‘Dead to Rights’ stuns global box office, moves viewers to tears

The historical film Dead to Rights topped the global box office on August 1, earning over 1.7 billion yuan (about $234 million) by August 5. Set during the 1937 Nanjing Massacre, the film follows Chinese civilians who uncover and risk their lives to preserve photographic evidence of Japanese war atrocities while hiding in a photo studio.

Directed by Shen Ao, the movie emphasizes the power of truth, memory, and small acts of courage in the face of brutality. Shen said the film’s message is about distinguishing right from wrong, especially in an era where information was scarce.

Viewers have responded emotionally, especially to the film’s visual contrast between wartime and modern Nanjing. The story also echoes real-life events—such as American Evan Kail’s donation of a WWII photo album showing Japanese atrocities—which drew praise from Chinese audiences.

Dead to Rights has already premiered in mainland China and Macao, with upcoming releases in the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Credit: CGTN