Chinese hotshot Zhang Yang joins the growing chorus of cineastes opposed to the nations surging commercial advance by contrasting capitalism with the security that comes only from a sense of community.
Despite blunt symbolism, Zhang assembles such an engaging cast of characters that its impossible not to become fond of them. As the prodigal high-flier who eventually embraces his father and backward brothers viewpoint, Pu Cun Xin provides both the human and political focus.
But theres an uncomfortable feel in the suggestion that the largely unseen female contingent are either shrews or unquestioning progressives. Overflowing with gentle humour and a respect for discarded values, this is slight and naive - but irresistibly so.