Film review: Crazy rich Asians – probably good

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Crazy rich Asians follows native New Yorker Rachel Chu as she accompanies her long-time boyfriend, Nick Young, to his best friend's wedding in Singapore. Excited about visiting Asia for the first time but nervous about meeting Nick's family, Rachel is unprepared to learn that Nick has neglected to mention a few key details about his life. It turns out that he is not only the scion of one of the country's wealthiest families, but also one of its most sought-after bachelors. Being on Nick's arm puts a target on Rachel's back, with jealous socialites and, worse, Nick's own disapproving mother (Yeoh) taking aim. And it soon becomes clear that while money can't buy love, it can definitely complicate things.

Distinguishing between a great film and a film that I like is normally an easy thing for me. Some films that I love are not necessarily great films, and vice versa. With Crazy rich Asians, it is complicated.

It is probably a very capable romcom. It certainly ticks all the boxes. Beautiful people. Beautiful locations. Boy meets girl. Girl meets boy. Interesting sidekicks. Light humour. The couple experience a few setbacks, but normally end up happy, living happily ever after. The actors are mostly good. Constance Wu is endearing and Awkwafina is wickedly funny. It is beautifully shot and well edited, and boasts a cool soundtrack.

Of course, it is an important film, because, as was the case with Wonder Woman and Black Panther, this film represents a section of society, (crazy rich) Asians, on screen in a blockbuster format.

Why do I say it is probably a very capable romcom? I struggled to get past the vulgar wealth on display. So much so, that I do not think I can be objective. The wealth is not really questioned. It is used as a lavish backdrop. I do understand that movies provide either an escape, or something to aspire to. As the film ended with a party at the famous Marina Bay Sands (google it), I realised I don’t want to escape to or aspire to be inside that world. But that is just me.

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