Crazy, Rich Asians (2018)

Directed by Jon M. Chu

Screenplay written by Peter Ciarelli and Adele Lim

Based on the novel "Crazy, Rich Asians" by Kevin Kwan

Starring Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh and Gemma Chan

This film checks off all the boxes for a great romantic comedy. The only thing that really separates it from the rest of the pack is its entire Asian cast. Everyone seemed to love this movie, and I am a huge sucker for a cliche romantic comedy that leaves you with a couple tears in the end (which this did by the way). 

The story follows Rachel Chu (Constance Wu), an American-born Chinese economics professor. She is invited to travel to Singapore with her boyfriend Nick Young (Henry Golding) to attend his best friend's wedding, where she learns that he comes from one of Asia's most wealthy and prestigious families, while she came from quite the opposite. Once in Singapore, Rachel is targeted by jealous socialites and Nick's disapproving mother (played by Michelle Yeoh) who do not believe she is good enough for Singapore's most sought-after bachelor. 

The character's in this movie are not exactly super interesting and multi-dimensional. Maybe in the book there was more development of the individual characters, and maybe the book was not as riddled with cliches as the movie-- its hard saying having not read it. At times Rachel even seemed very lifeless and monotone, but maybe that is how her character was written in the book? If so, then hats off to Constance Wu!

 Regardless of the stereotyped behavior from most of the characters, Rachel was my favorite character. Her constant efforts to show she's worthy of Nick's love, her chemistry with Henry Golding, and her overall likability factor just made her stand out the most. Of course, she is closely followed by Michelle Yeoh who was perfect for the role as the cold mother. Honestly, I was on the 'Michelle Yeoh for best supporting actress' bandwagon from when I first saw this movie. If it weren't for Awkwafina delivering the laughs in this movie, it could have been a lot worse. She played Rachel's old college roommate, and she lighted the mood many times throughout the movie. 

All criticism aside, Crazy, Rich Asians isn't bad! It's one of those movies you can watch on a plane to pass the time, and feel delightfully pleased with. 

7/10