As we embark on our cinematic journey of gratitude for the entire month of November, we’re excited to introduce an extra dimension to this experience. Alongside each movie review, we will also be featuring a 3D print inspired by the film of the day. These 3D prints aim to capture a piece of the movie’s essence, serving as tangible reminders of the stories and characters that have left a lasting impact on us. Let’s dive into the lineup, both on the screen and on your 3D printer!

Movie Review
3D Print
Where To Watch

Nanking (2007)

“Nanking,” a 2007 documentary directed by Bill Guttentag and Dan Sturman, is a profoundly harrowing and emotionally charged film that revisits one of the darkest chapters of human history, the Nanking Massacre of 1937. This documentary, which combines heartbreaking testimonies and historical footage, shines a light on the atrocity, providing a sobering reminder of the brutality of war and the importance of acknowledging these true events for the sake of humanity.

The film brings together the accounts of survivors, both Chinese and Western, who lived through the horrors of the Nanking Massacre. It tells the story of a group of Westerners who established a safety zone in the city to protect Chinese civilians from the Japanese Imperial Army’s atrocities. Their courageous actions form a significant part of the narrative and highlight the importance of compassion and humanity during times of unimaginable suffering.

What makes “Nanking” particularly impactful is its use of actual historical footage and photographs to document the gruesome events. These visuals, coupled with the firsthand accounts of survivors, create an emotionally charged atmosphere, leaving the audience with a deep sense of the tragedy that unfolded in Nanking.

Why We Should Be Grateful for the True Events Portrayed in the Movie:

1. Preserving Historical Memory: “Nanking” serves as a vital record of the Nanking Massacre, preserving the historical memory of the event. We should be grateful for the documentary’s role in ensuring that this tragedy is not forgotten and that future generations can learn from it.
2. Promoting Empathy and Understanding: The film provides a glimpse into the extreme suffering endured by the victims and the heroism of those who tried to protect them. We should be grateful for its ability to promote empathy and understanding, encouraging us to stand against violence and inhumanity.
3. Documenting Acts of Courage: “Nanking” showcases the extraordinary courage of individuals who risked their lives to protect others during a time of extreme danger. We should be grateful for their bravery, as it serves as a testament to the best aspects of human nature in the face of unspeakable evil.
4. Stress on the Importance of Peace: The film underscores the devastating consequences of war and the urgent need for peace and diplomacy. We should be grateful for the powerful message it conveys about the value of international cooperation and conflict prevention.

In conclusion, “Nanking” is a powerful documentary that brings to light a painful chapter of history while also highlighting the incredible capacity for compassion and heroism in the face of unspeakable violence. By sharing the true events of the Nanking Massacre, this film serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving historical memory, promoting empathy and understanding, documenting acts of courage, and emphasizing the urgency of peace. It encourages us to strive for a world where such atrocities are never repeated.

3D Print

I created a lithophane nightlight for this movie. You can see my previous post on how to create your own lithophane night lights HERE.

The website I use to make lithophanes is HERE

Where to Watch

Google Play
Amazon Prime
YouTube

Previously #4: Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Next #6: Patton (1970)