What Is Our Times About?
The premise of Our Times in 313 words, with nothing given away. The full story and the ending follow below.
In the bustling present‑day rhythm of Taipei, a diligent office worker finds herself drifting between the pressures of adulthood and the warm glow of a nostalgic mixtape. The music pulls her back to the carefree hallways of her teenage years, where the clatter of lockers and the murmur of gossip formed a world of its own. That world feels both familiar and distant, a place where first loves and friendships were measured in handwritten notes, shared secrets, and the thrill of youthful rebellion.
At the heart of those memories is Lin Truly, a sincere and earnest girl whose earnestness often makes her the target of playful teasing. In her high‑school universe she circles around a charismatic classmate, the brooding yet oddly endearing Hsu Tai‑yu, the unofficial leader of a spirited group of friends. Alongside them glide the charismatic pop‑culture idol Ouyang Fei‑Fan, whose charm fuels many a teenage crush, and the admired and poised Tao Min‑min, the girl everyone seems to look up to. Together they weave a tapestry of rivalries, unspoken feelings, and the endless quest for acceptance.
The film’s tone balances light‑hearted comedy with a tender sense of longing. Its visual palette shifts between the pastel‑tinted nostalgia of the 1990s schoolyard and the crisp, contemporary hues of modern city life, underscoring the timeless gap between who we were and who we become. Dialogue crackles with witty banter, while moments of quiet reflection linger, inviting the audience to recall their own “what‑if” scenarios.
Our Times captures the universal pulse of growing up— the ache of first heartbreak, the fierce loyalty of friends, and the quiet hope that something beautiful can emerge from everyday chaos. It invites viewers to savor the bittersweet flavor of memories, reminding us that the past is never truly gone; it lives on in the songs we hum, the letters we write, and the dreams we still carry forward.
What Happens in Our Times?
The complete story of Our Times, from the first scene to the last, in 704 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 1 cast member page.
Spoilers ahead
The film begins in the present day, centering around Lin Truly, portrayed by Joe Chen, a diligent office worker grappling with the stress of her daily life. The name “Truly” suggests her genuine nature, yet her earnest approach often attracts ridicule from her younger colleagues. In her moments of solitude, she listens to a nostalgic tape of an old Andy Lau song, which transports her back to her carefree high school years. During this time, she idolized Lau and had a crush on Ouyang Fei-Fan, played by Dino Lee, while also cherishing the company of her two close friends.
In a pivotal moment, seventeen-year-old Lin (played by Vivian Sung) receives a foreboding chain letter that warns of dire consequences if she fails to share it. Innocently, she passes the message to Hsu Tai-yu (portrayed by Darren Wang](/actor/darren-wang)), the notorious leader of the school’s gang, as well as to her math instructor and to Tao Min-min (played by Dewi Chien), the most admired girl in school. This act leads to chaos when Hsu Tai-yu is struck by a car while reading the letter. Furious, he coerces Lin Truly into becoming his “friend” and an errand-runner, on the condition that he will leave Ouyang alone.
As fate would have it, Lin accidentally overhears a conversation between Min-min and Ouyang, uncovering their secret romance. Devastated by this revelation, she allies with Hsu Tai-yu, who harbors feelings for Min-min, to scheme against them. Digging deeper into Ouyang’s past, Lin learns from him that he and Tai-yu were once friends—until a tragic event led Tai-yu to withdraw from school, eventually evolving into the school’s feared gangster.
In an unexpected twist, Lin challenges Tai-yu to a roller-skating competition, where the winner earns the right to command the loser. To her surprise, she emerges victorious, prompting her to appeal to Tai-yu to reconnect with his former self rather than the hardened gangster he has become. Touched by her plea, Tai-yu begins to mend his ways, kicking off a transformation that leads him to spend more time studying with Lin.
As time passes, the bond between Lin Truly and Hsu Tai-yu deepens, allowing them to learn valuable lessons about love. Lin starts to develop feelings for Tai-yu, who shows impressive progress by ranking 10th in their school’s mock exam. However, his newfound success is met with skepticism by the school’s new Director, who wrongfully accuses him of cheating, leading to a harsh punishment that nearly costs Tai-yu his health.
Determined to stand up against the Director’s unjust treatment, Lin leads a campaign to raise awareness about the issue, culminating in a rebellious act during a school festival. The students, inspired by Lin’s bravery, partake in a series of light-hearted rule-breaking antics, eventually compelling the Principal to heed their voices.
During a camping trip, Lin and Tai-yu vow never to forget each other after high school. Just before Lin’s birthday, she receives a special recording from Tai-yu intended to be listened to after their university entrance exams. When her birthday arrives, she excitedly grabs Tai-yu to have him sign her yearbook, only to be confronted with the sight of Min-min, who reveals that she and Tai-yu are now a couple. Heartbroken, Lin congratulates them but later breaks down in tears.
In a cruel twist of fate, Hsu Tai-yu learns of a serious health issue due to an injury from the past. As his family plans to send him abroad for treatment, Lin finds herself unable to contact him. Following the university exams, Lin finally listens to the recording where Tai-yu confesses his true feelings for her, despite their promises to pursue Ouyang and Min-min.
Fast forward to the present day, Lin includes this heartfelt journey in her decision to leave her job and reclaim her identity. Yet her fervent desire to attend an Andy Lau concert in Taipei remains unfulfilled. While waiting outside the venue, she is surprisingly reunited with the iconic Andy Lau, who helps her gain entry to the concert. In an incredible twist, she discovers that the contact who can arrange for her to meet Andy Lau is none other than Hsu Tai-yu, now back in her life, ready to finally honor the promise made during their high school days.
Our Times Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Lin Truly's Present Life” to “Reunion at the Concert”. 15 events name a place, across 10 locations.
- 1
Lin Truly's Present Life
The film opens in the present day, introducing Lin Truly as an ordinary office worker. Despite her hard-working nature, she faces ridicule from her younger colleagues, which contributes to her stressful life.
When:Present Day Where:Office
- 2
Flashback to High School Days
Lin Truly reflects on her carefree high school days after listening to an Andy Lau song. During this time, she idolized Lau and had a crush on the most popular boy, Ouyang Fei-Fan.
When:High School Years Where:High School
- 3
The Chain Letter Incident
Seventeen-year-old Lin receives a chain letter warning of doom if not passed on. Naively, she shares it with several classmates, including the notorious gangster boss, Hsu Tai-yu, leading to unforeseen consequences.
When:Seventeen Years Old Where:High School
- 4
Hsu Tai-yu's Retaliation
After being hit by a car while reading the chain letter, Hsu Tai-yu forces Lin Truly into a 'friendship'. This leads her to run errands for him as a means to keep Ouyang safe from his wrath.
When:Days Following Chain Letter Where:High School
- 5
Discovery of Min-min and Ouyang's Secret
Lin accidentally overhears a conversation revealing that Ouyang is in a secret relationship with Tao Min-min. This discovery fuels her desire to break up the couple and orchestrate a plan with Hsu Tai-yu.
When:Next Few Weeks Where:High School
- 6
Learning about Tai-yu's Past
While researching Ouyang's past, Lin learns that he and Tai-yu were once friends. This revelation sheds light on Tai-yu's transformation from a schoolmate to a gangster after a friend's tragic death.
When:Shortly After Discovery Where:Library
- 7
The Roller-Skating Challenge
Lin challenges Tai-yu to a roller-skating race with the stakes being a request from the loser. Surprising everyone, she wins and asks Tai-yu to revert to his former self, inspiring a meaningful change in him.
When:After Learning of Their Past Where:Roller Skating Rink
- 8
Tai-yu's Academic Improvement
Tai-yu begins to improve his grades significantly and places 10th in a mock exam. However, despite his progress, the new Director punishes him for alleged cheating, highlighting the ongoing struggles he faces.
When:Post Exam Where:School
- 9
Lin's Protest Against the Director
Angered by the Director's unfair treatment of Tai-yu, Lin initiates a protest within the school. The protest culminates during a festival where students take a stand against the Director's oppression, leading to a resolution.
When:Festival Day Where:School Festival
- 10
Camping Trip Promise
During a camping trip with friends, Lin and Tai-yu share emotional promises to remember each other after high school. This marks a significant moment in their evolving relationship.
When:Camping Trip Where:Campsite
Show the other 5 events of Our Times Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Lin's Birthday Surprise
The day before Lin's birthday, she receives a heartfelt recording from Tai-yu, meant to be listened to after the university entrance exam. This gesture hints at their deeper feelings for each other.
When:Day Before Birthday Where:Lin's Home
- 12
Heartbreaking Confession
On her birthday, Lin eagerly approaches Tai-yu, only to find him with Min-min, who confesses her feelings for him. Lin's hopes are dashed as she watches them together, leading to a painful emotional breakdown.
When:Birthday Where:School
- 13
Tai-yu's Medical Diagnosis
After the birthday events, Tai-yu discovers he has a brain clot resulting from his past injuries and fighting. His parents decide to send him overseas for treatment, leaving Lin feeling helpless and abandoned.
When:Following Diagnosis Where:Hospital
- 14
Listening to the Recording
After the university entrance exams, Lin finally listens to the recording from Tai-yu. In it, Tai-yu admits his feelings for her while acknowledging they both have pursued others.
When:Post Exams Where:Lin's Home
- 15
Reunion at the Concert
In the present day, Lin runs into Andy Lau outside his concert, where he helps her get in. To her surprise, the contact is revealed to be Tai-yu, fulfilling his promise to ensure she could see her idol perform.
When:Present Day Where:Concert Venue, Taipei
Who Are the Main Characters in Our Times?
3 characters, among them Lin Truly, Hsu Tai-yu and Ouyang Fei-Fan: who each one is and the part they play in the story. 1 of them link to the actor’s page.
- LT
Lin Truly
Lin Truly is a sincere office worker struggling with the monotony of adulthood. Her character reflects resilience and the quest for authenticity as she reminisces about her teenage years, allowing her to learn valuable lessons about love and self-worth. Ultimately, she embodies the journey of rediscovering herself and her passions.
- 👩💼 Working Woman
- 🥰 Romance
- 🌟 Growth
- HT
Hsu Tai-yu
Played by Benny Ibarra
Hsu Tai-yu is initially portrayed as a tough gangster but reveals deeper layers as the story unfolds. His backstory of friendship and loss shapes him into a complex character who learns to embrace his vulnerability. Throughout the film, his development from a hardened teen to someone who respects and appreciates love showcases significant growth.
- 👦 Gangster
- 💔 Troubled Past
- 🏆 Redemption
- OF
Ouyang Fei-Fan
Ouyang Fei-Fan is the charming and popular boy that Lin Truly has a crush on in high school. His character embodies the typical high school heartthrob, but his relationship with Min-min complicates things for Lin. His actions lead to pivotal moments in Lin's journey of self-awareness and emotional growth.
- ❤️ Romantic Interest
- 🧑🎓 Popular
Where and When Is Our Times Set?
Our Times is set in Taipei (Present Day, High School Days). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
Present Day, High School Days
The movie oscillates between the present day and the nostalgic high school days of Lin Truly. The present day reflects themes of self-discovery and moving forward in life, while her high school days depict the trials and tribulations of adolescent relationships and identity formation. The challenges faced during adolescence are highlighted alongside contemporary pressures faced by young adults.
Where
Taipei
Taipei is the bustling capital city of Taiwan, known for its vibrant culture and modern architecture. It is famous for its street food, night markets, and iconic skyscraper, Taipei 101. The city becomes a significant place for Lin Truly as she seeks to reconnect with her past and fulfill her dream of attending an Andy Lau concert.
- 🏙️ City
- 🎶 Concert
What Are the Themes of Our Times?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Love and Heartbreak, Fairness and Justice and Self-Discovery.
-
01
Love and Heartbreak
The film intricately explores the theme of unrequited love and the pain of heartbreak. Lin Truly's journey reveals how young love shapes individuals as they navigate friendships and relationships, leading to personal growth. Ultimately, the realization of bittersweet feelings for Tai-yu emphasizes the complexities of love during formative years.
-
02
Fairness and Justice
The issue of fairness, particularly within the school's environment, is a strong theme in the story. Lin Truly's proactive stance against the Director's unfair treatment of her friend Tai-yu highlights the importance of standing up for justice. This theme resonates with the audience as it encourages advocacy for equality and fairness in various aspects of life.
-
03
Self-Discovery
The journey of self-discovery is a central theme as Lin Truly transitions from an overworked office worker back to her high school roots. Her encounters with Tai-yu and other friends serve as catalysts for rediscovering her passions and beliefs. The ending reinforces the idea that it is important to pursue one's dreams and reconnect with what truly matters.
How Does Our Times End?
The last act of Our Times and what it means, in 270 words. The ending lands as happy. Big spoilers: read the plot summary first if you have not seen it.
The final act, in full
Nora and Hector’s journey through time leads them to unexpected places. They initially aimed to travel only 15 minutes into the future but instead end up in 2025 due to a malfunction, arriving 59 years ahead. Once in the future, Nora and Hector see how society has evolved—women have more independence, technology has advanced rapidly, and social norms are different. Hector struggles to adapt to these changes, feeling neglected and overshadowed, especially after a viral video shows him criticizing modern society, which hurts Nora deeply. Their differences come to a head, and Nora decides to stay in 2025 because she recognizes her potential to thrive professionally in this new world, while Hector feels stuck in the past and chooses to leave her behind. He leaves a heartfelt note, acknowledging her greatness and her right to pursue her dreams. Nora, heartbroken but determined, chooses to focus entirely on her scientific work, building her career and earning recognition. Thirty years later, she travels back to 1996 and reunites with Hector, revealing that she had secretly built a new time machine, knowing she would want to come home to him. Their love persists, but both recognize the importance of personal growth and the different paths they need to take. In the end, they find that love and science ultimately allow them to reconnect, arriving at a time where they can truly be together—“their time.” The ending emphasizes that sometimes love means letting go, so both can pursue the lives they are destined for, and that true connection can endure across time if both are willing to sacrifice and strive for their shared happiness.
What Kind of Film Is Our Times?
Bittersweet in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Bittersweet
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
A nostalgic and heartfelt coming-of-age drama that blends youthful romance and personal growth with melancholic reflection, ultimately arriving at a hopeful and satisfying reunion.
- nostalgic
- heartfelt
- melancholic
- hopeful
- reflective
- youthful
- coming of age
- first love
- high school life
- personal growth
Quiz
How well do you remember Our Times? Test yourself on the story.
