Shanghai Triad

Shanghai Triad

Year: 1995

Runtime: 108 min

Language: Chinese

Director: Yimou Zhang

DramaHistoryThrillerRomanceCrime

During the 1930s in Shanghai, a young man named Shuisheng loses his innocence when he is drawn into the city’s dangerous criminal underworld. He finds a connection with Jinbao, a captivating nightclub singer, and an island peasant, forging unexpected bonds amidst treachery and escalating violence. As rival gangs battle for control, the ruthless Tang’s power struggles create chaos and threaten to consume everyone in his path.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Shanghai Triad (1995)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Shanghai Triad (1995). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie is set during a period of rising crime in Shanghai, reflecting the tumultuous and chaotic lifestyle associated with Triad activities. The backdrop of opium deals and gang rivalries emphasizes the dangers lurking in this underworld, influencing the characters' destinies.

Location

Shanghai, Secluded Island

Shanghai is a vibrant metropolis known for its fast-paced lifestyle, rich history, and the underbelly of crime that thrives within it. The bustling streets contrast sharply with the luxurious abode of the Triad Boss, where secrets and betrayals unfold. The secluded island serves as a temporary refuge yet becomes a site of confrontation, illustrating the treachery that permeates the characters' lives.

🏙️ City 🏝️ Island

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:46

Main Characters – Shanghai Triad (1995)

Meet the key characters of Shanghai Triad (1995), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Tang Shuisheng

Tang Shuisheng is a young man drawn into the tumultuous world of the Triads, displaying innocence yet vulnerability. He becomes a player in a dangerous game filled with deception as he navigates his duties. His character evolves as he witnesses the brutality around him, ultimately becoming a symbol of the tragic cost of loyalty.

👦 Youth 🎭 Innocence

Xiao Jinbao

Xiao Jinbao is a captivating cabaret singer entangled in a complex web of affairs and intense emotions. She is both alluring and tragically flawed, deeply entwined with the lives of powerful men. Her character embodies the struggles many face in seeking freedom amidst oppression, making her a pivotal figure in the unfolding drama.

🎤 Cabaret ❤️ Love

Fat Yu

Fat Yu represents the treacherous aspects of the Triad world, acting as a rival and instigator of conflict. His character introduces significant tension, driving many plot points that lead to violent outcomes. The chaos he brings illustrates the danger of unchecked power and ambition.

🔪 Rivalry 💰 Greed

Cuihua

Cuihua is a peasant mother with a deep bond to her daughter, caught in the crossfire of Triad conflicts. Her character is marked by resilience, showcasing maternal love in a chaotic environment. The tragic events surrounding her life serve as a reflection of the larger consequences of gang warfare.

👩‍👧 Motherhood 🌾 Resilience

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:46

Major Themes – Shanghai Triad (1995)

Explore the central themes of Shanghai Triad (1995), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔫 Betrayal

Betrayal is a core theme explored through the relationships between characters in the film. Jinbao's secret affair with Song, and the ensuing violence showcases how trust can lead to devastating consequences. The tragic events underscore the harsh reality that loyalty is often tested in a world ruled by crime.

⚓ Despair

The theme of despair runs deep as characters grapple with their fates in a violent environment. Shuisheng's entrapment and helplessness highlight an overarching sense of defeat, particularly as he witnesses friends and family suffer at the hands of betrayal and power struggles. This theme resonates throughout the film, leaving an unsettling impression.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:46

Unlock the Full Story of Shanghai Triad

Don't stop at just watching — explore Shanghai Triad 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 Shanghai Triad is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Shanghai Triad Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Shanghai Triad, 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.

Shanghai Triad Summary

Shanghai Triad Timeline

Track the full timeline of Shanghai Triad with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Shanghai Triad Timeline

More About Shanghai Triad

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Shanghai Triad: 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 Shanghai Triad

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