Describing animals as some of the most challenging subjects to film, Guan says that instead of finding it difficult, he enjoyed the process.

"I've found that dogs share similarities with human beings. You can communicate with them. In the film, I see the black dog as not just an animal but as an individual like Erlang, fighting both loneliness and prejudice," he says.

The film's other characters also shine. Tong Liya plays a circus dancer who shares a soulful bond with Erlang, while acclaimed director Jia Zhangke plays the leader of the dogcatchers.

Guan speaks of his enduring acquaintance with Jia, the Shanxi-born director who is celebrated for his poignant portrayals of grassroots individuals in his province. Despite knowing little about the film, Jia promptly accepted the role, and even suggested that he grow a beard to better embody the character's gritty essence.

"Jia has a unique presence and seamlessly blends in among the group of rugged residents in the small northwestern town," Guan says.

During one scene where the dogcatchers meet to enjoy grilled lamb skewers, Jia was so deep in character as he attended to the skewers that, for a moment, Guan almost didn't recognize him as he observed the scene from behind the monitor.

Liang, who is Guan's wife and collaborator of many years, says that the film makes heavy use of long shots instead of close-ups to lend a restrained approach to its visual language and avoid excessive sentimentality.

"This reflects the director's mature storytelling technique, as he is able to tell a story from a more composed perspective," Liang adds.

Guan says that he wants the audience to feel as though they are quietly observing the real-life experiences of the protagonist and to connect with universal regrets, such as missed romantic opportunities or unresolved family tensions.

"I believe that allowing the audience to immerse themselves in a different life through the screen is the most significant gift that film bestows upon us," Guan says.