His films consistently explore the struggles of working-class people and small business owners navigating economic systems that undermine their survival.
Hirokazu Koreeda JapanHe portrays intimate family dynamics within small family businesses and shops, examining how economic pressures affect personal relationships and dignity.
Chloé Zhao China/United StatesHer work captures the fragility of small-scale livelihoods and entrepreneurship, particularly among marginalized communities struggling to maintain economic independence.