(JUBA) – The Chinese Embassy in South Sudan held a film screening on Friday at the University of Juba in what could be described as a creative exercise in both cinematic diplomacy and historical recycling. The feature presentation was The Hundred Regiment Battle, a stirring depiction of China’s resistance to Imperial Japan during World War II.
The event commemorated the 80th anniversary of China’s victory in the “People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression,” a phrase that remains as long and assertive as the Chinese government’s memory. Chinese Ambassador Ma Qiang spoke to attendees about the importance of learning from history to build a peaceful future. Preferably, one guided by collective harmony, historical unity and Chinese cultural exports.
“We want to tell people that lessons should be learned from history,” Ambassador Qiang said. “So that we can never repeat the mistakes we’ve made in the past.”
He added that the goal is to work together “to build a community with a shared future for mankind,” a line so frequently used in Chinese diplomacy it may now be eligible for trademark.
Professor Robert Mayom, Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba, praised the film, saying it reminded South Sudanese viewers that unity is the key to overcoming powerful enemies.
“They defeated a strong Japanese army through unity,” he said. “That is the lesson we need here too.”
He added that the film night was part of the many things China has provided to South Sudan, a list that notably includes roads, public buildings, scholarships and now…narratives.
“This is a series of the collaborations we have with them,” Mayom said. “We appreciate them bringing this film and hope there will be more.”
Presumably, sequels are welcome, particularly if they feature familiar heroes and historically convenient truths.
Student Maboch Mayuek Mel, who studies literature at the university, said the movie inspired patriotism.
“It taught us that solidarity and courage are key to defending a nation. Even when you suffer, you reinforce and continue,” he said, sounding like he had just walked off the set himself.
The film also highlighted how cinematic storytelling can double as global messaging. While China continues to build infrastructure and provide loans across Africa, it also appears eager to export curated versions of its past complete with victory, sacrifice and noble resistance.
To their credit, the students in Juba took the message to heart, finding relevance in a story similar their own struggles for peace and sovereignty. Still, some observers might ask whether a film celebrating “anti-fascism” from a one party state known for strict media control, surveillanc, and ideological conformity might itself be a tad…cinematic.
But no matter. In a region facing uncertainty, few will complain about a free film night and a message of unity even if it comes with subtitles, slow motion battle scenes and a soft diplomatic sell.
After all, it is not every day you get a history lesson with surround sound.
