Back to 1942

In 1942, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, a devastating famine grips Henan Province in China, forcing millions to flee their homes in search of food. The film follows the harrowing journey of villagers facing starvation, disease, and the brutal realities of war. It highlights the indifference of the Nationalist government and the desperate struggle for survival amidst widespread suffering.

Back to 1942 was met with critical acclaim, particularly for its ambitious scope, stunning cinematography, and powerful portrayal of human suffering during a historical tragedy. While some noted its lengthy runtime, the film was widely praised for its historical significance and its stark depiction of the Henan famine, earning praise for its direction and performances.

• Praised for its epic scale and visual grandeur in depicting a devastating historical event.

• Commended for its unflinching portrayal of human resilience and suffering amidst famine and war.

• Recognized for its significant historical context and its contribution to Chinese cinema.

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Nominated for Best Film at the 14th Marrakech International Film Festival. Won Best Cinematography at the 5th Asia Pacific Screen Awards.

The film was a passion project for director Feng Xiaogang for over a decade, inspired by the historical novel 'The Thirteen Chapters of Henan' by Liu Zhenyun.