The Last Tycoon

The story begins in the 1910s in early Republic of China (1912–49). Cheng Daqi, a young fruit vendor from Pudong, is arrested and imprisoned after being framed for murder. He is saved by Mao Zai, a military officer working for the secret police. He travels to Shanghai International Settlement in search of a new life with loyal friend “Fatso” in tow. In Shanghai, he meets Hong Shouting, a mob boss, and becomes one of Hong's protégés. He also falls in love with Bao, a singer whom he eventually marries. His true love, however, is actually Ye Zhiqiu, an opera actress from his hometown, and who he has been attracted to since his early days. At one point, Hong unknowingly offends the son of a general and is captured by the general's men. Cheng negotiates with the general and succeeds in persuading him to release Hong and even invest in their bank. Feeling himself indebted, a grateful Hong proclaims himself sworn brothers with Cheng, putting Cheng in a position of major power.