Core Viewpoint - The exhibition titled "The Last Redemption" in Tokyo showcases historical photographs collected by Marcus Dretas's grandfather, revealing the atrocities committed by the Japanese military during World War II, particularly in Shanghai [1][2]. Group 1: Exhibition Details - The exhibition features dozens of historical photographs and copies, including original pieces, that document the bombings and massacres perpetrated by Japanese forces [1]. - Marcus discovered the photographs in his grandfather's garage in 2021 and has since donated 618 of them to the Shanghai Songhu Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall [1]. - The photographs, printed between the 1930s and 1950s, provide a diverse perspective on the Shanghai Campaign and are considered valuable historical resources for studying the Anti-Japanese War and the global anti-fascist movement [1]. Group 2: Historical Context and Impact - Marcus's grandfather lost two children to Japanese forces, and he aims to raise awareness about the historical truth, as many Japanese textbooks downplay or omit the invasion history [2]. - The exhibition was organized by Marcus and his friends, who faced criticism from some Western media and opposition from certain factions in Japan [2]. - The exhibition seeks to awaken the conscience of the Japanese public, especially in light of the rising far-right sentiments in Japan [2]. Group 3: Audience Reactions - Attendees, including Japanese citizens and veterans, expressed the importance of the exhibition in understanding Japan's wartime actions and the suffering of the Chinese people [3]. - The exhibition is planned to continue in other Asian countries, Europe, and the United States, aiming to spread awareness of historical truths [3].

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition titled "The Last Redemption" held by French youth Marcus Dretas in Tokyo aims to provide Western civilian testimony regarding Japan's wartime atrocities in China, showcasing historical photographs collected by his grandfather [2][3]. Group 1: Exhibition Details - The exhibition features dozens of historical photographs, including original and reproduced images, that reveal the atrocities committed by the Japanese military during World War II, such as the bombing of Shanghai and the massacre of civilians [2]. - Marcus discovered the collection of 618 historical photographs in his grandfather's garage in 2021, which were printed between the 1930s and 1950s, and donated them to the Shanghai Songhu Anti-Japanese War Memorial Museum [3]. - The photographs document the extensive killings of Chinese civilians by the Japanese military and are considered valuable historical resources for studying the Anti-Japanese War and the global anti-fascist movement [3]. Group 2: Historical Context and Impact - Marcus's grandfather lost two children to Japanese forces, and he aims to counter the narrative in Japanese textbooks that often downplay or obscure the history of wartime atrocities [3]. - The exhibition is organized by Marcus and his friends, who faced criticism from some Western media and opposition from certain factions within Japan [3]. - The exhibition seeks to raise awareness among the Japanese public about their historical actions and promote a more objective understanding of Japan's past in Asia [3]. Group 3: Audience Reactions - Visitors to the exhibition expressed a deep awareness of Japan's aggressive history, with one attendee emphasizing the need for Japanese people to engage with such exhibitions to broaden their historical perspective [4]. - A descendant of a Japanese soldier remarked on the exhibition's significance in accurately documenting the atrocities committed by the Japanese military and the miscalculations of the Japanese government during the war [4]. - The exhibition is planned to continue in other Asian countries, Europe, and the United States, aiming to spread awareness of historical truths [4].

Core Viewpoint - The book "Medical Human Experiments by Japanese Biological Warfare Units in China (1932-1945)" was launched at the 2025 Tianfu Book Fair, highlighting the historical truth of Japanese human experiments during the Second Sino-Japanese War [1][4]. Group 1: Book Launch and Authors - The book was co-published by New Star Press and Sichuan People's Publishing House, with a focus on the brutal human experiments conducted by the Japanese military [3][4]. - Author Tilman B. Nagel, a professor at Heidelberg University, participated in the launch via video, sharing his research experiences in China and emphasizing the importance of remembering the suffering caused by these experiments [1][3]. Group 2: Historical Significance - The book aims to objectively reveal the historical truth of Japanese biological warfare in China, providing significant support for historical research and peace education [4][6]. - The publication serves as a powerful call for human conscience and peace, reflecting the international academic community's respect for historical truth [3][4]. Group 3: International Impact - The book had its global premiere at the 77th Frankfurt Book Fair on October 15, receiving a warm response, and its domestic launch at the Tianfu Book Fair further expands its influence [3][4]. - The collaboration between the Tianfu Book Fair and the Frankfurt Book Fair established an international cultural exchange platform, enhancing the book's international visibility [3][6].

Core Viewpoint - The film "731" is set to premiere on September 18 in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, with simultaneous releases in countries like Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, and South Korea, generating significant anticipation among audiences [1][2]. Group 1: Audience Engagement - The film has garnered unprecedented attention, with over 4.489 million people expressing interest on the Maoyan platform, setting a record for the highest number of "want to see" entries in mainland China's film history [1]. - Pre-sale box office revenue has exceeded 87 million RMB, indicating strong viewer expectations [1]. Group 2: Cultural and Historical Significance - The film aims to illuminate historical truths about the atrocities committed by the Japanese military during World War II, with the producer emphasizing the importance of remembering history [1][2]. - The premiere in Hong Kong is particularly symbolic, with 55 theaters scheduled to show approximately 200 screenings on the opening day, and a special premiere event timed at 7:31 PM to highlight its significance [1]. Group 3: International Reception - Chinese students studying abroad are actively engaging with the film, inviting peers to view it and discuss its historical context, which challenges previous misconceptions about the events depicted [2]. - Family members of victims express hope that the film will raise global awareness of historical truths, particularly among the Japanese public, and encourage official apologies from the Japanese government [2].

Core Points - The article discusses the discovery of a historical photo album titled "Guangzhou in Ruins," which contains 365 photographs documenting the Japanese air raids on Guangzhou in 1938, capturing the destruction and suffering of civilians [1] - The album was donated to the Sun Yat-sen University Museum, becoming a key exhibit for the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Anti-Japanese War, highlighting the museum's role in preserving history [2] - The author reflects on the contrast between the historical images and the modern city of Guangzhou, emphasizing the importance of understanding the city's past and the impact of war on its identity [3] Group 1 - The photo album serves as a unique historical document, providing insights into the atrocities committed during the Japanese invasion of Guangzhou [1] - The donation of the album to the museum aims to facilitate further research and public awareness of this overlooked history [2] - The exploration of the locations depicted in the album allows for a visual dialogue between past and present, illustrating the transformation of the city [3] Group 2 - The author plans to engage in further exchanges in Nanjing, where significant historical events, such as the Nanjing Massacre, occurred, aiming to raise awareness about Japan's invasions in Asia [3] - The article emphasizes the need for broader communication to share the truths of history and the value of peace [3]

Core Viewpoint - The film "Nanjing Photo Studio" has officially premiered in the UK, providing an opportunity for British audiences to understand the historical context of the Nanjing Massacre [1] Group 1: Film Release and Audience Reception - The film was released on September 5 and is being screened in major UK cinema chains, "Film World" and "Odeon" [1] - A German audience member expressed that the film helps more people understand China's situation during the Second Sino-Japanese War, emphasizing the importance of remembering such tragedies [1] - A Chinese expatriate in the UK brought her daughter to the film to ensure she does not forget her homeland's history, highlighting the significance of cultural communication [1] Group 2: Cultural Impact and Historical Significance - The UK distributor, European Times UK branch, noted that "Nanjing Photo Studio" transcends cultural boundaries, facilitating dialogue on war memories and historical truths among diverse groups [1] - The film serves as a reminder for Europeans familiar with World War II memories, comparing its evidence to that of the Nuremberg Trials, stressing the necessity of visibility for the truth [1]

Core Viewpoint - The articles emphasize the importance of remembering history, particularly the sacrifices made during World War II, to ensure that such tragedies do not recur and to promote peace and prosperity for future generations [1][2][5]. Group 1: Historical Reflection - The impact of World War II was devastating, with over 100 million military and civilian casualties globally, and China suffered immensely with over 35 million lives lost [2]. - The Nanjing Massacre is highlighted as a particularly horrific event, where 300,000 Chinese were killed by Japanese forces [2]. - The significance of historical memory is underscored, with a commitment to prevent the repetition of past atrocities [2][3]. Group 2: Youth Engagement - Young people are actively involved in preserving historical truths, such as collecting evidence of wartime atrocities and sharing these narratives [3][6]. - Initiatives like the World Youth Peace Conference are fostering international dialogue and cooperation among youth to promote peace [7]. Group 3: International Relations - China is portrayed as a builder and maintainer of the current international order, having signed the UN Charter as a founding member and advocating for multilateralism [5]. - The articles express goodwill towards Japanese citizens who acknowledge historical wrongs, emphasizing a shared desire for peace [6]. Group 4: National Spirit and Resilience - The articles highlight the "great anti-war spirit" of the Chinese people, characterized by patriotism, resilience, and a commitment to national revival [11]. - The narrative of unity and collective effort during the war is presented as a foundation for contemporary national identity and progress [10][11].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint emphasizes the importance of uncovering historical truths regarding Japan's wartime atrocities, particularly the actions of Unit 731 and other war crimes committed by the Japanese military during the invasion of China [1][2] - Researcher Matsuno Seiya highlights the challenges faced in accessing historical documents due to systematic destruction of evidence, which complicates the task of revealing the truth [1] - Matsuno Seiya's recent contributions include donating original documents related to the Japanese military's actions in Hong Kong, marking a significant step in documenting the "pseudo-currency war" perpetrated by the Japanese during World War II [2] Group 2 - The Japanese government is urged to reflect on its militaristic past and acknowledge its historical responsibilities, aligning with the principles of peace outlined in the Japanese constitution [3] - Matsuno Seiya calls for Japan to establish a historical understanding that resonates with international consensus, fostering genuine friendly relations with neighboring Asian countries [3] - The ongoing denial and distortion of historical facts by some factions in Japan highlight the need for continued academic research and public discourse on wartime accountability [2]

Core Viewpoint - The film "Nanjing Photo Studio" serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities committed during the Nanjing Massacre, utilizing real historical evidence to present the truth of this dark chapter in Chinese history [8][9][10]. Group 1: Historical Context - The Nanjing Massacre, marked by the invasion of Japanese troops on December 13, 1937, led to a complete communication blackout, isolating the city and making it a "dead city" [9]. - The film highlights the struggle to disseminate the truth amidst strict censorship, with the National Government's Central News Agency only managing to release a brief report days later [9][10]. Group 2: Personal Narratives - The character of Luo Jin, a 15-year-old apprentice at a photo studio, captures the horror of the massacre when he secretly prints key photographs of the atrocities [10][11]. - The narrative intertwines the fates of ordinary individuals, such as the postman A Chang and the photographer Ito, showcasing their roles in preserving evidence of the crimes [9][11]. Group 3: Symbolism and Locations - The film connects personal stories to significant locations in Nanjing, such as the photo studio and the city walls, emphasizing the contrast between daily life and the surrounding violence [12][13]. - The depiction of the photo studio serves as a microcosm of the city, where personal memories are juxtaposed against the backdrop of national tragedy [12]. Group 4: Artistic Representation of Atrocities - The film employs artistic techniques to portray the brutal realities of the massacre, including scenes of Japanese soldiers engaging in horrific acts, which are based on historical events [14][15]. - The narrative also addresses the manipulation of images by the Japanese military to create a false narrative of peace, revealing the depths of their propaganda efforts [14][15]. Group 5: Preservation of Truth - The film underscores the importance of preserving historical truth, as evidenced by the efforts of individuals who risked their lives to document the atrocities [15][16]. - The conclusion of the film symbolizes the triumph of justice, with the execution of war criminal Gu Shoufu coinciding with the act of capturing the truth through photography [16].

Core Viewpoint - The film "Nanjing Photo Studio" stands out in this summer's movie season, with a box office forecast of 3.2 billion and a Douban rating of 8.6, reflecting its quality and audience reception [1]. Group 1: Film Quality and Reception - The overall quality of summer films this year is commendable, with "Nanjing Photo Studio" being the biggest winner [1]. - The film successfully avoids sensationalism while addressing historical suffering, focusing on human experiences rather than mere violence [2][3]. Group 2: Story and Themes - Set against the backdrop of the Nanjing Massacre in December 1937, the film uses a photo studio as a microcosm to reflect human nature during times of crisis [6][8]. - The narrative centers around ordinary people seeking refuge in the photo studio, highlighting their personal stories amidst historical turmoil [12][13]. Group 3: Character Development - The film features well-developed characters, avoiding one-dimensional portrayals, including the complexities of both Chinese civilians and Japanese soldiers [28][45]. - The character of the Japanese photographer, Ito, embodies the duality of human nature, reflecting the impact of militaristic education on individual morality [29][32]. Group 4: Directorial Approach - Director Shen Ao demonstrates sincerity in his storytelling, balancing the depiction of violence and human suffering without glorifying the perpetrators [56][58]. - The film's artistic choices, such as using photo development as a metaphor for processing trauma, enhance its emotional impact [58][62]. Group 5: Historical Context and Significance - The film serves as a reminder of the historical atrocities faced by countless individuals, emphasizing the importance of remembering their stories [50][63]. - It challenges the notion of heroism by portraying ordinary people who rise to the occasion in dire circumstances, thus redefining what it means to be a hero [48][49].