In China They Eat Dogs

In China They Eat Dogs is an action-comedy crime film from Denmark that burst onto the cinematic scene in 1999. The film's unique combination of dark, offbeat humor and crime narrative has secured it a distinct place in Danish cinema. Directed by Lasse Spang Olsen, this film features a stellar performance by Kim Bodnia, Dejan Cukic, and Nikolaj Lie Kaas.

The film begins with Arvid, an unassuming bank clerk played by Dejan Cukic, leading a routine, somewhat dull existance. Cukic does an excellent job in his portrayal of this character, communicating through his performance Arvid's dissatisfaction and desire for something more in life. When Arvid unexpectedly stops a bank robbery, he assumes he's done a good deed. However, this act of courage dramatically transforms his mundane life, launching him into a journey full of twists, turns, and gangsters. He discovers that his actions have accidentally appended the life of the man he stopped from robbing the bank. The man, intended to rob the bank to pay for his wife's fertility treatment.

Driven by guilt and fear of the escalating gangster threats, Arvid's life begins to unravel. Dejan Cukic portrays this role with aplomb, blending straight-faced humour with a sense of believability that makes his character engaging. His situation becomes more complicated when his peculiar and morally dubious brother, Harald, skillfully played by Kim Bodnia, gets involved. Harald is a restaurateur who is unapologetically entwined with the criminal underworld. Harald, seeing an opportunity to help his brother and settle his own scores, is the catalyst for their plunge into the depths of the criminal underworld.

This unlikely duo must navigate this dangerous world filled with gangsters, heists, and chaos that they have unwittingly entered. In the meantime, they must figure out how to maintain their moral compass while dealing with the multitude of crises they face. Nikolaj Lie Kaas, who appears as a character named Martin, lends a wonderful performance as well that will keep the audience entertained and rooted to their seats.

Under the direction of Lasse Spang Olsen, the energetic storytelling propels itself humorously through action, and suspense scenes. Furthermore, the rugged urban setting gives the film a tinge of realism that blends seamlessly with its surreal and outlandish comedic elements. In more ways than one, it manages to maintain a balance between the humorous unpredictable narrative and endearing moral quandaries.

What makes In China They Eat Dogs truly stand out is its script, packed with memorable one-liners and snappy dialogue that keep audiences entertained throughout. Written by Anders Thomas Jensen, who later won an Academy Award, the film cleverly uses humor as a device to explore serious moral dilemmas and existential queries. The fantastic writing of characters and their development throughout the story further intensifies the captivating nature of this film.

Despite its dark and violent themes, the movie manages to keep the comedy aspect alive. Often termed as “action-comedy with a conscience”, In China They Eat Dogs masterfully plays with the boundaries of morality, exploring questions of right and wrong, purpose and meaning. It lays the foundation for dialogue around complex life choices, where a seemingly trivial event can trigger a series of chain reactions, turning life upside-down.

In conclusion, In China They Eat Dogs is not your run-of-the-mill crime drama. It's a high-octane, action-packed, laugh-a-minute ride that keeps you on your toes. Its unflinching blend of violence and humor, combined with excellent performances by its lead characters, makes it an enjoyable watch. The film's unique approach to storytelling and its ability to balance the comedy with serious undertones establishes it as a cinematic jewel. For viewers who like their movies served with a blend of outrageous humor, action, and crime, In China They Eat Dogs offers a memorable viewing experience.