A Brighter Summer Day (1991)

In the scorching summer of 1959, Si'r faces a significant setback after failing a vital exam. This disappointment deeply affects his relationship with his ambitious father, who worries about the rising delinquency among night school students.

In 1960, intrigued by a local film shoot, Si'r and his friend Cat embark on a secret mission to observe an actress. Their adventure takes a comical turn when they are caught by a guard and hastily escape, stealing his flashlight in their frantic getaway.

During his nighttime explorations, Si'r stumbles upon a passionate embrace between two unknown lovers in a dimly lit classroom. This chance encounter draws him into the dangerous world of the Little Park Boys and their rivals, the 217s.

As Si'r becomes involved with the gang dynamics, he finds himself at odds with Sly, the assertive leader of the Little Park Boys. Misunderstanding leads Si'r to mistakenly believe Sly and Jade are the couple he encountered, escalating their rivalry.

Amid the chaos, Si'r forms an unexpected friendship with Ming, Sly's girlfriend, which complicates his loyalties. Despite their vastly different backgrounds, their connection grows, offering a glimmer of hope amid the rivalry.

Seeking to bridge the gap between the gangs, Sly organizes a concert featuring artists from both the Little Park Boys and the 217s. However, the event is interrupted by Honey's return, leading to a confrontation that alters the dynamics within the gang.

The night before the concert, a violent altercation arises outside the venue between Honey and Shandong, the leader of the 217s. Tragically, Honey is pushed into oncoming traffic, leading to his tragic death and igniting fierce anger among the Little Park Boys.

In the aftermath of Honey's death, the Little Park Boys decide to retaliate against the 217s during a fierce typhoon. Led by Ma, armed with weapons, they launch a violent attack that leaves their rivals in chaos and sends shockwaves throughout the community.

Si'r's family is thrown into turmoil when his father is detained for questioning regarding past affiliations with the Chinese Communist Party. Though he is released, the incident results in a damaging demotion that changes the course of their lives.

As Si'r and Ming's relationship develops, he faces intense pressure to excel academically. However, his anger flares when he sees Ming flirting with other boys, culminating in an outburst and ultimately leading to his expulsion from school.

Sly seeks forgiveness from Si'r but drops a bombshell—Ming is now dating Ma, Si'r's father's wealthy classmate. This revelation shatters Si'r, pushing him toward Jade, but his possessiveness causes her to pull away, deepening his despair.

Si'r’s emotional state spirals as he confronts Ming outside school, expressing his anger over her perceived promiscuity. Ming rebukes him fiercely, asserting her independence and rejecting his attempts to control her life.

As tensions mount, Si'r's outburst culminates in a tragic event that irreparably damages their relationship. His reckless actions result in a fifteen-year prison sentence, underscoring the severe consequences of his choices.

Years later, Si'r's mother finds his neglected school uniform in their now-empty home, a powerful symbol of lost potential. The radio plays a list of exemplary students, highlighting the chilling reality of Si'r's decisions and their far-reaching impacts.