Crazy Rich Asians is a heartfelt romantic comedy with a distinct emphasis on family customs and traditions on people that is sadly underrepresented in Hollywood. Based on the bestselling book by Singaporean Kevin Kwan, the film gives justice to the book (which I read) with it's perfect casting of the actors that matches to the characters quirks and wonderful cinematography that gives justice to the vibrant cosmopolitan island country of the author.
The situation of Rachel (Constance Wu), a Chinese-American professor living in New York City meeting his Singaporean boyfriend Nicholas Young's (Henry Golding) family in his home country is just like any typical situation Asians living in the USA go thru. What makes Crazy Rich Asians stand out is when she finds out about the wealth of her boyfriend's family which sets the pace for 2 hours worth of fun. From matrons who organize bible study groups as a way of gossiping about other people to gaudy Palace of Versailles inspired mansions. Michelle Yeoh playing Eleanor Young aka Nicholas mom is icy cold perfection. The role could have been a caricature but Yeoh's acting plus the outstanding writing prevented it from being one.
Gemma Chan, Chris Pang and Sonoya Mizuno are the eye candy cast members while Ken Jeong, Nico Santos and Awkwafina who's on a roll this summer after Ocean's Eight brings excellent comic relief to the film.
It took Hollywood 25 years to make another film with a predominantly Asian cast. The Joy Luck Club, also based on a book was the last one. I won't be surprised based that the two books right after Crazy Rich Asians would be made into movies as well at the soonest possible time.
