(Photo courtesy of Disney+)
Written by Colleen Bement
Disney+ is releasing a fresh new series called “American Born Chinese” and it is a must-watch. For anyone looking for a show that tackles serious issues in a relatable and engaging way, it has much to offer. Based on the genre-hopping graphic novel by Gene Luen Yang (Executive Producer), “American Born Chinese” is a story told through family, comedy, and action-packed kung fu. Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings), this series is based on Gene Luen Yang’s groundbreaking graphic novel that chronicles the trials and tribulations of a regular American teenager whose life is changed when he makes friends with the son of a mythological god. It is so well done and wonderful for teenagers who are struggling to find their own identities and just trying to get through high school.
To add to the appeal are “Everything, Everywhere All At Once” Oscar winners Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan. Yeoh plays the role of Guanyin, the Goddess of Compassion, whose character comes with power, grace, and humor. Balancing both worlds, Guanyin tries to protect both Jin’s world and the alternate world that is in grave danger of falling. No stranger to powerful roles,” Star Trek” fans know what a joy she is to watch as they love her for her role as Emperor Philippa Georgiou in CBS’ “Star Trek: Discovery.” Despite some serious themes, the show is also incredibly funny. The humor is both in the real and mythical worlds, and it’s something that kids will enjoy and identify with.
One of the best things about “American Born Chinese” is how it portrays Chinese culture. The show incorporates many aspects of Chinese mythology, and it’s a great way to introduce kids to a different culture.
Meet the characters:
- Jin Wang, played by Ben Wang, is a teenager who struggles with his identity as a Chinese-American. Wang also has a starring role in the upcoming Disney+ original film “Chang Can Dunk.”One of the major themes of the show is racism and representation. Jin deals with racism from both his Chinese and American peers and struggles to find a place where he feels like he belongs.
- Sun Wukong played by Daniel Wu is secretly “The Monkey King” a mythological and all-powerful god who journeys into our world in a pursuit to find his son.
- Amelia is played by Sydney Taylor, she’s a friendly “All-American” girl who is Jin Wang’s classmate and crush. As the series progresses, we discover there is more to Amelia than meets the eye.
- Simon Wang played by Chin Han, plays the father who is hard-working and devoted and is sadly bumping up against the “bamboo ceiling” at his job.
- Freddy Wong, played by Ke Huy Quan, is introduced as a comedy-serving character, but there is more than meets the eye.
- Christine Wang played by Yeo Yann Yann plays Jin’s mom Christine Wang, a strong-willed, opinionated mother and wife with a sly wit, who loves her family deeply.
“American Born Chinese” is a fantastic series that everyone should watch. It’s a show that tackles serious issues with humor and heart, and it’s perfect for anyone who has ever felt like they don’t quite fit in. Whether you’re a teenager struggling with your identity, or an adult looking for a fun and engaging show, “American Born Chinese” has something for everyone. Want action and Kung fu? This story has plenty of it! With plenty of comedy and action, all ages will enjoy watching it. The eight-episode series airs on Disney+ May 24, 2023, and it is absolutely worth the watch.
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