"Goodbye Gohan" - Heartwarming and emotional.

Gohan as a child with an old Japanese man.

A small, stray dog often wandered around a convenience store. Mr. Hiro, an elderly Japanese engineer, took him in and named him Gohan. Unfortunately, Mr. Hiro passed away due to an epidemic. From there, Gohan began his wandering journey: captured, exploited for profit, chased, and once again becoming a stray… In his ten years of life, Gohan lived with three different owners, each loving him but unable to fully connect with them due to circumstances. Yet, for each of them, Gohan was a source of emotional support, bringing warmth and helping them heal their emotional wounds…

The story is set in Thailand, but Gohan's three owners are of different nationalities and ages. Notably, the film has three directors, each responsible for a different period. Therefore, it offers viewers a rich and interesting experience. In his early life, Gohan lives happily and carefree with his Japanese owner. As an adult, Gohan faces hardship and suffering in a disguised animal rescue shelter, fortunate to be loved and protected by a Burmese girl named Namcha. In his later years, he lives peacefully, befriending a Thai art student named Pele. Each owner gives him a different name, each with a different meaning, but their love for him remains unwavering. The film has many touching moments, making viewers laugh and cry along with the character and the arduous journey of the poor dog.

However, the film doesn't fall into melodrama; instead, after each ordeal that Gohan and his owners experience, the audience gains a deeper perspective and reflection on life. It shows that despite life's ups and downs, love and care can be the healing balm for all. Just like how Gohan quietly stays in the lives of each of his owners, bringing them moments of happiness. He helps the elderly Japanese man overcome loneliness and enjoy his retirement; he helps the young Burmese woman bravely fight against evil, accepting the negative consequences but ultimately upholding justice. Finally, he acts as a bridge for the student couple to realize the meaning of love and find purpose in life.

Beyond its heartwarming content, the film makes a strong impression because the production team used real dogs instead of special effects and CGI. Gohan is portrayed by three real-life "actors," corresponding to three stages: as a child, as an adult, and as an old man. The authenticity and liveliness of the real dogs further convince the audience. In addition, the excellent acting of the actors adds another positive point to the film.

Because the three directors each have a different style, the film's limitation lies in the disparity between the three stages of Gohan's life. Gohan as a child has a bright and warm family feel; his time captured and wandering becomes gritty and dramatic like an action film; and his life with the two young friends portrays a youthful, school-life romance. The love story at the end is drawn out and lacks focus, losing its initial appeal. Nevertheless, the film has a bright and hopeful ending, not only for Gohan but also warming the hearts of viewers and pet lovers.

CAT DANG

Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/-tam-biet-gohan-am-ap-va-giau-cam-xuc-a205272.html