The Shell Game

tv show

poster for The Shell Game

45 total episodes

-

2 seasons

First Aired September 15, 1980

Genres:

Overview

Set in 1930s Guangdong, when the gambling industry was in full bloom. One of the greatest gamblers in all of Southern China is Law Sei Hoi, who is dubbed as "Divine Eyes of the South" due to his keen eyesight, which he has used to win a great number of games. In addition to his recognition as a highly-skilled gambler, Law Sei Hoi is the owner of a number of casinos in Guangzhou. Tam Sing, an orphan, wanting to be a gambler himself, pursues Law Sei Hoi, asking him to accept him as a disciple. A blossoming romance begins to emerge between his teacher, Law Sei Hoi and his older sister, Tam Siu Tong, who is a well-known Cantonese opera singer. Hung Biu, the rival of Lo Sei Hoi and a gambling tycoon from Guangxi, however, plans to take over the Guangzhou gambling industry.

Episode 1 poster unavailable

Episode 1

Season 2 - Episode 1 - 1h 46m

Air Date

April 13, 1981

Overview

It is five peaceful years since TAM SING emerges as King Punter on the retirement of his two masters. Rivalries subsides for a time, but casinos remain the nosiest spot in town. One day, AH LOON and his partner OLD CAT huddle around a gambling table, and in the middle of the game, they start a brawl because OLD CAT is caught cheating. He is instantly 'killed'. AH LOON quickly disappear with all the money and later the 'dead body' is found to be a dummy. They are then chased after by gangsters and AH LOON flees to Shanghai. On his way, AH LOON meets TAM SING whom he tries to cheat with childish skills. When he finds that the man is the King Punter, he begs to serve him as master but in vain. In the funeral for the late King Punter of the North, the new successor, TO I SHOD challenges TAM SING and sparks off new rivalries.