Plot
The movie unfolds through nine different stories.
First, there is John as a reporter, trying to capture interesting scenes on the streets of Hong Kong, persuading himself his work gives his life a tangible meaning.
Second, there is Vivian who is looking to find balance in life, trying to escape from the underground she once was a part of and forget about her past, but is hindered by prejudices that are deep rooted in Chinese society.
Third, there is Vivian (still), with a chance to discard most of her problems by marrying John and moving to England with him. Even though she is tempted, she knows this would mean running away from the problem and is not be a long-term solution, mostly because of their different cultural backgrounds and possibly because of some uncertainty regarding John's ex-wife and former life.
Fourth, there is Jean, who has a here-today-who-knows-where-tomorrow attitude— especially seen in Hong Kong in the late 1990s. She understands life's different hardships, and with her face somewhat disfigured, is marked more intensely than most, but also knows where to draw the line in selling herself. John tries to help her, but does so in a dishonest way, which disappoints her. According to a note in film's credits, Jean's story was inspired by a short story by the American-British author Rachel Ingalls.
Fifth, there is John and Jim, close friends who have a mutual understanding, and shared humor and sarcasm. Even though their outlook to life differs, their love for the job (journalism) creates a strong bond of friendship.
Sixth, there is Chang, a man of high position but a coward at heart. His immense wealth cannot replace what he lacks in personality, charisma and morality. He has no cares, and exists purely on pretentiousness and status. While he is ashamed of Vivian, he does love her, but in a pathetic, cowardly way. He is very much into 'saving face' and can not find equilibrium in life (professional nor personal). He agrees to marry Vivian, but deceives her by arranging a mock wedding photoshoot, so she could have some pictures to send to her family. Vivian burns all of the photos and accepts that she will never be happy nor free.
Seventh, there are John and Vivian. A story of true love that isn't meant to be. Not because they don't want it to, but because of the societal constraints.
Eighth, there is John (again), perplexed with his own mortality, which he is suddenly forced to face.
Ninth, there is the political aspect of Hong Kong becoming a part of China again, which (at the time) was a great uncertainty.
