Gezhi Town

2025 [CHINESE]

Action / Drama / War

3
Rotten Tomatoes Critics - Rotten 94%
Rotten Tomatoes Audience - Upright 94% · 50 ratings
IMDb Rating 7.3/10 10 3429 3.4K

complex wry

Plot summary

A group of Chinese refugees and straggler soldiers, led by a machinist, defend their mountain town, "Gezhi," against a surprise attack by Japanese reconnaissance troops in a desperate fight using civilian ingenuity against a trained military force.

Director

Sheng Kong Photo
Sheng Kong

Top cast

Alan Aruna Photo
Alan Aruna as Ma Guofu
Zhan Xiao Photo
Zhan Xiao as Mo Dexian
Juncong Xu Photo
Juncong Xu as Caption
Zheng Yin Photo
Zheng Yin as Okawara
2160p.WEB
5.42 GB
3840*2160
Chinese 2.0
NR
Subtitles cn  
23.976 fps
2 hr 1 min
Seeds 67

Movie Reviews

Reviewed by annieluo-91606 9 / 10

A Deeply Moving and Unconventional War Film

Gezhi Town is a profoundly impactful Chinese war film that stays with you long after the credits roll. It tells the story of a group of ordinary refugees, led by a mechanic named Mo Dexian, who are forced to defend their makeshift sanctuary in a remote town against invading Japanese troops.Its unwavering focus on the "common people" like that 54 people in that small towm made it so special. There are no traditional heroes here. Instead, we see fearful, flawed individuals-civilians and deserting soldiers-whose instinct is to hide and hope the danger passes. The film's masterful use of dark humor and absurdity highlights the sheer madness of war and makes the characters' eventual, desperate courage feel all the more authentic and earned.The title itself, referencing an ancient craftsmans tradition of marking one's work, becomes a powerful metaphor. It's about taking a stand and leaving your mark when everything is at stake. The transformation of these characters from helpless victims into determined defenders is the film's core, delivering a strong message about resistance, dignity, and protecting one's home.Director Kong Sheng and writer Lan Xiaolong have created a unique and memorable entry in the war genre. It's a stark, human, and ultimately uplifting film. As a Chinese born in 1970ish, I highly recommend everyone for its fresh perspective and emotional depth.
Reviewed by vbnjkbjv 10 / 10

Heart of the story lies not in external weapons of war, but in inner conviction

The film uses a restrained yet incisive narrative style, highlighting the relentless determination of its characters. Its visual language is sharp and deliberate, reminding the audience with every frame that the heart of the story lies not in external weapons of war, but in inner conviction.Produced with a quiet confidence, the film leaves emotions unspoken but deeply felt. It doesn't stun with noise or spectacle; instead, it moves with resolve and intent - and that is precisely what makes it linger long after the credits roll.
Reviewed by Yulia-63 9 / 10

This is a film the whole world should watch

Because it tells a story about Chinese people that the world rarely sees. It is a humorous movie set against the tragic backdrop of World War II, yet its expression is refreshingly different.Instead of preaching or glorifying individual heroism, the film boldly shows the ordinary side of ordinary people - their fear, hesitation, even selfishness. It doesn't try to educate the audience or force a moral high ground. But precisely through these small, real, imperfect moments, the film reveals how human courage is slowly awakened, how a sense of blood and dignity can rise from the most unlikely places.It is a very unconventional Chinese film - subtle, grounded, surprisingly funny, yet deeply moving. Highly recommended.
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