Those Were the Days (1995 Film)

Those Were the Days (Chinese: 慈云山十三太保) is a 1995 biographical drama film directed by Hin Sing 'Billy' Tang. The film explores the life of a former triad member, tracing his transition from a youth involved in gang activities to his eventual rehabilitation.

Poster for the film Those Were the Days — Promotional poster for the 1995 film Those Were the Days.

Plot

Set in the late 1960s, the narrative follows a group of teenagers led by Chen Hua in the Tsz Wan Shan district. Known as the "Thirteen Guardians of Tsz Wan Shan," the group exerts influence over the local area through gang violence. As they navigate their environment, the characters eventually descend into drug abuse. The protagonist, Hua, struggles repeatedly to overcome his addiction, facing the loss of his romantic relationship and the alienation of his peers. Following the death of his father, Hua commits to a life of sobriety and adopts Christianity, subsequently dedicating his efforts to assisting other drug addicts and juvenile delinquents.

Cast

Eric Moo as Chan Wah
Francis Ng as Yu
Bowie Lam as Wah
Maggie Siu as Ling
Kwok-Pong Chan as Safe-Box
Moses Chan as Ko Fai
Kent Cheng as Chan's Father
Ka-Kui Ho as Brother Wing / Devil Siu
Victor Hon as Food Stall Owner
Siu-Kei Lee as Triad Boss
Yee-Man Man as Kiddy
Kirk Wong as Big Nose
Bobby Yip as Ugly Guy