The story of Qiao falling in love with a provincial gangster named Bin. The couple runs an illegal gambling parlor under the guise of a disco. An unexpected attack by a rival gang presents Qiao with a dramatic choice. She saves Bin, but loses him at the same time. Jia Zhangke delves into the feelings of her characters, who have to pay dearly for their sins and struggle for honor... Jia Zhangke once again places his hometown Datong in the center of events.