This is an incredible work! The narrative seems to mirror director Hu’s personal perspective on existence, worth, and circumstances. Seeing the central characters ultimately locate their own dream elephant by the story's conclusion was both unexpected and deeply moving. It’s truly heartbreaking to learn that this promising young director passed away before the film received recognition just a few months later. Hu’s symbolic dream elephant materialized after his death; he simply needed to have remained present for a little while longer. Financial hardship played a role in both the movie's themes and, tragically, in his life—a regrettable coincidence.

Source on TMDB