A feature length film revolving around Martin Creed's childhood memories. A little boy growing up, seen through the eyes and hair of a young woman. A coming-of-age story told in episodes from conception through the very earliest moments of infanthood to high school, art education and first love. An interwoven story of clothes moves up the body from socks and shoes to trousers and hats. Along the way some various helpful guides to side of life are offered in the form of chapters on "The Trouser Problem" and "What Are Moustaches For?". Based on a true story, memories were filmed in the places where they happened, including Lenzie Academy, Glasgow, where current-day students of the school perform in scenes from their of bullying, misbehaviour and sports. Other, dreamlike acts were filmed in an odd admixture of locations including Las Vegas, USA, and Ascoli Piceno, Italy. John McEnroe features in one fantastical scene on a Malibu tennis court.

Directed by Martin Creed, How to Live leans on a strong ensemble — Layla Burns, Heidi Rider, Laurie Luxe — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 2025.