Jul 8, 2023
In this episode of the podcast, two Westerners analyse two
Chinese war "propaganda" movies, The Battle at Lake Changjin I & II
(Water Gate Bridge), offering their candid feedback. These are
among the most successful Chinese 'blockbusters' of all time, the
first part being the biggest hit in China's history, grossing at
least $913 million after its 2021 release. The topic of these
action-heavy war movies is China's role in the Korean War, with a
particular focus on the showdown in Changjin, part two
concentrating on the battle at its reservoir, which was a turning
point for the war. Is the Chinese propaganda there as claimed? Is
it over the top or warranted? How does it compare to American war
movies and their messaging? Karri and Henrik also discuss the
American acting, whether the UN troops retreated from Changjin, the
shortcomings in storytelling and CGI, Hollywoodization of Chinese
cinema, and other topics.
Films covered in this episode:
The Battle at Lake
Changjin (长津湖, 2021)
The Battle at Lake
Changjin II (Water Gate Bridge) (長津湖之水門橋, 2022)
Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.