A Chinese documentary film about a World War II incident is bringing international attention to an act of bravery by Chinese fishermen. “The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru” recounts how local fishermen rescued hundreds of British soldiers after their transport ship was sunk by an American submarine near China in 1942.
The film tells the story through interviews, archival footage, and animation. It describes how the Lisbon Maru, carrying British prisoners of war to Japan, was torpedoed off China’s coast. Over 800 British troops lost their lives, but around 380 survived thanks to help from Chinese civilians. Although facing danger themselves, local fishermen risked their lives to save soldiers from the sinking vessel. They also protected the survivors from Japanese forces.
This lesser-known event from World War II highlights compassion during a time of global conflict. By focusing on the heroism of the fishermen, the documentary underscores themes of international cooperation and altruism in difficult situations. Released in Chinese theaters in September, it allows domestic audiences to learn about this piece of wartime history.
China’s selection of the film as its entry for the Academy Awards’ Best International Feature category may introduce this story to a broader international audience. It marks a difference from China’s past Oscar submissions, which have generally been fiction films eliciting national pride. While China has received two nominations before for films by renowned director Zhang Yimou, it is still seeking its first win in this category.
As “The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru” represents China at the Academy Awards, it not only illustrates the growing Chinese film industry but also shares a powerful message that humanitarian acts can transcend boundaries of any kind.
