In a chaotic pre-revolutionary China, the city is ruled by gangs, with the notorious Axe Gang leading the underworld. One rundown tenement complex, known as Pigsty Alley, remains a peaceful haven amidst the turmoil, seemingly too insignificant to attract attention. The residents of Pigsty Alley lead simple lives, unaware of the approaching chaos. Aspiring to be a notorious gangster himself, a bumbling thief named Sing, along with his dim-witted friend, attempts to extort money from one of the tenants. When their plan fails miserably, they inadvertently attract the Axe Gang to the Alley.

The appearance of the Axe Gang ignites a series of confrontations, revealing that some of the unassuming residents are in fact retired martial arts masters. As tensions escalate, hidden identities and extraordinary talents of the tenants come to light, and they engage in spectacular fights to protect their home from the encroaching gangsters. Their actions trigger a war for control and respect, roping in various colorful characters, each with their own unique fighting style and motivations. The conflict draws the attention of the Axe Gang's most formidable adversaries, setting the stage for a showdown where the true power of loyalty, friendship, and martial arts will be tested.