Movie Review: Always Be My Maybe (2019) – Ali Wong & Randall Park Deliver Rom-Com Gold
- Joao Nsita
- Mar 3
- 7 min read
Introduction
"Always Be My Maybe" is a refreshing romantic comedy that breathes new life into the friends-to-lovers trope while offering a heartfelt celebration of Asian American culture. Directed by Nahnatchka Khan and starring Ali Wong and Randall Park, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Michael Golamco, this Netflix original film delivers a perfect blend of humor, romance, and cultural authenticity.
Plot Overview
Childhood friends Sasha Tran (Ali Wong) and Marcus Kim (Randall Park) grow up next door to each other in San Francisco. After a brief teenage fling ends awkwardly, they lose touch for 15 years. Sasha becomes a celebrity chef, while Marcus stays in his hometown, working for his father's air conditioning business and playing in a local band. When Sasha returns to San Francisco to open a new restaurant, their paths cross again, rekindling old feelings and sparking new complications.
Character Development
Sasha Tran
Ali Wong brings depth and nuance to Sasha, portraying her as a driven, successful woman who hasn't lost touch with her roots. As the story progresses, we see Sasha grapple with her identity, career ambitions, and the lingering feelings for her childhood friend.
Marcus Kim
Randall Park's Marcus is a lovable underachiever with a heart of gold. His character arc, from a man stuck in his comfort zone to someone willing to take risks for love, is both believable and endearing.
Themes
Cultural Identity
The film explores the complexities of Asian American identity without making it the central conflict. Instead, it's woven seamlessly into the characters' lives, from Sasha's fusion cuisine to Marcus's relationship with his Korean father.
Personal Growth
Both protagonists undergo significant personal growth throughout the film, learning to balance their ambitions with their emotional needs.
Family and Community
The importance of family and community in Asian American culture is highlighted, showing both its supportive and sometimes stifling aspects.
Humor and Wit
Ali Wong's signature sharp wit shines throughout the film, delivering laugh-out-loud moments that feel genuine to the characters and situations. The humor ranges from clever wordplay to physical comedy, with cultural in-jokes that will especially resonate with Asian American viewers.
Standout Scenes
Keanu Reeves Cameo
Keanu Reeves's appearance as an exaggerated version of himself is a comedic highlight, providing some of the film's most memorable and meme-worthy moments.
Childhood Flashbacks
The scenes depicting Sasha and Marcus's childhood are both heartwarming and crucial to understanding their deep connection.
Representation and Cultural Authenticity
"Always Be My Maybe" stands out for its authentic representation of Asian American experiences. It portrays a diverse range of Asian American characters, avoiding stereotypes and showcasing the community's multifaceted nature.
Direction and Cinematography
Nahnatchka Khan's direction brings a fresh, modern feel to the romantic comedy genre. The film's visual style captures the vibrancy of San Francisco and the warmth of its characters' relationships.
Music and Soundtrack
The soundtrack, featuring Marcus's band Hello Peril, adds another layer of cultural authenticity and charm to the film. The original songs, particularly "I Punched Keanu Reeves," are catchy and memorable.
Chemistry Between Leads
The chemistry between Ali Wong and Randall Park is palpable, making their characters' long-standing friendship and burgeoning romance feel genuine and engaging.
Subversion of Rom-Com Tropes
While "Always Be My Maybe" follows some familiar romantic comedy beats, it subverts many tropes, offering a more realistic and nuanced take on relationships and personal growth.
Supporting Cast
The supporting cast, including Michelle Buteau as Sasha's assistant Veronica and James Saito as Marcus's father, adds depth and humor to the story, creating a rich, believable world around the main characters.
Pacing and Structure
The film maintains a steady pace, balancing character development with comedic moments and romantic tension. The structure, which includes flashbacks to Sasha and Marcus's childhood, effectively builds their relationship and history.
Themes of Success and Fulfillment
The movie explores different definitions of success, contrasting Sasha's high-profile career with Marcus's more laid-back lifestyle. It ultimately suggests that true fulfillment comes from being true to oneself and one's roots.
Cultural Impact
"Always Be My Maybe" has made a significant impact on Asian American representation in mainstream media. It presents Asian American characters in lead roles without making their ethnicity the central focus of the story.
Comparison to Other Rom-Coms
While it shares elements with classic romantic comedies, "Always Be My Maybe" stands out for its cultural specificity and modern sensibilities. It can be seen as part of a new wave of diverse, culturally rich romantic comedies.
Conclusion
"Always Be My Maybe" is a delightful, heartfelt romantic comedy that succeeds on multiple levels. It offers genuine laughs, touching moments of romance, and a refreshing perspective on Asian American experiences. Ali Wong and Randall Park's chemistry and comedic timing drive the film, while Nahnatchka Khan's direction ensures a perfect balance of humor, heart, and cultural authenticity.
The film's strength lies in its ability to tell a universal story of love and self-discovery while remaining true to its characters' specific cultural experiences. It celebrates Asian American culture without turning it into a spectacle or a problem to be solved. Instead, it presents a world where these characters simply exist, love, and pursue their dreams.
"Always Be My Maybe" is more than just a romantic comedy; it's a milestone in Asian American representation in Hollywood. It proves that stories centered on diverse characters can be both culturally specific and universally appealing. For rom-com enthusiasts, Asian American viewers seeking representation, or anyone looking for a feel-good movie with depth, "Always Be My Maybe" is a must-watch that will leave you smiling, laughing, and perhaps craving some of Sasha's fusion cuisine.
FAQs
Who stars in "Always Be My Maybe"?The film stars Ali Wong as Sasha Tran and Randall Park as Marcus K
Who directed "Always Be My Maybe"?The movie was directed by Nahnatchka Kh
When was "Always Be My Maybe" released?The film was released on Netflix on May 31, 20
Is "Always Be My Maybe" based on a true story?No, it's a fictional story, but it draws inspiration from the writers' experiences and Asian American cultu
Where was "Always Be My Maybe" filmed?The movie was primarily filmed in Vancouver and San Francis
Who wrote "Always Be My Maybe"?The screenplay was written by Ali Wong, Randall Park, and Michael Golam
What is the significance of the title "Always Be My Maybe"?The title plays on the phrase "always be my baby" and reflects the uncertain nature of Sasha and Marcus's relationship throughout the fi
Is there a soundtrack available for "Always Be My Maybe"?Yes, a soundtrack featuring songs from the film, including those by Marcus's band Hello Peril, is availab
How long is "Always Be My Maybe"?The film has a runtime of approximately 101 minut
Is "Always Be My Maybe" suitable for all ages?The movie is rated PG-13 for sexual content, drug use and language, making it more appropriate for teens and adu
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🎥 Your Film Critic HubDive into the world of movie reviews and ratings! With its iconic Tomatometer, Rotten Tomatoes helps you quickly determine if a film is a "fresh" masterpiece or a "rotten" flop.
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