Essay Questions

Why is Bob in Tokyo?

Bob is an American movie star who has decided to come to Tokyo in order to shoot a commercial for a whiskey company overseas. More specifically he's in Tokyo because he's being paid $2,000,000. With this in his bank account he is willing to leave his marital troubles and his son (during his birthday) behind.

What does Bob say to Charlotte at the end of the film?

This is the question of the film...the answer? No one knows, we don't hear what he says to her. But the point of this moment is what matters most in the film: there are moments that mark out lives. They are important and vital to our decision making as we move forward in our lives. Unfortunately this moment Charlotte learns from is one of pain and betrayal at the hands of someone she believed to be different. And Bob going after her displays the hope that he is changing and isn't simply a cold-hearted man simply out for himself without no consideration for others.

Why is Charlotte in Japan?

Charlotte is in Tokyo with her boyfriend who is a celebrity photographer. He has left her behind in the hotel room while he works day and night. She starts up a platonic friendship with Bob at the bar of the hotel where they are both staying. Ironically, she chooses a movie star to have a relationship with in order to advance in her relationship from an unavailable celebrity photographer.