The early reviews for Netflix's latest rom-com, Always Be My Maybe, are making us want to watch it ASAP.
The film, written by and starring actor Randall Park and stand-up comedian and actress Ali Wong, tells the story of childhood sweethearts Sasha (Wong) and Marcus (Park), who lose touch after a night of passion as teenagers.
Sasha, now a tough-headed celebrity chef in an unhappy engagement, and Marcus, a handyman, reunite when they are adults in San Francisco. Despite their different socioeconomic situations, the pair rekindle their bond and fall in love.
Of course there are some hurdles along the way, a big one by way of Keanu Reeves, who plays a heightened version of himself and Sasha's love interest, when she begins dating again after breaking off her engagement.
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The film, directed by Nahnatchka Khan, features a largely Asian cast, and is being praised for its representation.
"It wasn't the type of thing where we sat down and said before we wrote it, 'OK, we got to represent and make sure we're making the perfect Asian American movie,'" Randall told The Associated Press. "It was more like, 'Let's make a really heartfelt and really funny romantic comedy, a movie that we'd really love to see.'"
Even so, the film is being praised for its representation of American Asians. Fans haven't failed to notice the often subtle nods to Asian culture in the movie.
In one scene set at a birthday party, two little girls run into the house, taking off their shoes as they enter.
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Speaking about the scene, director Khan told The Atlantic: "I spent more time on that shot than I think a director would have if that wasn't an important detail," adding, "We had to get that timing right. You could get into [that scene] in any number of ways, but I liked showing that ... It's a part of this world."
People were also happy with the film's dealing of Asian parents. One Twitter user wrote: "#Always gives us a film with four parents who are loving, funny, and charming in their own unique ways. It is a rarity to see older Asian characters not be depicted as caricatures. I recognise these parents. I know them. It is great to see them in this movie."
Another said they were "loving working-class Asian dad of a certain age with no accent," adding the portrayal was "heart-warming".
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The depiction of food and true-to-life Asian food practices were praised. One viewer noted: "Keanu paying the restaurant bill by pretending to take a walk is actually Peak Asian."
Always Be My Maybe is available on Netflix now.
Featured Image Credit: NetflixTopics: Entertainment News, TV and Film, Netflix
