What Is City of Life and Death About?
The premise of City of Life and Death in 344 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the winter of 1937, Nanjing—capital of the Republic of China—falls to the Imperial Japanese Army, plunging the ancient city into a period of occupation marked by fear and uncertainty. Streets once alive with ordinary life become corridors of a deepening crisis, as military forces sweep through neighborhoods and the boundaries between soldier and civilian blur with unsettling speed. The historical backdrop carries an immediate gravity, framing the story within one of the most harrowing chapters of the Second Sino-Japanese War.
Amid the chaos, a fragile sanctuary emerges: the Nanjing Safety Zone, organized by the German businessman John Rabe and a small group of Westerners determined to shield the vulnerable. Within its boundaries, thousands of women, children, the elderly, and wounded soldiers seek refuge from the violence beyond its walls. The zone operates under immense pressure, its existence dependent on uneasy diplomatic negotiations and the goodwill of occupiers whose intentions remain unpredictable. Rabe’s secretary Tang Tianxiang and the teacher Jiang Shuyun work tirelessly to maintain order and offer what protection they can, even as the safety they represent hangs by a thread.
On either side of the conflict, soldiers carry the weight of the moment in different ways. The Chinese lieutenant Lu Jianxiong fights to hold the line against the invading forces, while across the divide, the Japanese private Kadokawa Masao navigates the dissonance between military duty and the humanity he struggles to preserve. The film lingers on these parallel experiences, painting both the occupiers and the occupied as complex figures shaped by circumstance rather than simple caricature. In the margins of war, individuals are forced to confront moral choices that reveal the fragility of conscience under pressure.
Rendered in stark black-and-white imagery, the film cultivates a haunting, mournful tone that mirrors the gravity of its subject. Every scene carries the weight of history, balancing moments of quiet resilience with the encroaching dread of violence. Rather than dwelling on spectacle, the story draws its power from the unspoken tensions, fleeting glances, and small acts of humanity that emerge within an atmosphere of overwhelming darkness.
What Happens in City of Life and Death?
The complete story of City of Life and Death, from the first scene to the last, in 953 words (about 4 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 11 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
City of Life and Death unfolds in 1937, amidst the unsettling backdrop of the Imperial Japanese Army’s takeover of Nanjing, the capital of the Republic of China. This harrowing period is commonly referred to as the Nanjing Massacre, characterized by the mass killing of countless Chinese prisoners of war and civilians at the hands of the Japanese military over several weeks.
As the chaos ensues, many commanders from the National Revolutionary Army abandon Nanjing. Among those left behind are the determined Chinese soldier, Lieutenant Lu Jianxiong (Liu Ye), and his steadfast comrade Shunzi (Yisui Zhao). They make a desperate attempt to halt a group of deserters from fleeing the city. Unfortunately, as they exit its gates, they fall into the clutches of the Japanese forces that have effectively encircled the city.
Throughout this turbulent time, as the Japanese search for any remaining resistance, a confrontation arises. Sergeant Kadokawa Masao (Hideo Nakaizumi) and his squad are ambushed by Lu and a mix of both regular and irregular soldiers who fire from the safety of buildings. Despite their valiant efforts, Lu and his comrades are eventually overwhelmed, leading to their surrender as more Japanese troops descend upon their position. The captured Chinese soldiers are then led away to various locations where they face horrific mass executions. Remarkably, Shunzi and a young boy named Xiaodouzi (Liu Bin) somehow manage to evade the gunfire and seek refuge in the Nanjing Safety Zone, a haven established by the German businessman John Rabe (John Paisley) and other Westerners.
Inside this safety zone, thousands of vulnerable Chinese women, children, elderly men, and injured soldiers gather, hoping for protection. However, the sanctuary is frequently violated by groups of Japanese soldiers who impose their desires upon the female refugees, leading to a desperate measure: women are advised to cut their hair and disguise themselves as men to avoid assault. One courageous prostitute, Xiaojiang (Jiang Yiyan), refuses to comply, stating her need to preserve her hair for her livelihood.
Simultaneously, Kadokawa grapples with his internal conflict as he develops feelings for a Japanese prostitute, Yuriko (Yuko Miyamoto). Amidst the omnipresent violence surrounding him, he struggles with deep-seated feelings of alienation while simultaneously bringing Yuriko sweets and gifts, promising her a future together post-war.
In the safety zone, Tang Tianxiang (Fan Wei) and teacher Jiang Shuyun (Qin Lan) oversee daily operations. However, Tang cannot protect his young daughter from a soldier who callously throws her out of a window, nor can he shield his sister-in-law from horrific abuse. When Second Lieutenant Ida Osamu (Ryu Kohata) orders the surrender of 100 women as “comfort women,” Rabe and Jiang are heartbroken as they relay the grim announcement to the community. In a show of desperate bravery, Xiaojiang and others step forward, believing that their sacrifices might save the remaining refugees.
Upon encountering Xiaojiang, Kadokawa attempts to offer her rice, but he is plunged into despair as he witnesses another soldier assault her while she lies in a near-comatose state. The brutal reality continues to unfold as countless “comfort women,” including Xiaojiang herself, succumb to the horrific consequences of abuse, leaving behind only their lifeless bodies, which Kadokawa is forced to witness as they are taken away.
Tensions escalate when Rabe is ordered back to Germany because of diplomatic tensions arising from his actions in the safety zone. Although Tang originally is granted permission to leave with Rabe, he decides at the last moment to swap places with a Chinese soldier impersonating his assistant, proclaiming his wish to stay back in search of May, his sister-in-law. Mrs. Tang reveals her pregnancy before saying goodbye to her husband, but shortly after Rabe’s departure, Tang is executed by firing squad under Ida’s orders.
Subsequently, the Japanese military revokes the safety zone, intensifying their hunt for Chinese men who had served as soldiers. Promising jobs and payment for those who comply, they instead lead those identified as soldiers to their doom. Shunzi, who survived earlier murders, is initially declared a non-combatant but is soon recognized and captured by a soldier.
After relentless pleas for justice from Minnie Vautrin (Beverly Peckous) and other Westerners, Ida concedes, allowing each refugee to select one man from the execution trucks to be spared. Jiang, cleverly disguises her intentions, rescues one man by posing as his wife, and returns for Shunzi, claiming him as her spouse, while Xiaodouzi pretends to be their son. Recognizing Jiang’s ruse, Kadokawa opts not to reveal her deception—yet unfortunately, another Japanese soldier exposes her. Despite her courage, Jiang, Shunzi, and Xiaodouzi are taken captive once more.
In a desperate plea, Jiang, understanding her fate, asks Kadokawa to end her suffering. He follows through, ending her life, shocking those around him. The chaos unfurls as Kadokawa later seeks out Yuriko, only to discover her tragic death after she had fled Nanjing. In his grief, he recalls her as his wife and begs for her to receive a dignified farewell.
As the Japanese soldiers revel in a victory dance ritual commemorating their conquest of Nanjing, Kadokawa’s heart becomes heavy with the weight of his actions and the atrocities he has witnessed. The film concludes in a poignant twist as Kadokawa, marching Shunzi and Xiaodouzi towards their execution, unexpectedly sets them free, conveying the profound sentiment, > “Life is more difficult than death.” This moment evokes a solemn respect from the soldier accompanying him, who silently walks away. Kadokawa, stricken by shame and sorrow, ends his own life to escape the unbearable guilt that haunts him.
In the end credits, it is revealed that Mrs. Tang continued to live into old age, as did Ida Osamu, and that Xiaodouzi survives to this day, leaving a haunting legacy against the backdrop of this tragic tale.
City of Life and Death Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Japanese Army Takes Over Nanjing” to “Kadokawa's Tragic End”. 15 events name a place, across 2 locations.
- 1
Japanese Army Takes Over Nanjing
In 1937, the Imperial Japanese Army launches a devastating attack on Nanjing, the capital of the Republic of China. This event marks the beginning of a horrific chapter known as the Nanjing Massacre, characterized by widespread atrocities against civilians and prisoners of war.
When:1937 Where:Nanjing
- 2
National Revolutionary Army Retreats
As chaos descends upon the city, many commanders from the National Revolutionary Army abandon Nanjing in a bid to save themselves. Among those left behind are Lieutenant Lu Jianxiong and his comrade Shunzi, who resolve to stay and fight for their city.
Where:Nanjing
- 3
Ambush and Surrender
Lieutenant Lu Jianxiong and his soldiers engage in a confrontation with Sergeant Kadokawa Masao and his squad. Despite their valiant efforts, they are overrun and ultimately surrender to the encroaching Japanese forces, marking a tragic turning point for the defenders.
Where:Nanjing
- 4
Escape to the Safety Zone
Amidst the violence, Shunzi and young Xiaodouzi successfully evade the gunfire and take refuge in the Nanjing Safety Zone. This area, established by John Rabe and other Westerners, becomes a fleeting sanctuary for many hoping to escape the horrors surrounding them.
Where:Nanjing Safety Zone
- 5
Harsh Realities in the Safety Zone
Inside the Safety Zone, thousands of vulnerable individuals gather, including women and children seeking protection. However, the sanctuary is frequently violated by Japanese soldiers, leading to desperate measures such as women disguising themselves as men to avoid assault.
Where:Nanjing Safety Zone
- 6
Kadokawa's Internal Conflict
As violence surrounds him, Sergeant Kadokawa grapples with his feelings for Yuriko, a Japanese prostitute. Torn between his duties and his emotions, he tries to maintain a semblance of normalcy by bringing her gifts, confounded by the war's brutalities.
Where:Nanjing
- 7
Tragedy Strikes Tang's Family
Tang Tianxiang, a leader in the Safety Zone, faces unimaginable loss as Japanese soldiers inflict violence on his family. He cannot protect his daughter from being thrown out of a window, nor can he shield his sister-in-law from abuse when women are ruthlessly taken as comfort women.
Where:Nanjing Safety Zone
- 8
Rabe's Departure and Tang's Fate
Following diplomatic pressures, John Rabe is ordered back to Germany, leading to Tang's heart-wrenching decision to stay behind. He sacrifices his chance for safety, but ultimately meets a grim fate when he is executed by firing squad shortly after Rabe's departure.
Where:Nanjing
- 9
Revocation of the Safety Zone
The Japanese military revokes the Safety Zone, escalating their hunt for Chinese soldiers. Under false promises of safety, many men are lured to their demise, and Shunzi, thought to be safe, is captured again despite initially being declared a non-combatant.
Where:Nanjing
- 10
Jiang's Brave Rescue
In a desperate act of courage, Jiang Shuyun devises a plan to save a man from execution by disguising herself as his wife. After successfully rescuing him, she returns for Shunzi, only to find herself exposed and taken captive once more.
Where:Nanjing Safety Zone
Show the other 5 events of City of Life and Death Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Kadokawa's Despair
As the situation worsens, Kadokawa witnesses the brutal fate of Xiaojiang and other comfort women. Overwhelmed by despair and witnessing unspeakable atrocities, he grapples with guilt and the effects of war on humanity.
Where:Nanjing
- 12
Jiang's Heart-Wrenching Plea
Understanding her dire circumstances, Jiang asks Kadokawa to end her suffering. In a heartbreaking act, he complies, leading to profound shock and sorrow among those witness to this tragic decision.
Where:Nanjing
- 13
Kadokawa's Final Goodbye
After a search for Yuriko, Kadokawa discovers her tragic fate and is haunted by memories of their time together. In his grief, he reflects on the losses around him while yearning for a dignified farewell for her.
Where:Nanjing
- 14
The Execution and Rebirth of Hope
As Japanese soldiers celebrate their victory, Kadokawa faces a pivotal moment. Choosing to free Shunzi and Xiaodouzi instead of marching them to execution, he signifies a glimmer of hope amidst despair, allowing them a chance at life.
Where:Nanjing
- 15
Kadokawa's Tragic End
Burdened by guilt from his choices and the horrors he has witnessed, Kadokawa takes his own life. This devastating act sheds light on the psychological toll of war, leaving an impactful closure to his arduous journey.
Where:Nanjing
Who Are the Main Characters in City of Life and Death?
4 characters, among them Lu Jianxiong, Kadokawa Masao and Xiaojiang: who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
- LJ
Lu Jianxiong
Played by Liu Ye
Lieutenant Lu Jianxiong is a determined Chinese soldier who fights valiantly to protect his city and fellow citizens. His bravery is coupled with a sense of duty, which drives him to confront the invading forces despite the overwhelming odds. Lu's character embodies the spirit of resistance, yet he ultimately faces the harsh realities of war.
- 🐉 Warrior
- 🇨🇳 Patriot
- KM
Kadokawa Masao
Played by Hideo Nakaizumi
Kadokawa Masao, a Japanese soldier, struggles with his own humanity as he witnesses the atrocities around him. Despite being a part of the occupying forces, he displays compassion, particularly towards Yuriko, and grapples with feelings of love and guilt. His internal conflict illuminates the complexities of morality in wartime.
- ⚔️ Soldier
- 💔 Tragic Hero
- X
Xiaojiang
Played by Jiang Yiyan
Xiaojiang is a resilient prostitute representing the plight of women during the war. Her refusal to conform to societal pressures in the face of such violence highlights her strength and determination to survive. Xiaojiang's character offers a perspective on the sacrifices made by women in calamity and her struggles embody the tragedy of war.
- 💪 Survivor
- 🎭 Tragic Figure
- JS
Jiang Shuyun
Played by Jiang Yiyan
Jiang Shuyun plays a pivotal role in managing the Nanjing Safety Zone, showcasing her bravery and leadership amid chaos. She embodies the spirit of hope and resilience, desperately trying to protect those around her. Her character demonstrates the sacrifices that individuals are willing to make for the greater good, even at a great personal cost.
- 🏥 Caregiver
- 💔 Protector
Where and When Is City of Life and Death Set?
City of Life and Death is set in Nanjing (1937). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
1937
The events of the movie take place in 1937, a tumultuous period in Chinese history marked by the invasion of Japan and the subsequent atrocities committed against civilians in Nanjing. This year is significant due to the Nanjing Massacre, where mass executions and crimes against humanity were rampant. The world watched, but little intervention occurred, highlighting the grim reality of wartime atrocities.
Where
Nanjing
Nanjing, the capital of the Republic of China during the 1930s, is a city steeped in history, known for its cultural significance and tragic events during the Second Sino-Japanese War. In 1937, it was marked by the devastating Nanjing Massacre, where countless civilians suffered at the hands of the Imperial Japanese Army. The city served as a refuge for many, sheltering those who sought safety amidst the chaos.
- 🏯 City
- 🇨🇳 China
What Are the Themes of City of Life and Death?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Survival, War & Violence and Love amidst Chaos.
-
01
Survival
Survival is a central theme in 'City of Life and Death'. Characters, including soldiers and civilians, face unimaginable choices to protect themselves and their loved ones amidst the horrors of war. The fight for survival manifests in various forms, from fleeing executions to the sacrifice of dignity, exemplifying the lengths individuals go to in dire circumstances.
-
02
War & Violence
War and violence permeate every aspect of the film, illustrating the brutal reality of the Nanjing Massacre. The film portrays the dehumanization and brutality experienced by both victims and perpetrators. It delves into the psychological toll of war, emphasizing the conflict between duty and morality faced by characters like Kadokawa.
-
03
Love amidst Chaos
Amidst the chaos of war, love emerges as a poignant theme, particularly through the relationship between Kadokawa and Yuriko. Their connection offers a fleeting glimpse of hope and humanity within the despair. Kadokawa's feelings for Yuriko highlight the emotional struggles and conflicting impulses that can exist even in the face of overwhelming violence.
What Kind of Film Is City of Life and Death?
Dark in tone, with variable pacing and a complex story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Dark
- Pacing
- Variable
- Story
- Complex
- Intensity
- High
- Ending
- Mixed
An unflinching and devastating war drama that plunges viewers into the horrors of the Nanjing Massacre, balancing relentless brutality with fragile moments of humanity in a deeply harrowing portrait of occupation.
- haunting
- devastating
- brutal
- oppressive
- harrowing
- somber
- war crimes
- mass execution
- sexual violence
- military occupation
Content notes: mass murder, sexual assault, rape, suicide, child endangerment, war violence.
Where to Watch City of Life and Death
Rent or buy it from Apple TV Store and Google Play Movies. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
Streaming availability in the US, powered by 
