What Is Three Times About?
The premise of Three Times in 372 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a lyrical triptych that sweeps across three distinct eras of Taiwanese history, the film weaves together quiet moments of yearning and the subtle ways love resurfaces amid social change. From the heat‑stifled summer of the mid‑1960s to the muted streets of a colonised port town in the early 20th century, and finally to the neon‑lit clubs of a bustling 2005 metropolis, each vignette captures a particular slice of life while echoing a shared emotional current. The mood shifts from nostalgic melancholy to restrained optimism, all underscored by a visual palette that balances period detail with an almost poetic stillness.
The first story follows Chen, a young soldier on leave who drifts into a lively pool hall where May works behind the counter. Their encounter is marked by the clack of billiard balls and fleeting glances, suggesting a connection that feels both immediate and fragile. Set against the backdrop of a society in flux, the narrative lingers on the intimacy of brief exchanges, the unspoken hopes that linger in a room humming with low conversation, and the quiet wish for something lasting beyond the moment.
In 1911, amid Japanese occupation, a singing courtesan named Ah Mei navigates a world of rigid hierarchy and emerging modernity. Her life intertwines with that of Mr. Chang, a traveling writer whose ideals clash with the constraints of the era. Their interactions unfold in the shadow of silent‑film theatres and dimly lit brothels, painting a portrait of yearning for personal freedom and artistic expression. The tone here is hushed yet intense, reflecting both the oppressive atmosphere of the time and the inner fire that drives the characters toward an uncertain future.
The final segment lands in contemporary Taipei, where Jing, a club singer with a fierce creative drive, balances the demands of her art with the tangled emotions of her relationships. The city’s vibrant nightlife provides a backdrop for her search for inspiration and the delicate negotiations of love and ambition. Zhen, a photographer caught in the same orbit, adds another layer of tension as both characters grapple with the push‑and‑pull of desire, career, and self‑discovery. Together, these three stories form a resonant meditation on longing, each era echoing the timeless quest for connection amid changing worlds.
What Happens in Three Times?
The complete story of Three Times, from the first scene to the last, in 803 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout.
Spoilers ahead
In the sweltering summer of 1966, amidst the chaos of the Cultural Revolution tearing through mainland China, a different kind of turmoil was unfolding in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. It was here that Chen, a young soldier on leave, found himself captivated by the enigmatic May, who served customers at a lively pool hall. Their initial encounter was marked by a game of chance and skill, which eventually transformed into a delicate dance of attraction, characterized by stolen glances and soft whispers amid the clattering of balls and the joyous laughter of patrons. When May prepared to lock up for the night, Chen’s promise to write her a letter before he returned to his station ignited a flicker of anticipation in her heart.
Months passed, and May finally received the letter she had been yearning for, brimming with sentimental words reflecting Chen’s unwavering affection. However, as the mundane patterns of life in Kaohsiung enveloped her, she grew restless, longing for change. She decided to return to Chiayi, seeking solace in the memories of a time long past. Little did she know that Chen had been stealthily following her journey, driven by a desire to reignite their fragile connection, trailing her from one pool hall to another.
Their paths serendipitously crossed again in Huwei, where the familiar sights and sounds of the game provided them a bittersweet reunion. As they lingered at the train station, the atmosphere thickened with unspoken words—the tension of anticipation mingled with regret. Then, as if moved by the whims of fate, Chen took May’s hand, and the two nestled beneath an umbrella, finding warmth and shelter against the uncertainties that loomed ahead.
Transitioning to a contrasting tale set in 1911, during the era of Japanese occupation of Dadaocheng, a different narrative unfolds against the backdrop of silent films. This segment introduces us to a brothel, where a singing courtesan yearns not only for personal freedom but also a release from the constraints imposed by her life. Her heart beats in unison with that of Mr. Chang, a traveling writer and political dissident, whose tales of adventure incite her own dreams of escape.
Yet, despite his genuine affection for her, Mr. Chang firmly denies her request to become his concubine. His objections stem from two beliefs: a deep-seated disdain for the concubinage system and his commitment to battling the Japanese through diplomatic means, which forbids any personal entanglements. As the courtesan’s fantasies of liberation linger tantalizingly close yet out of reach, her songs become an echo of hope in a world filled with despair.
As fate intervenes, Mr. Chang’s noble act of purchasing Ah Mei’s freedom is realized, prompting him to revisit the brothel where her sister resides. Aware of her own unstable reality, Ah Mei gazes at him with an unarticulated desire for salvation, yet Mr. Chang remains untouched by her silent plea. With the arrival of a new young courtesan, Ah Mei begins to absorb her newfound liberty; however, her inquiries into Mr. Chang’s intentions unveil an emotional chasm that deepens her feelings of hopelessness.
Three months into this tumultuous journey, solace comes in the form of melodic lessons taught by the new girl. Yet, when a poignant letter from Mr. Chang arrives, filled with a haunting poem contemplating the sorrow awaiting Taiwan post-liberation, Ah Mei’s tears begin to dry, replaced by an emerging sense of resilience.
The final segment whisks us to the vibrant scene of Taipei in 2005, where Jing, a club singer, smoothly navigates the intricate layers of her romantic relationship with photographer Zhen. Their affair blossoms against the pulsating backdrop of city life. During one electrifying performance, Zhen captures Jing’s essence, sparking jealousy as his girlfriend departs in a huff. As their connection intensifies, Zhen uncovers Jing’s epilepsy management badge, which leads him down a path of emotional turmoil when he spots his girlfriend and faces rejection once more.
As night falls, a palpable tension transforms into connection as Jing and her partner share an intimate embrace. Yet, Jing’s thoughts linger elsewhere—distracted by a text from Zhen, inviting her to meet for a long-awaited exchange of photos and her badge. Deep in her creative process the next day, Jing channels her feelings into lyrics, forming a raw, reflective song that captures her inner strife while Zhen waits, eager for their forbidden bond to deepen.
Amidst this emotional tempest, Jing’s girlfriend finds herself alone, entangled in feelings of abandonment and desperation. In a moment of vulnerability, she sends a chilling message to Jing, hinting at the hurt that awaits if her love remains unreciprocated. As Jing arrives home, the weight of those words hits her hard, leading to a breakdown on their bed. In contrast, the sound of her song fades as Jing and Zhen speed down the freeway, love glowing as brightly as the roads themselves.
Three Times Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Chen's Leave in Kaohsiung” to “Confronting Emotional Realities”. 15 events name a place, across 5 locations.
- 1
Chen's Leave in Kaohsiung
In the summer of 1966, amid the Cultural Revolution, young soldier Chen finds himself on leave in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. It is here that he encounters May, a captivating pool hall waitress, setting the stage for a deep yet fragile connection.
When:1966 Where:Kaohsiung
- 2
The First Meeting
Chen and May's first encounter unfolds through a riveting game of pool, where luck and skill intertwine. Their interaction is filled with stolen glances and tentative whispers, marking the beginning of their emotional journey.
When:1966 Where:Kaohsiung
- 3
A Promise Made
As the night draws to a close, May prepares to lock up the pool hall, and Chen promises to write her a letter. This promise ignites a spark of hope within May, foreshadowing the emotional stakes of their growing relationship.
When:1966 Where:Kaohsiung
- 4
A Letter Arrives
Months later, May finally receives the long-awaited letter filled with Chen's heartfelt affection. However, the passage of time starts to wear on her, leading her to feel restless and yearning for change in her life.
When:1966 Where:Kaohsiung
- 5
Journey to Chiayi
Seeking solace from her mundane life, May decides to return to Chiayi, a place filled with echoes of her past. Unbeknownst to her, Chen has been quietly following her, compelled to reconnect with the woman who has stolen his heart.
When:1966 Where:Chiayi
- 6
Serendipitous Reunion in Huwei
In a twist of fate, Chen and May reunite in Huwei, their connection rekindled amidst the familiar sounds of the pool hall. Their encounter at the train station is laden with unspoken emotions, echoing both anticipation and regret.
When:1966 Where:Huwei
- 7
Finding Shelter Together
As the clouds gather, Chen takes May's hand, and they find refuge beneath an umbrella. This intimate moment solidifies their bond amidst the uncertainties that lie ahead, showcasing the depth of their shared experiences.
When:1966 Where:Huwei
- 8
A Shift to 1911 Dadaocheng
The narrative shifts back to 1911 during the Japanese occupation, introducing a courtesan in a brothel who yearns for personal freedom. Her dreams of escape intertwine with those of Mr. Chang, a political dissident whose adventurous tales captivate her imagination.
When:1911 Where:Dadaocheng
- 9
Mr. Chang's Dilemma
Despite his feelings for the courtesan, Mr. Chang refrains from offering her a life as his concubine. His disdain for the concubinage system and commitment to the political struggle against the Japanese binds him, creating tension between personal desires and societal responsibilities.
When:1911 Where:Dadaocheng
- 10
Ah Mei's Situation
Mr. Chang's noble gesture of purchasing Ah Mei's freedom fosters a complicated emotional landscape. Gazing at him with longing, Ah Mei feels trapped by her reality, only to discover the weight of unreciprocated affection and aspirations.
When:1911 Where:Dadaocheng
Show the other 5 events of Three Times Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Musical Lessons and Resilience
Amid conflicts, Ah Mei begins to receive melodic lessons from a new courtesan, finding solace in music. This growth mirrors her emotional journey, particularly when she receives a poignant letter from Mr. Chang brimming with reflections on Taiwan's future.
When:1911 Where:Dadaocheng
- 12
Flash Forward to Taipei 2005
The final act shifts to 2005 in Taipei, focusing on Jing, a club singer entangled in a romantic relationship with photographer Zhen. Their connection flourishes amid the vibrant nightlife, setting the stage for emotional complexities.
When:2005 Where:Taipei
- 13
Jealousy and Turmoil
During a gripping performance, Zhen captures Jing's essence through his lens, sparking jealousy that disrupts their bond. Their relationship faces trials as Zhen confronts deep emotional turmoil and rejection from his own girlfriend.
When:2005 Where:Taipei
- 14
Intimate Moments
Despite tensions, night brings intimacy between Jing and Zhen, culminating in shared vulnerability. However, the arrival of a chilling message from Jing's girlfriend complicates matters, leaving Jing grappling with intense emotions of guilt and confusion.
When:2005 Where:Taipei
- 15
Confronting Emotional Realities
As Jing navigates her feelings, she channels her turmoil into lyrics for a new song, capturing her internal strife. The juxtaposition of platonic and romantic connections sets the stage for a poignant exploration of love and abandonment as they speed down the freeway.
When:2005 Where:Taipei
Who Are the Main Characters in Three Times?
6 characters, among them Chen, May and Mr. Chang: who each one is and the part they play in the story.
- C
Chen
Chen is a young soldier on leave, characterized by his youthful charm and romantic intrigue. He finds himself caught between duty and his growing affection for May, demonstrating his gentleness and longing for connection amidst the chaos of the times. His determination to stay close to May speaks to his deeper emotional resilience.
- 💂 Soldier
- ❤️ Romantic
- 🌟 Determined
- M
May
May is a captivating figure in the lively pool hall, embodying the spirit of youthful optimism and curiosity. Her character reflects the struggles of yearning for meaningful connections, showcasing her emotional nuance as she navigates her feelings for Chen. As the story progresses, her journey reveals her deep desire for change and fulfillment.
- 👧 Mesmerizing
- 💖 Dreamer
- 🎱 Enthusiast
- MC
Mr. Chang
Mr. Chang is a principled writer and political dissident, marked by his strong convictions against the concubinage system. His deep affection for the courtesan represents a clash between personal desires and moral obligations, illustrating the complexities of love in times of oppression. His character stands as a beacon of hope for those yearning for freedom.
- 📖 Writer
- 💪 Idealist
- 🎩 Resilient
- AM
Ah Mei
Ah Mei is a courtesan who grapples with her reality within the confines of the brothel. Her character embodies the struggle for personal autonomy and the desire for a brighter future, yet also reflects the heartache of unfulfilled wishes. As she interacts with Mr. Chang, her silent longing adds depth to her portrayal.
- 🌸 Resilient
- 🎤 Singer
- 💔 Yearning
- J
Jing
Jing is a club singer navigating the complexities of her romantic relationship with Zhen. Her character is marked by passion and creativity, pouring her emotions into her music while managing her condition. Jing's journey explores themes of intimacy and emotional vulnerability as she seeks fulfillment in both love and art.
- 🎤 Singer
- 💔 Vulnerable
- 🎶 Creative
- Z
Zhen
Zhen is a photographer whose relationship with Jing is fraught with jealousy and emotional tension. Capturing moments of intimacy through his lens, he encounters the challenges of love, rejection, and longing. His character highlights the complexities of modern relationships amidst the vibrant backdrop of Taipei.
- 📷 Photographer
- 💔 Jealous
- 🎆 Romantic
Where and When Is Three Times Set?
Three Times is set in Kaohsiung, Chiayi, Huwei, Dadaocheng and Taipei (1966, 1911, 2005). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
1966, 1911, 2005
The narrative spans different time periods, starting in 1966 during the Cultural Revolution in mainland China, which introduces a sense of societal turmoil. It further shifts back to 1911, shedding light on the struggles of Taiwanese people under Japanese rule, followed by a glimpse of modern life in 2005, highlighting the evolution of personal relationships in a more liberated society.
Where
Kaohsiung, Chiayi, Huwei, Dadaocheng, Taipei
The movie traverses several significant cities in Taiwan, including Kaohsiung, known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling culture, and Chiayi, which offers a nostalgic escape into the past. The story also explores the historical backdrop of Dadaocheng, marked by Japanese occupation, and culminates in the lively contemporary scene of Taipei, a hub of urban life and artistic expression.
- 🏙️ City
- 🌄 Landscape
- 🎭 Historical
What Are the Themes of Three Times?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Love, Identity and Time.
-
01
Love
The film intricately weaves the theme of love through various relationships, each reflecting its complexities and consequences. From fleeting connections in pool halls to profound bonds in a brothel, the characters face the challenges of desire, heartbreak, and longing. Ultimately, love serves as both a refuge and a source of turmoil in their lives.
-
02
Identity
Identity plays a crucial role in the characters' journeys, whether it’s the courtesan seeking freedom or the soldier grappling with his place in an ever-changing world. As they navigate their surroundings and relationships, they confront societal expectations and personal aspirations, leading to growth and transformation throughout the narrative.
-
03
Time
The concept of time is pivotal in 'Three Times,' as it highlights how love and circumstances evolve over the years. The distinct eras presented in the film reveal how historical contexts shape personal experiences and relationships, emphasizing the continuity and change faced by individuals across generations.
What Kind of Film Is Three Times?
Bittersweet in tone, with slow pacing and a complex story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Bittersweet
- Pacing
- Slow
- Story
- Complex
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Bittersweet
A slow, melancholic film that intertwines three stories of love and longing across different eras, creating a reflective atmosphere of bittersweet connections against a backdrop of historical and personal change.
- longing
- melancholic
- reflective
- nostalgic
- romantic
- lonely
- interconnected stories
- love across time
- artistic struggle
- social constraints
Content notes: epilepsy mention, suicidal ideation mention.
Quiz
How well do you remember Three Times? Test yourself on the story.
