City of Life and Death

In 1937, the Second Sino-Japanese War begins, marking a significant turning point in Sino-Japanese relations. This conflict would become a backdrop for the tragic events that unfold in Nanjing.

The Imperial Japanese Army captures Nanjing, the capital of the Republic of China. This annexation opens the door to a series of horrific acts against Chinese prisoners and civilians, known as the Nanking Massacre.

Brave Chinese soldier Lieutenant Lu Jianxiong and his comrade Shunzi attempt to thwart deserting troops planning to abandon Nanjing. However, their mission is abruptly interrupted when they are captured by Japanese forces surrounding the city.

Superior Private Kadokawa Masao confronts Lu Jianxiong's group in a tense showdown. Initially, Lu and his comrades ambush Kadokawa and his men, but as more Japanese troops arrive, they are ultimately forced to surrender.

As chaos ensues, the Nanking Safety Zone is established, overseen by John Rabe and other Westerners. They strive to protect thousands of civilians seeking refuge from the atrocities occurring outside its walls.

The Safety Zone becomes a target for Japanese soldiers, prompting women to disguise themselves as men to evade assault. This desperate strategy highlights the extreme lengths they go to in order to survive.

Kadokawa grapples with conflicting emotions as he develops feelings for Yuriko, a Japanese prostitute. His internal struggle grows as he navigates his compassion for her amidst the brutality surrounding them.

Tang Tianxiang, Rabe's secretary, and teacher Jiang Shuyun experience profound personal losses amid the war's horrors. Tang’s helplessness grows as he learns of his daughter’s ensnarement in the violence.

Japanese officer Second Lieutenant Ida Osamu issues a horrifying demand for one hundred women to be handed over as 'comfort women'. This tragic moment underscores the atrocities faced by women during the conflict.

Kadokawa is left powerless as he witnesses the horrors inflicted upon women like Xiaojiang. The trauma and despair surrounding him lead to a moment of bitter introspection as he grapples with his inaction.

John Rabe is called back to Germany due to escalating diplomatic tensions stemming from his efforts to assist refugees. His departure leaves a vacuum of leadership and intensifies the urgency for those remaining.

In a selfless act, Tang chooses to stay behind and trade places with a Chinese soldier to protect his family. This poignant decision illustrates the depth of personal sacrifice in a time of crisis.

Jiang orchestrates a risky plan to rescue Shunzi, convincing the guards that she is his wife. This act of defiance brings about severe repercussions, highlighting her determination to save him despite the dangers.

As the situation grows increasingly dire, Kadokawa is consumed by guilt and hopelessness. His choices lead him to release Shunzi and Xiaodouzi, ultimately culminating in his tragic decision to end his own suffering.

In the closing moments, we learn that Mrs. Tang and Ida Osamu survived the war, emphasizing the stark contrast between survival and the deep scars left by their experiences. The credits roll, reminding us of the heavy toll of history.