Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the historical significance of the "Lisbon Maru" incident during World War II, emphasizing the bravery of Chinese fishermen who rescued British POWs, and the enduring friendship between China and the UK as commemorated through recent events and media [1][2][4]. Group 1: Historical Context - In October 1942, the "Lisbon Maru" was sunk by American forces while transporting over 1,800 British POWs, resulting in more than 800 casualties due to the Japanese military's refusal to assist [1]. - The fishermen from Zhoushan risked their lives to rescue 384 POWs amidst gunfire, showcasing a remarkable act of humanity [1][2]. Group 2: Commemorative Events - A memorial for the fishermen's heroic actions was unveiled on May 20, 2023, in Zhoushan, attended by descendants of the rescued POWs, symbolizing a bridge between past and present [1][2]. - The "China Film Festival" in London featured the documentary "The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru," which took eight years to produce, highlighting the fishermen's actions and the historical context of the event [2][3]. Group 3: Media Reception - The documentary has been praised by British media, with The Times calling it a "story of courage and compassion," and The Guardian describing it as a film that tells the wartime tragedy with deep empathy [3]. - The film has filled a significant gap in understanding the experiences of those involved in the Lisbon Maru incident, as noted by the British documentary producer Julian Alcantara [3]. Group 4: Legacy and Friendship - The actions of the Chinese fishermen are seen as a testament to the deep friendship forged between the Chinese and British people during wartime, with ongoing commemorative activities held in both countries [4]. - The legacy of bravery and kindness demonstrated during the incident continues to resonate, as descendants of both the rescuers and the rescued come together to honor their shared history [4].

Group 1 - The 2025 China Film Festival officially opened in London on May 23, showcasing notable Chinese films such as "The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru," "My People, My Country," "The Musician," and "Nezha 2" [1] - The festival lasts for four days and aims to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's Anti-Japanese War and the World Anti-Fascist War, highlighting the historical friendship between China and the UK during World War II [1][2] - The opening film, a documentary titled "The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru," serves to remind audiences of the deep ties and shared struggles of the two nations against fascism during the war [1][3] Group 2 - The event was attended by nearly 200 guests, including prominent figures such as Martin Albrow, John McLean, and family members of the British POWs from the Lisbon Maru incident, who collectively viewed the opening film [2] - Stanley Johnson, father of former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, expressed his emotional response to the film, emphasizing its quality and the importance of wider exposure [2]