Overheard

Overheard

Year: 2009

Runtime: 100 mins

Language: Cantonese

Directors: Felix Chong Man-Keung, Alan Mak Siu-Fai

DramaThriller

Three members of a police surveillance unit are tasked with probing an investment firm linked to criminal fraud. As the investigation unfolds, the narrative shifts to focus on the officers themselves, who discover they can exploit the privileged information they've collected for personal gain, navigating the web of deception surrounding the operation.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Overheard yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Overheard (2009)

Trace every key event in Overheard (2009) 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

Infiltration begins and surveillance setup

The Hong Kong Police Force Commercial Crime Bureau initiates an operation to infiltrate Feng Hua International. Interception devices are installed to monitor communications between the company and its targets. The team, led by Inspector Leung, begins gathering evidence for a possible case.

Night CIB HQ, Hong Kong
2

Overhearing the stock manipulation plan

During monitoring, Yeung and Lam overhear that the stock price will surge at market open. Yeung pressures Lam to delete the portion of the recording so they can profit from the tip. The trio continues the operation, while tension over exploiting the information grows.

Night CIB surveillance room
3

Lam trades on the tip

Lam opens a stock brokerage account using a deep loan to exploit the tip. Leung discovers Lam's unapproved trading activities and cautions about the risk of exposure. The plan to profit quietly moves forward as the stock begins to react.

Next day morning Stock brokerage / monitoring room
4

Stock surge and trading suspension

The stock price surges quickly, but trading is suspended due to unusual activity. The team realizes the move could blow their cover and attract scrutiny. They watch the market with a mix of relief and anxiety as profits loom and danger grows.

Same day morning Stock exchange floor
5

Plot to murder via unofficial device

Back in the operation center, they overhear a separate plot to murder the Feng Hua manager using an unofficial listening device. They understand that reporting it would expose them and jeopardize their futures. The knowledge creates a new moral and strategic dilemma.

Later that day CIB operation center
6

Leung decides to intervene directly

Lam begs Leung not to report the murder plot. After weighing his options, Leung decides to stop the murder himself rather than alert the authorities. The choice sets the trio on a dangerous path that tests their loyalties.

Evening CIB operation center / Feng Hua International
7

Ambush to prevent the fake death

The trio ambushes the would-be killer as he forces pills into the unconscious manager to fake a death scene. Leung's face is briefly seen by the manager's girlfriend, planting suspicion that will come back later. The operation spirals toward peril and exposure.

Night Feng Hua International premises
8

Betrayal, profit, and a tip to Boss

After the ambush, the trio sells their shares for about $15 million. On their return, the manager's girlfriend spots Leung at the station with Yeung and Lam and contacts Boss's men. Her tip allows Boss to track them and set in motion retaliation against the trio and their families.

Days later Market / station area
9

Leung's surrender and alleged execution

Leung turns himself in to Boss's henchmen, hoping to spare his team. Wah, Boss's subordinate, seemingly executes Leung in an unmarked grave, with Boss watching the act. The false death marks the beginning of a longer trove of consequences.

Shortly after surrender Unmarked grave site
10

The Boss's downfall and Leung's plan

A year later, the Boss gives a charity speech while a video reveals his shadowy dealings from the previous morning. It is revealed that Leung had bought off Wah, using him as an agent to bring down the Boss. The authorities close in as the truth surfaces on screen.

One year later Charity function, Hong Kong
11

Yeung's final act and the aftermath

Under police escort, the Boss is confronted, but Yeung drives the Boss off an unfinished bridge into the harbour as part of a murder-suicide. Yeung survives the earlier attempt, and Leung watches the event with a heavy heart. The conspiracy ends in tragedy and unresolved grief.

Immediately after the charity event Unfinished bridge to the harbour
12

Leung's memories and closing

In the aftermath, Leung recalls the time with his two subordinates and the values they shared. He grapples with guilt over their deaths and the choices that let corruption flourish. The film closes on a somber note about the cost of greed and loyalty.

End of the case Policing HQ / Leung's memory

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 09:32

Mobile App Preview

Coming soon on iOS and Android

The Plot Explained Mobile App

From blockbusters to hidden gems — dive into movie stories anytime, anywhere. Save your favorites, discover plots faster, and never miss a twist again.

Sign up to be the first to know when we launch. Your email stays private — always.

Unlock the Full Story of Overheard

Don't stop at just watching — explore Overheard in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Overheard is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Overheard Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Overheard, 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.

Overheard Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Overheard

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Overheard. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Overheard

Overheard Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of Overheard that covers the main plot points and key details without revealing any major twists or spoilers. Perfect for those who want to know what to expect before diving in.

Overheard Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Overheard

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Overheard: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Overheard

Similar Movies to Overheard

Discover movies like Overheard that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.