Winner of the Un Certain Regard prize at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival.
After a decade-long absence, a cynical man named Lang returns to his hometown to spend his remaining years. To make ends meet, Lang's old friend Nie arranges for him to join the town's dog patrol team, where he spends his days transporting stray dogs in a truck.
When a part-wolf black dog comes into his life, Lang is moved by the dog's ability to survive against the odds. Lang and the dog gradually develop an emotional bond and become kindred spirits.
After deliberately repressing his feelings for years, Lang finds his courage returning, along with a reawakened sense of compassion. He decides it is time to take action, not only to save as many stray dogs as he can but also to fight for the redemption of his soul.