“The Wedding Banquet.” Han Gi-Chan, Bowen Yang
Andrew Ahn offers a fresh and heartfelt take on “The Wedding Banquet,” where two gay couples find an unconventional path forward through a planned, temporary straight marriage.
Min (Han Gi-Chan), eager to remain in the U.S. with his boyfriend Chris (Bowen Yang) while navigating family expectations, proposes a marriage of convenience to Angela (Kelly Marie Tran), who, with her partner Lee (Lily Gladstone), is determined to pursue another round of IVF.
In this modern Seattle setting, the obstacle isn’t societal limitations, but Chris’s thoughtful reluctance, rooted in protecting Min’s future and his own insecurities.
Their intertwined lives unfold in close proximity – Lee owns the home where Chris and Min rent an ADU in the backyard. While the premise hints at comedic potential, glimpsed in a humorous “de-gaying” scene triggered by the imminent arrival of Min’s perceptive grandmother, Ja-Young (Youn Yuh-jung), the film wisely explores deeper emotional connections.
Though the journey of these characters as a potential “found family” is complex, their shared experiences offer opportunities for growth and understanding. Even Angela’s impulsive suggestion to Lee to use Min’s money for travel, born from a moment of inebriation, presents a crucial point of tension that could lead to important revelations, particularly for Lee and her strong desire for motherhood.
While the characters navigate moments of emotional intensity, their vulnerabilities ultimately make them relatable and inspire a desire to see them find happiness.
The film finds a beautiful anchor in the wisdom of its seasoned actors, Youn Yuh-jung and Joan Chen as Angela’s mother, May. May’s dedication to LGBTQ+ advocacy, despite Angela’s initial skepticism, reveals a journey of acceptance and love. Both women offer profound insights, with Ja-Young approaching her grandson with thoughtful consideration and May striving to mend past hurts. Their scenes are truly touching.
“The Wedding Banquet” ultimately resonates as a film made with genuine affection for its characters and a hopeful vision for their futures.
In theaters on April 18.
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