How ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ Became the Highest Grossing Rom-Com of the Decade

Ever since the release of the romantic comedy “Crazy Rich Asians” last August, audiences around the globe have enjoyed the love story of Rachel Chu and Nick Young. Now, it’s one of the most successful studio romantic comedies of the decade – bringing in more than 130 million dollars from theaters both domestic and overseas. The film (an adaption of the best-selling novel by Kevin Kwan) continues to make history and is still being shown, but what exactly about this movie is so appealing to its audience?

The film centers itself around an all Asian cast, making it the first to do so in the past twenty-five years; in addition, the film tells the story of a female, Asian-American, making it safe to say “Crazy Rich Asians” showcases a different perspective and culture than audiences are used to seeing. The film also introduces new actors to the big screen – giving movie-lovers fresh faces to watch and see develop.

Initial feedback implies audiences want to see the inclusion of Asian-American actors and Asian-American culture in the future – giving traction to the movement of including minorities in casts throughout other films and television series. Although the film may not be completely accurate when it comes to some aspects of Asian culture, it is clear that viewers at least appreciate the presentation.

The work of the movie’s director, Jon H. Chu, is both extravagant and lighthearted – making it easy for people to enjoy and have fun with. Most of the appeal comes from the plot, which is a classic love story. It is slightly predictable, but placed within an an engrossing setting, making it tough viewers to take their eyes off the screen.

As “Crazy Rich Asians” continues to break more records in Hollywood and at the box office, it remains evident that the film sets precedent for future Asian and Asian-American pieces. Audiences and critics alike seem to be sharing the same admiration for this coming-of-age film.