Award-nominated eldercare thriller tackles challenges of an ageing society

The creative team behind "Wild Nights, Tamed Beasts," a contender for the Golden Goblet Awards Main Competition, talked about their film at the 27th Shanghai International Film on June 18. 

The crime drama interlaced with social realism focuses on a ‘caregiver,’ played by Wan Qian, who disguises herself to enter an elderly family’s home with the intention of committing murder.

As the plot develops, she encounters a breeder, played by Rao Xiaozhi, and their fates become intertwined with a police officer investigating the case.

Director Wang Tong shared personal insights into his motivation for creating a film that delves into the eldercare system. 

"I have repeatedly asked myself why I chose such a subject matter," he said. "When I reflect back, it probably has something to do with my upbringing.

"When I was little, I spent quite a lot of time with my grandparents. Subsequently, upon matriculating and departing from my hometown to attend university, the duration between our visits progressively lengthened," he said

"Witnessing their aging process and eventual passing elicited my profound contemplation about life and my own being."

Lead actress Wan Qian explained that she was drawn to the script because of its unique perspective on population aging.

"I was attracted by its narrative centering on the pivotal issue of an aging society," she said. "The director approaches this realistic subject by using a distinctive female character and her story to craft a kind of parable, which is a particularly unique angle."

In addition, Rao Xiaozhi, portraying the character of the breeder, accomplished the notable transition from being a director to a cast member in the film.

"I consider myself quite familiar with acting, as I have previously served as director of a theatrical ensemble and continue to engage in frequent dramatic rehearsals in Beijing," he explained. 

“Despite the absence of any particularly remarkable moments, the completion of this role is, in itself, quite fulfilling," Rao added.

In response to director Wang Tong's comment that he seemed "possessed" by the character, Rao noted he was quite familiar with such a “middle-aged individual characterized by his bombastic demeanor,” and this led him to participate in the movie.