Crazy. Rich. Asians.

Viewers can expect to get all of this and more in director Jon M. Chu’s latest romantic comedy Crazy Rich Asians.

Kevin Kwan’s book turned movie showcases the struggles of growing up in an Asian family: duty to the family or going with one’s heart. The film highlights the different cultures that its characters have which distinguish them from each other despite their common ground of being Asian.

The story revolves around Asian American, Rachel who goes to Singapore with her boyfriend, Nick, for his best friend’s wedding. Unbeknownst to her, Nick’s family is the crème de la crème of the rich elite in Singapore. Throughout the film, you see how Rachel learns to fit into the world that Nick comes from and tries not to get eaten alive by the sharks of Singapore.

It is uplifting to watch Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh and Gemma Chan bring Rachel Chu, Nick Young, Eleanor Sung-Young and Astrid Leong-Teo, respectively, to life. Wu created a sense of a vulnerability and boldness that made her the perfect choice for Rachel.

Golding’s acting debut was a pleasant surprise as he played Nick like he was born to. He made cheesy lines work and provided naivety to a character that was put on a pedestal by everyone around him. Golding really embodied the character as there wasn’t an air of arrogance around him at all which made Nick more humbling and likeable.

There are also other stories that intertwine with the overall plot. One involving Eleanor, Nick’s mother. Michelle Yeoh’s performance is definitely a showstopper as she brings an authoritarian presence to the screen by showcasing how she is willing to do anything to uphold the stature of her family. At the same time, Yeoh also moves with such grace on screen that you can’t help but hold your breath in trepidation waiting for what she has to say or do next.

Astrid, Nick’s cousin, is another central character in the film. The former Oxford graduate covertly makes her mark in the world with one couture piece at a time. She is an intelligent, ethereal goddess with a heart and wallet of gold. Gemma Chan does a brilliant job of making Astrid warm and human among the ruthless and cold bourgeoisie. Chan really brings a regal presence to the screen while still maintaining heart through it all.

Awkwafina’s portrayal of Goh Peik Lim stole every scene that she was in with her unapologetic attitude and loyalty. Peik Lin is Rachel’s friend from college and like Nick, comes from a “comfortable” family in Singapore. Her comedic timing and one-liners are also something to look out for in the film.

Crazy Rich Asians is a film that will fill you with joy, laughter and pride. The latter is due to being able to see yourself and/or your culture represented on screen through these characters. This film showcases part of the Asian community with characters from different parts of the world. The actors each bring a unique touch to their characters which is an absolute pleasure to watch.

The actors leave you wanting more and quite frankly – that’s the best kind of movie.

 

Written by: Shaleen Surendra