Uncovering My True Feelings About Crazy Rich Asians
As an Asian American, I expected to love the movie Crazy Rich Asians. With its all-Asian cast and Singaporean setting, I thought it would be a cinematic celebration of my heritage. But when I finally watched it with friends, I felt…off.
A Personal Connection to Singapore
My mom is from Singapore, and I have fond memories of visiting her hometown every summer. I recognized the iconic landmarks, savored the delicious street food, and even caught snippets of Singlish, the native dialect. Yet, as the movie progressed, I couldn’t shake off the feeling of unease.
A Different Kind of Wealth
The film’s portrayal of the ultra-rich Singaporeans grated on me. They seemed obsessed with status, gossip, and material possessions. It was a far cry from my own experiences with my Singaporean cousins, who are kind-hearted and humble despite their wealth. I feared that the movie would perpetuate stereotypes and reinforce misconceptions about Asian Americans like me.
Confronting My Own Privilege
As I reflected on my reaction, I realized that I was struggling with my own financial insecurities. Growing up, my parents provided for me generously, but I knew it wasn’t always healthy. I had to confront the fact that I was spoiled, and that my parents’ wealth had created a sense of entitlement in me. It was a hard pill to swallow.
Learning to Let Go of Comparisons
I used to compare myself to others, whether it was my cousins or even the fictional characters in the movie. But I realized that this was just a coping mechanism to avoid dealing with my own privilege. By focusing on others, I didn’t have to confront the reality of my own advantages. It was time to stop playing the comparison game and start being honest with myself.
A New Perspective
In the end, Crazy Rich Asians taught me a valuable lesson. It’s not about hiding or downplaying my privilege; it’s about acknowledging it and using my platform to listen and empathize with others. By doing so, I can build stronger relationships and work towards financial independence. The movie may not have resonated with me on a personal level, but it sparked a necessary conversation about identity, family, and money. And for that, I’m grateful.
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