ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Luc Besson's 'Dogman' Premieres at Venice Film Festival 2023

other · 2026-04-27

Luc Besson's film 'Dogman' premiered in competition at the 2023 Venice Film Festival. The narrative follows Douglas, a man arrested in drag, who recounts his life story in a flashback to a prison psychiatrist. Raised in a violent household with a weak mother and abusive father, Douglas finds solace in a pack of dogs after being shot by his father, losing a finger and the use of his legs. The film stars Caleb Landry Jones as Douglas, whose performance is praised for condensing multiple characters into one. Besson's work is described as a dark fairy tale that blends drama and humor, exploring themes of identity, family, and resilience. The film is seen as a comeback for Besson, received positively by audiences for its compassionate and hopeful tone. The article was written by Carlotta Petracci for Artribune.

Key facts

  • Dogman presented in competition at Venice Film Festival 2023
  • Film directed by Luc Besson
  • Protagonist Douglas is a drag performer arrested after a scuffle
  • Douglas recounts his life to a prison psychiatrist
  • Douglas grew up with a weak mother and abusive father
  • Father shot Douglas, causing loss of a finger and leg use
  • Douglas finds companionship with a pack of dogs
  • Caleb Landry Jones stars as Douglas

Entities

Artists

  • Luc Besson
  • Caleb Landry Jones
  • Carlotta Petracci

Institutions

  • Artribune
  • Venice Film Festival

Locations

  • Venice
  • Italy

Sources