A Chinese historical drama titled “731” will open in theaters on September 18. The movie tells the story of Japan’s Unit 731, which carried out horrific human experiments in Harbin during World War II. Directed by Zhao Linshan, the film shows how this unit secretly developed biological weapons. It presents these acts through the experiences of ordinary people while also showing Chinese resistance against the occupation.

The story describes how Unit 731 captured civilians for cruel experiments as Japan was losing the war. Victims, like street seller Wang Yongzhang, were lied to with false promises of freedom if they joined medical tests. Instead, they were forced to suffer freezing tests, poison gas tests, and painful operations while still alive. From 1936 to 1945, Unit 731 served as Japan’s main base for biological and chemical warfare in Harbin, directing germ warfare across China and Southeast Asia.

Today, Harbin’s Unit 731 Museum preserves the original site, holding about 100,000 pieces of evidence. Visitors can see remains like laboratories, prison ruins, and gas chambers. As history’s largest germ warfare center, it documents experiments that directly killed at least 3,000 people. Korean, Mongolian, and Soviet prisoners were also among the victims. Unit 731 planned “Operation Cherry Blossoms at Night”, a germ attack on California, but Japan’s surrender on August 15, 1945, stopped it from happening on September 22. Surprisingly, Unit 731’s leader avoided punishment by giving research data to the United States.

Jin Chengmin, head of the Unit 731 Museum, served as the film’s history expert, stressing this history must never be forgotten. One actor highlighted the film’s importance online, noting victims were cruelly called “marutas” and that even pregnant women and children suffered. Remembering this pain, he said, strengthens the resolve to protect China’s peace today. The film’s September 18 release date marks the anniversary of Japan’s 1931 invasion. Because of strong scenes, producers suggest parental guidance for viewers under 18. High public interest shows over six million potential viewers on major ticket sites have shown interest, reflecting the story’s deep meaning during this 80th anniversary year of victory.

1. 1. How did Unit 731 mainly trick civilians?

A    By offering them high payments.

B    By providing medical check-ups.

C    By forcing local people directly.

D    By giving insincere assurances.

2. 2. What key event stopped “Operation Cherry Blossoms at Night”?

A    Lack of biological weapons.

B    Resistance from Chinese troops.

C    The arrest of Unit 731 leader.

D    Japan’s surrender on August 15, 1945.

3. 3.What is recommended by producers?

A    The film is not suitable for viewers over 50.

B    Watching the film requires historical background knowledge.

C    The film is better suited for adult viewers aged 18 and over.

D    It is only recommended for medical professionals.

4. 4. What is the passage mainly written for?

A    To promote a new historical movie.

B    To blame the U.S. government.

C    To teach about germ warfare.

D    To advertise a war museum.