phase of the moon

Ning Shengyu and his wife Zhao Yue, who dreamed of making a name for themselves in the art world, ventured overseas. In 1985, they were in Amman; in 1989, Paris; in 1996, Beijing; and in 2000, Bougie. From a couple, they became a family of five.

Years later, fresh graduate reporter Ma Yingdan encounters Ning Ai crying in front of a painting. The young man, who dropped out of college, devotes himself entirely to painting. His world revolves around creation and alcohol; he must constantly paint to satisfy his burning creative urge. He paints, she writes, and together they build a simple, happy life. As time passes, Ma Yingdan is shocked to discover that her boyfriend is sensitive and irritable, never understanding that his youthful ideals have faded. The more Ma Yingdan understands Ning Ai, the closer she gets to the family's inner demons. When the moon hangs high, should she leave or believe in the illusion?