The film set in the 1990s, is about a 10-year-old boy who is confronted with both rural traditions and socio-economic change in his Chinese home village.

[3] In 1991, Bawangtai village, China was lively with activity, holding cherished memories of its vibrant past.

Xu Chuang, who stayed with his grandmother, witnessed the cycle of spring planting and autumn harvest, as well as various village events like weddings and funerals.

However, as the trend of becoming migrant workers grew, the younger generation slowly departed for city life, subtly transforming the rural landscape.

Living the Land had its world premiere on 14 February 2025, as part of the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, in Competition.