China's legendary heroes reawaken on big screen

An atmosphere of nostalgia hangs in the air in China this week as the country markstraditionally observed by tending the graves of the departed and deeply missed, and making .

The annual festival, widely known as , however, has more profound meanings for Chinese people beyond honoring family heritage. It is a time to show respect and gratitude to those who have dedicated their lives to ensure the peace and happiness we enjoy today.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC). From the turbulent wartime period through the rise of an economic superpower, the Middle Kingdom has witnessed eras alternately bloody and boisterous, glum and glamorous.

Countless young men and women have sacrificed their lives on the battlefield, defending what they believed in.

The majority of them are unsung heroes resting in peace at cemeteries while others have become household names as their legends are passed down through word of mouth, textbooks and novels, as well as operas and dramas.

Chinese filmmakers retell these legendary sagas with story-driven movies, bringing the viewers back to wartime sacrifices and days of political glory.

Putting the spotlight on the heroes and martyrs, these works are an important part of the Chinese "red movies" – a genre of films that features revolutionary spirits, heroism, and patriotism.

On the day of remembering and mourning, check out this list of classic red movies that allowed the revolutionary spirits to shine again on the big screen long after their light had dimmed.

(CGTN)