Photo courtesy of Netflix
“To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” is the latest addition to the recent Asian blockbuster phenomenon following the highly publicized film “Crazy Rich Asians.” Netflix’s newest rom-com definitely did not disappoint in delivering remarkable acting amidst an endearing plot.
An unconventional characteristic sets this film apart from the abundance of romance movies in the industry – an Asian lead. I was personally taken aback when I first caught a glimpse of the movie cover, which features a girl who looks remarkably like myself, as opposed to the standard blonde-haired, blue-eyed heroine.
So many elements of this movie stole my heart with their unique charm. The biracial Covey family strays from the usual portrayal of an Asian family with uniform black-haired parents and siblings. The opening scene contains a white father having dinner with his Asian American daughters, one of whom invited her white boyfriend, painting a beautiful picture of diverse congruity. I also loved how many cultural references were incorporated throughout the film, including a massive jar of kimchi, Korean face masks and the infamous yogurt drinks many Asians grew up drinking. These elements preserve the essence of Asian culture in a movie that takes place in an American suburban neighborhood.
I also loved how many cultural references were incorporated throughout the film, including a massive jar of kimchi, Korean face masks and the infamous yogurt drinks many Asians grew up drinking. These elements preserve the essence of Asian culture in a movie that takes place in an American suburban neighborhood.
The awkward yet lovable main character of Lara Jean Covey (Lana Condor) embodies everything I’ve felt growing up as an Asian-American female. She likes to keep quiet but does not hesitate to speak up when wronged, methodically plans out the future in a well-organized list (much to the humor of Peter Kavinsky [Noah Centineo]) and above all, holds a fierce love for her atypical family without a trace of embarrassment. The film’s cinematography is picturesque, featuring a retro cafe that all the locals hit up, sparkly bicycles ridden around town and a small town vibe that is simply alluring – albeit more painful for Lara Jean upon the release of her scandal.
As far as casting goes, I have to applaud the casting director for seamlessly incorporating Asian extras where they were previously never seen before. I noticed Asian librarians, students and school dance chaperones in this movie whereas many other films would not have batted an eyelash at excluding ethnic individuals. It’s these types of subtle details that strengthen the platform for Asian introduction onto the big screen. With that being said, this movie does a phenomenal job at crushing the stereotype that “Asians only hang out with other Asians.” I’ve heard this phrase countless times myself and am led to believe that it could be one of the most widely believed myths about the Asian race. Lara Jean, however, has a white best friend named Chris (Madeleine Arthur), has written love letters to a diverse group of boys and performs most of her interactions with other non-Asian characters.
I noticed Asian librarians, students and school dance chaperones in this movie whereas many other films would not have batted an eyelash at excluding ethnic individuals. It’s these types of subtle details that strengthen the platform for Asian introduction onto the big screen.
This motion picture’s classification as a romantic comedy does not tamper with its potential to delve into deeper issues. The backgrounds of Peter and Lara Jean’s parents, which paint a picture of a not-so-perfect family, serve as a gripping way to uncover the truth of broken relationships. Their vulnerability when discussing the emotional baggage regarding their respective parents brings them closer as two hurt, confused individuals.
Overall, this unconventional story line of a top-secret bundle of love letters being released to their respective subjects is a marvelous way to tell a story of high school love, frenzy and drama. Other than a few stereotypical features, such as the best friend-turned-mean girl and somewhat predictable – yet heartwarming – ending, the story told a delightful story of classic, feel-good romance. This movie marks the beginning of what I hope will be a steady trend of incorporating multicultural characters on-screen.
