The documentary explores Ai Weiwei's upbringing under his father, the famous Chinese poet Ai Qing, who was exiled during the Cultural Revolution. Ai Weiwei's own career in art and architecture began in the United States, where he lived during the 1980s and 1990s. When he returned to Beijing, he became a vocal critic of the Chinese government, advocating for human rights, democracy, and government transparency.
The film follows Ai as he creates several powerful works of art that reflect his political beliefs, including "Snake Ceiling" and "Sunflower Seeds." Ai's activism leads to conflict with the Chinese government, which begins to monitor his activities and detain his associates. In 2011, Ai is arrested and detained for 81 days, prompting an international outcry for his release.
Throughout the film, Ai's personality shines through with his wry humor, fierce intelligence, and unwavering commitment to his beliefs. The documentary captures the depth and complexity of Ai's life, from his early struggles as an artist to his rise to global prominence as a political figure. Ultimately, the film is a testament to Ai's bravery and determination in the face of government oppression.