A documentary recording amateur director Lu Qingyi's family life over four Spring Festivals is about to hit the heartstrings of thousands of people who work far from their home and parents.

Beginning in 2013, the director filmed his parents, elder sister, brother and himself as they reunite each year for Spring Festival in southwest China's Guizhou province. The result is this new simple but touching documentary, "Four Springs."

The film was nominated at the Taipei Golden Horse Film Festival and Awards for best editing award last year. Despite not winning, the nomination was like "a dream come true" for director Lu. However, "Four Springs" later went on to win the best documentary award at the 12th FIRST International Film Festival, held annually in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai province. 

The film, which follows the director's family, from family gatherings to funerals, unexpectedly resonated withaudiences and made them reflect on their family and life. Movie stars Zhao Wei, Huang Bo, Zhou Dongyu, Chen Kun and Zhang Yu have all lent their support to the film. 

"Ordinary days contain great significance. I am not crying out, but streaming tears from the heart," actor Chen Kun said, who served as the film's honorary producer. "After watching the film, I want to go home and see my mom."

Director Lu Qingyi left home at the age of 15 and worked as a migrant worker in various jobs. During his 30 years in Beijing, he has worked as a bar singer, miner, soccer player, editor and photographer. "Four Springs" only cost him 1,500 yuan (US$218) to make, but it took him four years and his admiring persistence.

"We have traveled to many places and experienced countless locations, but in the end we only have one place to go, and that is home. I hope that no matter how far we walk through the world, we will never forget going home," Lu said. 

The documentary hits Chinese screens on Jan. 4. 

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