Clipping together life

She says compiling these short videos into an 80-minute documentary also serves as an enduring historical record that will allow future generations to look back in time and reflect on these moments recorded by ordinary people.

"We hope that even as time flows, our efforts could help carve out a place in history for these select short videos, so that people in the future can more easily rediscover them and reconnect with these moments that have touched us deeply," Wang adds.

Since Jan 6, the film has embarked on its roadshow theatrical release in cities across China. A series of special screenings are also being organized, including screenings inviting those whose footage has been selected, as well as for children, parents and urbanites.

Merchandise has also been produced, including lenticular tickets (tickets with two images that can only be seen from different angles), woven bags, hoodies, and Chinese couplets and red envelopes to ring in the Lunar New Year.

"The first time I watched This Is Life, I was immediately drawn to its contemporaneity," says renowned film director Jia Zhangke.

"This film carries significant experimental value in a contemporary context, representing new modes of expression and ways of life."