In a rapidly changing China, four individuals from different regions struggle with life's harsh realities. The first story follows Dahai, a coal miner who becomes increasingly disillusioned with the corruption in his village. He demands justice for the exploitation of his fellow villagers but faces overwhelming resistance. His frustration mounts as he seeks a path that leads to a shocking confrontation.

In the second story, a migrant worker named San'er returns home and becomes entangled in a violent conflict. Meanwhile, Xiaoyu, a receptionist at a sauna, faces harassment and fights to assert her dignity amidst societal pressures. Finally, Xiaohui, a young factory worker, drifts from job to job in search of better opportunities, only to find himself trapped in a cycle of despair. Each character's journey illuminates the broader issues of economic disparity and moral decay, painting a vivid picture of contemporary China's struggles.