The Wasted Times

The story unfolds in 1937 Shanghai, a vibrant city filled with tension as the threat of Japanese invasion looms. Here, we are introduced to Lu, a powerful crime lord and enforcer for Mr. Dai, and his brother-in-law, Watabe, who operates a local Japanese restaurant.

As the Japanese army exerts pressure on various industrialists, including Lu and Zhang, to support a Japanese bank, underlying tensions escalate. Lu's firm opposition contrasts sharply with Zhang’s betrayal, setting off a chain of tragic events.

The mountain of stress culminates in a devastating assault that leads to the death of many members of Lu's gang and family. This tragic event marks a turning point in Lu's life, overshadowing his future with sorrow and vengeance.

In a heroic moment, Watabe intervenes during the assault and saves Lu's life by killing a leading Japanese officer. However, during this act of bravery, Watabe is severely wounded, marking an irreversible shift in their fates.

In the aftermath of the assault and Watabe's injuries, Lu makes the difficult decision to take Watabe's children away from the dangers of Shanghai. This act reflects Lu's commitment to protecting his brother-in-law’s legacy despite their complex relationship.

A flashback reveals the troubled life of Xiao Liu, Mr. Dai's wife, who is entangled in affairs that embarrass her husband. Lu is called upon to handle the situation, showcasing the complicated interplay of personal and business relationships in their world.

To save face, Lu orchestrates Xiao Liu's move to northern China, delegating Watabe with escorting her to a train station in Suzhou. This decision showcases the lengths to which Lu will go to maintain honor among the elite.

Wu, an actress with a troubled husband, seeks help from Mr. Dai, who is infatuated with her. This plea for assistance opens a new chapter, highlighting the personal sacrifices made as women navigate the trials of an oppressive society.

By 1941, Lu has relocated to Hong Kong with Watabe's sons and begins to hunt down Zhang for his earlier betrayal. This quest for revenge not only reflects Lu's shifting priorities but also unravels deeper layers of his character.

As the narrative unfolds, it is revealed that Watabe survived and was acting as a double agent for the Japanese. His conflicting loyalties place immense pressure on him, complicating the already fragile dynamics between the characters.

After the full brutality of the war unfolds, Watabe finds himself as a prisoner of war in the Philippines. This turn of events illustrates the far-reaching consequences of loyalty and betrayal during wartime.

In the aftermath of the Japanese surrender in September 1945, Lu is in a Shanghai asylum. He experiences a poignant reunion with Xiao Liu, a moment filled with complexity as they face their shared history.

The reunion leads to a tense confrontation with Watabe, who is now at the POW camp. This moment is a culmination of past choices, revealing the emotional and moral conflicts that each character grapples with.

As tensions reach a breaking point, tragic decisions are made that result in acts of violence that reshape their fates once more. This climax serves as a bitter reminder of the cost of loyalty and betrayal in their lives.

In the film's poignant closing scene, Lu embarks on a solitary journey back to Hong Kong, left to contemplate the profound weight of loss and betrayal that has accompanied him throughout his life. This moment reflects the somber reality of survival in a war-torn world.