One of the things I lament when I look at the typical fare at today’s box office is how few “romantic comedies” are on the slate.
When I talk about “romantic comedies,” I’m not talking about Judd Apatow-esque films frosted with moments of sophomoric potty humor and raunch.
I’m talking about films like “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” “Pretty Woman,” and “When Harry Met Sally.”
The new movie “Crazy Rich Asians” is something of a throwback to the romantic comedies of yesteryear.
“Crazy Rich Asians” follows Rachel Chu (Constance Wu), a NYU professor who is dating Nick Young (Henry Golding) — a doting boyfriend who (unbeknownst to Rachel) comes from one of the wealthiest families in Singapore.
Early on in the film Nick asks Rachel to accompany him to his friend Colin’s wedding in Singapore (where he is set to be the best man).
“I want the whole island to meet the brilliant Rachel Chu,” Nick tells Rachel as he makes his pitch.
This setup allows for one of the key devices used in many romantic comedies — familial drama and tension as a way for Rachel and Nick to explore their relationship with one another.
The matriarch of the Young family is Eleanor Young (Michelle Yeoh) — an devout Methodist who has old school proclivities as it regards her son. Her vision for Nick’s future isn’t meshing with her son’s desires.
Before we know it, the unassuming Rachel is dealing with more than she bargained for, tip-toeing around family politics and cultural values different from her own.
“Crazy Rich Asians” is based on Kevin Kwan’s 2013 novel of the same name.
The best romantic comedies feature appealing casts, wearing appealing outfits, eating appealing food, doing appealing things in appealing locales.
“Crazy Rich Asians” is no exception to that rule. It is a bright, colorful, frothy film that has poignant and funny moments strewn throughout.
One of the most endearing characters in the film is Peik Lin (Awkwafina), Rachel’s friend from college who helps our protagonist navigate rough family waters.
"Crazy Rich Asians" employs a number of common tropes seen in romantic comedies. That fact didn’t bother me in the slightest. Director Jon M. Chu is adept at the helm and keeps things feeling fresh.
There are a few instances in “Crazy Rich Asians” where the narrative amps up the “dramatic tension” in a manner that can feel a tad bit over-the-top. Ultimately, though, the film transcends those moments and does a decent job maintaining a consistent tone throughout.
Stories set around weddings tend to create instant “relatability” for audiences. If you’ve ever been in love — and had to deal with the peculiarities of your mate’s family — you’ll likely find a lot to like in “Crazy Rich Asians.”
While the film might not be the “definitive” romantic comedy (for my money, that title goes to 1998’s “You’ve Got Mail” -- a favorite of mine and Bridget's), I had a lot of fun watching “Crazy Rich Asians.”
Because the film has been a critical and financial success at the box office, the wheels are in motion for a sequel based on Kevin Kwan’s second book in the series titled “China Rich Girlfriend."
At the film’s core are Rachel and Nick — you’ll find yourself rooting for the pair as the story unfolds. Both actors — Constance Wu and newcomer Henry Golding — have chemistry and make for an endearing couple on screen.
“Crazy Rich Asians” is charming and makes for an enjoyable evening at the multiplex. Definitely a trip worth booking.
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