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Relationships can be difficult even in the best of conditions. But in Crazy Rich Asians, adapted from author Kevin Kwan’s bestselling novel, a woman finds her relationship with her boyfriend complicated by cultural differences, jealousy, status, and a whole lot of money.
Crazy Rich Asians follows NYU professor Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) as she travels to Singapore with her boyfriend, Nick Young (Henry Golding), for his best friend’s wedding. While she thinks she’s meeting just another traditional Chinese family, she soon discovers that Nick hasn’t told her the whole story. He’s actually from one of the richest families in Singapore—and the wedding is the wedding of the century. And the common New Yorker finds herself battling family expectations and all of the other women who think she’s not good enough to be with the most eligible bachelor in the country.
This cute but crazy rom-com offers a cultural twist on the typical chick flick. Admittedly, the story isn’t especially surprising. Mothers-in-law can be cold and critical and downright cruel—and Michelle Yeoh’s Eleanor could take the temperature of any room down by at least 10 degrees. And her disapproval—along with the backstabbing and manipulation from the “competition”—makes Rachel question her relationship and even herself. Most of us have been there—which makes her determination to stand up for herself all the more satisfying.
Meanwhile, the film is loaded with personalities—some heavy and serious, some wild and completely over-the-top. As Rachel battles rivals and Nick’s mother, she meets plenty of others, too—lovable family members as well as her college friend’s totally ridiculous family. There are so many characters here—some more developed and layered than others. While it may feel a little chaotic at times, they all help to balance the comedy and drama. And even the stereotypical characters add to the energy of the film.
And, of course, there are the cultural aspects of the story, too. The Youngs’ culture touches every aspect of the film—from their family expectations to the setting of each scene. There are extravagant parties and eye-catching locations and a larger-than-life wedding. And those cultural touches add to the messy but charming tapestry of this Asian romance.
Crazy Rich Asians isn’t exactly an unexpected film; there aren’t a lot of surprises here. But the relatable characters, the touches of humor, and the layers of culture and family drama make it colorful and playful and enchanting. If you haven’t read the book, the movie will make you want to pick it up.
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