Back Alley Princess

synopsis

“Chilli Boy” and “Embroidered Pillow” are two rootless drifters with a talent for all sort of naughty acts. In a public square, they help a group of itinerant performers, led by elderly Chang, to attract large crowds. Later, join Chang’s group, and live with them.

The place is a slum building. Among the many under-privileged residents are Mrs Wang and her budding daughter.

One day, Miss Wang is robbed of all she has for the year’s school fees. “Chilli Boy” offers help, claiming he has a millionaire uncle. But, in fact, he goes pick-pocketing with “Embroidered Pillow” — and, eventually, get caught on the spot. By they are saved from the police by Mr Tang, a kind-hearted lawyer whose wallet they tried to pick. They trick him into sympathising with them by saying they have an aging grandmother and a pregnant mother to support.

Tang soon finds out the truth when he comes to the slum building to investigage the residents’ complaint about a big rental rise. But Tang is touched by the boy’s good intention. He brings him home, with a view to giving him a new life.

Miss Wang falls into the hands of a Iusful underground boss. One of the itinerant players is killed in an attempt to interfere. Shocked, “Chilli Boy” returns to the slums. With Chang’s daughter posing as a girl ready to sell herself. “Chilli Boy” gains admission into the underground boss’s hideout.

A clash begins when the itinerant performers come to demand justice outside the stronghold. By chance, they crack down on what turns out to be a drug den. Overwhelmed by praises, “Chilli Boy” reveals for the first time her identity, saying: “Believe me or not, I’m a girl.”

—end—