In 1990s Beijing, a small inn bears witness to the lives of a group of young men and women who have come from all corners of the country, to chase their dreams in the city. Xu Shengli, obsessed with scriptwriting, never gives up despite constant rejection. Singer Zhuang Zhuang, yearning to perform on prestigious stages, can only make a living through commercial gigs. Shen Ranran, hoping to play leading roles, faces opportunities and tough choices in the flashy entertainment industry. Talented cellist Tao Liangliang plays under overpasses, pursuing his musical dreams. Guo Zongbao, a background actor and an artist at heart, juggles odd jobs in order to treat his wife and children's illnesses. Painter Cao Ye struggles in a world that does not understand him. They work tirelessly for their dreams, yet reality is always cruel and unyielding. As the new millennium arrives, some continue to persevere while others are forced to give up, but the flame of art never dies in their hearts.

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