Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emergence of a new genre termed "cow and horse movies," which resonate with the struggles of ordinary workers, reflecting their realities and emotions through various narratives and settings [6][10][37]. Group 1: Overview of "Cow and Horse Movies" - This summer, the dominant theme in cinemas has shifted to "cow and horse movies," which are characterized as realistic and satirical films that resonate with the experiences of ordinary workers [8][11]. - Notable films in this genre include "The Lychee of Chang'an," "The Little Monster of Langlang Mountain," and "The Stage," all of which focus on the lives and struggles of working-class individuals [6][12][49]. - The initial box office predictions for "The Lychee of Chang'an" were optimistic at 20 billion, but industry expectations have since been adjusted to 7-8 billion, indicating a struggle to meet financial expectations [12][40]. Group 2: Audience Reception and Emotional Impact - Audience reactions to these films are complex, with many expressing that the narratives reflect their own lives, leading to a mix of laughter and tears during viewings [9][21]. - The films have been well-received, with ratings on Douban showing "The Lychee of Chang'an" at 7.6, "The Little Monster of Langlang Mountain" at 8.6, and "The Stage" at 8.0, all exceeding the average ratings for domestic films [50][49]. - Viewers report that the films provide a cathartic experience, allowing them to release pent-up emotions related to their work lives [22][64]. Group 3: Industry Trends and Future Prospects - The trend of creating films that highlight the struggles of workers is gaining traction, with increasing investment in this genre and a growing number of productions focusing on the working-class narrative [26][39]. - The success of these films hinges on their ability to accurately capture and resonate with the emotions of the audience, as well as the quality of the final product [17][37]. - The article notes that while there is potential for success in this genre, there are also risks if the films fail to connect with the audience or if they become overly focused on depicting suffering without offering resolution [68][79].