Two independent stories involving chess wizards are interwoven to satirize the politics of the Chinese Cultural Revolution as well as Taiwan's capitalist boom of the 1970's.
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
 Tony Leung Ka-faiWang Yisheng | Wang Yisheng |
 John Shum Kin-FunChing Ling | Ching Ling |
 Yim HoChung | Chung |
| YYang LinJade mui | Jade mui |
| WWong Sing FongLittle Chess King | Little Chess King |
 King Shih-chiehLanky Ngai | Lanky Ngai |
 John Chan Koon-ChungProf. Lau Yue Bok | Prof. Lau Yue Bok |
| LLiu MingVice Chairman Lam | Vice Chairman Lam |
 O Sing-PuiNot listed | Not listed |