Shanghai Triad

Shanghai Triad

Year: 1995

Runtime: 108 min

Language: Chinese

Director: Yimou Zhang

DramaHistoryThrillerRomanceCrime

In 1930s Shanghai, teenager Shuisheng's rural innocence is shattered as he's drawn into the underworld of crime and passion. Amidst treachery and violence, he finds solace with nightclub siren Jinbao, who forges a bond with an island peasant. As rival gangs clash and allegiances are tested, Tang's power struggles threaten to destroy everything in his path.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Shanghai Triad (1995)
Trace every key event in Shanghai Triad (1995) 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

Arrival in Shanghai

Tang Shuisheng arrives in the bustling city of Shanghai, filled with hopes and ambitions. Unbeknownst to him, he is stepping into the dangerous world of the Triads, where his first encounter will set the stage for a series of violent events.

Shanghai
2

First Encounter with the Triad

Shuisheng witnesses his first meeting with the Triads at a warehouse where an opium deal takes place. The situation spirals out of control, resulting in the death of a member from a rival faction, marking the beginning of Shuisheng's entanglement in the criminal underworld.

Warehouse
3

Meeting Boss Tang

After the chaotic warehouse meeting, Shuisheng is taken by his uncle to the luxurious residence of Boss Tang. Here, he learns that his role will involve serving the mesmerizing cabaret singer, Xiao Jinbao, who is also the Boss's mistress.

Boss Tang's Residence
4

Unraveling Affairs

As Shuisheng settles into his new life, he discovers that Jinbao is romantically involved with the Boss's second-in-command, Song. This love triangle introduces a layer of tension that complicates their relationships and sets the stage for future conflict.

5

Uncle's Death

On the third night, Shuisheng finds himself in a violent confrontation involving Boss Tang and a rival, Fat Yu. The chaos culminates in the tragic death of his uncle, deepening Shuisheng's sense of loyalty and grief within the dangerous Triad environment.

6

Escape to the Island

Following the turmoil, Boss Tang and a select group of men escape to a secluded island to regroup. This retreat sets a new backdrop for the unfolding drama and highlights the dangers posed by their enemies.

Secluded Island
7

Jinbao's Bond with Cuihua

On the island, Jinbao forms a bond with Cuihua, a peasant mother. Kuihua's innocent daughter, Ajiao, becomes a symbol of hope amidst the chaos, but this connection leads to unforeseen tragic consequences.

Island
8

The Murder of Cuihua's Lover

Jinbao's interference in Cuihua's life inadvertently results in the murder of Cuihua's lover by the Boss's henchmen. This event ignites Jinbao's anger towards the Boss and propels her to confront him about the escalating violence.

9

Warning of a Deadly Plot

On the seventh day, while struggling with severe diarrhea, Shuisheng uncovers a deadly plot against Jinbao. His rush to warn her leads him to a dangerous confrontation at a mahjong game, where betrayal and violence reach a critical climax.

Mahjong Room
10

Discovery of Betrayal

During the mahjong game, Boss Tang reveals evidence of Song’s betrayal. This shocking revelation leads to a brutal execution of Song's men, demonstrating the severe consequences of loyalty and betrayal within the Triad system.

11

Jinbao and Cuihua's Fate

In a chilling twist, the Boss decides that both Jinbao and Cuihua must die for their perceived complicity in Song's betrayal. Shuisheng, desperate to save Jinbao, faces overwhelming odds as he attempts to intervene.

12

Shuisheng's Struggle

Shuisheng is overpowered and beaten into submission during his desperate attempt to save Jinbao. His fight against the brutal reality of the Triad world highlights the personal costs associated with loyalty and love.

13

Departure from the Island

The film culminates with Shuisheng bound to the sails of a ship, being taken back to Shanghai. This haunting scene symbolizes his entrapment in a world of crime and despair, leaving viewers questioning the fates of the characters left behind.

Sea
14

The Boss's Ominous Words

As the ship sails away, Boss Tang ominously tells Cuihua's daughter that she will one day become just like Jinbao. This chilling statement underscores the cycle of violence and despair that ensnares innocent lives.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 18:40

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