"The Flowers of War" (2011) is a historical drama inspired by real events, specifically the Nanjing Massacre during the Second Sino-Japanese War. While the film is based on a novel, "13 Flowers of Nanjing," which in turn draws inspiration from Minnie Vautrin's diary, it is not a direct, literal retelling of a single, specific true story.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Historical Context:
The film is set during the Nanjing Massacre in 1937, a horrific event where Japanese soldiers killed and raped civilians.
Novel's Inspiration:
The novel "13 Flowers of Nanjing" by Yan Geling fictionalizes events that occurred during the massacre, weaving a narrative around a group of schoolgirls and prostitutes who seek refuge in a cathedral.
Minnie Vautrin's Role:
The story is partly inspired by the experiences of Minnie Vautrin, an American missionary who ran a women's college in Nanjing and played a significant role in sheltering civilians during the massacre.
Fictional Elements:
The film incorporates fictional characters and scenarios, such as the American mortician who becomes a central figure in protecting the women, according to the New York Times.
Themes of Sacrifice and Heroism:
The film explores themes of sacrifice, heroism, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of extreme violence and suffering.
Not a Direct True Story:
While inspired by real events and individuals, "The Flowers of War" is ultimately a work of historical fiction that uses the Nanjing Massacre as a backdrop for its narrative.