CHINA ON FILM: THE RARE FILMS THAT CAPTURED THE JAPANESE INVASION OF 1937

Cinemavixion Review

Christopher Doyle, a visionary cinematographer and director, guides us through a poignant historical journey in "China On Film: The Rare Films That Captured The Japanese Invasion Of 1937." This documentary offers an unparalleled glimpse into China's tumultuous past, drawing from the esteemed British Film Institute China collection. The compilation presents a rare visual narrative, tracing China's evolution from the Qing dynasty to the Communist era. Doyle's narration enriches the experience, bringing to life seldom-seen footage that illuminates critical junctures in Chinese history. The selected films capture the essence of China before the devastating Japanese invasion, showcasing vibrant cityscapes like Shanghai in its jazz age and Beijing in the 1930s, including the first-ever color film recorded in China. It's a profound exploration of a nation's resilience and transformation, underscored by the stark contrast between archival imagery and later scenes of momentous change, such as the People's Liberation Army's parade along Nanjing Road.