I was not overwhelmed with this movie, although it was different and did have some moments. On my way out of the theater however, I talked to eight or ten others, all of whom gave it a hearty thumbs up. I will say this as an endorsement; no one got shot or killed, and there were no high-speed car chases. Tom Cruise would have been lost in this one, but then he’s not Asian.
If you’re not aware, the cast in this film is 100% Asian, which distinguishes it as the first major motion picture in English to do so. There was quite a bit of publicity generated by that actuality, and frankly once the movie was underway, you really didn’t notice or for that matter care, a testimony to the producers and director.
Billed as a romantic comedy, it certainly is that and a little more. Nick Young, played by Henry Golding, and Rachel Chu, played by Constance Wu, are the perfect young couple in New York going about their lives. Nick is originally from Singapore where his entire family resides. An invitation to an old friend’s wedding triggers the story as Nick convinces Rachel to accompany him to Singapore to meet his mother and the rest of his clan. It’s on the flight over, as they are seated in ultra-first class accommodations that she learns Nick and his family are “well off.” That is putting it mildly, as the story progresses it appears his family has more money than Warren Buffet, Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos combined.
Nick and Rachel arrive in Singapore and that’s when the “crazy and rich” part kicks in. Wealthy beyond belief the lifestyles of family and friends takes over and it’s a wild and sometimes humorous ride to the finish. There are a few bumps along the way for Rachel, as assimilating into the family environment is a huge challenge, not helped at all by a less than friendly mother.
Crazy Rich Asians
Entertainment Rating: ★★
Rating: PG-13: Scattered profanity, several bedroom scenes, no nudity.
Possible Oscar Nominations: None
I’ve never been to Singapore, so this film served as a travelogue of sorts. Its’ a stunning place, the aerial views of the skyline are breathtaking, and once on the ground, unlike any other place I’ve seen. I can actually recommend this strictly for the Singapore scenery. A special nod to Mary Vogt for costume design and to the entire Makeup department, outstanding to say the least
I would like to close this column with a sad note. Those of us in neighborhood 32 B all knew and loved Stuart Smidl. Stu and his service dog Crush, were regulars up and down our streets, he in his power wheelchair and Crush right alongside. Stu died recently at the age of 48, after a long and courageous battle. For those who don’t know, Crush will be living with a family member, with children and a big backyard, two of his favorite things. Rest in peace Stu.
Finally, thanks to those of you who responded to my request about where to find “non GMO” corn. The consensus was Goebbert’s farm stand on Hwy 47, just north of Hwy 72.
1 Comment
Pretty nice post. I just stumbled upon your weblog and wished to say that I have really enjoyed browsing your blog posts. After all I’ll be subscribing to your rss feed and I hope you write again very soon!