The film does give us some insight into why its protagonists' outlook is so bleak, but one could have wished for more, if only to make the viewing experience slightly less maddening.

Hao Wu's documentary... contrasts the hyper-real imagery of the YY screen, with all its glitter and cute icons and simulated cheers, with the stark vistas of the apartment buildings where these purveyors of glamour actually reside.

About five minutes into Hao Wu's People's Republic of Desire... it hits you: This is a completely bonkers William Gibson sci-fi story come to life. And yet, it is happening right now. Indeed, much of this material is a few years old.