STORY STUDY - MEDIUM: FILM “Already Tomorrow in Hong Kong”

Let’s leave the States for a bit to take a stroll and enjoy the nightlife of Hong Kong.

Directed and written by Emily Ting, Already Tomorrow in Hong Kong is about a Chinese-American toy designer who meets an American expatriate financier at the same bar, who offers to help her find another bar where her friends are at.

As the two walk to the location, they slowly connect to the point where she offers to cancel on her friends. When he reveals that he has a girlfriend, she leaves, embarrassed and upset.

The next year, they reunite, and do another walk. This time, both are honest with where they are at in their romantic lives, but their connection is still strong and appealing as before.

The conversations they have range from their experiences in living in an unfamiliar country, to their relationships, and the racist implications/judgements when dating outside of their ethnicity.

The banter between the two is very natural, complete with sarcasm and sass, both able to keep up with each other’s wit and humor. No surprise, given the actors were married when making the film.

The Hong Kong nightlife is the co-star of the film; the neon lights, the skyscrapers, and the populous locations being showed off as part of the appeal of the country.

I also find it funny that this film and Before We Go both feature a fortune teller the main characters encounter.

I discovered the film when it was available to stream on Netflix. Doing some quick research, I discovered that the film was inspired by Before Sunrise, so I knew what kind of a film to expect.

Already Tomorrow in Hong Kong is a charming, sweet film that brings up the bittersweet fact that even though you are with someone else in a loving relationship, it doesn’t stop you from being attracted to other people.