6. "Gold or Shit"

A poster for "Gold or Shit." [Photo courtesy of Maxtimes Culture]

"Gold or Shit," directed by Long Fei and starring Hu Ge and Gao Yuanyuan, is a comedy-drama that delves into the complexities of modern life. The film, which earned three Tiantan Awards at the 14th Beijing International Film Festival, follows a struggling young man who returns to his hometown from Beijing, disrupting his family's peaceful life while rediscovering himself and pursuing a filmmaking dream. 

Blending humor and introspection, it addresses weighty themes like death, failure and societal pressure, resonating with contemporary audiences. Hu Ge's nuanced performance captures the protagonist's journey, while Gao Yuanyuan authentically portrays a woman embracing new beginnings and confronting anxiety about getting older. Screenwriter Huang Jia's heartfelt script encourages viewers to "follow their heart," highlighting the film's message of inner freedom. The film celebrates life's quiet details, offering a fresh and resonant contribution to Chinese cinema.