Island of Greed

The events unfold in the late 1990s Taiwan, culminating around the 1997 Taipei mayoral race and Legislative Yuan dynamics. The period features intense political maneuvering, growing media influence, and a shifting landscape as corruption and reform collide. The timeframe emphasizes how quickly fortunes can change in a society transitioning toward multi-party democracy.

The setting centers on Taiwan with Taipei at the heart of political and commercial power. The story moves through crowded arcades, smoky backroom offices, and grand ballrooms where influence and money mingle. The urban backdrop highlights the intersection of crime, business, and government in a city under pressure to reform.

⚖️ Justice

Fong's pursuit of truth pits him against a system where money buys influence. The investigation reveals how legal outcomes can be shaped by bribery and political pressure. The film questions whether true justice can prevail when official power is entangled with crime. It also shows the personal sacrifices demanded by a fight against corruption.

🗞️ Media

Journalists and public perception drive the narrative, with Ling-Fei helping expose Chow’s crimes and sway opinion. The media becomes a battlefield where coverage can uncover truth or smear it through sensationalism. Public sentiment is manipulated as powerful figures use publicity to construct heroic or villainous images. The balance between responsible reporting and sensationalism is a constant tension.

💰 Greed

Chow leverages wealth and bribery to secure political power and manipulate rivals. The financial underworld intertwines with official roles, illustrating how profit motives corrupt governance. The plot shows how greed fuels violence, deceit, and the erosion of public trust, ultimately driving the rise and fall of those entangled in it.