Cities of Last Things

The film opens in 2056 with a shocking event as an unnamed individual jumps from a high apartment window. This tragic act sets the tone for a narrative that will unravel through a series of pivotal moments that lead to this demise.

Zhang Dong Ling, a middle-aged man, witnesses a compromising scene as his wife performs suggestive dance moves with another man. Fueled by rage and betrayal, he confronts the man before leaving the dance hall in turmoil.

Seeking solace in his despair, Zhang visits a prostitute who introduces him to a mysterious 'rejuvenation fluid.' He watches her use the fluid, which boosts her youthfulness, igniting a desperate longing in him.

Zhang meets Ara, another prostitute, who evokes memories of his past and deepens his sense of loss. Despite discovering a lack of information about her, their unexpected connection leads to a passionate affair, reminding him of lost opportunities.

Disguised as a doctor, Zhang infiltrates a heavily guarded hospital to find the unconscious Minister of Health, Shi Zhi-Wen. After waking him up, Zhang chillingly confronts him about their shared past before taking his life.

Zhang's turmoil intensifies when he confronts his wife's lover, who reveals their love for each other and suggests divorce. This revelation leads to a violent confrontation fueled by Zhang's anguish and betrayal.

In a heated argument over the rejuvenation fluid, Zhang's rage culminates in a tragic act of violence as he strangles his wife. The confrontation leaves him shattered, with evidence ultimately identifying him as the murderer.

After the revelation of his guilt, Zhang desperately escapes from the scene by shooting down a drone sent to capture him. In a moment of panicked desperation, he leaps out of the window, following the cold path of his earlier act.

The timeline rewinds as we explore Zhang's younger days as a police officer. He awkwardly arrests Ara for shoplifting but soon finds himself distracted by personal turmoil as he prepares to surprise his wife.

Zhang's time off takes a dark turn when he discovers his wife with Shi Zhi-Wen, his superior, in a compromising position. This betrayal drives Zhang into a spiral of rage and self-destructive thoughts.

Unable to cope with the betrayal, Zhang vandalizes Shi Zhi-Wen's locker, releasing his pent-up anger. This impulsive act leads to further conflict, adding more layers to his destructive path.

In a surprising act of kindness, Zhang pays for Ara's stolen items, showcasing a glimmer of humanity amidst his turmoil. Their brief connection blossoms until Zhi-Wen retaliates, further complicating Zhang's world.

Zhang's life drastically changes when he is arrested on corruption charges. During his six-month prison sentence, he grapples with the heartbreak of being separated from Ara while Zhi-Wen taunts him about taking care of his wife.

The timeline further rewinds to Zhang's youth, where he races on a stolen scooter, crossing paths with Big Sister Wang as they both escape from the police. Their unexpected friendship becomes a focal point in Zhang's life.

In a heartbreaking confrontation with the police, Big Sister Wang is tragically shot while attempting to escape. This loss profoundly impacts Zhang, leaving a haunting mark on his already troubled existence.