Niu Vision Media and Echelon Studios are proud to announce the North American release of Dead to Rights, the acclaimed Chinese wartime drama from director Shen Ao (No More Bets) and producer Furuo Qing (The Wondering Earth franchise). Distributed by Niu Vision Media, the film will open in U.S. and Canadian theaters on August 15, ahead of its planned streaming rollout later this year.
Set during the harrowing days of the Nanjing Massacre in 1937 and inspired by documented events, Dead to Rights tells the powerful story of A Chang – played by Liu Haoran (Detective Chinatown franchise) – a humble postman who assumes the identity of a photo developer to survive. As he covertly shelters Chinese soldiers and civilians within the walls of a Japanese-occupied studio, his quiet defiance becomes an act of extraordinary resistance and humanity. The film has earned acclaim for its emotional gravity, striking cinematography, and unflinching portrayal of moral courage under fire.
This theatrical release marks another significant step in Niu Vision and Echelon Studios’ shared commitment to spotlighting bold, auteur-driven Asian cinema for international audiences.
“Dead to Rights is a poignant, timely reminder of the human stories behind history’s darkest chapters,” said Niu Vision’s CEO, Fukun Wang. “We’re thrilled to partner once again with Echelon Studios to bring this extraordinary film to American audiences, both in theaters and later via streaming.”
“This is a story that demands to be seen,” added Sandro Gohoho, President of Licensing and Operations at Echelon Studios. “Dead to Rights exemplifies the kind of bold, meaningful storytelling we’re committed to supporting. We’re thrilled to help bring Shen Ao’s voice to digital audiences across the U.S.”
This is the latest project in a growing slate of high-impact international titles distributed by the two companies, whose shared vision is to bridge cultures through cinema and to elevate underrepresented voices on the global stage.
Dead to Rights opens in theaters nationwide from August 15, 2025. The film will be available on streaming platforms later this year.
