How do Asians react to ‘Crazy Rich Asians’? We take a look at audience responses from China, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines

Sep 17 , 2018

The happy cast of ‘Crazy Rich Asians’: (from left) Constance Wu, Awkwafina, author Kevin Kwan, Michelle Yeoh, Ken Jeong and Henry Golding. Photo: Griff Lipson’s Instagram

While some think the movie fails to give an accurate portrayal of Asians, others are just happy that Asians are in the spotlight

This summer, the romantic comedy-drama Crazy Rich Asians has been a major box-office hit around the world.

Claiming to tell Asian stories with Asian actors, the movie triggered huge discussions among Asian audiences. Compared to non-Asian audiences who are more focused on the story and the impression of the film, Asian audiences are more concerned about the movie’s cultural representations and future influence.

Here is what audiences from China, Singapore, Malaysia and Philippines think of the movie which markets itself as an “Asian story”.

China

The comments from Chinese audiences are mainly positive or mild, and primarily focus on the significance of the film in giving Asians a voice. Although many think the movie is more about the rich than about Asians, Chinese audiences take pride in having their voice and culture seen and heard.

There are many traditional Chinese elements in the movie, such as the mahjong scene, although some consider the elements too old-schooled and conventional. For many Chinese, the storyline is a bit of a cliché but the comic moments appeal to them.

‘Crazy Rich Asians’ has generated a lot of buzz among film-goers. It is not the only book by and about Asians that deserves the big-screen treatment. Photo: Warner Bros.

Although China is supposed to be a big market for Crazy Rich Asians, this movie is not out yet. The Chinese audiences mentioned above mainly live outside China or live in Hong Kong or Macau.

Here are comments from a movie-goer in China: