"Tiny Times" and the Dream of a 'Xiaokang Society' in China

The Chinese film Xiao Shidai or Tiny Times is a reflection of Chinese attitudes and social aspirations in a market-oriented society. Despite being panned by film critics, it grossed a huge amount at the box-office patronised by the post-1990 generation who saw themselves in the four protagonists of the film. It has also set off a lively debate on materialism and consumerism in Chinese society.