State-Backed 'Battle of Penghu' Film Promotes Taiwan Reunification Narrative in Chinese Cinemas
The historical epic 'Battle of Penghu' (澎湖海战), backed by the Chinese state, is scheduled to debut in mainland China on July 25, 2026. Directed by Cheang Pou-soi from Hong Kong, the film features Wang Xueqi as Admiral Shi Lang, Jackson Yee as Emperor Kangxi, alongside Zhao Liying and Geng Le. It portrays the 1683 naval conflict that facilitated the Qing's takeover of Taiwan, promoting a narrative of 'unification.' Its marketing slogans include 'What is isolated must return; what is divided must unite' and 'Unifying Taiwan is unstoppable.' Despite extensive preparation, including the construction of 50 ancient warships, the film has faced backlash online, with critics labeling Shi Lang a traitor and advocating for a focus on Zheng Chenggong (Koxinga) instead.
Key facts
- Battle of Penghu premieres in mainland China on July 25, 2026.
- Directed by Hong Kong filmmaker Cheang Pou-soi.
- Stars Wang Xueqi as Admiral Shi Lang, Jackson Yee as Emperor Kangxi, Zhao Liying, and Geng Le.
- Depicts the 1683 Battle of Penghu leading to Qing annexation of Taiwan.
- Promotional slogans: 'What is isolated must return; what is divided must unite' and 'Unifying Taiwan is unstoppable.'
- Crew spent 34 months preparing, built 50 ancient warships including 12 battleships nearly 40 meters long.
- Online criticism: netizens label Shi Lang a traitor, suggest film should focus on Zheng Chenggong instead.
- Follows trend of Xi-era patriotic blockbusters like 'The Battle at Lake Changjin' (2021).
Entities
Artists
- Cheang Pou-soi
- Wang Xueqi
- Jackson Yee
- Zhao Liying
- Geng Le
- Shi Lang
- Zheng Chenggong
- Koxinga
Institutions
- Qing dynasty
- Zheng regime
- TFBOYS
Locations
- Taiwan
- Penghu
- Pescadores
- Fujian
- Beijing
- China
- Hong Kong