Nanjing Massacre play titled 'Dead to Rights' to Make North American Debut
In August, audiences in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand will have the opportunity to witness the powerful Chinese wartime drama "Dead to Rights." The film, set against the backdrop of the 1937 Nanjing Massacre, will open in U.S. and Canadian theaters on Aug. 15, with a release in Australia and New Zealand on Aug. 7.
The film is a collaboration between Toronto-based Niu Vision Media and independent film producer and distributor Echelon Studios. Niu Vision Media specializes in global distribution of Asian films, while Echelon Studios boasts over 20,000 titles across multiple genres, including international films, documentaries, and shorts.
Directed by Shen Ao, known for "No More Bets," the film tells the story of A Chang, played by Liu Haoran of the "Detective Chinatown" franchise. A Chang covertly shelters Chinese soldiers and civilians within a Japanese-controlled studio as an act of quiet resistance. To survive the Japanese occupation, A Chang assumes the identity of a photo developer.
Shen Ao's minimalist approach to storytelling allows the horror of the Nanjing Massacre to be conveyed authentically without sensationalism. The film producer, Furuo Qing, is known for the "The Wandering Earth" franchise.
Echelon Studios will distribute "Dead to Rights" in the U.S., following their successful collaboration with Niu Vision Media on the Chinese thriller "Malice." The film will be available for streaming later this year.
Niu Vision Media brings titles to theaters across multiple countries through partnerships with major international theater chains. They are also releasing "Dead to Rights" in various other territories, with details to be announced.
In addition to theatrical and streaming releases, Echelon Studios acquires and distributes features to VOD and FAST streaming platforms, pay-per-view services, home entertainment, hotel lodging, airline, and ancillary markets.
For those eager to experience this poignant and powerful film, mark your calendars for Aug. 15 (U.S. and Canada) and Aug. 7 (Australia and New Zealand). "Dead to Rights" promises to be a moving and thought-provoking addition to your summer film lineup.
Read also:
- Today's most impactful photographic moments
- Support for Eric Adams in The Post's Letters to the Editor on August 13, 2025
- Roosting Shark and Rambunctious Red Squirrels: Unconventional House Rental in Yorkshire Involving Aquatic Marvel, Squirrely Mayhem, and Mystical Planning Regulations
- Legal Dispute Dismissed with Humor: Supreme Court Laughs off Another Civil Matter Mislabeled as Criminal Prosecution
