Hollywood does not always make a movie in Asia with an authentic feel that features Asian actors almost entirely. This is why many of us might are excited when “Crazy Rich Asians” was confirmed to be coming to theaters soon. Fan of the book or not, this upcoming movie has a lot of reasons why you should look forward to it. Here are some of them.

It Is Based on A Wildly Popular Book

This upcoming film is based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Kevin Kwan. The story follows the wealthy bachelor Nick Young as he travels back to Singapore for his best friend’s wedding with Rachel Chu. While preparing for the big day, Rachel finds out some random and surprising things about her fiancé, one of them being he is one of the most sought after Singaporean bachelors. Nick actually happens to be a member of one of Singapore’s richest families, so Rachel must find her way through disapproving socialites and Nick’s mother.

[su_quote cite="Kevin Kwan, Crazy Rich Asians" class="cust-pagination"]“Remember, every treasure comes with a price.” [/su_quote]

They Will Make It as Authentically Asian as They Can

This film will be set in Singapore, will be based on a book about Singaporeans and will be filled with Asian cast members. The only thing Western about it, for now, appears to be the studio directing it. It looks like a dream for people in Southeast Asia, but it really is happening. While those who are not from the region might have heard of hawker food and other stereotypes, this movie will show the world how life is in one of the world’s most expensive cities.

This authenticity extends to the cast, who will mostly be local actors from their region. Pierre Png, Tan Khen Hua, Fiona Xie have been confirmed to appear in the film. Other notable cast members include Awkwafina, Constance Wu, Michelle Yeoh, Ronny Chieng and TV presenter Henry Golding.

Some Cast Members Look Familiar

Just because this movie will feature an all-Asian cast does not mean that you would not be seeing people that you are not familiar with. Chinese-Malaysian actress Michelle Yeoh is no stranger to Hollywood films. She was seen in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” where she performed her own stunts. She also had roles in “Tomorrow Never Dies” as well as other minor roles in various Hollywood films and TV shows.

You might also recognize Constance Wu, who will be playing the lead character Rachel Chu in the movie, for her role in “Fresh Off the Boat.” Gemma Chan, who stars in “Humans,” will be seen in the movie as Astrid Leong, the socialite cousin of Nick who seems to have it all.

The Local Actors Look Promising

While the production crew would, of course, trust those with Hollywood experience, it is quite exciting to know that most of the cast members would be actors in their local regions. One of these is Akwafina who will play Goh Peik Lin. She is Rachel’s best friend and so-called fairy godmother. She is the daughter of a millionaire in Singapore and will help Rachel discover more about her fiance’s whereabouts.

Henry Golding will make his big screen debut as Nick Young, the mysterious boyfriend who apparently is not too open about his wealth and has secret activities. Golding has hosted a number of travel shows in Malaysia and is a well known presenter in Singapore.

There is More to Come

This upcoming movie will be directed by “Now You See Me 2” director Jon M. Chu. Filming has just commenced and will take place almost entirely in Singapore and Malaysia. There have also been rumors about Tilda Swinton, Emma Stone or Scarlett Johansson making an appearance, but there have been no confirmations yet. As of now, a release date has not yet been announced.

There have been a lot of controversy regarding whitewashing roles or movies before, and it is good to see that Hollywood has taken a key step towards making movies as authentic as they can get. What do you think about this upcoming movie? Share with us your thoughts in the comments below.