Swallowtail Butterfly

The film takes place in Tokyo during a future period when the Japanese yen becomes the world's strongest currency, attracting many immigrants seeking work. The city earns the nickname Yen Town due to the influx of diverse residents, which sparks resentment among Japanese natives. This economic backdrop sets the stage for the immigrant community's struggles and aspirations.

A sixteen-year-old girl whose mother has recently died is passed from person to person before being taken in by Glico, a Chinese Yentown prostitute. Glico names her Ageha, meaning swallowtail, and takes her under her wing in a bid to start anew. This marks Ageha's entry into the immigrant community and her journey of survival.

The immigrant residents, speaking various languages, make their living through petty crimes and prostitution. While Ageha refrains from participating in many of these activities, she is protected by Glico and the other immigrants, highlighting the precarious and dangerous environment they live in. The community's resilience is contrasted with their criminal survival strategies.

Glico, Fei Hong, Arrow, and Ran are introduced as the main figures supporting Ageha. Each has their own background—Glico as a protector, Fei Hong as an auto mechanic, Arrow as a former boxer, and Ran as a mysterious broker—forming a close-knit immigrant circle amidst the chaos. Their relationships define the film’s slice-of-life dynamic.

A critical plot point occurs when the immigrants find a rare cassette tape containing Frank Sinatra's 'My Way'. This discovery triggers their involvement with the mob and passports their dreams of a better life. The tape becomes a symbol of hope and escape amid their struggles.

The mob becomes fiercely interested in the cassette tape, leading to intense chase sequences. Simultaneously, a counterfeit money scheme emerges, further complicating the immigrants' lives. These events heighten tensions and threaten their fragile solidarity.

Glico is pursued by the mob as they hunt for the cassette tape's location. Ran rescues her by killing the mob members, in a tense and violent showdown. This act signifies a turning point in their fight for survival and unity.

Fei Hong is captured by authorities due to his involvement in counterfeit bills and is brutally beaten during interrogation. He later sings 'My Way' in his cell, symbolizing his defiance before succumbing to his injuries. The survivors hold a memorial service, burning their money and paying tribute to him.

In the aftermath, Ryo Ranki, the mob boss, plans his next move but is unexpectedly re-encountered by Ageha. She thanks him for saving her earlier and gives him the cassette tape, which leads to a pivotal emotional moment. The tape, symbolizing dreams and resilience, is finally returned to him.

Ryo is stunned upon recognizing Ageha's real name, which Glico had given her, and reflects on their shared past. Ageha's appreciation for her origins signifies her journey towards self-identity and closure. This closing reunion highlights the film's themes of connection and hope.