Directed By: Nahnatchka Khan
Written By: Ali Wong, Randall Park & Michael Golamco
Cinematography: Tim Suhrstedt
Editor: Lee Haxall
Cast: Ali Wong, Randall Park, Keanu Reeves, Michelle Buteau, Susan Park, Vivian Bang, Charlene Yi, Daniel Dae Kim, Casey Wilson, Karan Soni, James Saito, Lyrics Born
A pair of childhood friends end up falling for each other when they grow up.
This film is hilarious from beginning to end. Through out it stays endearing and smart.
What is likeable about this film Is not only It’s Charm but it feels so personable. Where you feel like there are traits of yourself or people you know or even just want to know. It deals with the characters Asian culture as well as still having mainstream story.
A Romantic comedy that builds and showcases dynamics and personalities delving into bigger problems for characters though at first shows there might be a problem.
No Matter how successful or unsuccesful the characters are they never feel like failures they are flawed but always fun and truthful.
Now while some will want to compare it to CRAZY RICH ASIANS because it is a film that centers around Asian Americans. That felt much more like wish fulfillment and a grand romance that feels like a romantic fantasy. This while a little silly seems like a movie that feels more identifiable.
Yes it is nice to see a film that revolves around American born Asian characters and a bit of their culture but the movie is so much more and allows to have representation of characters who don’t necessarily usually have the limelight.
Ali Wong is a hilarious and strong screen presence who isn’t afraid to make herself not necessarily the perfect woman and even is honest about herself physically and quite savvy as producer/star/co-writer having her rival love interests for her be hunky stars.
One of whom Keanu Reeves playing a skewed version of himself is hilarious and nice to see him do intentional comedy. As it has been awhile since he has been so loose and fun in a role.
Randall Park is finally given a role in which he can break out of in a lead. As usual he has supporting to but parts where he makes his toes even felt but is fine too soon. The stars collaborate and show they are not afraid to show flaws so that the film feels constantly fresh.
The films never feels like it hits a false or bad note. Even though you know the outcome you still watch intently wondering what will happen next.
Coming in the heels of another recent Netflix comedy with romance SOMEONE GREAT. This film feels better made and more honest. Maybe it’s a generational thing
It has a ruthlessness that cuts to the bone when it deals more with the romantic and relationship scenes, but let’s the charm shine when it comes more to the comedy and story. One of the better Netflix movies.
Grade: B
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