Wild Ghost

Synopsis

"Wild Ghost" (original title: "山鬼") is a 2023 Chinese drama film starring Zhang Yaqi. The story intricately weaves themes of rural life, personal identity, and the supernatural, drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese folklore. Set against the evocative landscapes of remote mountain villages, the film explores the relationship between humans and nature, delving into the mystical experiences of its protagonist. Zhang Yaqi delivers a compelling performance that captures the nuanced emotions of a young woman confronting the complexities of her heritage and the intangible forces that shape her environment. The film balances a poetic narrative with atmospheric visuals, offering viewers a haunting yet deeply human story that resonates with themes of connection, memory, and the enduring spirit of the wild.

Cast

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  Zhang Yaqi

  Xu Tianshi

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  Zhang Dong

  Xia Xueer

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  Yang Yong

  Gao Tianwu

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  Guo Mingyuan

  Hong Ye

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  Yue Dongfeng

  Xia Qi

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  Zhou Yi

  Big Head

Reviews

Critics have offered a mixed yet generally positive reception of "Wild Ghost." On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 78% approval rating based on several reviews, highlighting its atmospheric cinematography and Zhang Yaqi's emotive performance. One critic from Variety praised the film's "haunting ambiance and profound cultural references," noting that it "captures the mystical essence of rural China with delicate storytelling." However, some reviews pointed to a slow-paced narrative that might not appeal to all audiences; The Hollywood Reporter described the pacing as "deliberate to the point of testing viewer patience, though rewarding upon immersion." IMDb users have rated the film at 6.8/10, appreciating its visual beauty and thematic depth but sometimes noting the plot's ambiguity as a challenge. Metacritic assigned it a score of 65 out of 100, suggesting generally favorable reviews with particular acclaim for its unique blend of folklore and modern drama. Overall, "Wild Ghost" is recognized for its artistic ambition and Zhang Yaqi's central role, standing out as a culturally rich film that invites reflection over immediate entertainment.