One significant challenge for Asian Americans in Hollywood — and in broader American society, where we often serve as tools in the narratives of others — is the overwhelming pressure to make every project a standout success. Each film, series, or artistic endeavor carries the weight of expectation, as if it must redefine the landscape.
This sentiment resonates deeply with my thoughts on “Boogie,” the directorial debut of Eddie Huang, who is also a writer and restaurateur. “Boogie” narrates the story of Alfred “Boogie” Chin, a Chinese American high school basketball player with aspirations of joining the NBA. As he faces pressures from his parents to secure a scholarship to a Division I school, Boogie must navigate the complexities of a new high school, his girlfriend, a rival, and the towering expectations of his family.
The film seems to mirror its protagonist’s struggles, grappling with the weight of Asian American expectations against a backdrop of competitive storytelling and the pitfalls of inexperience. “Boogie” is neither terrible nor exceptional — it falls into the category of an acceptable film that brings a refreshing perspective where race is acknowledged but not the focal point.
“Boogie” offers a quiet satisfaction, initially appearing to set up a classic underdog sports narrative, but it transcends those expectations. Much like the Asian American experience, it doesn’t fit neatly into any genre. At its core, the film explores love — for our parents, ourselves, our partners, and the game itself.
Why “Boogie” Matters
It might sound cliché, but representation is crucial. The importance of seeing characters who reflect our identities, families, and cultures is transformative. Eddie Huang emphasized this during an interview, stating that the Asian American experience is unique and deserves attention from all audiences.
When narratives featuring Asian Americans are limited to a single storyline, it can make individuals question their own identities. The prevalent portrayal of Asian Americans often focuses on East Asian experiences, leaving many, including those who identify as Taiwanese or other backgrounds, feeling overlooked.
Asian Americans are diverse; we are not merely defined by immigrant struggles or stereotypes. We can excel in sports, engage in cross-racial relationships without it being a focal point, and have English-speaking parents who embody a deep understanding of Asian American history.
What “Boogie” Gets Right
I won’t sugarcoat it; some elements of “Boogie” were cringeworthy. The fortune-telling scenes felt out of place and showcased uneven Mandarin fluency among the actors. However, the performances, while not always stellar, conveyed real emotions and authentic backstories.
What stood out to me was the attention to detail. Though not every Chinese or Taiwanese household is the same, many nuances resonated with me as a Taiwanese Chinese American. The interactions between Boogie and his parents felt familiar, capturing their dreams and expectations perfectly.
I appreciated the film’s sensitive depiction of vulnerability in Boogie’s relationship with his girlfriend, Eleanor. It approached stereotypes around Asian masculinity with nuance, making a powerful impact. I also appreciated that “Boogie” allowed its protagonist to have depth, unlike other films that have diminished Asian male characters.
Interestingly, I found the film’s ending refreshing, contrary to some critics’ reviews. It defies the typical sports movie or romantic resolutions, presenting a realistic conclusion that feels like both an ending and a new beginning.
Why Mediocrity Can Be Great
Is “Boogie” a groundbreaking film like “Minari”? Not at all. Is it even on par with “Harold and Kumar”? Certainly not! But that doesn’t diminish its value.
If mediocre shows like “Everybody Loves Raymond” can thrive for years, why can’t Asian stories, even if they are simply “good enough,” also find their place? I want to see a multitude of Asian narratives, alongside POC and LGBTQIA+ stories, flooding the market. I want there to be enough representation that it includes not just excellence but also mediocrity and everything in between.
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Summary:
“Boogie” highlights the importance of representation in film, capturing the complexities of the Asian American experience while exploring themes of love and identity. Despite its shortcomings, it offers a refreshing perspective on the narratives we often see in Hollywood. More Asian American stories of all kinds are needed to enrich the cinematic landscape.