Crazy Rich Asians
Based on the novel of the same name written by Kevin Kwan, the film follows Rachel (played by Constance Wu) an Economics Professor who has been dating Nick (Henry Golding) for a year and has been invited to accompany him to his best friend’s wedding in Singapore. While in Singapore, Rachel meets Nick’s family and if you’ve seen the trailer you already know two things: One, they are crazy rich, and two, they do not like Rachel. While in Singapore Rachel meets all of Nick’s siblings and cousins who provide sometimes emotional and sometimes hilarious side-stories, but as far as the main plot goes, that’s pretty much all there is to it.
There’s been a lot of hype and discussion surrounding Crazy Rich Asians and a lot of the attention is due to the way the production and creation of this film has helped to shine a light on the overwhelming amount of talent in the Asian American community of the film industry. The film is the first major theatrical release to have a majority Asian American cast since The Joy Luck Club in 1993 and as you can imagine a lot of new talent has arisen since then. From director Jon M. Chu who has Now You See Me 2 and three of the Step Up films to his name, to screenplay writer Adele Lim who has had a hand in producing episodes for television shows Reign, Lethal Weapon and even One Tree Hill.
The on-screen talents seen in Crazy Rich Asians are a collective highlight of the film and each actor does the best with the storyline that they can. Constance Wu is outstanding as Rachel; some may recognize her as Jessica Huang from Fresh Off the Boat, and here she portrays Rachel with courage, strength
The setting of the film is another highlight and after the international release of Crazy Rich Asians I wholeheartedly expect Singapore’s tourism to skyrocket. The city is shown in an amazing light with countless scenes stolen by an impressive building, background or food vendor. Early in the film, when Rachel and Nick first arrive they and their friends spend minutes collecting food from various vendors around the area before sitting down to enjoy a feast that I’m sure left more than a few mouths watering. A small portion of the film is set in a beautiful and interestingly modern garden area, while one of the last scenes in the film takes place in the most exquisite building you’ll ever see – complete with rooftop infinity pool, lined with palm trees and a backdrop of fireworks.
For a romantic
Score: 3.5/5