Chinese director Hu Guan’s film “Black Dog” made a significant impact at the Cannes Film Festival 2024, clinching the prestigious Un Certain Regard Prize, the second-most prestigious competitive category at the festival. The film triumphed over 17 other entries, impressing the jury with its “breathtaking poetry, imagination, precision, and masterful direction,” as lauded by jury president Xavier Dolan.
What is Hu Guan’s Black Dog about?
“Black Dog” tells the story of Lang, a former stunt motorcyclist and local celebrity, who returns home after serving time in prison. Assigned a government job of clearing stray dogs from a town in preparation for the Olympic Games, Lang unexpectedly forms a bond with a black dog and embarks on a transformative journey.
Premiering on May 18 at Cannes, the film blends elements of western, film noir, and oddball comedy, featuring an endearing mutt that captivated audiences. The greyhound dog in the film even received recognition at the Palm Dog awards, which honors outstanding canine performances across the Cannes lineup.
Hu Guan, the director, drew inspiration from witnessing China’s rapid development and the lives of people in remote areas left behind by urbanization. He aimed to shed light on the resilience of these overlooked communities amidst societal changes, stating, “My interest and reflections on these groups of people are what inspired me to work on this film.”
Lead actor Eddie Pang underwent a significant transformation for his role as Lang, shedding his urban persona to authentically portray a character immersed in the rugged landscapes of Western China. Guan emphasized the need for Pang to embody the character’s desire and dignity while stripping away his urban sensibilities, a task accomplished through meticulous attention to detail in both physical appearance and performance.
“Black Dog” stands as a testament to Guan’s exploration of the human spirit amidst societal transformation, offering a poignant narrative set against the backdrop of China’s evolving landscape.