Ancient Chinese immortals descend to mortal world seeking employment, competing to secure statues to inhabit = a reflection of social "involution." These statues metaphorically represent social classes: revered temple deities symbolize government authority; trendy office figurines parallel tech industry workers; urban village statues embody small business owners struggling to make ends meet; and neglected rural statues reflect elderly villagers left behind. The film also highlights the pragmatic persistence of Chinese worship, driven by tangible benefits and amplified by viral online trends. Using 3D scanning and glitch-art aesthetics, Chinese immortals portrays the collision between traditional culture and modern society.

Xian’er (Chinese Immortals) screens as part of BBFF’s Industry Day.