Fish, Fists and Ambergris (2025) Movie Script
ALL CHARACTERS, EVENTS
AND PLACES IN THIS FILM ARE FICTITIOUS
ANY SIMILARITY TO REAL PERSONS
OR EVENTS IS COINCIDENTAL
A PRODUCTION OF 89S GROUP
DISTRIBUTED BY CGV
In the past,
our ancestors served as naval soldiers
under the Tay Son dynasty.
When the Tay Son collapsed,
they sought refuge in southern Vietnam.
While fleeing for safety, they were
unexpectedly struck by a violent storm.
Just as all hope seemed lost,
a mighty whale appeared
and carried their boat
onward through the raging seas.
When he had finally brought everyone
safely to shore, he took his last breath.
To honor him, our ancestors
decided to build a shrine
and settled here, remaining ever since.
As his bones were borne to the shrine,
a large aromatic stone was found
within the remains.
People said it was
the whale's soul transformed,
so they carved it into a small statue
to rest with his bones in the shrine.
LORD WHALE
Later,
the stone was known to be ambergris,
a treasure beyond price.
Greedy men tried to steal it.
From that day, the shrine and
the ambergris were never left unguarded,
age after age.
Thien, my master, was one of the keepers.
Come at me, all of you!
Wow!
I never thought your master
to be that skilled!
He was super strong!
And then, the pirates
brought another 20 men!
What?
They were determined
to seize the ambergris.
Again?
My master was down to bare hands then,
because he had already
tossed his stick!
The pirates, weapons in hand,
ready to charge
Charge, you know?
What should we do now, huh?
Alright, let's fight!
Grab his arm, kick him in the ribs,
twist his arm behind his back,
plus a knee strike.
One by one, they were taken down!
The battle raged
for three days and nights!
Oh, I nearly forgot!
My master also grabbed a pirate
and punched him in the throat!
Hey, hey, hey.
Are you about to end your story?
I can't take it anymore.
Not yet! It's a long story, man!
Enough of your tall tales, Hoang.
My father only fought a few thugs, not 20.
Three days and nights, seriously?
Come on. You have to embellish
the tale a little
to keep them captivated
and spark their passion for training.
Mr. Tam!
You mustn't be inferior to your father.
How many guys have you faced alone?
My goodness.
I have advice for you guys.
Do not listen to Mr. Hoang, okay?
Martial arts are for fitness
and self-defense,
not for getting into fights.
- Understood?
- Yes!
So, what if someone
comes to seize the ambergris?
Call the police!
You're right!
Hurry and help with the fish, boys.
They've brought back an awful lot!
Go!
Hey!
Come on!
AN HAI FISHING VILLAGE, 2000
Geez, big haul of fish today, eh?
They look so fresh!
Come help me, guys!
Seems like you hauled in
a boatload of fish today!
Pretty much like every other day.
Yes!
Pull!
Put it here! Right.
Hoang! Leave it!
Go over there and help them fix the boat.
It hit a rock and got a hole.
Good grief, how on earth
did they drive that boat?
Two, three, pull!
Okay, come on. Two, three, pull!
- Alright, come up here, guys!
- Alright, put it there!
- Dump some salt in this basket too.
- Sure!
- Hey! Tam!
- Yes?
Tuan's been in Saigon for a year.
Why hasn't he come home?
He's probably just busy.
Busy or not, he should still visit home.
He can't just disappear like this.
When he first got to the city,
he still called and sent stuff home.
But before long, he just vanished.
Did he give you a call?
I've been waiting too,
but he never called.
What a cold heart!
The Whale Worship Festival is coming.
He should be back helping with the prep.
If he shows up, I'll give him
a good beating for sure.
He's probably just busy.
Don't be hard on him.
You seem to be on his side all the time.
- Okay, go.
- Alright! Thank you, fellas!
Hey! Hoang! Wanna drink tonight?
Got two liters of booze here.
Nothing but drinking all the time!
How did you steer the boat
and wreck it like that?
For God's sake! No way
anyone could dodge that big rock.
Gosh! Watch out!
The kids! Oh my God!
Oh Lord!
You guys okay?
Holy cow! What trouble
have you caused this time, Hoang?
- Are you okay, baby?
- Not me! It was those jerks!
God! Are you alright? Huh?
I'm good, Mom.
Thank you, Tam.
My two sons owe their lives to you.
Don't sweat it. The kids
being safe is what counts.
Thank you.
- Thank you.
- Thank you, Tam.
- Now, go home.
- My goodness! Are you hurt, Tam?
Yeah, I'm good.
Trouble always happens
when you two get together.
- You good?
- I'm okay, Dad.
Gosh!
Be careful with whatever
you're up to, okay?
Okay.
Oh my Tam is amazing.
He's handsome too!
Why do you keep calling me like this?
You wouldn't know how to get
the job done without me, huh?
Geez, I'm only home for a few days,
then I'll head back.
- Guys! Tuan is here!
- You deal with it, okay?
Hey! You look so great!
- Tuan came back!
- Tuan came back!
This thing is a piece of cake.
Okay, okay.
- Damn, you reek of Saigon!
- Help me out, okay?
Is it correct?
Gosh, why so complicated?
Okay, good. You're so annoying!
Okay.
Oh Lord. Tuan!
- Brother! Bro Hoang!
- Yeah.
Hello, Mr. Hai and Mrs. Hai.
- My man! Tuan!
- You little rascal, where have you been?
I though you'd left us forever.
That's not what happened.
Work has been eating up all my time.
I had to bend my schedule so hard
to be here for the festival with you all.
I told you. He's just busy.
I really thought you were dead, you know.
Geez, quit talking nonsense.
He just came back. Don't jinx it.
Wow, only a year of selling fish
and you're all polished up.
Selling fish? Not anymore.
I've got my own business now.
- Oh!
- Yes.
Oh my
He's great!
It's just the two of you now.
You must look out for each other.
Your booze!
Thanks.
Hey!
You're kidding us, right?
- What?
- Did you miss anything?
I already paid you, right? Thanks again.
Damn! Is he dumb or just playing dumb?
Booze is coming, guys!
Oh my
You must be worn out from traveling,
yet you're still up for drinks?
I'm fine, Mr. Hai.
We don't get many chances
to spend time together like this.
Hey, Tuan!
Tuan!
What's up, man?
Sure you didn't miss anything?
The booze is paid, guys. We're done!
- You missed us!
- Right!
Mr. Hai!
How could four guys
drink 2.5 gallons of booze?
But we can help you with that.
Alright then, come on in.
You already heard that. Come on in!
Hey, hey! Hold on!
This gathering
is mostly about family business.
We'll catch up later.
Okay?
Let's have them join. Things
are always better with more company.
They're a whole circus
when they get drunk.
Really?
Looks like one of you is getting drowsy.
Better call it a night and rest up.
We'll drink another day.
- Yeah. Next time, okay?
- Okay? Yeah.
That really hurt! Yeah!
The city turned him
into an arrogant prick.
Let's find another round.
For God's sake.
Okay, cheers.
- Cheers!
- Drink up, Mr. Hai.
Hey! I saw you with a cellphone
this morning. Mind if I try it out?
So fancy!
That's my work phone.
Can't really let you use it.
Not possible. So posh, huh?
Hey! Got a girlfriend yet?
Not yet. Work is my priority now.
Girls just bring trouble.
But Saigon chicks are gorgeous.
That's why I'd kill to visit Saigon
at least once, just to see it all.
For what?
You know.
Right?
Nonsense.
They're just girls from Saigon.
Believe it or not, I almost married
a Saigon girl back in the day.
I'm not making this up!
Every word is the truth.
Long ago, a beautiful girl from Saigon
came down here for fish,
and she fell for me.
Let me tell you, if I had accepted
her love, I'd own a house in Saigon today.
Oh, I see.
But I didn't go for her, right?
I went for your mom.
A beaufiful, graceful, and virtuous woman.
You could search your whole life
and never find another woman like her.
She's cute.
Oh, you just arrived?
See? Like magic!
I told them they should find
someone like you to marry,
but you're truly unique.
Sorry fellas, all sold out.
Oh, really?
Or are you having second thoughts?
What do you mean? You're the best.
What a smooth talker!
- Tuan! I'm amazed indeed.
- Yeah.
I always thought all you did was just help
your brother with chores in the shrine.
Never imagined that
you're looking more successful
than your brother.
Thanks.
Yes.
Let's go home!
Old but still can't resist a drink.
And as always,
the silly speeches come with it!
Alright, time to head back.
She's already missing you.
You're right. She's missing my scent.
She gets uneasy whenever
I'm not around at this hour.
Go home, my piggy.
Oh my
Only good at babbling.
- So, what would you like for breakfast?
- Yes?
- Fermented fish noodle soup, please.
- Okay.
Your fermented fish noodle soup
is the best.
Alright. My husband will bring it over
after I make it tomorrow.
- Please.
- Go!
Bye, Mom. Bye, Dad.
Okay.
You're so immature for your age.
Alright, drink up!
Keep your heads in the game, boys.
Dang it! You think I'm scared?
Come on, brother.
Stop roasting it. Drink up!
Okay, cheers!
Wow, you're bold
with your little brother here, huh?
Fine, I'm going all out with you two.
- Bottoms up!
- Cheers!
Another round, bro Hoang. Fill me up!
Take it easy. I haven't had a bite yet.
Haven't had a drink like this
in ages. Let's savor it.
Okay, all in.
Three, two, one. Cheers!
LORD WHALE SHRINE
Oh my holy guacamole.
They went overboard
with the booze and are out cold.
Don't tell me you drank all night.
Where's that pesky Tuan?
I got dragged out of bed at 4:00 a.m.
to help with the cooking, thanks to him.
Oh my God!
Jesus!
- Guys, come here now!
- What's going on?
Mr. Hai, what happened?
Where's the ambergris?
LORD WHALE
It It was right here last night.
Last We were blind drunk last night.
No idea if someone stole it.
You guys got plastered
and totally ignored the watch!
Where is Tuan?
Mr. Hai, I don't think Tuan stole it.
If not him, then who?
Can't find him anywhere in the village.
His belongings are gone too,
except this phone.
Have you tried calling him?
It's just a toy.
We're doomed now.
That son of a gun!
How could he do something this outrageous?
The ambergris has been worshiped
here for generations.
Where could he have taken it?
The festival is only three days away.
If this comes to light,
how could I face everyone?
Mr. Hai, please let me go find him.
You idiot! Do you know where he is?
Ah, I remember!
He went to Saigon to work for Ut Linh,
the girl who took fish from us.
You two remember?
Now use the address
to find Ut Linh in Saigon,
have her tell you where Tuan lives,
then bring him back here.
We need to retrieve the ambergris
before the festival.
Leave everything here to me.
I'm so worried.
Your dad said
he'd handle everything at home,
but I'm not sure he can.
Relax. My dad knows
how to deal with tough cases.
He's the village chief anyway.
LORD WHALE
Tam and his brother ate
my wife's fermented noodle soup
and suddenly got terrible stomach pains,
like they got food poisoning.
My son had to take them
to a hospital in Saigon.
They won't be back home for a few days.
Why is everyone looking at me?
I have no idea what she did.
Oh shoot. Mr. Hai, why is the ambergris
wrapped in that red cloth?
Tam asked me to cover the ambergris,
so it doesn't get dusty while you sweep.
He's really meticulous, isn't he?
Over here.
- This spot is covered with ash.
- I'll take care of it.
You two clean up outside.
- Leave the inside to me.
- Okay.
Bless me through this.
I'll make an offering to thank you.
What a pain.
Thirty-five cents, sis.
Where have you been all morning?
Out running errands.
Almost went to Luc's stall for fish
since you weren't around.
Thank you, Ms. Loi!
Is her squid ready yet?
- Right away. The 4.4 pounds you ordered.
- Alright, quick.
Eighty-five cents, please.
I chose fresh squid for today.
Fresh fish, miss?
Here!
He stopped working here six months ago.
Go to this place
and see if he's still around.
Ma'am! Fresh fish here!
Ma'am! Ma'am...
What are you still doing here, huh?
We're strangers here. Can you help us...
Should I do everything for you?
Can I trouble you to drive me
to Tuan's place, please?
Do you have eyes?
Don't you see I'm working?
If I go, who sells?
Just go, sis. I can take care
of the stall myself.
Shut up!
You call that selling?
You made me lose nearly six bucks
the last time you tried.
-He only does simple tasks,
-Stay calm.
Not real selling.
Ut Linh. How about
we help you out here first,
then you take us to Tuan's place.
You're so annoying!
That's your problem, not mine.
You've been hindering my work all morning.
-We're new here
-How much for this?
- And don't really know how to We
- Oh, hello.
- It's cheap, only 92 cents.
- Very cheap.
What's wrong with him?
Hey, this is mine to handle.
No need for you two to fight.
$1.42 per 2.2 pounds.
Are you kidding me, Binh?
$2.50 per 2.2 pounds, ma'am.
Could you two step aside, please?
Two pounds, right?
- Here!
- This is a place of business.
Alright, it's time to pay for our service!
Make it quick.
Mr. Nam Pork chose
the right day to close, huh?
We're charging double for next time.
Come on. We don't have much time for this.
Dang, got a problem?
Sir, things have been slow lately.
Mind if I pay a few days late?
That's tough on her.
What now?
Guess I'll take what she has now.
- I'll take all of it.
- Sir! Sir!
- Anything else to say, huh?
- My God.
We'll come back here tomorrow.
Okay, not enough for today.
We'll come back.
Why do we always have to remind you
to pay for our hard work, huh?
Who are these guys?
Why does everyone has to pay them?
They work for a transport company.
Their company oversees
most of the market's logistics.
All goods going in and out
have to go through them.
They come to collect
the service fees every month.
It's reasonable that we pay
for the services we used.
Reasonable, my ass.
Their fees are two or three times
what other places charge.
They beat up anyone
who tries to haul their own goods.
Everyone here really hates them.
What are you looking at?
I, Binh Beard, hate them too.
But I swear to you guys,
it's just not the right time yet.
If they ever dare to stand in front of me
with that cocky attitude, then I'll
Hello, Mr. Bao.
FRESH SEAFOOD
Say hello to Mr. Bao, guys.
Yes.
Hey, Speedy Gonzalez.
Take the money and leave.
Hey!
Still missing roughly $10.
What do you mean?
I've paid it all!
Shoot, it slipped my mind!
I've been so busy lately
that I keep forgetting things.
You should tell her now.
Okay, my bad.
So, here's the thing.
You've got the hottest stall
in this market.
Moving stuff for you wears us out.
Look at my calloused hands.
- You see it, Cuong?
- Yeah.
That's why we're doubling your fees.
- Correct!
- Oh, you really crack me up.
You raised the fee without asking me.
My stall's monthly fee is about
three dollars more than the others.
Ten dollars for a fee now? Half a mace
of gold! Are you robbing us?
Hey! We're not robbers.
- Hey!
- Hey, what are you up to?
We carry your goods and you pay us.
That's how it works here.
Do you understand, homo?
Homo my ass, motherfucker.
Mind your manners when you speak.
Hey, hey! Don't point at others
when speaking, my friend.
- I'm not your fucking friend!
- Hey, hey!
- Hey!
- Linh! Linh!
You're getting a bit worked up, babe.
Now be a good girl, take your money,
and pay me, you homo.
I won't fucking pay.
Wow.
Never ever hit a woman.
Oh God.
Fuck you.
Mr. Bao! Mr. Bao!
Say something, please!
Are you okay?
Ah.
Say something to me! Please!
- The day has finally come!
- Where are you going?
Go get my men now!
Don't be scared, okay?
Scared of what?
- Stop!
- Out of the way!
See? Have you seen the outcome?
Damn it! That guy kicked Mr. Bao!
Sorry, I didn't mean it.
But as men, you can't hit women.
Hey, if you start a fight,
I'll call the police.
You didn't mean it, huh?
- Fuck you!
- You scared me!
What? What is happening?
A fight just broke out at Ut Linh's stall.
Don't open the door.
Fuck you!
Shit! See what you've caused?
They're attacking me relentlessly!
I just wanted to protect Ut Linh.
Relax. I'm off.
I give you my word.
Today will be your last day doing business
at this market, you homo.
Dismiss! Go!
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
What happened, Tun?
There was a fight here, Bro Luc.
- Ut Linh.
- A fight?
- Yeah.
- They
Don't worry.
It's all talk.
They won't really do anything rash.
Thank you for helping me back then, Tam.
Tam?
What's the matter?
Come here, quick!
Surround them!
This time, you're gonna pay for
What? Is it done?
It's done.
Goddammit!
Shut up and help me clean the stall!
The plan is screwed, guys! Dismiss!
Holy shit.
Everything's all over the place.
Oh, my fish stall.
Hey, Tun, come here
and give me a hand tidying this up.
Excuse me, sir. My apology.
Let me give you a hand with cleaning.
-Luc! I'll take responsibility
-What?
- For anything that's broken.
- Okay.
Goddammit! Bao and his gang
wrecked my place.
What? And you kicked his ass, huh?
It's all his doing.
Hey! I had a hand in it too.
Oh gosh! Linh!
Where did you find
these two badass underlings?
They're not gangsters.
They're from An Hai village.
Ah, that's where you went
to buy fish for me before.
An Hai village, huh?
- Yes.
- What brings you two here?
Are you gonna join us selling fish?
No, I'm not. I'm looking for my brother.
- Your brother?
- Yes.
Ah, your brother often goes with him
for work discussions.
Maybe he knows where he is.
Oh really? So, this is
Tuan's older brother?
- Yes.
- He talks about you all the time,
- and here we are at last.
- Yes.
Looks like he left again.
Tried to meet him for coffee
the other day, but he wasn't there.
We can visit his place today.
Maybe he's already back.
Okay, once we clean this up, we'll go.
- Yeah, okay.
- Just leave it.
- Binh! Take care of all this.
- Yes.
Wait, wait. Binh.
Clean over there first,
then come help me here. Okay?
Quick, quick!
- Do I look that free to you?
- Yeah.
Tam! Shall we go?
My goodness.
What kind of person flips like that?
Fair enough. Only he calls her a woman.
Everyone else calls her homo.
Homo, homo, my ass.
Will you join us or not, huh?
Sure!
Ut Linh!
Tam and I are about the same age,
so I think you should change
how you address me too. Okay?
- Not a chance.
- But why?
It's probably your lack of charm.
Who let you hike up the fees, huh?
You said I could make my own decisions.
And where is my money?
Huh?
You can hike the fees if you want,
but the money has to come back here.
If you hike them and don't make a dime,
it's just making me look foolish.
Correct?
Yes.
Please don't hit me.
Clear up that mess.
What the hell happened?
Boss!
A guy came to sell stuff.
Tuan's place is right there.
Boasts about running a business,
but his room's smaller than my loo.
Looking for a room for rent?
Is it correct?
Ah, no. I'm looking for Tuan.
- Tuan?
- Yes.
Fuck! I'm looking for that asshole too.
Jesus Christ!
He hasn't paid rent for months.
So, what's your connection to him?
Ah, I'm his
Son of a bitch!
We're after him to get our money too.
Once I find him, I'll slice him to bits.
Damn it!
Linh!
Turn around!
Quick! Go look somewhere else.
Go!
Come on!
Good thing I came up with a story,
or we would be paying his rent.
Was smashing my motorbike
part of the story?
Gotta play it right.
That's odd.
Now, where will we find him?
We'll try some other places
he usually visits.
FAMILY KARAOKE
I beg you, please stay with me tonight.
I told you I have to be home with my wife.
But you said you would divorce your wife.
I'll come back tomorrow. Okay?
- Go, go, go.
- Cheers, cheers.
My dear! Do you wanna have fun?
Come, let me help you.
Come on. Come with us.
Sorry. I'm here to look for Tuan.
- Many people here have the name Tuan.
- Ah.
This is his picture.
Ah! He's Tuan Model.
What? Tuan Model?
Right. He tips us every time he comes by.
How much did he tip you girls?
One and a half dollars each.
Gosh! What a big spender!
Damn right.
He plays big. Even a player
like me has to step back.
He
He really goes that big?
Exactly! A real high roller!
He pops up at every table.
No sign of him today.
Damn, are you cheating?
Cough up.
Hey!
Care to sit in?
Play or leave.
Where else does he hang out?
Beats me. Maybe ask around some more.
- Damn it!
- Hey!
What are you doing, friend?
Ah Sorry.
Where the hell did that bastard go?
Five grand.
Just bring the real stuff here.
I'll make it worth your while.
The price you're offering
isn't really worth it.
I checked around. This chunk
pulls no less than 11 grand.
One buyer was willing to pay $8.5K for it.
So, how about $10.7K?
Then push it their way and seal the deal.
Okay. How about ten grand?
Five grand. That's all you get.
Hey, bro, we haven't closed the deal yet.
Give it back!
I'm the one who decides the price here.
Keep your eyes open when you walk, punk.
Wanna fight?
Tuan! What's your pick for today?
- Get me the usual.
- Okay!
Hey, Tuan, two hicks and a broad
came looking for you a moment ago.
Tam.
It's late already. Why don't you
crash at my place tonight?
How about me?
Hard to answer?
Head home without us.
Hoang and I will stick around for Tuan.
Thank you, Ut Linh.
I'll go home first then.
Why are you still
just sitting there, fool?
Where are we supposed to sleep
if he doesn't come back tonight?
Let's just sleep anywhere we can.
Tam!
- Asshole!
- Hoang!
Forgive me, brother.
They set me up.
Help me, brother.
I put money into a business,
then my partners dragged me into partying,
gambling, women, and everything.
Now I'm buried in debt. No way out, so I
That's why you ripped off
the ambergris, huh?
It's not true!
At first, I meant to sell it.
But in the middle of the deal,
I thought of you, thought of our village,
then I changed my mind.
But something happened!
- What happened?
- The moment I changed my mind,
those thugs lunged at me
and took the ambergris away.
And you just stood there
letting them hit you?
I wasn't standing still. I fought back!
I hit anyone who came at me.
But they outnumbered me,
hit me from all sides,
so I lost the fight.
We'll deal with your stealing later.
Now just tell me who took
the ambergris. I'll go get it.
It was Cuong Reckless's gang.
Go!
Brother!
He is a top dog around here
with a lot of clout.
We must get the ambergris back,
no matter what.
Go!
Are you nuts, Tam?
Don't you get what he just said?
That guy has dozens of underlings!
What's your move against him?
We must retrieve
the ambergris at all costs.
Why don't we call the police?
- Go!
- Wait!
No, no!
We have no evidence.
Fuck! Now what?
I have an idea.
Cuong Reckless goes
to a hostess club at nine every night.
And if he doesn't make it today?
He goes there every day.
I know because we go to the same club.
Go, go. Take cover.
Hoang! Now your turn.
- For what?
- Come with me.
- What are you doing?
- Help me, brother.
- What's inside the bottle?
- Strawberry syrup.
Eh, where is that damn Bao?
I saw him bringing some men
to Ut Linh's place earlier.
Shit! This bastard is really stubborn!
Got his ass kicked this morning
and still fearless?
- What the fuck?
- Bro Cuong
- What?
- Bro Cuong
What's wrong? Huh?
He was attacked by the Firewood gang!
- Where?
- Where?
Which club?
The same old club.
Guys! Grab you gear and move!
You come with me!
I took three stabs for him,
and now I'm spent.
Go save our boss first!
Good! You've got guts!
Go!
Quick!
Bro Cuong!
Go now!
He's not gonna last!
I feel so dizzy.
Geez, you totally killed it in that role.
Not bad at all.
You've got talent.
Your old man would be proud.
A reformed theatre troupe
may be a good choice for you.
What next?
Damn! You look like a pro.
Whenever I'm late on rent,
the landlord changes the lock.
This is how I get back in.
Dad'd be sad if he knew
you were doing these bad things.
He'd be more upset if I fail to fix this.
Be on guard, brother.
Huh? Where's everyone gone?
Hy! Hy?
Why's it all so messy?
Eh?
Eh?
Eh, the fuck!
What the hell are you doing here?
I see.
You're dead meat, motherfuckers.
What is it?
What now, guys?
Don't worry.
We ran into them at the market.
What?
Continue your work.
We're upgraded.
Tuan! Hurry up!
That damn Firewood gang!
Motherfuckers! You mess
with our boss, you're finished!
Bro Cuong!
Bro Cuong!
Asshole! Show yourself!
- Who?
- Fuck!
Bro Cuong!
You fools!
Who said I was attacked?
Shoot!
I'll make you pay!
Unlocked!
Go to hell!
- What's taking so long?
- I got it open,
but that jerk messed things up.
Tam!
That scumbag stabbed your brother!
Why not just smash the padlock?
I actually opened it, but
Go, go!
- Are you alright?
- I'm fine, I'm fine.
Get the hell out of here.
You're the reason it took so long.
The bastard with the bob haircut!
You pulled my leg!
You're going hard, huh?
- Holy shit!
- What happened?
They came back!
Bro Cuong!
Those bastards
want to steal the ambergris.
The ambergris belongs to our village.
We're only here to reclaim it.
You sold it to me, got the cash,
and now you're trying to steal it from me?
You're liar.
What does he mean by that, Tuan?
Don't trust him.
He's fucking lying! He stole it from me!
Well, nothing but a misunderstanding.
We're brothers. Let's live in peace!
The bastard with the bob haircut!
Where are you?
Asshole!
How dare you dupe me, huh? Bastard!
What?
Hit him! Not me!
Not me!
Where are you going, prick?
Fuck you!
Hit him.
Brother!
Fuck you!
Sis
Those fuckers came to wreck
FRESH SEAFOOD
That goddamn Bao!
How dare you wreck my stall, huh?
Where are you?
Ut Linh!
- Ut Linh!
- Run!
Ut Linh! Wait for us!
You again, huh?
Get out of here
before everything goes to hell.
Go after them!
You guys!
- Hurry!
- Let's go!
- Hey!
- Bao! Hop on!
Hop on, now!
Stop, stop, Hy. Hy, please drive me home.
Hey!
That's my motorbike, idiots!
Screw you all!
Run at full speed, Ut Linh!
What?
They're here! Go faster!
They're coming!
On your right! On your right!
Get me to the infirmary.
I can't bear the pain any longer!
No way! Bro Cuong wants us to follow them.
Be strong, man!
Goddammit!
Hurry, Bao!
Our men are getting taken down one by one.
We should stop here, Hy.
We don't stop. Fight or die!
- Where are you going, huh?
- I'll take a shortcut!
He's attacking me! Hit him!
Son of a bitch! How dare you!
Hey! Let it go, Hy! Let it go, now!
We won't stop. We got the upper hand.
Let go!
- Are you okay, Hoang?
- He hit me relentlessly!
Faster, Ut Linh!
- Lie down!
- What?
Why lie down?
Bye, motherfuckers.
Linh! You're amazing!
- We're safe now!
- Go, go!
You can stay over at my place tonight.
I live next to the police station.
Those thugs won't dare come here.
Get some rest. I'll take you
to the bus station tomorrow.
Thank you, Ut Linh.
Sorry for taking up your time today.
You're welcome. We're all family.
Are you gonna sleep
in the bathroom, idiot?
Don't drain all my water, please!
The syrup still won't go away.
Why are you so annoyed with me, Ut Linh?
Why am I not allowed to be annoyed?
Thank God the knife broke,
or I'd be the Condor Hero already.
You're still babbling, huh?
Go outside. We need to talk.
About what, brother?
You're always rude to me, don't you see?
Why didn't you tell me about the debt,
so we could sort it out?
You just went and caused
all this trouble instead.
I just thought
You had the nerve
to steal our village's relic, huh?
What if we fail to get it back?
It's over, brother.
I'm sorry. I didn't mean it.
The thing is
Do the villagers know about this?
Only Mr. Hai Nhon knows,
but he hasn't told anyone.
He sent me and Hoang
to Saigon to find you.
Bring the ambergris back and tell him.
I'll come back to apologize to him
as soon as I can.
You'll go with me!
- I can't! There's too much on my plate!
- Tuan!
Where did you get this money?
Who let you rummage through my things?
Turns out Cuong was telling the truth.
Tuan, you wanna explain?
Alright!
Alright!
I agree!
Call it a loss on my part.
You sold it off for money,
then fooled me and your brother
to take it back.
I got it right, you piece of shit?
Fuck! Never thought you'd play that dirty.
Keep your nose out of it.
Get inside, you nosy brat.
Insolent!
She just saved our ass, don't you recall?
Those places where you frequent tell me
everything I need to know about you.
Watch your back. Karma will find you.
It belongs to our family.
I can sell it if I want.
It's not our property.
It's our village's property.
You basically turned me
and Hoang into thieves!
Do you still remember
what Dad told us before he died?
Dad said we must protect the ambergris,
no matter what happens.
- And what did you do, huh?
- Dad, dad, dad. All the time!
What would you get in return
for guarding that shrine your whole life?
Show some respect to your brother.
- Or you want a fist in your face?
- Go ahead!
- Who are you to lecture me?
- You think I won't lay a hand on you?
- Go ahead!
- Don't stop me!
You're butting into
my family stuff too much.
- Stop!
- Tam, don't stop me!
- I'm here. Hit me!
- You!
You stay away!
- Stop it!
- Come at me!
Stop!
You put others above your own family.
- Hands off!
- You can't leave!
Let me go!
This is not our money.
We'll give it back tomorrow.
Keep it for yourself!
Tuan! Tuan!
Let him go!
Hello?
Hoang!
Your dad called.
Tam and I had to risk everything
for the ambergris.
I never thought Tuan was this lost.
Oh my holy guacamole.
When will you two be back home?
Tomorrow, Dad.
Bring that son of a gun back too!
Just forget about him.
We'll talk more tomorrow when I get home.
He's gone downhill for real.
Shoot! Hang up soon to save money.
Ms. Tam! May I get a bag of yogurt?
One bag for both of you?
We can only afford one bag.
Here, eat it.
You want some?
- No, I'm not hungry.
- Okay.
You two!
Come here.
Excuse me, sir?
Ma'am! Please give them one more bag.
Take it.
Take it. It's on me!
- Okay, thank you, sir!
- Thank you, sir!
Alright.
- How old are you?
- I'm 15.
I'm nine.
Go home.
Why are you still up?
Waiting won't mean he'll be back.
He was kind and hardworking
when he first moved here.
But now, I barely recognize him.
No clue where that rascal is now.
He's toast if he gets caught
by Cuong Reckless's gang.
- God, he so damn annoying.
- Anyway.
You should get some rest.
I'll go find him.
Why bother looking for him?
Just let him be!
Out of cash, he'll drag himself back here.
He's my brother.
I can't turn my back on him.
Hoang! Tuan Model is back.
What?
Brother.
I've thought it over.
It's all my fault.
I'm so sorry.
I'll take responsibility for what I did.
Tomorrow I'll go home with you.
Whatever you tell me to do, I'll do it.
Life alone in this city is crushing me.
I can't take it anymore.
It's okay.
Good that you see your mistake.
I'm sorry too.
I lost control earlier.
I'm sorry, Sis Linh. I'm sorry, Bro Hoang.
I lost my temper earlier
and acted wrongly.
I didn't mean anything by it.
You just called me sis?
You already called me sis.
Sister-in-law is okay too.
Don't be shy.
Christ.
What's the matter?
That creeped me out.
- One round, then?
- Round of what, punk?
This.
Oh, come on! Come drink with me.
Seriously?
Do you really think one trick works twice?
What? What do you mean by that?
He got me and his brother drunk
and stole the ambergris.
What a sly rascal.
You can just eat.
You eat first.
Come on.
We should eat and rest early.
We need to be up early tomorrow.
He won't try anything this time.
The hotpot looks so good.
Come on.
I'll teach you a lesson
when we get home tomorrow.
Smells delicious!
Why's it so hot?
Is this a pork-bone hotpot or a chili one?
- Has to be hot to be good.
- Give me a glass of water.
Okay, right away.
Come on.
Give me one too.
Drinking water doesn't take away the heat.
The heat of this is mild
compared to your cutting words.
What did you just say, huh?
You crazy?
Are you crazy?
So scared!
So disgusting!
Is this buyer trustworthy?
A buyer like Cuong Reckless
would cause a lot of trouble.
Alright then. I'll find a way
to bring you the ambergris in the morning.
- How?
- How'd we know, huh?
Being around a trickster like you
makes us wiser!
Here, you see, Tam?
Who drinks will drink again.
He's beyond help.
You keep the money,
and you want to bring the ambergris back.
Then how am I supposed to pay my debt?
Returning to the village means the lenders
will come and ruin everything.
Do you actually care about our village?
Or only about yourself?
Things wouldn't have happened
if you were a bit more like your brother.
Shut the fuck up!
- Fuck! Who are you being rude to, huh?
- To you, okay?
People always praise my brother.
Always say that I must push myself
to be as good as him.
The whole village looks down on me.
Who looks down on you?
Who looks down on you, huh?
If you don't want others
to look down on you,
you have to prove yourself.
But do it the right way.
Not through illegal means.
Do you recall how Dad wanted us to be?
Be a decent and good person.
Why always drag Dad into your lessons?
Was he really decent and kind?
We're both his kids,
yet he loved one and hated the other?
Decent and kind, my ass!
Impudent!
Where did you learn such impudence?
Who allowed you to disrespect Dad?
That's just who I am.
You were loved and guided by Mom and Dad.
You're the happiest one.
Everyone blames me for Mom's death.
She died giving birth to me.
Right?
It's not what I wanted.
I heard everything
Dad said to you in his final moments.
You're the one I trust most in the family,
therefore,
I've decided to hand everything
over to you.
As for Tuan,
I'm still not sure about him.
So, all this time,
you've had the wrong idea about Dad.
Dad, please don't say that.
Tuan
never had a mother's love since birth.
He's more pitiful than you.
You keep it all for now.
When Tuan is ready,
he should receive half.
Remember.
Don't tell him about this too soon,
or he'll depend on it
and not push himself.
Can you promise me, Tam?
Can you promise me, Tam?
Yes.
So I can go now.
Dad always loved and cared for you,
but he just kept it inside.
The inheritance he left us,
I'm willing to give it all to you.
Listen to me.
Take me to the creditor tomorrow.
I'll negotiate with them.
This money
We'll give it back to Cuong Reckless.
Then we'll head home.
Okay, go inside.
You go first.
Give me a moment alone.
Did you think it over?
The debt is tens of thousands of dollars,
not just a few bucks.
No matter how much, it must be settled.
He's still my brother.
I've saved over seven grand
from all my work so far.
Probably enough.
What? Seven grand?
Maybe more.
Jesus.
Why didn't he just say it
in the first place?
Should we wake Ut Linh up?
Let her sleep.
Don't bother others with our stuff.
I gave her too many sleeping pills.
Hey, Tuan, Tuan!
Here, here!
Exactly on time, huh?
- Okay, okay.
- That's great.
Why did you pick
such a hard-to-find place?
The buyer asked me to meet here,
so I asked you the same.
Do you have it?
Yes, but please wait a moment.
- Over there!
- Here, Brother!
You're driving like a maniac, pal!
It's your fault.
You suddenly told me to turn.
Hey, buddy!
Why did you come with a crowd?
Hi, Bro Luc. Tuan said
you helped him get a big loan.
We haven't got enough
to settle the debt yet, so...
Rest assured. The buyer promised
a good price for the ambergris.
If the deal succeeds,
we can pay off Tuan's debt
and still have some left.
The thing is
I don't wanna sell it anymore.
But why? Flipping like this
is making it hard for me.
I know this puts you in a tough spot,
but I need you to ask the creditor
for a few more days,
so we can prepare money to pay the debt.
We really can't sell the ambergris.
I'm just the middleman
who helped Tuan borrow the money.
I don't have the right to decide.
The creditor is inside.
You guys can talk directly to him.
Sure.
Go!
Shit, why is nobody here?
What's going on, Bro Luc?
Cuong Reckless is the creditor, isn't he?
Sorry, I didn't have a choice.
I apologize to you guys
for what my little brother has done.
We came to return
the money he took from you.
As for his debt,
just give me a few more days.
I promise you'll get every cent.
Return the money to him.
Brother.
Brother.
What the hell do you want?
I wanna play a game with you.
If you win,
you're free to go.
But if you lose,
the ambergris is mine.
Get up, now!
Brother!
Silent!
Damn it! He kicked our boss!
- Why did you kick me twice?
- Shut up!
Brother! Hit him
with your best shot. I'll be fine!
Fine, huh?
Eh? What's that sound?
Ah! Oh my God!
Ugh! Spit in my eyes!
- You blinded my eyes!
- Oh God!
Brother!
Tam!
Brother!
Tam!
Luc! What are you doing?
Goddammit!
I wasn't gonna step in,
but this goddamn Cuong is a waste!
I'm not done with him yet!
He's mine to catch, bro!
It hurts, asshole!
Weaklings like you are nothing to me.
And I wanna thank you.
You're the reason
I know about this precious thing.
When you arrive in my village,
please give this bag to my brother
and Mr. Hai Nhon.
Balm and pills.
What? Again?
Won't be picking up
the fish tomorrow. I'm busy.
Luc will go.
- You can ask him to help you.
- You'll get new goods tomorrow.
Don't worry.
This one finishes the shipment.
Load it up, guys.
Tuan, your acquaintance
in Saigon, sent you this.
Wow! This boy
won't quit sending me things.
Thank you, Mr. Luc.
This shrine looks ancient, doesn't it?
It has stood for around 200 years.
- Two hundred years?
- Yeah.
This has been worshiped
by the villagers for many generations.
They usually come here to pray
for safe voyages and abundant catches.
Keep at this kind of work
and you'll never get rich.
You wanna make money?
Follow me.
Nine! The money is yours!
Go on. Do it!
Getting rich is easy.
All it takes is joining here.
Two of hearts!
- I came in first!
- Drink! Cheers!
Got a place for big bets. You want in?
Of course I do.
Cheers!
That's right.
Oh God!
- Zero again? Again?
- Damn it!
All in, huh?
Oh gosh.
You owe $5,000 now, Tuan!
Over a dozen taels of gold!
He won't lend another dime
and won't spare us if we fail to pay up.
I pawned all my valuables,
but it still isn't enough to pay up.
I have an idea.
When I was at your village to get fish,
I heard that the ambergris
is very valuable. Can you get it?
Are you crazy, man? It's impossible.
You wanna have those goons
chop us up, huh?
If we don't hurry up
and pay soon, we're screwed.
Son of a bitch!
You set me up!
Being a hedonist
made you an easy target for me.
Don't you get that, Tuan Model?
Get off of me!
Boss! Mr. Tan arrived.
Clear up the mess
and lock them up!
Mr. Tan!
On time, as usual!
This one's pretty rare, you know.
Can't believe you actually got it!
My style.
Every trip for fish brings new stuff, huh?
Your fish-seller front is brilliant.
Two crates?
Same price?
No change.
Take it all.
And where's the rare stuff
you told me about?
They finally agreed to sell this, huh?
I went to An Hai Village once to buy this,
but they claimed it was a relic
and refused to sell.
How did you mange to get your hands on it?
And what about the base?
You mean the stone
this whale statue sits on?
Yeah.
The whale statue here itself
weighs over four pounds,
worth around 14 grand on the market.
The base is over 22 pounds
of pure ambergris.
LORD WHALE
Together, the statue and base
go for around 143 grand.
- Hundred and forty-three grand?
- Yeah.
Never mind.
Guess I'll just take what we have here.
But what a pity!
If I can get the base,
are we good at 143 grand?
Maybe next time, okay?
I have to leave for Hong Kong tomorrow.
I'll bring you the base tomorrow morning.
Bring me the base in the morning,
I'll give you a special rate.
150 grand.
150 grand?
Save that handshake for tomorrow.
See you!
Are you glaring at me?
Consider it carefully.
It's a matter of life.
Make sure you bind him tighter.
You guys got the ambergris.
What do you want from us?
We wanna toss you into the river.
Tam.
We better hurry.
The boss is pressing.
For what?
He told us to prepare the car,
so we can go to An Hai village.
Why are you going there?
Go fuck yourself.
Why do you look at me, huh?
Fuck! Look at the results! Fucking idiot!
See how many people
you've dragged into this?
It's not only my fault!
Things wouldn't have ended up like this
if you had followed my advice
and sold the ambergris.
You're still worrying about that now?
We're going to die!
Fuck! If I get untied,
I'm gonna deck you, Tuan!
Go head! Hit me, you idiot!
Shut up!
- You really think I wouldn't do it?
- Shut up!
Easy, easy.
Easy, easy.
Are you done?
Keep arguing in the river.
That's all, but you guys took so long.
Those rascals said they'd be here today,
but I haven't seen any of them.
Damn it. Oh my God.
What are you doing here, Luc?
Excuse me, sir?
You came here to pray?
Yes!
I dropped Mr. Luc off here to pray.
Mr. Luc came here once to pick up fish.
Remember?
Nope!
- Where are you going?
- Clean up.
Just a sec!
Mr. Luc is having a private talk
with Mr. Hai in the shrine.
Come back later, okay?
That has nothing to do with the cleaning.
You came to pray, but brought a knife?
This thing is my razor.
Here. Let me show you.
See. That's how I use it. See?
Truly convenient.
See?
It's okay! I'm fine! It's normal
to nick your skin sometimes.
- Amazing.
- Mr. Hai.
- What?
- We have a gift for you.
Oh, come on.
Don't waste your money on this.
Thank you, but I can't take it.
- Bao! Go!
- Have you finished?
Old Ut! Young Ut!
Stop them!
They took the ambergris!
- Holy shit!
- Sir!
Sir! Sir!
Excuse me, sir!
They're beating up our people!
Oh my God, they're attacking us!
Over there! Come on, guys!
Why are you attacking our people? Guys!
Guys! Stop that wretched Luc!
Are you okay? Mr. Hai!
- He took the ambergris!
- My gosh!
Stealing and beating people up too.
Give the ambergris back!
I took the ambergris
as payment for Tuan's debt.
- Tuan owes money? How so?
- What is this about?
What is this about?
Tuan went to Saigon to gamble
and borrowed a lot from me.
He sold the whale statue,
but it wasn't enough.
Today I came here to take the rest
of the ambergris to settle what he owes.
Why did you lie to us, Mr. Hai?
Didn't you say Tuan got food poisoning
and had to go to the hospital in Saigon?
How could you hide something
this serious from the entire village?
Do you know how wrong that is?
Tuan has to deal with his own debt.
- You have no right to settle it like this.
- You're right.
- That's true.
- Whoever owes must pay.
- You cannot take our village's relic.
- That's right. Give it back!
- Return it!
- That's right!
Give it back, or you'll regret it.
Yeah! You guys are toast!
Mr. Tu is a real gangster here.
- Give it back!
- Return it!
Return it!
Give it back!
Give it back!
What the hell are you blowing, huh?!
What are you blowing, huh?!
Eh, Mr. Tu?
Eh, Mr. Tu?
You go too, Mrs. Ba?
What's wrong with them?
What are those knives and sticks for, huh?
You think I'm scared?
Are you actually slashing people
in broad daylight?
Here! Slash here!
This is where the blood will gush.
Oops, you slashed indeed?
- Are you looking to die?
- Nope.
- Eh, Mr. Hai?
- Time for lunch.
There's nothing to eat yet.
The offerings.
Those bastards are still alive?
Surprised?
Surprised. Totally shocked!
Throwing us fishermen
into the water was a big mistake.
He told us to prepare the car,
so we can go to An Hai village.
- Fuck! Look at the results!
- Fucking idiot!
See how many people
you've dragged into this?
It's not only my fault!
Things wouldn't have ended up like this
if you had followed my advice
and sold the ambergris!
You're still worrying about that now?
We're going to die!
Whenever I'm late on rent,
the landlord changes the lock.
So you're the final boss.
What, he's not, is he?
Tam! He took the base of the ambergris.
We'll pay you back in full.
You have no right to take the ambergris.
Guys!
Make way!
You!
God! Can the battery
even handle shocking them all?
How dare you beat our people, huh?
You're finished.
Go, everyone!
- Get lost!
- Gangster, huh?
Get any closer, I'll shock you!
Oh my God!
- You prick!
- Go to hell!
- Go to hell!
- How dare you hit my nephew?
Our people are here!
Guys! Go!
My Piggy! I'm coming!
Bring it on!
Bring it on!
Old Ut!
Oh God.
Tiger Fist!
You scared? Come on!
Holy Paddle Slash!
Holy Paddle Slash!
You slashed me, right?
- You asshole!
- Finish him!
- Bastard!
- Hey, this bastard shocked me, sweetheart!
For heaven's sake!
Who taught you
to zap people like that, huh?
How dare you shock my husband?
- Sorry, sorry!
- Go to hell!
Bitch!
Oh my God!
- Help!
- Come help me!
- Save him!
- Pull him out!
Save him, quick!
Oh God!
- The ambergris is still inside!
- What?
- Tam! You crazy?
- Don't stop me!
Don't you see the fire is raging?
Don't stop me! Get off me!
- You wanna die?
- Let me go!
Tuan!
- My God! Tuan!
- No!
Tuan! What are you doing?
- Get out!
- What should we do now, huh?
Tuan!
Tuan! Tuan!
Tuan!
Go outside! It's dangerous!
Oh dear!
Oh God!
Oh dear! Put out the fire! Put it out now!
Oh my goodness!
It's burning!
Get the fire off his back!
Get over here and help me!
Tuan, kneel down here. Kneel down here.
Jesus! You out of your mind?
Are you alright?
With a fire this big, you still rush in?
Looking to die, huh?
- I got it. I got it.
- Are you alright?
I got it.
- I got it.
- Have you lost your mind?
I got it.
I got it, brother. I got it.
Gosh!
His face is burned already!
The cops are here, folks!
The cops are here!
Officers!
Arrest them!
They came here to cause trouble!
Officer! Over here! Officer!
Over here! Catch him here, Officer!
That's right!
Freeze! Freeze! I said, everyone, freeze!
Right!
My apology.
I'm the shrine keeper,
yet I let my own brother
take the ambergris.
Good thing we got the ambergris back.
Losing it would have brought
disaster to our village.
Nobody in our village
has ever stolen like he did.
If he could steal and sell the ambergris,
what else wouldn't he dare sell next?
Apologies. It's all my fault.
I failed to guide my brother,
so others led him astray.
- I...
- You're still defending him?
Had your brother
not been addicted to gambling,
no one could have manipulated him.
Your father was the most respected man
in this village.
Forget about your thieving brother,
but you, Tam!
Are you really this degraded now?
How can someone like him
be a shrine keeper?
We trusted you
all this time for nothing, Tam.
I never expected you two
to go bad like this.
It is my fault! My brother did nothing.
I know what I did is hard to forgive.
So I've decided to leave here
and never return.
I'll never forget
what everyone has done for me.
Go on. Leave quickly.
No need to make a speech.
Yeah! Go quickly if you're leaving!
If he stays, he'll repeat his old ways.
- That's right!
- Right!
Go! Leave now!
Go back to your place in Saigon.
Right! Go now!
Walk out and don't bother coming back.
- Go!
- Go on!
How stubborn.
Enough! Be quiet!
Do you guys think
this thing really matters?
Look!
- What?
- What are you doing?
You stay still!
Yes! Tuan messed up!
But honestly, I'm asking
all of you this question.
Has anyone here never done anything wrong?
Hey, gray-haired Tu.
Remember the boat with a hole
that I asked you to repair?
But you just did a sloppy job.
The boat then went out to sea,
didn't get far, and sank.
And you, Mrs. Bay!
What? What about me?
About the dried fish sale.
Those fish weren't fully dried,
but you mixed it with the rest to sell.
Don't think I'm unaware of that.
She's a sloppy person!
And you two!
While bringing fishing boats to shore,
you were joking around,
and the boat nearly ran over the kids.
Had Tam not acted quickly,
would you even be sitting here,
now giving your opinions?
To be honest,
our village has been
worshipping the ambergris
since our ancestors
founded the village as a way
to thank the Whale God
for keeping our people safe at sea.
But our acts of worship
are just a piece of the whole.
If we don't know how to unite,
we don't work hard,
or we don't go out to fish,
then worshipping dozens of ambergris
wouldn't fill our bellies.
Should we force Tuan to leave today,
then tomorrow,
it could be you, you, and you
having to leave because of your mistakes.
It is because we lack
both solidarity and compassion.
I agree with Mr. Hai.
After all, Tuan is still
a member of our village.
When he makes mistakes,
we should guide and support him.
Where will he go?
How will he live?
Right?
I spoke out of anger earlier.
If you all choose to forgive him,
I have no objection.
Yeah! Let's forgive him.
It's okay now. Just stand up.
Tuan! Everyone has forgiven you.
Go thank them!
Say thanks to them.
Thank you, everyone.
Thank you.
Um, we appreciate it.
Thank you, everyone.
Everyone has forgiven you. Stand up.
Just stand up.
Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Hai.
Thank you, brother.
Thank you, Bro Hoang.
Thank you, Sis Linh.
What did you just say?
Call me sister-in-law, okay?
Mr. Hai?
How about this?
Open it.
- What?
- Sweet potatoes?
Oh my goodness.
Sweet potatoes?
Even my grandfather
wouldn't have the courage to smash it.
It's still inside.
So everything's sorted out, right?
Tomorrow is an auspicious day.
Our village will gather to prepare
a truly grand
Whale Worship Festival. Okay?
Yeah!
LORD WHALE
Drink some water.
How dare you! How dare you!
Fuck you.
Help me! Help!
THE END
AND PLACES IN THIS FILM ARE FICTITIOUS
ANY SIMILARITY TO REAL PERSONS
OR EVENTS IS COINCIDENTAL
A PRODUCTION OF 89S GROUP
DISTRIBUTED BY CGV
In the past,
our ancestors served as naval soldiers
under the Tay Son dynasty.
When the Tay Son collapsed,
they sought refuge in southern Vietnam.
While fleeing for safety, they were
unexpectedly struck by a violent storm.
Just as all hope seemed lost,
a mighty whale appeared
and carried their boat
onward through the raging seas.
When he had finally brought everyone
safely to shore, he took his last breath.
To honor him, our ancestors
decided to build a shrine
and settled here, remaining ever since.
As his bones were borne to the shrine,
a large aromatic stone was found
within the remains.
People said it was
the whale's soul transformed,
so they carved it into a small statue
to rest with his bones in the shrine.
LORD WHALE
Later,
the stone was known to be ambergris,
a treasure beyond price.
Greedy men tried to steal it.
From that day, the shrine and
the ambergris were never left unguarded,
age after age.
Thien, my master, was one of the keepers.
Come at me, all of you!
Wow!
I never thought your master
to be that skilled!
He was super strong!
And then, the pirates
brought another 20 men!
What?
They were determined
to seize the ambergris.
Again?
My master was down to bare hands then,
because he had already
tossed his stick!
The pirates, weapons in hand,
ready to charge
Charge, you know?
What should we do now, huh?
Alright, let's fight!
Grab his arm, kick him in the ribs,
twist his arm behind his back,
plus a knee strike.
One by one, they were taken down!
The battle raged
for three days and nights!
Oh, I nearly forgot!
My master also grabbed a pirate
and punched him in the throat!
Hey, hey, hey.
Are you about to end your story?
I can't take it anymore.
Not yet! It's a long story, man!
Enough of your tall tales, Hoang.
My father only fought a few thugs, not 20.
Three days and nights, seriously?
Come on. You have to embellish
the tale a little
to keep them captivated
and spark their passion for training.
Mr. Tam!
You mustn't be inferior to your father.
How many guys have you faced alone?
My goodness.
I have advice for you guys.
Do not listen to Mr. Hoang, okay?
Martial arts are for fitness
and self-defense,
not for getting into fights.
- Understood?
- Yes!
So, what if someone
comes to seize the ambergris?
Call the police!
You're right!
Hurry and help with the fish, boys.
They've brought back an awful lot!
Go!
Hey!
Come on!
AN HAI FISHING VILLAGE, 2000
Geez, big haul of fish today, eh?
They look so fresh!
Come help me, guys!
Seems like you hauled in
a boatload of fish today!
Pretty much like every other day.
Yes!
Pull!
Put it here! Right.
Hoang! Leave it!
Go over there and help them fix the boat.
It hit a rock and got a hole.
Good grief, how on earth
did they drive that boat?
Two, three, pull!
Okay, come on. Two, three, pull!
- Alright, come up here, guys!
- Alright, put it there!
- Dump some salt in this basket too.
- Sure!
- Hey! Tam!
- Yes?
Tuan's been in Saigon for a year.
Why hasn't he come home?
He's probably just busy.
Busy or not, he should still visit home.
He can't just disappear like this.
When he first got to the city,
he still called and sent stuff home.
But before long, he just vanished.
Did he give you a call?
I've been waiting too,
but he never called.
What a cold heart!
The Whale Worship Festival is coming.
He should be back helping with the prep.
If he shows up, I'll give him
a good beating for sure.
He's probably just busy.
Don't be hard on him.
You seem to be on his side all the time.
- Okay, go.
- Alright! Thank you, fellas!
Hey! Hoang! Wanna drink tonight?
Got two liters of booze here.
Nothing but drinking all the time!
How did you steer the boat
and wreck it like that?
For God's sake! No way
anyone could dodge that big rock.
Gosh! Watch out!
The kids! Oh my God!
Oh Lord!
You guys okay?
Holy cow! What trouble
have you caused this time, Hoang?
- Are you okay, baby?
- Not me! It was those jerks!
God! Are you alright? Huh?
I'm good, Mom.
Thank you, Tam.
My two sons owe their lives to you.
Don't sweat it. The kids
being safe is what counts.
Thank you.
- Thank you.
- Thank you, Tam.
- Now, go home.
- My goodness! Are you hurt, Tam?
Yeah, I'm good.
Trouble always happens
when you two get together.
- You good?
- I'm okay, Dad.
Gosh!
Be careful with whatever
you're up to, okay?
Okay.
Oh my Tam is amazing.
He's handsome too!
Why do you keep calling me like this?
You wouldn't know how to get
the job done without me, huh?
Geez, I'm only home for a few days,
then I'll head back.
- Guys! Tuan is here!
- You deal with it, okay?
Hey! You look so great!
- Tuan came back!
- Tuan came back!
This thing is a piece of cake.
Okay, okay.
- Damn, you reek of Saigon!
- Help me out, okay?
Is it correct?
Gosh, why so complicated?
Okay, good. You're so annoying!
Okay.
Oh Lord. Tuan!
- Brother! Bro Hoang!
- Yeah.
Hello, Mr. Hai and Mrs. Hai.
- My man! Tuan!
- You little rascal, where have you been?
I though you'd left us forever.
That's not what happened.
Work has been eating up all my time.
I had to bend my schedule so hard
to be here for the festival with you all.
I told you. He's just busy.
I really thought you were dead, you know.
Geez, quit talking nonsense.
He just came back. Don't jinx it.
Wow, only a year of selling fish
and you're all polished up.
Selling fish? Not anymore.
I've got my own business now.
- Oh!
- Yes.
Oh my
He's great!
It's just the two of you now.
You must look out for each other.
Your booze!
Thanks.
Hey!
You're kidding us, right?
- What?
- Did you miss anything?
I already paid you, right? Thanks again.
Damn! Is he dumb or just playing dumb?
Booze is coming, guys!
Oh my
You must be worn out from traveling,
yet you're still up for drinks?
I'm fine, Mr. Hai.
We don't get many chances
to spend time together like this.
Hey, Tuan!
Tuan!
What's up, man?
Sure you didn't miss anything?
The booze is paid, guys. We're done!
- You missed us!
- Right!
Mr. Hai!
How could four guys
drink 2.5 gallons of booze?
But we can help you with that.
Alright then, come on in.
You already heard that. Come on in!
Hey, hey! Hold on!
This gathering
is mostly about family business.
We'll catch up later.
Okay?
Let's have them join. Things
are always better with more company.
They're a whole circus
when they get drunk.
Really?
Looks like one of you is getting drowsy.
Better call it a night and rest up.
We'll drink another day.
- Yeah. Next time, okay?
- Okay? Yeah.
That really hurt! Yeah!
The city turned him
into an arrogant prick.
Let's find another round.
For God's sake.
Okay, cheers.
- Cheers!
- Drink up, Mr. Hai.
Hey! I saw you with a cellphone
this morning. Mind if I try it out?
So fancy!
That's my work phone.
Can't really let you use it.
Not possible. So posh, huh?
Hey! Got a girlfriend yet?
Not yet. Work is my priority now.
Girls just bring trouble.
But Saigon chicks are gorgeous.
That's why I'd kill to visit Saigon
at least once, just to see it all.
For what?
You know.
Right?
Nonsense.
They're just girls from Saigon.
Believe it or not, I almost married
a Saigon girl back in the day.
I'm not making this up!
Every word is the truth.
Long ago, a beautiful girl from Saigon
came down here for fish,
and she fell for me.
Let me tell you, if I had accepted
her love, I'd own a house in Saigon today.
Oh, I see.
But I didn't go for her, right?
I went for your mom.
A beaufiful, graceful, and virtuous woman.
You could search your whole life
and never find another woman like her.
She's cute.
Oh, you just arrived?
See? Like magic!
I told them they should find
someone like you to marry,
but you're truly unique.
Sorry fellas, all sold out.
Oh, really?
Or are you having second thoughts?
What do you mean? You're the best.
What a smooth talker!
- Tuan! I'm amazed indeed.
- Yeah.
I always thought all you did was just help
your brother with chores in the shrine.
Never imagined that
you're looking more successful
than your brother.
Thanks.
Yes.
Let's go home!
Old but still can't resist a drink.
And as always,
the silly speeches come with it!
Alright, time to head back.
She's already missing you.
You're right. She's missing my scent.
She gets uneasy whenever
I'm not around at this hour.
Go home, my piggy.
Oh my
Only good at babbling.
- So, what would you like for breakfast?
- Yes?
- Fermented fish noodle soup, please.
- Okay.
Your fermented fish noodle soup
is the best.
Alright. My husband will bring it over
after I make it tomorrow.
- Please.
- Go!
Bye, Mom. Bye, Dad.
Okay.
You're so immature for your age.
Alright, drink up!
Keep your heads in the game, boys.
Dang it! You think I'm scared?
Come on, brother.
Stop roasting it. Drink up!
Okay, cheers!
Wow, you're bold
with your little brother here, huh?
Fine, I'm going all out with you two.
- Bottoms up!
- Cheers!
Another round, bro Hoang. Fill me up!
Take it easy. I haven't had a bite yet.
Haven't had a drink like this
in ages. Let's savor it.
Okay, all in.
Three, two, one. Cheers!
LORD WHALE SHRINE
Oh my holy guacamole.
They went overboard
with the booze and are out cold.
Don't tell me you drank all night.
Where's that pesky Tuan?
I got dragged out of bed at 4:00 a.m.
to help with the cooking, thanks to him.
Oh my God!
Jesus!
- Guys, come here now!
- What's going on?
Mr. Hai, what happened?
Where's the ambergris?
LORD WHALE
It It was right here last night.
Last We were blind drunk last night.
No idea if someone stole it.
You guys got plastered
and totally ignored the watch!
Where is Tuan?
Mr. Hai, I don't think Tuan stole it.
If not him, then who?
Can't find him anywhere in the village.
His belongings are gone too,
except this phone.
Have you tried calling him?
It's just a toy.
We're doomed now.
That son of a gun!
How could he do something this outrageous?
The ambergris has been worshiped
here for generations.
Where could he have taken it?
The festival is only three days away.
If this comes to light,
how could I face everyone?
Mr. Hai, please let me go find him.
You idiot! Do you know where he is?
Ah, I remember!
He went to Saigon to work for Ut Linh,
the girl who took fish from us.
You two remember?
Now use the address
to find Ut Linh in Saigon,
have her tell you where Tuan lives,
then bring him back here.
We need to retrieve the ambergris
before the festival.
Leave everything here to me.
I'm so worried.
Your dad said
he'd handle everything at home,
but I'm not sure he can.
Relax. My dad knows
how to deal with tough cases.
He's the village chief anyway.
LORD WHALE
Tam and his brother ate
my wife's fermented noodle soup
and suddenly got terrible stomach pains,
like they got food poisoning.
My son had to take them
to a hospital in Saigon.
They won't be back home for a few days.
Why is everyone looking at me?
I have no idea what she did.
Oh shoot. Mr. Hai, why is the ambergris
wrapped in that red cloth?
Tam asked me to cover the ambergris,
so it doesn't get dusty while you sweep.
He's really meticulous, isn't he?
Over here.
- This spot is covered with ash.
- I'll take care of it.
You two clean up outside.
- Leave the inside to me.
- Okay.
Bless me through this.
I'll make an offering to thank you.
What a pain.
Thirty-five cents, sis.
Where have you been all morning?
Out running errands.
Almost went to Luc's stall for fish
since you weren't around.
Thank you, Ms. Loi!
Is her squid ready yet?
- Right away. The 4.4 pounds you ordered.
- Alright, quick.
Eighty-five cents, please.
I chose fresh squid for today.
Fresh fish, miss?
Here!
He stopped working here six months ago.
Go to this place
and see if he's still around.
Ma'am! Fresh fish here!
Ma'am! Ma'am...
What are you still doing here, huh?
We're strangers here. Can you help us...
Should I do everything for you?
Can I trouble you to drive me
to Tuan's place, please?
Do you have eyes?
Don't you see I'm working?
If I go, who sells?
Just go, sis. I can take care
of the stall myself.
Shut up!
You call that selling?
You made me lose nearly six bucks
the last time you tried.
-He only does simple tasks,
-Stay calm.
Not real selling.
Ut Linh. How about
we help you out here first,
then you take us to Tuan's place.
You're so annoying!
That's your problem, not mine.
You've been hindering my work all morning.
-We're new here
-How much for this?
- And don't really know how to We
- Oh, hello.
- It's cheap, only 92 cents.
- Very cheap.
What's wrong with him?
Hey, this is mine to handle.
No need for you two to fight.
$1.42 per 2.2 pounds.
Are you kidding me, Binh?
$2.50 per 2.2 pounds, ma'am.
Could you two step aside, please?
Two pounds, right?
- Here!
- This is a place of business.
Alright, it's time to pay for our service!
Make it quick.
Mr. Nam Pork chose
the right day to close, huh?
We're charging double for next time.
Come on. We don't have much time for this.
Dang, got a problem?
Sir, things have been slow lately.
Mind if I pay a few days late?
That's tough on her.
What now?
Guess I'll take what she has now.
- I'll take all of it.
- Sir! Sir!
- Anything else to say, huh?
- My God.
We'll come back here tomorrow.
Okay, not enough for today.
We'll come back.
Why do we always have to remind you
to pay for our hard work, huh?
Who are these guys?
Why does everyone has to pay them?
They work for a transport company.
Their company oversees
most of the market's logistics.
All goods going in and out
have to go through them.
They come to collect
the service fees every month.
It's reasonable that we pay
for the services we used.
Reasonable, my ass.
Their fees are two or three times
what other places charge.
They beat up anyone
who tries to haul their own goods.
Everyone here really hates them.
What are you looking at?
I, Binh Beard, hate them too.
But I swear to you guys,
it's just not the right time yet.
If they ever dare to stand in front of me
with that cocky attitude, then I'll
Hello, Mr. Bao.
FRESH SEAFOOD
Say hello to Mr. Bao, guys.
Yes.
Hey, Speedy Gonzalez.
Take the money and leave.
Hey!
Still missing roughly $10.
What do you mean?
I've paid it all!
Shoot, it slipped my mind!
I've been so busy lately
that I keep forgetting things.
You should tell her now.
Okay, my bad.
So, here's the thing.
You've got the hottest stall
in this market.
Moving stuff for you wears us out.
Look at my calloused hands.
- You see it, Cuong?
- Yeah.
That's why we're doubling your fees.
- Correct!
- Oh, you really crack me up.
You raised the fee without asking me.
My stall's monthly fee is about
three dollars more than the others.
Ten dollars for a fee now? Half a mace
of gold! Are you robbing us?
Hey! We're not robbers.
- Hey!
- Hey, what are you up to?
We carry your goods and you pay us.
That's how it works here.
Do you understand, homo?
Homo my ass, motherfucker.
Mind your manners when you speak.
Hey, hey! Don't point at others
when speaking, my friend.
- I'm not your fucking friend!
- Hey, hey!
- Hey!
- Linh! Linh!
You're getting a bit worked up, babe.
Now be a good girl, take your money,
and pay me, you homo.
I won't fucking pay.
Wow.
Never ever hit a woman.
Oh God.
Fuck you.
Mr. Bao! Mr. Bao!
Say something, please!
Are you okay?
Ah.
Say something to me! Please!
- The day has finally come!
- Where are you going?
Go get my men now!
Don't be scared, okay?
Scared of what?
- Stop!
- Out of the way!
See? Have you seen the outcome?
Damn it! That guy kicked Mr. Bao!
Sorry, I didn't mean it.
But as men, you can't hit women.
Hey, if you start a fight,
I'll call the police.
You didn't mean it, huh?
- Fuck you!
- You scared me!
What? What is happening?
A fight just broke out at Ut Linh's stall.
Don't open the door.
Fuck you!
Shit! See what you've caused?
They're attacking me relentlessly!
I just wanted to protect Ut Linh.
Relax. I'm off.
I give you my word.
Today will be your last day doing business
at this market, you homo.
Dismiss! Go!
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
What happened, Tun?
There was a fight here, Bro Luc.
- Ut Linh.
- A fight?
- Yeah.
- They
Don't worry.
It's all talk.
They won't really do anything rash.
Thank you for helping me back then, Tam.
Tam?
What's the matter?
Come here, quick!
Surround them!
This time, you're gonna pay for
What? Is it done?
It's done.
Goddammit!
Shut up and help me clean the stall!
The plan is screwed, guys! Dismiss!
Holy shit.
Everything's all over the place.
Oh, my fish stall.
Hey, Tun, come here
and give me a hand tidying this up.
Excuse me, sir. My apology.
Let me give you a hand with cleaning.
-Luc! I'll take responsibility
-What?
- For anything that's broken.
- Okay.
Goddammit! Bao and his gang
wrecked my place.
What? And you kicked his ass, huh?
It's all his doing.
Hey! I had a hand in it too.
Oh gosh! Linh!
Where did you find
these two badass underlings?
They're not gangsters.
They're from An Hai village.
Ah, that's where you went
to buy fish for me before.
An Hai village, huh?
- Yes.
- What brings you two here?
Are you gonna join us selling fish?
No, I'm not. I'm looking for my brother.
- Your brother?
- Yes.
Ah, your brother often goes with him
for work discussions.
Maybe he knows where he is.
Oh really? So, this is
Tuan's older brother?
- Yes.
- He talks about you all the time,
- and here we are at last.
- Yes.
Looks like he left again.
Tried to meet him for coffee
the other day, but he wasn't there.
We can visit his place today.
Maybe he's already back.
Okay, once we clean this up, we'll go.
- Yeah, okay.
- Just leave it.
- Binh! Take care of all this.
- Yes.
Wait, wait. Binh.
Clean over there first,
then come help me here. Okay?
Quick, quick!
- Do I look that free to you?
- Yeah.
Tam! Shall we go?
My goodness.
What kind of person flips like that?
Fair enough. Only he calls her a woman.
Everyone else calls her homo.
Homo, homo, my ass.
Will you join us or not, huh?
Sure!
Ut Linh!
Tam and I are about the same age,
so I think you should change
how you address me too. Okay?
- Not a chance.
- But why?
It's probably your lack of charm.
Who let you hike up the fees, huh?
You said I could make my own decisions.
And where is my money?
Huh?
You can hike the fees if you want,
but the money has to come back here.
If you hike them and don't make a dime,
it's just making me look foolish.
Correct?
Yes.
Please don't hit me.
Clear up that mess.
What the hell happened?
Boss!
A guy came to sell stuff.
Tuan's place is right there.
Boasts about running a business,
but his room's smaller than my loo.
Looking for a room for rent?
Is it correct?
Ah, no. I'm looking for Tuan.
- Tuan?
- Yes.
Fuck! I'm looking for that asshole too.
Jesus Christ!
He hasn't paid rent for months.
So, what's your connection to him?
Ah, I'm his
Son of a bitch!
We're after him to get our money too.
Once I find him, I'll slice him to bits.
Damn it!
Linh!
Turn around!
Quick! Go look somewhere else.
Go!
Come on!
Good thing I came up with a story,
or we would be paying his rent.
Was smashing my motorbike
part of the story?
Gotta play it right.
That's odd.
Now, where will we find him?
We'll try some other places
he usually visits.
FAMILY KARAOKE
I beg you, please stay with me tonight.
I told you I have to be home with my wife.
But you said you would divorce your wife.
I'll come back tomorrow. Okay?
- Go, go, go.
- Cheers, cheers.
My dear! Do you wanna have fun?
Come, let me help you.
Come on. Come with us.
Sorry. I'm here to look for Tuan.
- Many people here have the name Tuan.
- Ah.
This is his picture.
Ah! He's Tuan Model.
What? Tuan Model?
Right. He tips us every time he comes by.
How much did he tip you girls?
One and a half dollars each.
Gosh! What a big spender!
Damn right.
He plays big. Even a player
like me has to step back.
He
He really goes that big?
Exactly! A real high roller!
He pops up at every table.
No sign of him today.
Damn, are you cheating?
Cough up.
Hey!
Care to sit in?
Play or leave.
Where else does he hang out?
Beats me. Maybe ask around some more.
- Damn it!
- Hey!
What are you doing, friend?
Ah Sorry.
Where the hell did that bastard go?
Five grand.
Just bring the real stuff here.
I'll make it worth your while.
The price you're offering
isn't really worth it.
I checked around. This chunk
pulls no less than 11 grand.
One buyer was willing to pay $8.5K for it.
So, how about $10.7K?
Then push it their way and seal the deal.
Okay. How about ten grand?
Five grand. That's all you get.
Hey, bro, we haven't closed the deal yet.
Give it back!
I'm the one who decides the price here.
Keep your eyes open when you walk, punk.
Wanna fight?
Tuan! What's your pick for today?
- Get me the usual.
- Okay!
Hey, Tuan, two hicks and a broad
came looking for you a moment ago.
Tam.
It's late already. Why don't you
crash at my place tonight?
How about me?
Hard to answer?
Head home without us.
Hoang and I will stick around for Tuan.
Thank you, Ut Linh.
I'll go home first then.
Why are you still
just sitting there, fool?
Where are we supposed to sleep
if he doesn't come back tonight?
Let's just sleep anywhere we can.
Tam!
- Asshole!
- Hoang!
Forgive me, brother.
They set me up.
Help me, brother.
I put money into a business,
then my partners dragged me into partying,
gambling, women, and everything.
Now I'm buried in debt. No way out, so I
That's why you ripped off
the ambergris, huh?
It's not true!
At first, I meant to sell it.
But in the middle of the deal,
I thought of you, thought of our village,
then I changed my mind.
But something happened!
- What happened?
- The moment I changed my mind,
those thugs lunged at me
and took the ambergris away.
And you just stood there
letting them hit you?
I wasn't standing still. I fought back!
I hit anyone who came at me.
But they outnumbered me,
hit me from all sides,
so I lost the fight.
We'll deal with your stealing later.
Now just tell me who took
the ambergris. I'll go get it.
It was Cuong Reckless's gang.
Go!
Brother!
He is a top dog around here
with a lot of clout.
We must get the ambergris back,
no matter what.
Go!
Are you nuts, Tam?
Don't you get what he just said?
That guy has dozens of underlings!
What's your move against him?
We must retrieve
the ambergris at all costs.
Why don't we call the police?
- Go!
- Wait!
No, no!
We have no evidence.
Fuck! Now what?
I have an idea.
Cuong Reckless goes
to a hostess club at nine every night.
And if he doesn't make it today?
He goes there every day.
I know because we go to the same club.
Go, go. Take cover.
Hoang! Now your turn.
- For what?
- Come with me.
- What are you doing?
- Help me, brother.
- What's inside the bottle?
- Strawberry syrup.
Eh, where is that damn Bao?
I saw him bringing some men
to Ut Linh's place earlier.
Shit! This bastard is really stubborn!
Got his ass kicked this morning
and still fearless?
- What the fuck?
- Bro Cuong
- What?
- Bro Cuong
What's wrong? Huh?
He was attacked by the Firewood gang!
- Where?
- Where?
Which club?
The same old club.
Guys! Grab you gear and move!
You come with me!
I took three stabs for him,
and now I'm spent.
Go save our boss first!
Good! You've got guts!
Go!
Quick!
Bro Cuong!
Go now!
He's not gonna last!
I feel so dizzy.
Geez, you totally killed it in that role.
Not bad at all.
You've got talent.
Your old man would be proud.
A reformed theatre troupe
may be a good choice for you.
What next?
Damn! You look like a pro.
Whenever I'm late on rent,
the landlord changes the lock.
This is how I get back in.
Dad'd be sad if he knew
you were doing these bad things.
He'd be more upset if I fail to fix this.
Be on guard, brother.
Huh? Where's everyone gone?
Hy! Hy?
Why's it all so messy?
Eh?
Eh?
Eh, the fuck!
What the hell are you doing here?
I see.
You're dead meat, motherfuckers.
What is it?
What now, guys?
Don't worry.
We ran into them at the market.
What?
Continue your work.
We're upgraded.
Tuan! Hurry up!
That damn Firewood gang!
Motherfuckers! You mess
with our boss, you're finished!
Bro Cuong!
Bro Cuong!
Asshole! Show yourself!
- Who?
- Fuck!
Bro Cuong!
You fools!
Who said I was attacked?
Shoot!
I'll make you pay!
Unlocked!
Go to hell!
- What's taking so long?
- I got it open,
but that jerk messed things up.
Tam!
That scumbag stabbed your brother!
Why not just smash the padlock?
I actually opened it, but
Go, go!
- Are you alright?
- I'm fine, I'm fine.
Get the hell out of here.
You're the reason it took so long.
The bastard with the bob haircut!
You pulled my leg!
You're going hard, huh?
- Holy shit!
- What happened?
They came back!
Bro Cuong!
Those bastards
want to steal the ambergris.
The ambergris belongs to our village.
We're only here to reclaim it.
You sold it to me, got the cash,
and now you're trying to steal it from me?
You're liar.
What does he mean by that, Tuan?
Don't trust him.
He's fucking lying! He stole it from me!
Well, nothing but a misunderstanding.
We're brothers. Let's live in peace!
The bastard with the bob haircut!
Where are you?
Asshole!
How dare you dupe me, huh? Bastard!
What?
Hit him! Not me!
Not me!
Where are you going, prick?
Fuck you!
Hit him.
Brother!
Fuck you!
Sis
Those fuckers came to wreck
FRESH SEAFOOD
That goddamn Bao!
How dare you wreck my stall, huh?
Where are you?
Ut Linh!
- Ut Linh!
- Run!
Ut Linh! Wait for us!
You again, huh?
Get out of here
before everything goes to hell.
Go after them!
You guys!
- Hurry!
- Let's go!
- Hey!
- Bao! Hop on!
Hop on, now!
Stop, stop, Hy. Hy, please drive me home.
Hey!
That's my motorbike, idiots!
Screw you all!
Run at full speed, Ut Linh!
What?
They're here! Go faster!
They're coming!
On your right! On your right!
Get me to the infirmary.
I can't bear the pain any longer!
No way! Bro Cuong wants us to follow them.
Be strong, man!
Goddammit!
Hurry, Bao!
Our men are getting taken down one by one.
We should stop here, Hy.
We don't stop. Fight or die!
- Where are you going, huh?
- I'll take a shortcut!
He's attacking me! Hit him!
Son of a bitch! How dare you!
Hey! Let it go, Hy! Let it go, now!
We won't stop. We got the upper hand.
Let go!
- Are you okay, Hoang?
- He hit me relentlessly!
Faster, Ut Linh!
- Lie down!
- What?
Why lie down?
Bye, motherfuckers.
Linh! You're amazing!
- We're safe now!
- Go, go!
You can stay over at my place tonight.
I live next to the police station.
Those thugs won't dare come here.
Get some rest. I'll take you
to the bus station tomorrow.
Thank you, Ut Linh.
Sorry for taking up your time today.
You're welcome. We're all family.
Are you gonna sleep
in the bathroom, idiot?
Don't drain all my water, please!
The syrup still won't go away.
Why are you so annoyed with me, Ut Linh?
Why am I not allowed to be annoyed?
Thank God the knife broke,
or I'd be the Condor Hero already.
You're still babbling, huh?
Go outside. We need to talk.
About what, brother?
You're always rude to me, don't you see?
Why didn't you tell me about the debt,
so we could sort it out?
You just went and caused
all this trouble instead.
I just thought
You had the nerve
to steal our village's relic, huh?
What if we fail to get it back?
It's over, brother.
I'm sorry. I didn't mean it.
The thing is
Do the villagers know about this?
Only Mr. Hai Nhon knows,
but he hasn't told anyone.
He sent me and Hoang
to Saigon to find you.
Bring the ambergris back and tell him.
I'll come back to apologize to him
as soon as I can.
You'll go with me!
- I can't! There's too much on my plate!
- Tuan!
Where did you get this money?
Who let you rummage through my things?
Turns out Cuong was telling the truth.
Tuan, you wanna explain?
Alright!
Alright!
I agree!
Call it a loss on my part.
You sold it off for money,
then fooled me and your brother
to take it back.
I got it right, you piece of shit?
Fuck! Never thought you'd play that dirty.
Keep your nose out of it.
Get inside, you nosy brat.
Insolent!
She just saved our ass, don't you recall?
Those places where you frequent tell me
everything I need to know about you.
Watch your back. Karma will find you.
It belongs to our family.
I can sell it if I want.
It's not our property.
It's our village's property.
You basically turned me
and Hoang into thieves!
Do you still remember
what Dad told us before he died?
Dad said we must protect the ambergris,
no matter what happens.
- And what did you do, huh?
- Dad, dad, dad. All the time!
What would you get in return
for guarding that shrine your whole life?
Show some respect to your brother.
- Or you want a fist in your face?
- Go ahead!
- Who are you to lecture me?
- You think I won't lay a hand on you?
- Go ahead!
- Don't stop me!
You're butting into
my family stuff too much.
- Stop!
- Tam, don't stop me!
- I'm here. Hit me!
- You!
You stay away!
- Stop it!
- Come at me!
Stop!
You put others above your own family.
- Hands off!
- You can't leave!
Let me go!
This is not our money.
We'll give it back tomorrow.
Keep it for yourself!
Tuan! Tuan!
Let him go!
Hello?
Hoang!
Your dad called.
Tam and I had to risk everything
for the ambergris.
I never thought Tuan was this lost.
Oh my holy guacamole.
When will you two be back home?
Tomorrow, Dad.
Bring that son of a gun back too!
Just forget about him.
We'll talk more tomorrow when I get home.
He's gone downhill for real.
Shoot! Hang up soon to save money.
Ms. Tam! May I get a bag of yogurt?
One bag for both of you?
We can only afford one bag.
Here, eat it.
You want some?
- No, I'm not hungry.
- Okay.
You two!
Come here.
Excuse me, sir?
Ma'am! Please give them one more bag.
Take it.
Take it. It's on me!
- Okay, thank you, sir!
- Thank you, sir!
Alright.
- How old are you?
- I'm 15.
I'm nine.
Go home.
Why are you still up?
Waiting won't mean he'll be back.
He was kind and hardworking
when he first moved here.
But now, I barely recognize him.
No clue where that rascal is now.
He's toast if he gets caught
by Cuong Reckless's gang.
- God, he so damn annoying.
- Anyway.
You should get some rest.
I'll go find him.
Why bother looking for him?
Just let him be!
Out of cash, he'll drag himself back here.
He's my brother.
I can't turn my back on him.
Hoang! Tuan Model is back.
What?
Brother.
I've thought it over.
It's all my fault.
I'm so sorry.
I'll take responsibility for what I did.
Tomorrow I'll go home with you.
Whatever you tell me to do, I'll do it.
Life alone in this city is crushing me.
I can't take it anymore.
It's okay.
Good that you see your mistake.
I'm sorry too.
I lost control earlier.
I'm sorry, Sis Linh. I'm sorry, Bro Hoang.
I lost my temper earlier
and acted wrongly.
I didn't mean anything by it.
You just called me sis?
You already called me sis.
Sister-in-law is okay too.
Don't be shy.
Christ.
What's the matter?
That creeped me out.
- One round, then?
- Round of what, punk?
This.
Oh, come on! Come drink with me.
Seriously?
Do you really think one trick works twice?
What? What do you mean by that?
He got me and his brother drunk
and stole the ambergris.
What a sly rascal.
You can just eat.
You eat first.
Come on.
We should eat and rest early.
We need to be up early tomorrow.
He won't try anything this time.
The hotpot looks so good.
Come on.
I'll teach you a lesson
when we get home tomorrow.
Smells delicious!
Why's it so hot?
Is this a pork-bone hotpot or a chili one?
- Has to be hot to be good.
- Give me a glass of water.
Okay, right away.
Come on.
Give me one too.
Drinking water doesn't take away the heat.
The heat of this is mild
compared to your cutting words.
What did you just say, huh?
You crazy?
Are you crazy?
So scared!
So disgusting!
Is this buyer trustworthy?
A buyer like Cuong Reckless
would cause a lot of trouble.
Alright then. I'll find a way
to bring you the ambergris in the morning.
- How?
- How'd we know, huh?
Being around a trickster like you
makes us wiser!
Here, you see, Tam?
Who drinks will drink again.
He's beyond help.
You keep the money,
and you want to bring the ambergris back.
Then how am I supposed to pay my debt?
Returning to the village means the lenders
will come and ruin everything.
Do you actually care about our village?
Or only about yourself?
Things wouldn't have happened
if you were a bit more like your brother.
Shut the fuck up!
- Fuck! Who are you being rude to, huh?
- To you, okay?
People always praise my brother.
Always say that I must push myself
to be as good as him.
The whole village looks down on me.
Who looks down on you?
Who looks down on you, huh?
If you don't want others
to look down on you,
you have to prove yourself.
But do it the right way.
Not through illegal means.
Do you recall how Dad wanted us to be?
Be a decent and good person.
Why always drag Dad into your lessons?
Was he really decent and kind?
We're both his kids,
yet he loved one and hated the other?
Decent and kind, my ass!
Impudent!
Where did you learn such impudence?
Who allowed you to disrespect Dad?
That's just who I am.
You were loved and guided by Mom and Dad.
You're the happiest one.
Everyone blames me for Mom's death.
She died giving birth to me.
Right?
It's not what I wanted.
I heard everything
Dad said to you in his final moments.
You're the one I trust most in the family,
therefore,
I've decided to hand everything
over to you.
As for Tuan,
I'm still not sure about him.
So, all this time,
you've had the wrong idea about Dad.
Dad, please don't say that.
Tuan
never had a mother's love since birth.
He's more pitiful than you.
You keep it all for now.
When Tuan is ready,
he should receive half.
Remember.
Don't tell him about this too soon,
or he'll depend on it
and not push himself.
Can you promise me, Tam?
Can you promise me, Tam?
Yes.
So I can go now.
Dad always loved and cared for you,
but he just kept it inside.
The inheritance he left us,
I'm willing to give it all to you.
Listen to me.
Take me to the creditor tomorrow.
I'll negotiate with them.
This money
We'll give it back to Cuong Reckless.
Then we'll head home.
Okay, go inside.
You go first.
Give me a moment alone.
Did you think it over?
The debt is tens of thousands of dollars,
not just a few bucks.
No matter how much, it must be settled.
He's still my brother.
I've saved over seven grand
from all my work so far.
Probably enough.
What? Seven grand?
Maybe more.
Jesus.
Why didn't he just say it
in the first place?
Should we wake Ut Linh up?
Let her sleep.
Don't bother others with our stuff.
I gave her too many sleeping pills.
Hey, Tuan, Tuan!
Here, here!
Exactly on time, huh?
- Okay, okay.
- That's great.
Why did you pick
such a hard-to-find place?
The buyer asked me to meet here,
so I asked you the same.
Do you have it?
Yes, but please wait a moment.
- Over there!
- Here, Brother!
You're driving like a maniac, pal!
It's your fault.
You suddenly told me to turn.
Hey, buddy!
Why did you come with a crowd?
Hi, Bro Luc. Tuan said
you helped him get a big loan.
We haven't got enough
to settle the debt yet, so...
Rest assured. The buyer promised
a good price for the ambergris.
If the deal succeeds,
we can pay off Tuan's debt
and still have some left.
The thing is
I don't wanna sell it anymore.
But why? Flipping like this
is making it hard for me.
I know this puts you in a tough spot,
but I need you to ask the creditor
for a few more days,
so we can prepare money to pay the debt.
We really can't sell the ambergris.
I'm just the middleman
who helped Tuan borrow the money.
I don't have the right to decide.
The creditor is inside.
You guys can talk directly to him.
Sure.
Go!
Shit, why is nobody here?
What's going on, Bro Luc?
Cuong Reckless is the creditor, isn't he?
Sorry, I didn't have a choice.
I apologize to you guys
for what my little brother has done.
We came to return
the money he took from you.
As for his debt,
just give me a few more days.
I promise you'll get every cent.
Return the money to him.
Brother.
Brother.
What the hell do you want?
I wanna play a game with you.
If you win,
you're free to go.
But if you lose,
the ambergris is mine.
Get up, now!
Brother!
Silent!
Damn it! He kicked our boss!
- Why did you kick me twice?
- Shut up!
Brother! Hit him
with your best shot. I'll be fine!
Fine, huh?
Eh? What's that sound?
Ah! Oh my God!
Ugh! Spit in my eyes!
- You blinded my eyes!
- Oh God!
Brother!
Tam!
Brother!
Tam!
Luc! What are you doing?
Goddammit!
I wasn't gonna step in,
but this goddamn Cuong is a waste!
I'm not done with him yet!
He's mine to catch, bro!
It hurts, asshole!
Weaklings like you are nothing to me.
And I wanna thank you.
You're the reason
I know about this precious thing.
When you arrive in my village,
please give this bag to my brother
and Mr. Hai Nhon.
Balm and pills.
What? Again?
Won't be picking up
the fish tomorrow. I'm busy.
Luc will go.
- You can ask him to help you.
- You'll get new goods tomorrow.
Don't worry.
This one finishes the shipment.
Load it up, guys.
Tuan, your acquaintance
in Saigon, sent you this.
Wow! This boy
won't quit sending me things.
Thank you, Mr. Luc.
This shrine looks ancient, doesn't it?
It has stood for around 200 years.
- Two hundred years?
- Yeah.
This has been worshiped
by the villagers for many generations.
They usually come here to pray
for safe voyages and abundant catches.
Keep at this kind of work
and you'll never get rich.
You wanna make money?
Follow me.
Nine! The money is yours!
Go on. Do it!
Getting rich is easy.
All it takes is joining here.
Two of hearts!
- I came in first!
- Drink! Cheers!
Got a place for big bets. You want in?
Of course I do.
Cheers!
That's right.
Oh God!
- Zero again? Again?
- Damn it!
All in, huh?
Oh gosh.
You owe $5,000 now, Tuan!
Over a dozen taels of gold!
He won't lend another dime
and won't spare us if we fail to pay up.
I pawned all my valuables,
but it still isn't enough to pay up.
I have an idea.
When I was at your village to get fish,
I heard that the ambergris
is very valuable. Can you get it?
Are you crazy, man? It's impossible.
You wanna have those goons
chop us up, huh?
If we don't hurry up
and pay soon, we're screwed.
Son of a bitch!
You set me up!
Being a hedonist
made you an easy target for me.
Don't you get that, Tuan Model?
Get off of me!
Boss! Mr. Tan arrived.
Clear up the mess
and lock them up!
Mr. Tan!
On time, as usual!
This one's pretty rare, you know.
Can't believe you actually got it!
My style.
Every trip for fish brings new stuff, huh?
Your fish-seller front is brilliant.
Two crates?
Same price?
No change.
Take it all.
And where's the rare stuff
you told me about?
They finally agreed to sell this, huh?
I went to An Hai Village once to buy this,
but they claimed it was a relic
and refused to sell.
How did you mange to get your hands on it?
And what about the base?
You mean the stone
this whale statue sits on?
Yeah.
The whale statue here itself
weighs over four pounds,
worth around 14 grand on the market.
The base is over 22 pounds
of pure ambergris.
LORD WHALE
Together, the statue and base
go for around 143 grand.
- Hundred and forty-three grand?
- Yeah.
Never mind.
Guess I'll just take what we have here.
But what a pity!
If I can get the base,
are we good at 143 grand?
Maybe next time, okay?
I have to leave for Hong Kong tomorrow.
I'll bring you the base tomorrow morning.
Bring me the base in the morning,
I'll give you a special rate.
150 grand.
150 grand?
Save that handshake for tomorrow.
See you!
Are you glaring at me?
Consider it carefully.
It's a matter of life.
Make sure you bind him tighter.
You guys got the ambergris.
What do you want from us?
We wanna toss you into the river.
Tam.
We better hurry.
The boss is pressing.
For what?
He told us to prepare the car,
so we can go to An Hai village.
Why are you going there?
Go fuck yourself.
Why do you look at me, huh?
Fuck! Look at the results! Fucking idiot!
See how many people
you've dragged into this?
It's not only my fault!
Things wouldn't have ended up like this
if you had followed my advice
and sold the ambergris.
You're still worrying about that now?
We're going to die!
Fuck! If I get untied,
I'm gonna deck you, Tuan!
Go head! Hit me, you idiot!
Shut up!
- You really think I wouldn't do it?
- Shut up!
Easy, easy.
Easy, easy.
Are you done?
Keep arguing in the river.
That's all, but you guys took so long.
Those rascals said they'd be here today,
but I haven't seen any of them.
Damn it. Oh my God.
What are you doing here, Luc?
Excuse me, sir?
You came here to pray?
Yes!
I dropped Mr. Luc off here to pray.
Mr. Luc came here once to pick up fish.
Remember?
Nope!
- Where are you going?
- Clean up.
Just a sec!
Mr. Luc is having a private talk
with Mr. Hai in the shrine.
Come back later, okay?
That has nothing to do with the cleaning.
You came to pray, but brought a knife?
This thing is my razor.
Here. Let me show you.
See. That's how I use it. See?
Truly convenient.
See?
It's okay! I'm fine! It's normal
to nick your skin sometimes.
- Amazing.
- Mr. Hai.
- What?
- We have a gift for you.
Oh, come on.
Don't waste your money on this.
Thank you, but I can't take it.
- Bao! Go!
- Have you finished?
Old Ut! Young Ut!
Stop them!
They took the ambergris!
- Holy shit!
- Sir!
Sir! Sir!
Excuse me, sir!
They're beating up our people!
Oh my God, they're attacking us!
Over there! Come on, guys!
Why are you attacking our people? Guys!
Guys! Stop that wretched Luc!
Are you okay? Mr. Hai!
- He took the ambergris!
- My gosh!
Stealing and beating people up too.
Give the ambergris back!
I took the ambergris
as payment for Tuan's debt.
- Tuan owes money? How so?
- What is this about?
What is this about?
Tuan went to Saigon to gamble
and borrowed a lot from me.
He sold the whale statue,
but it wasn't enough.
Today I came here to take the rest
of the ambergris to settle what he owes.
Why did you lie to us, Mr. Hai?
Didn't you say Tuan got food poisoning
and had to go to the hospital in Saigon?
How could you hide something
this serious from the entire village?
Do you know how wrong that is?
Tuan has to deal with his own debt.
- You have no right to settle it like this.
- You're right.
- That's true.
- Whoever owes must pay.
- You cannot take our village's relic.
- That's right. Give it back!
- Return it!
- That's right!
Give it back, or you'll regret it.
Yeah! You guys are toast!
Mr. Tu is a real gangster here.
- Give it back!
- Return it!
Return it!
Give it back!
Give it back!
What the hell are you blowing, huh?!
What are you blowing, huh?!
Eh, Mr. Tu?
Eh, Mr. Tu?
You go too, Mrs. Ba?
What's wrong with them?
What are those knives and sticks for, huh?
You think I'm scared?
Are you actually slashing people
in broad daylight?
Here! Slash here!
This is where the blood will gush.
Oops, you slashed indeed?
- Are you looking to die?
- Nope.
- Eh, Mr. Hai?
- Time for lunch.
There's nothing to eat yet.
The offerings.
Those bastards are still alive?
Surprised?
Surprised. Totally shocked!
Throwing us fishermen
into the water was a big mistake.
He told us to prepare the car,
so we can go to An Hai village.
- Fuck! Look at the results!
- Fucking idiot!
See how many people
you've dragged into this?
It's not only my fault!
Things wouldn't have ended up like this
if you had followed my advice
and sold the ambergris!
You're still worrying about that now?
We're going to die!
Whenever I'm late on rent,
the landlord changes the lock.
So you're the final boss.
What, he's not, is he?
Tam! He took the base of the ambergris.
We'll pay you back in full.
You have no right to take the ambergris.
Guys!
Make way!
You!
God! Can the battery
even handle shocking them all?
How dare you beat our people, huh?
You're finished.
Go, everyone!
- Get lost!
- Gangster, huh?
Get any closer, I'll shock you!
Oh my God!
- You prick!
- Go to hell!
- Go to hell!
- How dare you hit my nephew?
Our people are here!
Guys! Go!
My Piggy! I'm coming!
Bring it on!
Bring it on!
Old Ut!
Oh God.
Tiger Fist!
You scared? Come on!
Holy Paddle Slash!
Holy Paddle Slash!
You slashed me, right?
- You asshole!
- Finish him!
- Bastard!
- Hey, this bastard shocked me, sweetheart!
For heaven's sake!
Who taught you
to zap people like that, huh?
How dare you shock my husband?
- Sorry, sorry!
- Go to hell!
Bitch!
Oh my God!
- Help!
- Come help me!
- Save him!
- Pull him out!
Save him, quick!
Oh God!
- The ambergris is still inside!
- What?
- Tam! You crazy?
- Don't stop me!
Don't you see the fire is raging?
Don't stop me! Get off me!
- You wanna die?
- Let me go!
Tuan!
- My God! Tuan!
- No!
Tuan! What are you doing?
- Get out!
- What should we do now, huh?
Tuan!
Tuan! Tuan!
Tuan!
Go outside! It's dangerous!
Oh dear!
Oh God!
Oh dear! Put out the fire! Put it out now!
Oh my goodness!
It's burning!
Get the fire off his back!
Get over here and help me!
Tuan, kneel down here. Kneel down here.
Jesus! You out of your mind?
Are you alright?
With a fire this big, you still rush in?
Looking to die, huh?
- I got it. I got it.
- Are you alright?
I got it.
- I got it.
- Have you lost your mind?
I got it.
I got it, brother. I got it.
Gosh!
His face is burned already!
The cops are here, folks!
The cops are here!
Officers!
Arrest them!
They came here to cause trouble!
Officer! Over here! Officer!
Over here! Catch him here, Officer!
That's right!
Freeze! Freeze! I said, everyone, freeze!
Right!
My apology.
I'm the shrine keeper,
yet I let my own brother
take the ambergris.
Good thing we got the ambergris back.
Losing it would have brought
disaster to our village.
Nobody in our village
has ever stolen like he did.
If he could steal and sell the ambergris,
what else wouldn't he dare sell next?
Apologies. It's all my fault.
I failed to guide my brother,
so others led him astray.
- I...
- You're still defending him?
Had your brother
not been addicted to gambling,
no one could have manipulated him.
Your father was the most respected man
in this village.
Forget about your thieving brother,
but you, Tam!
Are you really this degraded now?
How can someone like him
be a shrine keeper?
We trusted you
all this time for nothing, Tam.
I never expected you two
to go bad like this.
It is my fault! My brother did nothing.
I know what I did is hard to forgive.
So I've decided to leave here
and never return.
I'll never forget
what everyone has done for me.
Go on. Leave quickly.
No need to make a speech.
Yeah! Go quickly if you're leaving!
If he stays, he'll repeat his old ways.
- That's right!
- Right!
Go! Leave now!
Go back to your place in Saigon.
Right! Go now!
Walk out and don't bother coming back.
- Go!
- Go on!
How stubborn.
Enough! Be quiet!
Do you guys think
this thing really matters?
Look!
- What?
- What are you doing?
You stay still!
Yes! Tuan messed up!
But honestly, I'm asking
all of you this question.
Has anyone here never done anything wrong?
Hey, gray-haired Tu.
Remember the boat with a hole
that I asked you to repair?
But you just did a sloppy job.
The boat then went out to sea,
didn't get far, and sank.
And you, Mrs. Bay!
What? What about me?
About the dried fish sale.
Those fish weren't fully dried,
but you mixed it with the rest to sell.
Don't think I'm unaware of that.
She's a sloppy person!
And you two!
While bringing fishing boats to shore,
you were joking around,
and the boat nearly ran over the kids.
Had Tam not acted quickly,
would you even be sitting here,
now giving your opinions?
To be honest,
our village has been
worshipping the ambergris
since our ancestors
founded the village as a way
to thank the Whale God
for keeping our people safe at sea.
But our acts of worship
are just a piece of the whole.
If we don't know how to unite,
we don't work hard,
or we don't go out to fish,
then worshipping dozens of ambergris
wouldn't fill our bellies.
Should we force Tuan to leave today,
then tomorrow,
it could be you, you, and you
having to leave because of your mistakes.
It is because we lack
both solidarity and compassion.
I agree with Mr. Hai.
After all, Tuan is still
a member of our village.
When he makes mistakes,
we should guide and support him.
Where will he go?
How will he live?
Right?
I spoke out of anger earlier.
If you all choose to forgive him,
I have no objection.
Yeah! Let's forgive him.
It's okay now. Just stand up.
Tuan! Everyone has forgiven you.
Go thank them!
Say thanks to them.
Thank you, everyone.
Thank you.
Um, we appreciate it.
Thank you, everyone.
Everyone has forgiven you. Stand up.
Just stand up.
Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Hai.
Thank you, brother.
Thank you, Bro Hoang.
Thank you, Sis Linh.
What did you just say?
Call me sister-in-law, okay?
Mr. Hai?
How about this?
Open it.
- What?
- Sweet potatoes?
Oh my goodness.
Sweet potatoes?
Even my grandfather
wouldn't have the courage to smash it.
It's still inside.
So everything's sorted out, right?
Tomorrow is an auspicious day.
Our village will gather to prepare
a truly grand
Whale Worship Festival. Okay?
Yeah!
LORD WHALE
Drink some water.
How dare you! How dare you!
Fuck you.
Help me! Help!
THE END