The hidden depths of esports players

Now, a year later, 32-year-old director Ni Meng has brought their story to the big screen in More Than a Game. Released nationwide on Dec 6, the documentary invites viewers to relive the triumph, the camaraderie, and the youthful vigor that defined this historic moment.

"This is a film without gaming barriers. I wanted to create an esports documentary that parents could understand," Ni says.

Duan Xiaoxiong, a teacher at the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts and a film critic, admitted that as someone who isn't an esports fan, he hesitated before watching the film, concerned it might be too specialized for someone like him who has never played video games.

"After seeing it, I realized this is a film for anyone with a dream," Duan says. "As the director aptly put it, this is a movie about people. The title has a dual meaning, reminding us that its significance extends far beyond the competition or the film itself."

It begins with 22 young players selected to take part in a rigorous 15-day training camp to compete for one of six spots on the national team for the Asian Games.

At the heart of the camp are Chen Zhengzheng and Peng Yunfei, both strong contenders, neither of whom made the final cut despite giving it their all.

At 26, Chen was particularly eager to represent his country. He had been a torchbearer at the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia, an experience that left a lasting impact. His wish for success, fueled by that memory, didn't come true.