Gangsters chase homeless men who find millions in new Taipei film 'The Pig King'

A gritty tale of survival unfolds in Taipei's Wanhua district in the upcoming film "The Pig King," where three homeless men stumble upon a suitcase brimming with millions, inadvertently drawing the ire of dangerous gangsters. The film, which recently garnered the International New Wave Film Award at the Yubari International Fantastic Film Festival in Japan, is set to release on September 11.

Directed by Ling Baiwei, "The Pig King" stars veteran actor Wen Sheng-hao in a rare turn as a menacing triad boss, exuding an oppressive aura with just a single glance. In contrast, Hong Duolasi, Fan Yi-chen, and Mu Sen portray three down-on-their-luck individuals who find their lives upended after discovering a fortune in cash. Their unexpected windfall plunges them into a desperate flight from a ruthless criminal underworld.

The official poster, designed by acclaimed Taiwanese artist Xu Pinshi, captures the film's essence with a backdrop of Wanhua's streets. It depicts the three protagonists in peril, with Wen Sheng-hao's character looming menacingly, all while a "Pig King" deity puppet weaves through the urban landscape, creating a vivid tableau of Taiwanese street life. The trailer highlights the stark contrast between the characters' struggles and the film's blend of dark humor and poignant human connection.

As the unlikely trio flees for their lives, they forge a deep bond, finding solace and strength in each other's company. Hong Duolasi's character, reflecting on their marginalized existence, laments, "No one cares if people like us live or die." Yet, he offers a glimmer of hope to the youngest of the group, played by Mu Sen, by saying, "Actually, you're not trash at all, you're your grandpa's treasure." This dynamic showcases the film's exploration of found family and resilience amidst adversity, set against the backdrop of Taipei's vibrant temple culture.