An Unlikely Hero

When George Hogg died at the frustratingly youthful age of 30, he left a greater legacy than most who reach 100. The English journalist never intended to be iconic, and we aren’t even sure whether he particularly liked children when he first crossed China’s borders in 1938. But there he...

By Jamie Laughlin

August 21, 2008

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When George Hogg died at the frustratingly youthful age of 30, he left a greater legacy than most who reach 100. The English journalist never intended to be iconic, and we aren’t even sure whether he particularly liked children when he first crossed China’s borders in 1938. But there he was at age 23, peering across into China, searching for a story. He wound up the protagonist of his own amazing tale, one that others would tell for generations.

The Japanese are invading China, so Hogg stowed in as well, camouflaged as a Red Cross worker. After his identity is revealed he lays low at a local orphanage. This is where his story truly begins: under the backdrop of a mighty war, Hogg relocates all 60 orphans to safety — crossing 600 miles of terrain in the process. Granted Hogg didn’t perform these deeds solo; he had a sidekick in dedicated cohort Rewy Alley. However, in the new film The Children of Huang Shi, you’ll see only Hogg’s handiwork represented (but you should still go; he’s being played by chiseled hottie Jonathan Rhys Meyers.) Huang Shi also stars Chow Yun-Fat, and Radha Mitchell. Catch the whole, beautiful tale today at 5:15 and 7:30 at Cinema Paradiso (503 SE Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale). Call 954-760-9896, or visit www.fliff.com.
Sun., Aug. 24, 2008

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