Let Your Heart Bloom

The 2011 movie 'The Flowers of War' is an epic; riveting blockbuster all should watch. Focused during the time of the Nanking Massacre; it centres on a group of schoolgirls who try desperately to flee the ravages of war by seeking refuge in  a cathedral. Though it is supposed to be 'out-of-bounds'; a group of rogue Japanese soldiers try to take control; and are fortunately thwarted by a heroic lone Major.

The group stumbles upon an American mortician there for work purpose; John (played brilliantly by an in-form Christian Bale) who pretends to be a priest in trying to save the girls from the soldiers. Soon; he finds ways to sneak in tools to repair a truck he plans for their get-away. The group is joined by a flamboyant group of prostitutes who also attempt to flee the war; and in a key emotional scene; the group of schoolgirls valiantly choose to hide their older compatriots while running away from the soldiers themselves.

The Japanese colonel then offers protection for the girls in the convent; but being a lover of music; requests them to sing for him as a choir; then officially invites them to perform at the Japanese victory celebration. At this point; fearing for their safety; the group of older prostitutes volunteer to 'look young' and take their places instead; thus proving themselves as the true 'Flowers of War'.

This heart-wrenching; emotional story espouses that the true humanity values of kindness; love and sacrifice will always shine through; whether in war or peace. Brilliantly acted by Christian Bale and a host of newcomers including Ni Ni & Zhang Xinyi; this blockbuster will remain in the memory long after you've watched it.