Singer Xuan Zhou (Hong) and her prostitute sister Huishen Zhao (Yu) have been adopted by a ruthless bar owner Wang Jiting who uses Zhou as bait for his clients and expects her to sing for them and maybe even a little more. Zhao is already on the streets plying her trade and these 2 sisters are allowed a lodging above the bar. They both run away to stay with trumpet player Dan Zhao (Chen) and his newspaper selling friend Heling Wei (Wang) in an equally poor neighbourhood but at least they are safe to pursue their dreams of love. Things don't work out as planned.
This film carries the political/social message that the current system in China is unfair as only those who have money can achieve a happy and fulfilled life whilst the ordinary people have to suffer as they don't have any money. This is emphasized in two scenes - the first when Dan and Heling go to a lawyer and the second when Heling goes for a doctor. The message is that you need money in life or else you won't get any help.
The film has plenty of comedy moments with a comedy trio of friends who hang out with our trumpet-playing main character. In contrast, it has a sudden ending that will leave you on a downer. This film also drops the F bomb on numerous occasions in stark contrast to what was going on in Hollywood at the same time. This is most excellently appreciated.
In terms of the cast, it is prostitute sister Huishen who stands out in this film whenever she is on screen and she looks very cool and gothic from her first appearance. Heling is also a good character and you will these two on to start a romance. Xuan sings a couple of songs which are apparently Chinese classics. However, they don't do much for me as I am not from this culture and they are not to my taste. And please, no-one learn to play the trumpet!
