Directed by Xiaoshuai Wang, Beijing Bicycle is about two characters whose paths intersect over the ownership of a bicycle. The first owner, Guo Liangui, arrives from the country and finds employment with a messenger service, illustrating that his livelihood depends upon his continued possession of a bicycle. The second owner, Jian, presumably acquired the bike from Guo Liangui by nefarious means (it's not clear if he stole it or paid for it with stolen money) to increase his social standing and impress a girl.
Guo Liangui is the more sympathetic of the two characters, but both of them are too ill-equipped intellectually and emotionally to make a lasting impression. To describe the life of Guo Liangui and Jian as bleak would be an understatement, as they are both trapped by their obsessions, forced to stumble on, hoping for respite. The conclusion of their journey resembles nothing more than a brief pause on the road to unending nightmarish frustration. Still, for those that enjoy the misery of others, it might be good for a laugh.