Summer '18: Groundbreaking RepresentASIAN in the Movies

(IMDb)

"Crazy Rich Asians" Trailer

The underrepresentation of Asians in Hollywood is no secret. In mainstream movies, Asians are either forced into unattractive minority stereotypes (Mr. Yunioshi from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, anyone?) or just not included at all. Why can’t we be the heroes?

​That’s why I am so excited to discuss the upcoming movie Crazy Rich Asians, starring Constance Wu and an ALL-ASIAN CAST. It completely defies the Asian-American image that the media perpetuates. Here’s a synopsis: 

Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) is happy to accompany her longtime boyfriend, Nick, to his best friend's wedding in Singapore. She's also surprised to learn that Nick's family is extremely wealthy and he's considered one of the country's most eligible bachelors. Thrust into the spotlight, Rachel must now contend with jealous socialites, quirky relatives and something far, far worse: Nick's disapproving mother.

​In addition to this, Netflix will be releasing the movie To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, which stars a half-Korean, half-Caucasian girl played by actress Lana Condor. At last— a person of color is the protagonist! Here’s a synopsis:

​Lara Jean Covey (Lana Condor) writes letters to all of her past loves, the letters are meant for her eyes only. Until one day when all the love letters are sent out to her previous loves. Her life is soon thrown into chaos when her foregoing loves confront her one by one.

(IMDb)

"To All the Boys I've Loved Before" Trailer

Even if rom-coms aren't your thing, these movies are pretty unprecedented. This is no superficial attempt to throw in some diversity—Asians are actually being taken seriously, and that’s fantastic.
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Things are only looking up as we also count down to Disney's live action Mulan, which is set to release in March 2020. Until then, catch us at the theater! 

Author: Claire Cao