An Autumn’s Tale

An Autumn’s Tale unfolds in a contemporary late-1980s New York setting, a time when cross-cultural encounters between Hong Kong and American life were navigating both opportunities and misunderstandings. The city’s pace mirrors the characters’ emotional tempo, with nightlife, bus routes, and theatres shaping their daily rhythms. The period details emphasize a pre-digital era where personal connections were more direct and fragile. The era frames the romance as a bridging of two worlds at a moment of global dialogue.

The film spans two major urban centers: Hong Kong, Jennifer's origin, and New York City, where most of the romance and personal growth unfold. Within NYC, the action hops between diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown and the riverfront piers where Sampan and The Big Panda sit as cultural touchstones. Long Island also appears as a backdrop scene of domestic life and living arrangements. The urban setting highlights the clash between immigrant aspirations and the bustling city’s distractions.

❤️ Romance

Jennifer’s pursuit of Vincent and Pang’s quiet devotion form the emotional core. The film traces how love can complicate choices, fuel jealousy, and demand sacrifice. It also explores how affection can heal loneliness, even when mutual feelings are imperfect or misread. The evolving relationship between faith, trust, and distance drives the plot forward.

🌍 Immigration

Jennifer’s move from Hong Kong to New York highlights the pressures of adapting to a new city. Pang’s persistence and gentle mentorship reveal how newcomers navigate language barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and economic strain. The setting—streets, buses, and immigrant communities—underscores the push-pull between tradition and change. The themes of belonging and self-reliance are central to their journey.

🤝 Friendship & Sacrifice

Pang’s protective actions and his willingness to risk himself for Jennifer show the power of friendship. He sacrifices time, money, and pride to help her pursue her dreams, even when love seems one-sided. The tale emphasizes how personal growth often relies on supportive relationships that demand compromise. The finale reframes their bond as a hopeful, if bittersweet, partnership.