Flaming Brothers

Flaming Brothers

Year: 1987

Runtime: 101 mins

Language: Cantonese

RomanceActionCrime

Bound by a strict code of honour, two blood brothers raised on the streets of Macau cling to each other while navigating a ruthless underworld. Their loyalty pulls them deeper into violent turf wars, and as they attempt to break free, the same bond forces them into a brutal, tragic clash.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Flaming Brothers (1987)

Trace every key event in Flaming Brothers (1987) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Alan and Tin vow to be brothers

Alan Chan and Tin are orphans surviving on the streets of Macau, turning to theft to survive. They vow to be brothers and protect each other, forging a bond that will define their lives.

early life in Macau Macau streets
2

Ka-hei helps Tin after church theft

Tin is caught stealing food inside a church, and Ka-hei intervenes. She discourages him from crime and begins bringing meals to Tin and his friends every day, offering a glimmer of hope in their harsh world. Her kindness becomes a beacon in their lives.

Macau church, early days Macau church
3

Ka-hei is adopted; tearful farewell with Tin

Ka-hei is adopted by a new family, and Tin shares a tearful farewell with her. The parting marks a bittersweet turning point in Tin's life. Tin continues to navigate Macau's streets while cherishing their memory.

after Ka-hei's adoption Macau
4

Alan and Tin rise to triad leadership

Alan and Tin climb through the underworld to become triad leaders. Their partnership grows as they command a growing crew and extend their influence. The city starts to fear their combined power.

years later Macau underworld
5

Chiu killed in gang war

During a brutal gang war, Alan and Tin kill Chiu, a key underling of Ko Lo-sei. This act triggers Ko's vengeful campaign and escalates the power struggle in Macau. The brothers' move proves costly and dangerous.

during gang warfare Macau
6

Ko's reconciliation ruse and Thailand trip

Ko Lo-sei pretends to seek reconciliation with Alan and lures him into an arms-trafficking scheme in Thailand. The plan is a treacherous test, masking Ko's true intent while drawing Alan deeper into danger. Trust becomes a fragile commodity in their dealings.

Thailand operation Thailand
7

Uncle Pui betrays but earns Alan's trust

At the Thai operation, Uncle Pui, Ko's rival, nearly costs Alan his life but ends up earning his trust. Alan manages to survive the betrayal and continues the arms deal, now with Pui as a new ally. The partnership reshapes the underworld dynamics.

arms deal phase Thailand
8

Alan falls in love with Jenny

While navigating the dangerous world, Alan meets Jenny, a Macau singer, and falls in love. He brings Jenny back to Macau, where she becomes a source of warmth and motivation for him. Her presence anchors his life amid constant threats.

in Macau Macau
9

Tin and Ka-hei engage; Ka-hei asks retirement

Tin re-encounters Ka-hei at a Catholic school, and they openly share their feelings, becoming engaged. Ka-hei then asks Tin to quit the underworld and seek a peaceful life in Hong Kong. The lovers are torn between loyalty and longing for normalcy.

reunion and engagement Catholic school, Macau
10

Tin tells Alan of Ka-hei's wish; anger and rift

Tin informs Alan about Ka-hei's wish to retire from crime, which enrages Alan as they pursue a grand business plan. The revelation strains their brotherly bond and foreshadows a growing rift. Trust becomes the casualty of ambition.

before large-scale deal Macau
11

Tin leaves Alan to pursue peace

Tin chooses to leave Alan to protect his future with Ka-hei and their dreams. He withdraws from the major plans and returns to his own path, aware of the costs. The division between them deepens the coming conflict.

after rift Macau
12

Ko seizes arms; war declared; Jenny dies

Ko discovers Alan's return and seizes the arms, declaring war on him. Alan's forces are overwhelmed, and Jenny dies protecting him from Ko's assault. The tragedy hardens Alan's resolve to fight back.

post-return Macau
13

Alan resolves to confront Ko alone

With the odds stacked against him, Alan resolves to confront Ko single-handedly. He plans a bold, solo assault to break Ko's hold. This marks a turn toward a decisive, dangerous showdown.

climax preparation Macau
14

Tin returns to Macau to fight Ko with Alan

In Hong Kong, Tin learns of the crisis and returns to Macau to fight Ko alongside Alan. The two brothers reunite on the battlefield and brace for a final, perilous confrontation. Their reunion carries the weight of a previously fractured loyalty.

final phase Macau
15

The final gunfight and the trio's deaths

Alan, Tin, and Ko clash in a brutal gunfight that tests every limit. After a fierce struggle, all three are killed together, ending their intertwined saga in tragedy. The tale closes on the cost of loyalty, ambition, and friendship.

final battle Macau

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 14:37

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Flaming Brothers Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Flaming Brothers, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Flaming Brothers Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Flaming Brothers

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Flaming Brothers

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