captivating audiences across China this summer, as the nation ramps up its campaign to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

The film, Dead to Rights, has become a major box office sensation, grossing 1.5 billion yuan since its release on July 25, according to state broadcaster CCTV, citing data from leading ticketing platform Maoyan.

Set in 1937 during the infamous Nanjing Massacre—where Japanese troops committed large-scale atrocities against Chinese civilians—the film follows a group of survivors who seek refuge in a local photo studio.

There, they are tasked with developing photographs for the invading army. In a chilling twist, they uncover photographic evidence of the horrors committed and risk their lives to preserve the truth.

Audiences have responded with overwhelming praise. Dead to Rights currently holds a stellar 9.7 rating on Maoyan and an 8.6 score on Douban, China’s influential review platform.

One Douban user, deeply moved by the final scenes, wrote:

“What brought me to tears were the before-and-after photographs in the closing. Having studied in Nanjing, seeing those familiar places portrayed so painfully left a profound emotional impact.”

Another reviewer hailed it as their “top Chinese film of the year,” highlighting its ability to convey broader historical trauma through personal civilian narratives.

Global Release and Rising Anticipation

Following its domestic success, Dead to Rights has already opened in Macau and is scheduled to debut in Hong Kong this month.

According to Chinese media outlet CGTN, international premieres are also planned for the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Meanwhile, anticipation is building for another wartime historical film titled 731, which explores the horrific human experimentation and biological warfare conducted by Japan’s Unit 731.

Initially slated for a symbolic July 31 release, the film has been delayed to September 18—coinciding with the 94th anniversary of Japan’s invasion of China.

The popularity of these wartime films coincides with a broader state-led effort to commemorate the 80th anniversary of WWII’s conclusion.

In July, Chinese officials unveiled a large-scale permanent exhibition at the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing.

Covering over 12,000 square meters, the exhibit showcases 1,525 historical photos and 3,237 cultural artifacts.

Speaking at a press briefing, Liu Jianguo, Deputy Director of the National Radio and Television Administration, said the government is promoting a wide array of themed audio-visual content across television, radio, and digital platforms.

The goal is to tell the story of the Chinese people’s resistance before, during, and after the war.

Victory Day Parade Returns to Tiananmen Square

The campaign will culminate in a grand military parade on September 3 in Tiananmen Square—marking a decade since the first Victory Day parade was held.

The event will feature marching troops, armored vehicles, aerial flyovers, and showcase cutting-edge unmanned and AI-powered military technologies.

International dignitaries are expected to attend, with the Kremlin confirming that Russian President Vladimir Putin will be present at the ceremony.