Directed by: Jon M. Chu
Written by: Peter Chiarelli and Adele Lim, based on the novel “Crazy Rich Asians” by Kevin Kwan.
Starring:
Constance Wu as Rachel Chu
Henry Golding as Nick Young
Michelle Yeoh as Eleanor Young
Gemma Chan as Astrid Young Teo
Lisa Liu as Ah Ma
Rated PG-13 for some suggestive content and language
I’ve always admired films that explore cultures other than my own. They usually provide intriguing learning experiences for me and surprise me in good ways. Films such as My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002) and Lost in Translation (2003) are good examples of getting absorbed into the cultures that are shown in the film. They provide a temporary escape from the American way of life.
Crazy Rich Asians is a vibrant and colorful look at the lives of, well, crazy rich Asians in the Singapore region. The locations light up the night sky with amazing colors, and it is reminiscent of the Las Vegas of Asia. I’d never even heard of having a bachelor party on a container ship before this movie. I suppose having a wild and crazy party can’t disturb the peace if it’s out in the middle of the ocean. I was amazed by these sequences and it made me want to plan a trip over there someday (not to party hardy, of course).
The plot, however, is very much overdone. It concerns an Asian-American economics professor named Rachel (Constance Wu) flying halfway around the world with her boyfriend Nick (Henry Golding) to meet his family. This includes his stern mother Eleanor (Michelle Yeoh). To me, it’s Meet the Parents, but without the running gags. Eleanor disapproves of Rachel, which is not surprising. I felt for Rachel, given her honest and noble intentions. This is the primary focus of the film; tiresome at times, but not a big enough deal for me to avoid recommending the film. The dialogue in the more serious scenes is well written and gets us through those moments.
The production design was very impressive, worthy of an Oscar nomination. I loved the interior decoration of every scene and it makes a lot of the scenes stand out. Of course, I can’t imagine two of the characters having a simple conversation in a room with white walls, when we know that it takes place in Singapore, and we want to look at the scenery as well. The wedding sequence in the film was visually mind-blowing, too.
All in all, Crazy Rich Asians has a great look and several hilarious moments. I especially enjoyed the moments with Rachel’s best friend Peik Lin Goh (played by Awkwafina), who provided the majority of the film’s humor. I loved the scene with her and her oddball family (who is hosting Rachel during her stay) having breakfast, with her father (the always hilarious Ken Jeong) sporting an Elvis-esque hairdo and attire. With many laughable moments, great cultural references, and overall satisfaction, this is definitely the feel-good movie of the year.
3/4 stars
