Is "Children of Jianghu" adapted from a true story? Are there any character prototypes in reality?

"Children of Jianghu" is based on real characters and has prototypes.

"Children of Jianghu" is a crime romance film directed by Jia Zhangke, starring Zhao Tao and Liao Fan, and co-starring Xu Zheng and Liang Jiayan. It was released in mainland China on September 21, 2018. The film tells the story of Qiaoqiao and Brother Bin spanning 17 years, experiencing love and betrayal, separation and reunion.

The film is based on real characters. The original name of the film was "Money and Love" because "Brother Bin" pursues success in the worldly sense, with money and power. It was later renamed "Children of Jianghu", and the Chinese title was taken from the last film planned by director Fei Mu. Jia Zhangke only told Zhao Tao after he finished writing the script, and he discussed the script in the middle with the photographer, assistant director and others.

Extended information

The plot of "Children of Jianghu": The story begins in Datong, Shanxi Province in 2001. Qiaoqiao and Binbin have been in love for many years, and Qiaoqiao hopes to get married with Binbin. He lives a stable life, but as a local boss, Binbin has his own higher ambitions. In an accident, Binbin was assassinated and was in danger. Qiaoqiao stepped forward to save Binbin with Binbin's hidden pistol. However, he was sentenced to five years in prison for illegal possession of a gun.

Five years passed in the blink of an eye. After being released from prison, Qiaoqiao found that the whole world had changed dramatically. The only thing that remained unchanged was her sincere feelings for Binbin. Qiaoqiao traveled across mountains and rivers to find Binbin's whereabouts, but at this time Binbin had already lost his former sharpness and had a new girlfriend by his side. The penniless Qiaoqiao relied on his own wisdom to struggle and finally earn a world for himself.

Baidu Encyclopedia-Children of Jianghu