Formula 17 2005

In the vibrant city of Taipei, we meet Chou Tien Tsai, portrayed by Tony Yang, a dreamer from the countryside eager to connect with his online friend Kevin. However, his excitement quickly turns to disappointment when Kevin suggests a physical encounter devoid of emotional ties. This shocking proposition leaves Tien heartbroken, prompting him to seek refuge in the energetic nightlife of the city. During one of his escapades, he reunites with Yu, played by Jin Qin, and CC, performed by Dada Ji, amidst the ambient sounds of laughter and lively music at a bustling bar.

While navigating this new world, Tien encounters Bai Tieh Nan, brought to life by Duncan Chow, a notorious playboy known for a string of fleeting romances. Although Tien claims to detest men who mishandle love, he finds himself inexplicably captivated by Bai’s mysterious allure. Their unexpected connection leads to them becoming roommates. Yu, hopeful for Tien’s romantic future, tries to set him up with various dates, but Tien remains steadfast in his desire to wait for true love.

As fate intertwines their lives, Tien and Bai embark on a series of complicated encounters that leave Tien both enamored and puzzled. Bai’s therapy sessions divulge a painful truth: despite his physical encounters, he struggles with a fear of kissing. His therapist’s suggestions, including practicing on a mirror and a mannequin, yield no success, leading Bai to attempt to confront his fears with his friend Jun, played by Jason Chang, but he still finds himself unable to connect.

Everything reaches a turning point one evening when Tien arrives at Bai’s doorstep. They share a passionate kiss, escalating into an intimate night together. However, when Bai vanishes the following day, Tien is left heartbroken, especially after Jun reveals that Bai had hoped for no misunderstanding concerning their encounter. Determined to avoid such confusion in the future, Tien leaves a message declaring his resolve to not fall into similar traps again.

As Bai prepares for a crucial business trip, he faces obstacles in his attempts to rectify the situation with Tien, leaving their feelings in limbo. The distance grows as Tien readies himself to leave and embrace solitude once more. Following his return from the trip with Jun, Bai finds himself under pressure from friends demanding the truth about his feelings. At this crucial moment, Jun decides to reveal a piece of Bai’s troubled past to the group: as a child, Bai encountered a fortune teller who predicted that everything he loved would inevitably perish, thus sealing his fate to a life of short-lived encounters and barring him from true affection. Yet, when Tien entered his life, everything changed for Bai, making him yearn for a genuine connection.

After an emotional prayer, Bai catches a glimpse of Tien once more, only for his initial attempt at an apology to be met with rejection. As Tien hastily departs, he narrowly escapes a reckless scooter, thanks to Bai’s quick action that saves him. Their experience draws the two closer, leading to a heartfelt reconciliation.

The film wraps up with a comedic interlude featuring Yu, CC, and Alan sharing their witty takes on gay fashion, adding a lighthearted touch to the emotional journey that has unfolded.