Rubie lives in Hong Kong in the period just prior to its being turned over to mainland Chinese rule. She edits a magazine and has a relatively successful and prosperous life. However, like all of her friends and relatives, she is transfixed by the upcoming changeover. Should she leave or plan to stay in Hong Kong permanently? Arrange for a safe exit, but remain behind for a while? The issue is neatly symbolized by the (true) protest staged by Swedish film star
Liv Ullmann in 1990. Hong Kong feared to anger the mainland government by providing shelter to around 50 desperate Vietnamese boat people and shipped them back. In this film, the editor has begun an imaginary correspondence with the actress in which she discusses the issues she is facing. ~ Clarke Fountain, All Movie Guide