Already Tomorrow in Hong Kong (2016) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The entire film unfolds in Hong Kong, a vibrant metropolis famous for its stunning skyline, bustling streets, and rich cultural heritage. Key locations include the iconic Star Ferry, lively markets, and various neighborhoods that showcase the city's unique blend of modern and traditional elements.

• hong kong setting
• star ferry
• kowloon
• hong kong island
• movie locations

The Star Ferry is a historic ferry service that connects Hong Kong Island with the Kowloon Peninsula. In the movie, it serves as an iconic symbol of the city's charm and plays a significant role in the romantic narrative as Ruby and Josh explore the city together.

• star ferry
• ferry ride
• hong kong icon
• romantic location

The movie takes place in contemporary times, reflecting modern relationship dynamics and personal growth in today's world. The narrative follows a straightforward timeline with two chance meetings one year apart.

• modern day
• contemporary
• hong kong 2016
• time period

The film explores three interconnected themes: Heartbreak, as characters navigate complex emotional connections and pre-existing relationships; Personal Growth, following Ruby and Josh on their journeys of self-discovery and pursuing their ambitions; and Connection, examining how a serendipitous encounter challenges notions of love, fidelity, and societal expectations.

• themes
• heartbreak
• personal growth
• connection
• love
• fidelity

Heartbreak serves as a central theme, with both Ruby and Josh grappling with their emotional connections and commitments. Their relationship is complicated by their pre-existing relationships, creating feelings of betrayal and longing. The tension between desire and obligation drives much of the emotional weight.

• heartbreak
• emotional pain
• betrayal
• longing
• love triangle

Both protagonists undergo significant personal growth throughout the story. Ruby pursues her career ambitions as a toy designer, while Josh makes a major life change transitioning from finance to following his passion for writing. Their reunion forces them to examine the paths they've taken and the choices they've made.

• self-discovery
• career change
• growth
• ambition
• writing
• toy designer

The Connection theme explores the chemistry and spontaneity between Ruby and Josh despite their complicated circumstances. Their bond represents a serendipitous encounter that challenges societal norms and raises questions about the nature of true love and fidelity.

• chemistry
• serendipity
• fate
• connection
• romance
• relationship

Ruby Lin, played by Jamie Chung, is a toy designer from Los Angeles who travels to Hong Kong. She is portrayed as a strong, ambitious woman with a successful career in the toy industry. Ruby showcases a mix of vulnerability and determination as she navigates the city and confronts her feelings for Josh.

• ruby lin
• jamie chung
• toy designer
• protagonist
• los angeles

Josh Rosenberg, played by Bryan Greenberg, is an American expatriate living in Hong Kong. He is caught between his past relationships and his aspirations, undergoing significant character development as he transitions from a finance career to pursuing writing. His character exemplifies the struggle between societal expectations and personal desires.

• josh rosenberg
• bryan greenberg
• expat
• american
• writer
• finance

The film has a bittersweet tone, blending romantic hope with melancholic reality. The narrative intensity is low, focusing on conversation and character reflection rather than high-stakes drama. The pacing is slow and atmospheric, allowing for meaningful dialogue and exploration of Hong Kong's vibrant setting.

• bittersweet
• romantic comedy
• mood
• tone
• emotional
• slow pacing

The movie follows a straightforward, linear narrative centered around two chance meetings between Ruby and Josh, one year apart. This structure allows significant time for dialogue, character reflection, and atmospheric exploration of Hong Kong's neighborhoods and music scene.

• narrative structure
• linear
• flash forward
• one year later
• storytelling

The ambiguous ending, which leaves Ruby and Josh's future unresolved, reinforces the film's overall theme of uncertain romance. It reflects the bittersweet tone and the characters' difficult personal choices, leaving viewers to interpret whether their connection will survive the complexities of their circumstances.

• ambiguous ending
• unresolved ending
• finale
• relationship outcome

Hong Kong serves as more than just a backdrop, it actively shapes the narrative through its vibrant markets, unique music scene, and bustling city life. The setting resonates with themes of modern relationships and personal ambition, reflecting the complexities of love and pursuit of dreams in a global metropolitan environment.

• hong kong culture
• markets
• music scene
• city life
• urban romance