Feature film 'Gezhi Town' hits screens
2025-12-06 19:12:39
By Yan Wanqin
The highly anticipated film “Gezhi Town,” set in Yichang during the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1937-1945), hit theaters nationwide today.
The film offers a unique micro-perspective on wartime life, depicting how a group of ordinary citizens bravely defend their homeland against Japanese invaders.
Since its release date was announced on November 28, the film has drawn widespread attention and excitement. According to Maoyan Professional Edition data, pre-sales surpassed 100 million yuan (US$14 million) as of 10:36 pm on December 3.
The highly anticipated film “Gezhi Town,” set in Yichang during the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1937-1945), hit theaters nationwide today.
The film offers a unique micro-perspective on wartime life, depicting how a group of ordinary citizens bravely defend their homeland against Japanese invaders.
Since its release date was announced on November 28, the film has drawn widespread attention and excitement. According to Maoyan Professional Edition data, pre-sales surpassed 100 million yuan (US$14 million) as of 10:36 pm on December 3.
Poster for “Gezhi Town.”The narrative follows Mo Dexian, a fitter from a machinery factory who flees with his family into the mountains amid the chaos of war. They eventually take refuge in Gezhi Town, where they cross paths with Xiao Yan, commander of an anti-aircraft battery, and his soldiers. The town's fragile peace is soon disrupted by the unexpected arrival of a small squad of Japanese scouts. The townspeople unite to defend their home, igniting a desperate life-and-death struggle.
Written by acclaimed screenwriter Lan Xiaolong and directed by award-winning director Kong Sheng, the film features a strong cast led by popular actor Xiao Zhan alongside rising talents Peng Yuchang and Zhou Yiran.
The movie is also the first feature-film production of TV drama powerhouse Daylight Entertainment.
A special screening of “Gezhi Town,” followed by a meet-and-greet with the cast and crew, was held in Yichang on December 5. Photo by Huang Xiang.Production began in Yichang on July 9, 2024, with filming taking place at several scenic locations including the Muqiaoxi Ecological Tourism Resort, Puxihe Village, the Bailihuang Tourist Resort and Zhihushan Mountain. Shooting wrapped on October 17.
Yang Jing also contributed to this story.
