The Zhejiang-produced documentary The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru premiered globally at the Shanghai Film Festival in Shanghai on June 14, 2024, becoming the festival's fastest-selling ticket this year.

In October 1942, Lisbon Maru, a cargo vessel, requisitioned by the Japanese army to carry more than 1,800 British POWs from Hong Kong to Japan, was hit by the US army off the Zhoushan Islands, China's Zhejiang province. Over 300 prisoners of war (POWs) were rescued by Zhoushan fishermen.

The film connects deeply personal stories, including those of Wu Sizhen and Denise Wynne. Wu, the organizer of the Lisbon Maru memorial events, maintains close ties with Wynne, the daughter of Dennis Morley, the incident's only surviving family member.

At this year's premiere, the connections deepened with Wu preparing traditional Chinese gifts for Mrs Wynne, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the families affected by the historic event.

"This is my first time here in China, and visiting Dongji Island to see the ruins of the sinking ship has always been my wish, but now it has finally come true," said Wynne.

Wu, closely expressed her excitement at the film's premiere, noting that the seven-year wait was well worth it. "This documentary unveils a heavy and authentic historical truth," Wu stated. "We've all been eagerly anticipating this reveal, curious about the true nature of the events and the insights and enlightenment it could offer to viewers." The film aims to engage audiences with a deep, factual exploration of a significant yet somber moment in history.

The documentary The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru explores the real-life stories of Allied POW families, crafted over seven years by director Fang Li. Traveling through the UK, USA, Japan, Australia, Hong Kong and Zhoushan, the team conducted in-depth research to reveal a historical truth buried for 82 years, combining interviews, archival footage and animations.

Editor: Xu Zhitian