The Children of Huang Shi (2008)

In the tumultuous year of 1937, George Hogg, a spirited British reporter, embarks on a daring journey to Shanghai, eager to chronicle the bleak reality of the Japanese invasion of Nanking. However, his pursuit of truth is thwarted by bureaucratic obstacles and the hostile Japanese authorities. Undeterred, George cunningly assumes the identity of a Red Cross driver bound for matrimony, navigating his way to Nanking with a band of fellow journalists nestled in his truck. The brutality of war unfurls before George's eyes as he documents an execution of innocents carried out by Japanese soldiers, an act that ultimately leads to his capture. Poised on the brink of death, his life is saved by the enigmatic communist soldier, Chen Hansheng, affectionately known as Jack. After a narrow escape, George finds solace in the compassionate care of Lee Pearson, a fearless Australian nurse who has been hardened by the harsh realities of war. Under the wing of his newfound allies, George is sent to an orphanage, where he comes to shoulder the responsibility of sixty war-orphaned children. Amidst the chaos of war and political strife, George breathes new life into the desolate orphanage, forging an unbreakable bond with his young charges. As their guardian, he experiences the profound depths of love and responsibility, his life woven with the threads of Jack's friendship and his burgeoning romance with Lee. When the looming shadows of the Japanese occupation and the ensuing civil war threaten their sanctuary, George resolves to lead his flock to safety. Together with the indomitable Madame Wang, a displaced aristocrat, they embark on a harrowing yet inspiring journey spanning 800 kilometers. Traversing treacherous mountains and barren deserts, they strive for safety at the western edge of the Great Wall of China. Throughout this perilous expedition, George discovers the true essence of courage. The Children of Huang Shi is a poignant narrative of resilience and hope, a testament to the human capacity to find love and purpose amidst the ravages of war.

The Children of Huang Shi is a drama movie featuring Jonathan Rhys Meyers and directed by Roger Spottiswoode.

It is possible to buy The Children of Huang Shi on Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Vudu and YouTube.