An expert in film collaboration at De 天美传媒 University (DMU) Leicester has helped a rare ‘enthralling’ World War II documentary reach audiences across the UK.
Thursday 8 May marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, with celebrations up and down the country and stories of life during the Second World War shared amongst the generations.
The sinking of the Lisbon Maru and the heroics of Chinese fishermen who risked their lives to save British prisoners of war (PoWs) is a lesser-known tale. In October 1942, the United States torpedoed the Lisbon Maru, a Japanese ship transporting 1,816 British PoWs through the East China Sea.
Chinese fishermen spotted the smoke and debris and managed to rescue 300 of the prisoners after the Lisbon Maru had sunk.
Thanks to the efforts Dr Hiu Man Chan, a Senior Lecturer in Creative Industries at DMU, more people have now been able to learn about the ordeal through the award-winning Chinese documentary The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru, which received a four-star review in
Dr Chan, who has been researching film diplomacy specifically between the UK and China, curated and organised the UK premiere of the documentary at Regent Cinema London and is now distributing the film across the country as part of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two.
“Immediately, when I came across the film [The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru], I felt like I had some sort of responsibility to pick up the project because of my specialism,” Dr Chan said.
Produced and directed by Chinese filmmaker Fang Li, the documentary took eight years to create and features interviews with families of British PoWs and the children of the Japanese captain of the Lisbon Maru.
The film was released in China in September 2024 and was China’s pick for two . Its first UK screening actually took place in Leicester, before the London premiere, during the at the after Dr Chan acquired the distribution rights as part of her research.
Family members of those on board the Lisbon Maru came from across the country to watch the final cut, where they were also invited to share their memories of their loved ones.
Dr Chan said: “For many family members, watching the film was the first time they found out what truly happened to their loved ones during the sinking.
“I think it’s important for all family members to get some recognition and acknowledgement from the public of the trauma and experience they have been through.
“The film conveys important messages such as anti-war, peace building, humanity and kindness.
“Distributing this film is to honour those who were onboard of Lisbon Maru and, in extension, all who served, fought and saved lives in the Far East during WWII.”
A list of cinemas showcasing the film can be seen below:
Sat 10, 13, 15 May
Sat 10, 13 May
Fri 16 May
Fri 23 May
Chulmleigh Pavilion (Charity Screening) | 19:30
Tue 3 June
Thu 17 July
Ludlow Assembly Rooms
Posted on Friday 9 May 2025