Saving Face
Directed by Alice Wu
Written by Alice Wu
The review:
While this movie starts as the classic mom-sets-up-daughter-with-eligible-men story it introduces two wrinkles, one with the daughter and one with the mother. Both Michelle Krusiec (as Will, the daughter) and Joan Chen (as Hwei-Lan Gao, the mother) are fun to watch as they navigate their changing relationships.* Overall, an enjoyable film with a few fun surprises.**
The verdict: Good
Cost: $3.99 via Google Play, but free because I had a credit.
Where watched: at home
Consider also watching:
Further sentences:
*I sometimes check to see if actors in indie films from 10+ years ago are still acting, and all of the cast members I checked up on are still working regularly.
**I also enjoyed seeing one aspect of New York City’s Chinese community circa 2005.
Questions:
- What was the most surprising moment in the film for you?
- Did you think that the family’s expectations were reasonable?
Favorite IMDB trivia item:
The picture of Vivian as a child in Dr. Shing’s office is actually a photograph of Joan Chen’s daughter.
Other reviews of Saving Face:
- Stephanie Zacharek, Salon
- Carina Chocano, Los Angeles Times
