Move over, influencers—there’s a new cowboy in town! Veteran comedian Ge You stars in The Hutong Cowboy, a razor-sharp comedy diving into China’s explosive live-streaming economy. The film, released during the golden week holiday, has already raked in 10 million yuan ($1.4 million) at the box office.
Directed by Ning Hao—a filmmaker famous for spotlighting everyday struggles—the story follows Zhang Beijing, an underdog who accidentally becomes a viral sensation after posting a video to reclaim his digital identity. Sound familiar? It’s a playful yet poignant look at how the internet reshapes lives, careers, and self-worth in modern China.
With laugh-out-loud humor and heart, the movie taps into the cultural zeitgeist of Gen-Z hustlers and side-hustle culture. Think The Social Network meets Crazy Rich Asians, but with way more dumplings. Whether you’re glued to TikTok or just curious about Asia’s digital boom, this film is a must-watch!
NewspaperAmigo – Your Global News Buddy 
‘The Hutong Cowboy’ Rides China’s Live-Streaming Wave 
Veteran comedian Ge You stars in The Hutong Cowboy, a razor-sharp comedy diving into China’s explosive live-streaming economy. The film, released during the golden week holiday, has already raked in 10 million yuan ($1.4 million) at the box office. 
Sound familiar? It’s a playful yet poignant look at how the internet reshapes lives, careers, and self-worth in modern China.
Whether you’re glued to TikTok or just curious about Asia’s digital boom, this film is a must-watch!
