In the midst of the chaos and turbulence of 20th century China, we follow the life of Fugui, a squanderer who loses his fortune to gambling and, as a consequence, is forced to confront the harsh realities of life. As his existence transforms from pleasurable to tragic, the story becomes a poignant portrait of the struggle for survival. Fugui, now destitute, returns home where he reunites with Jiazhen, his wife, who despite the adversities chooses to support him on his new path.
Fugui's family faces civil war and the political upheaval that ravages the country, presenting a series of challenges that test their resilience and love. Over time, the couple feels the pain of loss, but also the hope that arises in the darkest moments. The arrival of their children introduces a new dimension to the narrative, as their lives are marked by suffering, war, and personal tragedies.
Through the events, the film reflects the perseverance of the human spirit and the ability to find light even in the darkest shadows. As Fugui and Jiazhen confront each new obstacle, their story becomes a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder that, despite everything, the most important thing is to keep moving forward.