Journalist Zhang Lijia, author of “Socialism Is Great!”: A Worker’s Memoir of the New China, is thoroughly impressed by the movie Black Dog, which won an award at Cannes. In her review, she writes, “This Cannes Un Certain Regard winner stands as a richly deserved accolade—a poignant narrative beautifully told. ”
Zhang Lijia:
“Black Dog”– A Canine-Themed, Cannes-Winning Chinese Film
What a film! The synopsis might not grab you at first glance, but “Black Dog”, a western-meets-noir, exceeded my expectations. Starring Eddie Peng as Lang, an ex-convict, the story follows his return to his semi-deserted hometown on the outskirts of the Gobi Desert after serving time for a local man’s death. As Lang navigates a barren landscape haunted by packs of stray dogs, he joins a dog-hunting team and encounters a scrappy black stray. The bond they form transforms Lang’s life. Like the dog, Lang is an outsider, and their connection reflects his own struggle for redemption.
This Cannes Un Certain Regard winner stands as a richly deserved accolade—a poignant narrative beautifully told. The film’s themes of friendship, redemption, and the profound relationship between humans and animals thread seamlessly through the story, touching on the universal human experience of seeking belonging in an indifferent world.
Watching “Black Dog” felt like a breath of fresh air—original and enigmatic. From the first frame, I was drawn into Lang’s world, captivated by the tension of what might come next.
The cinematography is stunning. The Gobi landscape feels vast and unforgiving, providing a fitting backdrop for Lang’s quiet internal journey. Both leads, the black dog and the brooding and handsome 帅哥 Lang, captivate in their own way. Even the film’s deadpan humor cuts through the solemnity, adding layers of charm.
The film is undeniably Chinese, rooted in the gritty realism of its setting: dilapidated residential buildings, the character “拆” (demolish) on crumbling walls, a grandmother sitting stoically as life passes by. Yet its story transcends borders—at its heart is a tale of a lonely man and a stray dog, something people from anywhere in the world can relate to.
One minor complain is that there are too many accidents – buses and motorbikes crash too many times – that it feels a bit contrived there. Overall, however, “Black Dog” is a triumph of subtle storytelling, its landscape and characters lingering long after the credits roll.
Zhang Lijia is a speaker at the China Speakers Bureau. Do you need her at your meeting or conference? Do get in touch or fill in our speakers’ request form.
Are you looking for more experts on cultural change at the China Speakers Bureau? Do check out this list.