Crazy Rich Asians displayed the extravagant lifestyles of the rich and famous, but what got the most attention was its representation of Asian culture on the big screen.

The 2018 romantic comedy-drama directed by Jon M. Chu continues to gain praise as the first modern film with an all-Asian cast (How Crazy Rich Asians is going to Change Hollywood).

The movie features Constance Wu as Rachel Chu, a girl who has just found out her longtime boyfriend, Nick, is from an extremely wealthy family while traveling to Singapore for a wedding. Racheal learns how to be true to herself while studying the family expectations and facing Nick’s disapproving mother. The film ties in comedic elements with the deep message of being proud of your origins and your accomplishments.

Originally based on Kevin Kwan’s successful 2013 novel, both the film and book have taken flight and inspired many. Director Chu described, “It’s not a movie, it’s a movement.” The representation of Asian actors has been a struggle in Hollywood but with the triumph of Crazy Rich Asians, a change in media presentation has been seen. With films and shows such as The Mindy Project, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, and Always Be My Maybe star Asian leads bringing a new chapter of progress in the entertainment industry (Crazy Rich Asians takes on Hollywood).

Awkwafina is just one example of a star from Crazy Rich Asians that has wiped the stage with her talent (Meet Awkwafina, the Breakout Star of Crazy Rich Asians) . After her success in her first major film, Awkwafina has starred in Ocean’s Eight, The Farewell, and the recently released Raya and the Last Dragon. She and many up-and-coming Asian actors are making history in the industry as they win awards and take on roles.

I found the film humorous and heartwarming and its promise for a better representation of Asian actors hopeful. Crazy Rich Asians presented amazing visuals as it utilized extravagant costumes and sets that made the film exciting and fun. The actors were also very impressive, especially since for many this film was their first major motion picture. Although Crazy Rich Asians don’t show the lives of all Asian Americans there is hope that one day those stories will be showcased to the world.