Why we're all drunk on 'Crazy Rich Asians'

 Everyone is crazy drunk on "Crazy Rich Asians", including me.

Annie Kuo, Patranya Bhoolsuwan, Mimi Jung, Me

There's a lot to say about the movie "Crazy Rich Asians". The movie opened August 15 and Asian Americans (and friends) have gone absolutely nuts -- buying out theaters hoping to get a gold open at the box office to prove to Hollywood that yes, Asian Americans matter and they will spend the money.

Why is it such a big deal? Maybe because Asian Americans have mostly been portrayed in media as foreigners, geeks and martial artists... and never (or rarely) romantic leads, sexy, smart, or funny. 

But the Crazies say... not today Satan!

Crazy Rich Asians is the first movie in two decades to have an all Asian or Asian-American cast since "The Joy Luck Club" (which is also one of my all-time favorite movies.) It is a fun, romantic-comedy that can relate to anyone.

And ​Constance Wu is my queen.

A couple of weeks ago, a special screening was held in Seattle -- apparently the city appeals to the filmmakers because of its large literary crowd (the movie was written by Houston native Kevin Kwan) and because of its large Asian community.

I dragged my pregnant butt out for a late night--]not only to watch the movie but then hang out at Ethan Stowell's restaurant Cortina for pizza, appetizers and a meet and greet with the director Jon Chu and one of the stars, Henry Golding.

Henry was so nice. His friend (or handler) told him that my hu​sband and I had been trying to have a baby for 9 years and goes, "Henry, you have to listen to this! This is the best story of the night!"

Henry was so kind and gave me a hug. We took this picture and he reminded me that Henry is a nice name for a boy. Henry is also hapa, so I can't help but think, oh, I hope my son is as handsome as he. 

Also, on a side note, some people have criticized Henry for not being Asian enough. I hate this criticism so much, but he did address it in a recent story from Jim Dever of Evening Magazine.

This movie is exciting for Asian Americans who didn't grow up with strong Asian role models. This is for our children who should grow up with confidence and validation. I know it's a lot of pressure to put on a romantic comedy, but so far it's holding up to the task. I've already seen the movie, but I'm going to financially support it again, in hopes of sending a message that yes, we matter--all of us do!