In this Asian love story two men battle it out with fire crackers for the hand of a woman. The story is set in a remote village on northern China's Yellow River, circa 1911. Niu Bao is a handsome wandering painter whom the Cai family contracts to decorate its huge mansion on the other side of the river. The Cai family are the major fireworks makers in northern China. The family is now run by Chunzhi, a 19-year old woman who wears men's clothing. The feisty artist falls for her immediately. He ends up being beaten by Man Dihong, the foreman who also wants to woo the powerful young girl. Niu Bao leaves town, but later slips back to sleep with Chunzhi. In the end, Man Dihong and Niu Bao have a showdown, each demonstrating their skill with live fireworks. The bold Niu Bao even risks his family jewels as a last resort.