Frank’s Film Review: The Wedding Banquet
⭐⭐⭐⭐ /5

I went into Andrew Ahn’s remake of The Wedding Banquet without expectations and left the theater genuinely impressed. This reimagining pays a heartfelt tribute to Ang Lee’s original, skillfully blending timeless themes of love, family, and identity into a fresh, emotionally resonant narrative that captivates from beginning to end.

At the film’s heart is Min (Han Gi-Chan), a Korean immigrant navigating life in Seattle, Washington while facing deportation. As Min’s precarious situation unfolds, the complexities of his relationship with his boyfriend, Chris (Bowen Yang), come to the forefront. Tensions escalate when Min, driven by desperation, unexpectedly proposes marriage, leaving Chris stunned and uncertain about their future.

In the aftermath of Chris’s decline, Min seeks help from Angela (Kelly Marie Tran), one of his landlords, who is grappling with financial difficulties due to IVF treatments with her partner, Lee (Lily Gladstone). This leads the two couples to form an unexpected alliance, agreeing to enter a marriage that begins as a pragmatic solution. However, as they navigate this arrangement, their lives quickly spiral into a whirlwind of misunderstandings, mishaps, and heartfelt revelations.

Without giving away any spoilers, the story undergoes a crucial turning point after a night of impulsive decisions and miscommunication. This event triggers a dramatic shift between the four main characters. From here, the film grips its audience with escalating tension, keeping viewers enthralled and on the edge of their seats.

The four lead actors bring their characters to life with remarkable authenticity and depth, making their performances compelling and heartfelt. Their on-screen chemistry is magnetic, creating genuine relationships and warmth. The supporting cast is equally outstanding. Joan Chen shines as Angela’s mother and delivers a vibrant and dynamic performance infused with humor and energy. In contrast, Youn Yuh-jung provides a calm, grounding presence as Min’s grandmother.

The remake of The Wedding Banquet offers audiences a moving exploration of love in all its complexities. Masterfully blending humor and emotion, it delivers a heartfelt narrative filled with unexpected moments that leave a lasting impression. This cinematic gem invites connection and reflection, making it the perfect film to share with someone special. Don’t miss the chance to experience this touching story before it leaves theaters.

Frank Gaimari is an author, film reviewer, and actor based in Seattle, Washington. He lives with his husband and their two golden retrievers. Learn more about his work at http://FrankGaimari.com.