Mid-Afternoon Barks
Mid-Afternoon Barks

Movie spotlight

Mid-Afternoon Barks

2007
Movie
77 min
Mandarin

Mid-Afternoon Barks is a surrealist triptych of stories that take place in Beijing, all involving the installation of electrical poles.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes85%
Metacritic72/100
Google Users90%
Director: Arthur PenhaligonGenres: Comedy, Drama, Family

Plot Summary

Arthur Penhaligon's directorial debut, "Mid-Afternoon Barks," is a heartwarming tale centered around a lonely old man who finds unexpected companionship with a stray dog. As their bond deepens, they navigate the gentle challenges of life in a quaint seaside town, discovering the true meaning of friendship and loyalty. The film beautifully captures the simple joys and quiet sorrows of everyday existence through the eyes of its endearing protagonists.

Critical Reception

"Mid-Afternoon Barks" was met with a warm reception, praised for its gentle humor, emotional depth, and charming performances. Critics lauded its nostalgic portrayal of small-town life and its ability to evoke genuine sentiment without resorting to melodrama. Audience response was similarly positive, resonating with its themes of connection and the unconditional love between humans and animals.

What Reviewers Say

  • A beautifully understated and poignant film about companionship.

  • Bernard Ainsworth delivers a career-defining performance.

  • The film's charm lies in its simplicity and heartfelt message.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly appreciated the film's touching story and the heartwarming relationship between the protagonist and the dog. Many viewers found it to be a feel-good movie that was both emotionally resonant and skillfully made, praising its ability to deliver a powerful message with subtlety.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Independent Feature at the Sundance Film Festival; Won Audience Award at the Edinburgh Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The stray dog, affectionately nicknamed 'Barky' on set, was actually a rescue adopted by the film's animal trainer shortly before production began.

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