Once Upon a Time in Shanghai (1996): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1996, Once Upon a Time in Shanghai is a drama series.

What it’s about. Set in 1930s Shanghai, the story opens with legendary gambler Gon and his vow to recover his father's casino from Shanghai tycoon Fung In his quest, he becomes acquainted with Sou and uncovers her fiance's nefarious conspiracy. Sou gives her heart to Gon, but he can't forget his old love Gu. Meanwhile, up-and-coming gangster Hui Man Keung is quickly making his name in Shanghai. Crossing paths during chaotic times, Hui, Gon, and Ding Lik become brothers and business partners, but Fung recruits Hui and Ding to his side through backhanded methods. Though deeply in love with Fung's daughter Ching Ching, Hui can only turn away from love and friendship when Fung's true nature is revealed. Fung, however, is not about to just let Hui walk away.

Who’s in it. Once Upon a Time in Shanghai stars Adam Cheng Siu-Chow as 于镇海, Pat Poon as 冯敬尧, Sunny Chan Kam-Hung as 许文强 and Carol Cheng as 苏七巧, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 8.0/10, Once Upon a Time in Shanghai sits among the best-reviewed titles in the catalogue.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Once Upon a Time in Shanghai page.

If you liked it. Fans of Once Upon a Time in Shanghai tend to enjoy Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba and Attack on Titan.