Better Days
A raw and poignant crime-drama that paints a visceral portrait of alienated youth, finding a sliver of hope in a bleak, oppressive world.
Better Days
Better Days

少年的你

"You protect the world. I'll protect you."

25 October 2019 China 135 min ⭐ 8.1 (510)
Director: Derek Tsang Kwok-Cheung
Cast: Zhou Dongyu, Jackson Yee, Yin Fang, Huang Jue, Wu Yue
Drama Crime Romance
School Bullying and Its Consequences Societal Pressure and the Gaokao Sacrificial Love and Unlikely Alliances Youth Alienation and Systemic Failure
Box Office: $225,879,065

Better Days - Movie Quotes

Memorable Quotes

你保护世界,我保护你 (Nǐ bǎohù shìjiè, wǒ bǎohù nǐ)

— Liu Beishan (Xiao Bei)

Context:

Xiao Bei says this to Chen Nian as their bond deepens and he takes on the role of her protector. It is a solemn promise that defines their relationship and his actions throughout the rest of the film.

Meaning:

This is arguably the most iconic line from the film. It encapsulates the depth of Xiao Bei's love and commitment to Chen Nian. He sees her potential to have a positive impact on the world and dedicates his own life, which he deems less valuable, to ensuring she has the opportunity to do so. It speaks to the theme of sacrificial love and their profound bond.

我们生活在阴沟里,但总有人仰望星空。(Wǒmen shēnghuó zài yīngōu lǐ, dàn zǒng yǒu rén yǎngwàng xīngkōng.)

— Chen Nian (written in her notebook)

Context:

This line is seen written in Chen Nian's notebook as she studies, serving as a personal mantra that keeps her focused on her goal of escaping her oppressive environment through education.

Meaning:

This quote, a famous line from Oscar Wilde, reflects Chen Nian's enduring hope and resilience despite her bleak circumstances. It signifies her determination to rise above her suffering and strive for a better future, symbolized by the "stars." It is a testament to the human spirit's ability to find hope even in the darkest of times.

长大就像跳水,闭上眼睛,往下跳,就好了。(Zhǎng dà jiù xiàng tiàoshuǐ, bì shàng yǎnjīng, wǎng xià tiào, jiù hǎole.)

— Zheng Ye

Context:

Zheng Ye says this to Chen Nian, acknowledging the lack of guidance and preparation for the harsh realities of adulthood. It's a moment of connection where he expresses a world-weary empathy for her struggles.

Meaning:

This quote offers a cynical yet perhaps realistic perspective on the transition to adulthood. It suggests that growing up is not a graceful or well-guided process, but a leap of faith into the unknown. It reflects the detective's own disillusionment with the complexities and injustices of the adult world.