Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

The title alone is enough to draw anyone in. Based on a best-selling novel and full to the brim of a star studded, all Asian cast, Crazy Rich Asians has all the usual romantic comedy attributes and shines through them. Much controversy has generated over the film and the discussion of representation in Hollywood as a whole. However, this feels to have slightly overshadowed the fact that at its core this is a charming film which is well acted and beautifully shot. There is no doubt that these discussions of representation must be had and cannot be ignored, but at the same time could it not be mentioned what a good job the film does in every other way?

Ordinary American girl Rachel Chu is an economics professor, living an ordinary life in New York City, dating who she thinks is an ordinary guy. Nick Young indeed seems run of the mill, but Rachel realises this may not be the case as they fly ultra first class to Nicks home in magnificent Singapore for the wedding of one of his cousins. Its soon discovered that Nick is not only rich, he is crazy rich, coming from the most affluent family in Singapore. A family with strong values. Values that an ordinary girl like Rachel who does not come from crazy money may not apply to.

Most likely it’s true this film is not a gargantuan victory in Asian representation. It does not feel like much of a leap forward as we watch it dramatise a very small group of the Asian population. But it should be said that it feels, however small a positive step in the right direction, and a step that Hollywood cinema needs to be taking more of if the industry is to progress on this topic. And it must progress. But put this subject that has surrounded it since its release to one side, and what’s left is a film with heart, wit and above all impressive performances. Legend Michelle Yeoh (Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon) and well-known Humans actor Gemma Chan are worth noting in their strong portrayals of the different struggles for the women in these families that are built around the expectation to be “good enough”. As is customary of the genre, humour is an added delight in between the serious stuff and this film is no exception as it lifts spirits exactly the way you’d want it to. From the comedic acting of well-known The Hangover actor Ken Jeong, to simply tittering at the unbelievable things money can buy. A stag do on a cargo ship, filled with Miss World contestants in international waters where anything is legal, for instance! Aside from being a well told story that charms wherever possible, Crazy Rich Asians is undoubtedly a gigantic ad for Singapore with mesmerising shots of the colourful island country driving anyone to hunt the web for the cheapest flight tickets while walking out the cinema. Questions of representation notwithstanding, this is a heartfelt piece of storytelling that ticks every box of a romantic comedy and entertains from beginning to end.