Review of Crazy Rich Asians (2018) by Matt G — 22 Aug 2018

As white-westerners, we take for granted how full inundated we are with imagery, characters, and stories that reflect our own reality; they look like our mirrors and read like our journals, but often not like our minority neighbors. Therefore, representation is in our melting-pot world-media. But even outside of purely socio-cultural reflection, representation also adds to entertainment value, widening perspective on and appreciation of others, even through fluffy diversion. Crazy Rich Asians does just that within its strict genre maxims. Complete with a dressing room montage, over-the-top side characters, and even a chase to the airport, it's everything we come to expect in rom-coms, and more.

You've heard the story: a young woman (Wu) struggles to find her place amongst her boyfriend's (Golding) ultra-rich family. In setting and style, it's beautifully and boldly opulent, boasting the first all-Asian cast in an American film in 25 years. And what a cast it is! Surrounding the central couple (who are fine, but far from the standouts) is a colorful cadre of big, super-specific characters. Regardless of culture, the family is so well-written and performed, you will undoubtedly recognize your own kin in them. A couple side character stories bog down, but most are welcome, especially scene-stealer Awkwafina, whose undeniable magnetism recalls Melissa McCarthy's Bridesmaids breakout.

In story mechanics, it's far from groundbreaking or transcendent. Still, those cozy plot familiarities and expected (though strong) humor make its all-too-unique viewpoint and cultural setting soar that much more. Crazy Rich Asians serves to remind us that all cultures should have the right to a tear-jerking, feel-good romance, no matter how predictable; and regardless, it's just one of the best straight-ahead rom-coms in years.