The Rape of Nanking: Nanjing Massacre
In the winter of 1937, the Japanese army occupied Nanjing, then the capital of China, and unleashed a reign of terror. The city endured months of aerial bombardment, and when it finally fell, the Japanese forces committed atrocities on an unimaginable scale. The heart-wrenching events that unfolded in Nanjing are collectively known as the Nanjing Massacre or the Rape of Nanking.
Inspired by Iris Chang’s groundbreaking book The Rape of Nanking (published in 1997), the documentary film “Nanking” dives into the persecution and murder of the Chinese population by the Imperial Japanese Army during the early years of the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945). The film weaves together historical context, personal accounts, and archival footage to paint a vivid picture of the horrors that unfolded in Nanjing.
The documentary introduces us to a group of brave individuals who risked their lives to protect Chinese civilians amidst the chaos:
- John Rabe (portrayed by Jürgen Prochnow), a German businessman, played a pivotal role in organizing the Nanking Safety Zone. This zone provided refuge for civilians, shielding them from the brutality of the Japanese forces.
- Robert O. Wilson (played by Woody Harrelson), the only remaining surgeon in Nanjing, tirelessly cared for the countless victims left in the wake of the massacre.
- Minnie Vautrin (portrayed by Mariel Hemingway), an American missionary educator, fiercely defended the lives and honor of Nanjing’s women during this dark period.
The film draws from letters, diaries, and interviews with survivors and perpetrators. It captures the anguish, resilience, and humanity of those caught during war. The staggering death toll—over 300,000 killed—and the widespread sexual violence inflicted upon tens of thousands of Chinese people remain etched in human history as one of the most horrifying atrocities.
Despite the horrors, a small group of European and American expatriates stood up against the brutality. They risked everything to save approximately 250,000 lives, demonstrating courage and compassion in the face of unimaginable suffering.
Nanking serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of bearing witness to history’s darkest moments. Through their stories, we honor the victims and recognize the unwavering spirit of those who refused to remain silent in the face of evil.
