In 2013, Singaporean-American novelist Kevin Kwan wrote a satirical novel based on his childhood living in a wealthy family. He was inspired to write this novel while caring for his father who sadly passed away in 2010 from cancer. While caring for him, the two would reminisce about life in Singapore and Kwan would write the stories down. Kwan did this as a way to preserve the stories so that they’d be remembered long after his father’s death. This led Kwan to write a novel that satirized the culture surrounding rich Asian families, living in elegance and insanity. When it was finally published, the novel received rave reviews from critics and was a major bestseller. Naturally, as with any novel that becomes a hit, Hollywood decided to film an adaptation of the novel. So, fast forward to 2018, where we’ve been given the romantic comedy-drama, Crazy Rich Asians.
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Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) is an economics teacher at NYU whose boyfriend Nick Young (Henry Golding) invites her to Singapore. Turns out, Nick’s friend is getting married, and he wants her to join him and meet his family. Little does Rachel know, however, that Nick’s family is actually quite rich, like insanely and ridiculously rich. After meeting Nick’s friend Colin (Chris Pang) and his fiancée Araminta (Sonoya Mizuno), Rachel is soon introduced to his family. Things immediately are not looking good for Rachel, especially with Nick’s mother Eleanor (Michelle Yeoh) clearly disapproving of her. It soon becomes clear to Rachel that Nick’s family doesn’t like her and feel that she’s not good enough. While this is going on, Nick is trying to keep things intact with Rachel despite his mother’s objections. It soon becomes a struggle between the rich and entitled versus the middle-class common folk with some family drama.
As anybody who knows me will tell you, I am not the biggest fan of romance films. Sure, there’s the stereotype that guys don’t like romantic movies, but sadly, it’s somewhat true if generalizing. More specifically, I’m not a fan of really sappy and melodramatic romance films that follow the same basic formula. However, when I saw how successful this movie was and the rave reviews it received, I was curious. Having now seen it, I can really see why this movie appeals to so many people, myself now included. This is a very charming, funny, touching, and sweet romance film that even someone as cynical as me can enjoy. One major aspect of the film I have to commend is the production design, using vibrant colors and lush visuals. Given how amazing the film looks, it’s remarkable it only cost $30 million, which is small compared to most blockbusters.
I also have to give credit to the cast, all of whom do a great job here. Constance Wu is very likable and sympathetic as she tries to prove herself to Young’s family. Henry Golding is relatable in how he goes against his family and clearly wants to set his own path. Michelle Yeoh definitely steals the show as the stern mother who, at times, is sympathetic, but also chilling and intimidating. Even Ken Jeong, who more or less has been playing the same character since The Hangover, is surprisingly endearing. Granted, there are some characters that can be somewhat annoying and ridiculously mean-spirited, but it seems like that’s intentional here. Also, while the movie certainly has similar tropes as other romance films, it almost feels like the film’s lampooning them. Overall, even though it’s not my usual forte, Crazy Rich Asians is still a fun, heartwarming, and touching romp.
