Crazy Rich Asians
Aka It's About Dang Time!
As a Hispanic female, I understand the need to see minorities in film. Growing up, I wanted to see someone, anyone who looked like me on screen. Representation is important in film and media. Crazy Rich Asians may have been made by Asians but that doesn't mean it can't reach everyone. I am so proud of this film for what it means in the Asian community.
Crazy Rich Asians is based in the book of the same name by Kevin Kwan. Which is absolutely amazing and you should read it today! Nick is a Chinese man bringing his ABC (American Born Chinese) girlfriend, Rachel, home for his best friend's wedding. His family is old fashioned, disgustingly wealthy and has exceedingly high expectations for his future wife. Sounds like a typical rom-com but it is so much more than that.
Crazy Rich Asians celebrates the rich Asian culture that has been hidden behind stereotypes. Director Jon M. Chu will mesmerize you with breathtaking locations, delicious jewelry, unfathomable fashion, and decadent food. I will warn you, do not see this movie on an empty stomach! All the amazing food on screen will have you drooling for authentic dumplings and pastries. Your jaw will hit the floor once you see Ah Ma's kitchen!
The film also celebrates relationships between friends and family, no matter your background. It doesn't matter if you are rich, poor, divorced or happily married. What matters is WHO you are and what you mean to each other.
I have to give a few shout outs, the first one goes to Kina Grannis who sings a hauntingly beautiful rendition of I Can't Help Falling In Love. It literally brought me to tears. It was the perfect song for the perfect moment. Everyone should go on to YouTube and look up Kina Grannis. She is amazing and you need to know who she is.
Gemma Chan plays Astrid, Nick's captivating cousin. She steals every moment she is on screen. She is tragic, loving, sincere and a total queen at the end of the movie. SPOILER UP AHEAD FOR BOOK AND MOVIE!
Astrid stands up for herself as every strong independent woman should. She plants her feet firmly into the ground and will not change who she is. Her husband is horribly insecure and can't handle the pressure of her family.
STAY FOR THE CREDITS. There is a bonus scene and a MASSIVE hint of a sequel. Jon M. Chu, do not tease me like this! At the very end we see CHARLIE WU! If you read the books you know how important he is. Charlie is played by Harry Shum Jr (Hell to the Yes!!!!) We only see him briefly in the movie. He gives Astrid the sexy side eye. Literal Gasps occurred in the theater I was in. Dang that Harry Shum Jr. We all know as soon as he is on screen that a sequel is a brewin'! In the book, Charlie is Astrid's old flame from back in the day. Trust me, this girl deserves Charlie Wu. He is amazing.
Over all I say get your butts to the movie theater! Take your friends, family, and anyone else you can to see this movie. Not only because it's important. Not only because of the brilliant acting. This film deserves to be seen and to break that stupid glass ceiling. We need to minorities on film. Plus, Amber REALLY needs a sequel!
