Director‘s Statement:
Zhao Xiaolong, a young man from the Yunnan-Vietnam border region, embodies the unique contemporary anxieties of many young people in China. He works hard and strives, yet his pursuit of fame and fortune leaves him emotionally exhausted. He yearns for idealism but is bound by realism—these are the challenges he faces in this era.

Zhao Xiaolong's anxieties reflect the contemporary youth's aversion to the pursuit of fame and fortune. In traditional Chinese culture, the pursuit of success and wealth is seen as a normal way of life, especially within Confucianism. However, in modern society, with the rapid development of the market economy and capitalism, utilitarianism and personal gain have become the goals of many, placing a heavy burden on some young people. They do not want to become victims of utilitarianism, nor do they want to be solely focused on their own interests; instead, they are more concerned with the development of the society and the world around them.

Furthermore, Zhao Xiaolong also reflects the modern youth's yearning for idealism. He wants to contribute, to make a greater contribution to society, rather than merely focusing on his own interests. His pursuit is not simply about money and material possessions, but about a higher way of life. However, reality can easily bind him, limiting his imagination and initiative. For many young people, the pressure of realism can make them forget their ideals and feel that their pursuits are futile.

To cope with this contemporary confusion, young people need to examine their own thoughts and explore their own paths in life. They need to find a balance—one that allows them to achieve their dreams while maintaining a realistic attitude. In this process, they need to constantly reflect on themselves, constantly seek their inner voice, and then translate that voice into action. At the same time, they also need to connect with other like-minded people, forming a shared community to work together to achieve their ideals.