Hanging Out With Kevin

With Asian representation becoming more widespread in Hollywood, we catch up with the man whose best-selling novel helped pave the way: Kevin Kwan

- Elizabeth Ruth Deyro

Upon its publication, the novel Crazy Rich Asians instantly became a global hit—and with the film’s release in 2018 it became an even bigger phenomenon. The Jon M Chu-directed adaptation of Kevin Kwan’s romantic-comedy has set out to be Hollywood’s first-ever major picture starring an all-Asian cast in 25 years. It made its mark with ease, proving that the international audience is truly craving for something greater, from and for the Asian diaspora. The film received several accolades, such as earning nominations for Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy and Best Actress - Motion Picture Comedy or Musical, recognising Constance Wu at the 76th Golden Globe Awards, and winning Best Comedy at the 24th Critics’ Choice Awards.

Crazy Rich Asians redefined the way that Hollywood portrayed diasporic communities, particularly second-generation Asian-Americans. With a downpour of international recognition and box-office success, it broke down the walls for its successors, such as the Asian-led young adult feature To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before, also a well-received adaptation of a New York Times bestseller and the Awkwafina movie, Farewell.