Obsessing over people and things, past and present, imprisons us; and loving someone special--confiding in that person, pledging yourself to that person, and standing by that person, whatever hardships come your way--is truly liberating. These insights have taken shape for me while viewing the film, and will continue to evolve for me long after I've viewed the film and continue to reflect on it.

While there are many tender moments between the secondary couples, the tender moments between the main couple power the film. Several tender scenes stand out to me now: the scene in the hospital room when Tang Yi traces Meng Shao Fei's serene face with his finger; the scene when Tang Yi encircles Meng Shao Fei with his cuffed hands; the scene in the bedroom when Tang Yi kisses Meng Shao Fei's stitches; the scene in the kitchen when Meng Shao Fei urges Tang Yi lovingly to move beyond his anger and safeguard himself against regret; and the many scenes when Meng Shao Fei calls Tang Yi by name softly, lovingly, and compassionately.

The flashback scenes really help you to understand the story line, and the beautiful clothing provide an aesthetic layer in this film that many same-sex films fail to capture. Each cast member gives a strong performance, and the chemistry between the characters--gay or straight, paternal or avuncular--are beautiful, moving, and rare. There are many reasons why a love story between good guys and bad guys--cops and drug dealers--should fail, but this film works from beginning to end--over multiple viewings, I suspect.

Treat yourself to this love story extraordinaire!