Dying to Survive

Life in a modest storefront takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious visitor arrives and unsettles Yong Cheng's routine. His shop, known for offbeat gadgets and oddities, becomes the unlikely pipeline for a cheap Indian generic drug aimed at Chronic Granulocytic Leukemia. Yong Cheng steps into the role of exclusive distributor, a choice that jolts his ordinary world into a fever of sales and speculation. As demand grows, so does his fortune and the pressure that comes with it. The town volunteers its trust and curiosity, and customers begin to nickname him the god of medicine, a tribute that reflects both gratitude and the perilous edge of turning compassion into commerce. Neighbors watch with wary curiosity.

Directed by Wen Muye and released in 2018, the film features Xu Zheng and a screenplay by Han Jianü and Wei Zhong. It is built on an original screenplay rather than a direct adaptation.

The movie earned strong attention at home, becoming a box office success and sparking discussion about medicine prices and access in contemporary China. Its reception drew praise from audiences and critics alike, reinforcing the film's impact on health care conversations.

Culturally it struck a chord by turning a harsh issue into a human story that blends humor with heartache. It prompted conversations about healthcare equality, price gouging, and the moral choices people face when illness hits close to home. Scenes and moments circulated widely.

Critics praised the film for its blunt social critique and brisk humor, while centering themes of empathy, community, and the costs of profit. It offers a microcosm of a system under strain and asks viewers to weigh personal gain against collective welfare. The tone balances satire and human drama.