Better Days

In the emotional climax of Better Days, we see Chen and Xiao being transferred to separate juvenile detention facilities, symbolizing their transition into a future where they must face the consequences of their actions. Chen accepts that her push, which led to Wei Lai’s accidental death, was not murder but an unfortunate accident born out of her pain and frustration. Her act of pushing Wei Lai was a tragic moment of rage and despair, not premeditated violence. Though Xiao takes the blame to protect Chen, it becomes clear that he genuinely loves her and desires her happiness, even if it means accepting the death penalty. The film concludes with Chen, now an adult, teaching her class, her face carrying the deep sense of loss and remorse. She walks a girl home, symbolizing her hope for a better future, and Xiao’s silent shadow behind her signifies their unbreakable bond. Through these closing scenes, the story emphasizes the themes of love, sacrifice, and the painful journey toward adulthood. Chen’s reflections and the final montage suggest that she continues to carry the weight of her past, but also harbors hope for a brighter, more forgiving future for herself and Xiao. The ending leaves viewers with a poignant message about the innocence lost in adolescence and the tragic costs of misunderstanding and violence, highlighting that sometimes, the path to growth is paved with pain, but also hope.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:44