Review of Saving Face (2004) by Philip P — 03 Jun 2005

I just saw [i]Saving Face[/i] at University of California - Irvine, a most befitting venue for films catering to the Asian community. All things considered, the film is a harmless, enjoyable comedy.

At times, [i]Saving Face[/i] is difficult to take seriously because it plays like a light-hearted sitcom that places its characters in unlikely situations. However, there are also enough strong moments to give the film the necessary strength to drive its important points through. There is nothing truly gripping about [i]Saving Face[/i], but many thoughtful ideas are tactfully explored in it. Much like a Chinese buffet, there is a smattering of character types and flavors that are parodied, ranging from egocentric paternalists and gossiping mothers to tactless, single Asian guys. Almost everyone should find something that they enjoy, even if they do not enjoy everything.

One strength of the film is that it has likeable characters with whom we can relate. Michelle Krusiec is appropriately confused, tentative, and conflicted as Wil. We cannot help but sympathize with - and even endorse - her attraction to Vivian. Lynn Chen is quite stunning as Vivian, despite the fact that her character is given rather marginal treatment in the film. The best actress in the movie, however, is Joan Chen. As Wil's mother, she is beautiful, sassy, pleasantly annoying, and really outshines everyone.

I recommend the film to anyone who enjoys romantic comedies or Asian-American films. [i]Saving Face[/i] immediately reminded me of [i]Kissing Jessica Stein[/i], which shares a similar setting and explores similar themes. However, this film is bolder and more satisfying.