Extremely powerful and moving epic that reveals much about the horrors the Chinese endured before our entry into WW II. (Many do not realize that a large part of our eventual participation in the Pacific /Burma theatre was in support of the Chinese as they battled the Japanese occupation). Beautifully acted and the cinematography is magnificent. The sacrifice displayed by those whom had every excuse to stay out of a brutal and dangerous situation is inspiring. A small triumph for good in a world gone mad. One of the best films I have ever seen.

This is a real good documentary and I originally went into seeing this with pretty low expectations. On the downside, pretty slow in its development but once it gets going, it brings pretty good light to what's going on with the Chinese and Japanese revolution back in the 1930's.

The story was moving and inspiring. I did not know about this chapter of China's history and found it fancinating. I saw the movie 2 days ago and cannot forget the impact. Definetly worth seeing.

I do not understand some of these reviews! This film was based on a TRUE STORY - it was well thought out, true to life - for those who didn't like it I feel simply wanted more a Fiction based film rather than this very realistic well thought out masterpiece As usual, Jonathan is deep, charismatic, intense and flawless in his character. I am unfamiliar with the other actor/actresses, however they too were fantastic! You have to be in the mood for a 'realistic life trauma and drama' otherwise, stay at home I loved this very moving film... A true story of life, trauma. war, scars, tears that children face of times of war & corruption My hat, dress, sunglasses and whatever else I have goes off to everyone in this cast for a fabulous, heartwarming true story! Allison Las Vegas

An Australian/Chinese/German co-production, this is a hollywood-style epic film with an engrossing story and visually appealing landscapes and scenery. The principle actors are handsome and beautiful with hardly a blemish or flaw even when covered by the grit of war. Reminiscent of Ingrid Bergman in The Inn of the Sixth Happiness, the setting is the 1937 invasion of China by the Japanese. All the major actors give excellent performances, but Michelle Yeoh as the affluent merchant Mrs. Wang and Jonathan Rhys Meyers as the inexperienced Englishman George Hogg are the strongest. Highly recommended for any movie-goer who enjoys things Chinese.