Quartile rating: 6.5/10 · 1 rating
The story of the rape of Nanking, one of the most tragic events in history. In 1937, the invading Japanese army murdered over 200,000 and raped tens of thousands of Chinese. In the midst of this horror, a small group of Western expatriates banded together to save 250,000. Nanking shows the tremendous impact individuals can make on the course of history.
Nanking (2007) is a haunting and distinctive documentary that blends archival footage with dramatic readings by actors portraying real historical figures, giving it a unique hybrid form rarely seen in documentary filmmaking. The subject matter — the 1937 Nanjing Massacre and the heroic efforts of Western expatriates to save hundreds of thousands of Chinese civilians — is historically vital and emotionally devastating. The narrative structure is solid and the human stories are compelling, though the film's dramatic reconstructions occasionally feel uneven. The actor readings are earnest and affecting but vary in impact, landing solidly above average rather than exceptional. Cinematography draws on archival materials and restrained staging, competently assembled. The ending is sobering and appropriately reflective of historical weight, though not particularly innovative in documentary terms. Its novelty is the film's strongest suit — the combination of survivor testimony, archival footage, and theatrical dramatic readings creates a singular, powerful viewing experience.