Crazy Rich Asians

THE GIST: Rachel, an American-Chinese NYU professor, is happily dating Nick, unaware that he's the scion of one of the wealthiest families in Asia. Traveling to Singapore for his best friend's wedding, Rachel is slated to be introduced to his family. Visiting a friend, she reveals to Rachel who Nick really is and warns her that any woman she encounters will try to undermine her. Rachel seems unconcerned, until she meets Nick's judgmental and controlling mother Eleanor...

Crazy Rich Asians was a gamble on the part of a Hollywood studio to see whether a movie about Asians with a strictly Asian cast would find an audience on this side of the Pacific. They needn't worry though, because with a smartly written screenplay like this, a movie is sure to be a hit.

The cast is led by Constance Wu and Henry Golding, but big talent fills the supporting roles, with Gemma Chan, Lisa Lu, Ken Jeong, the bubbly Awkwafina (in a scene-stealing role), and the magnificent Michelle Yeoh.

THE BOTTOM LINE: A funny comedy with a well written script and excellent actors makes for a surefire crowd pleaser.

Grade: 7.5