MOVIE REVIEW
The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru (Li Si Ben wan chen mo)
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023, 2024
Runtime: 2h 3m
Director(s): Fang Li
Where To Watch: TBA

RAVING REVIEW: Venturing into the shadows of World War II, a documentary fascinates with its tale of valor and endurance. It traces the fate of a Japanese freighter, doomed by a torpedo strike in 1942, setting the stage for an exploration of human resilience. Central to its narrative is the heroic rescue by Chinese fishermen who, at great peril, saved British POWs from the icy clutches of the sea. This film reframes the wartime narrative, highlighting the often-missed acts of compassion and courage that unfold during the direst times.

This narrative diverges from the conventional war story laden with gloom and inhumanity, instead spotlighting the gallantry of ordinary individuals thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Through its blend of archival material and personal testimonies, the documentary forges an emotional connection that transcends time, making the past resonate with today’s audience. Including individual letters and survivors' recollections paints a vivid picture of life aboard the doomed vessel while showcasing the indomitable spirit that the prisoners maintained despite their dire situation.

One of the film’s most commendable aspects is its pacing, which balances historical exposition with personal stories of the men involved in the rescue. The filmmakers’ handling of various viewpoints prevents the narrative from becoming overly simplistic. Instead, they paint a rich, multifaceted portrait of the events that avoids casting characters as mere heroes or villains. This technique enriches the audience's understanding and pulls them into an emotional journey through history.

The documentary goes beyond retelling history to probe the profound human impact of war. It delves into the enduring trauma experienced by families torn apart by conflict and the psychological scars borne by survivors, placing these narratives within a larger context of memory and historical significance. The film confronts the grim realities of war, including the harsh military tactics. Yet, it counters these with moments of unexpected kindness and endurance that challenge conventional war depictions.

Behind the scenes, the tireless dedication of the producer, Fang Li, shines through. Li’s commitment to accuracy and emotional truth vividly brings this forgotten chapter of history to life, reminding us of the importance of remembering and learning from the past. His work ensures that the story of this maritime tragedy is told with the gravity and dignity it deserves.

As the documentary nears its conclusion, it entwines its thematic strands in a powerful finale that brings together the families of the survivors and the fishermen’s descendants. This touching scene effectively highlights the film’s underlying message about the enduring impact of altruistic acts, serving as a heartfelt homage to those changed forever by the depicted events.

Reflecting on the documentary, its relevance becomes undeniably evident. It challenges viewers to assess their capacities for empathy and moral courage in facing adversity. By demonstrating how acts of humanity can surpass the devastating effects of war, the film encourages a legacy of mutual respect and understanding.

This documentary merges rigorous historical inquiry with a narrative to illuminate a largely overshadowed episode of World War II. Celebrating the power of human kindness and bravery in the most challenging conditions is a must-watch for anyone interested in history's complex dynamics and the human spirit's enduring strength.

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[photo courtesy of LAUREL FILMS]

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