Parents' Guide to Joy Ride

Unapologetically raunchy, hilarious, and full of sweet moments and unexpected heart, this film's vibe and mission are perhaps made most clear by its original working title: The Joy F--k Club. Like the highly respected film The Joy Luck Club, Joy Ride's cast consists almost entirely of actors of Asian descent. But unlike the 1993 film, this one features a scene in which a lead character conceals cocaine from law enforcement by jamming it in her rectum. In a movie with less fizzy humor and genuine emotion, such a scene would be unbearably crass. But here, it's all part of the silly, occasionally surreal, and ultimately affecting adventure. It's also just one of many comedic scenes that could have easily gone south in less capable hands. In addition, the serious moments that tackle racism, identity, and the inestimable value of supportive friends bring a gravity that keeps the audience invested.

Wu's Deadeye has some of the most powerful emotional moments, such as a scene in which they cop to being "weird" and "socially awkward," but even so, they're still pained by rejection. "I don't have any friends," Deadeye admits, and Audrey, who had always looked down on Deadeye, is visibly moved by the revelation and their emotional honesty. There are other scenes that will get viewers misty, like when characters admit their fears and limitations and friends dole out hugs and support. There are also knowing cultural gags, such as when a rich businessman promises a party will have "Gift bags, oranges, Teslas, and Bitcoin." It all adds up to a deliriously enjoyable ride that audiences will want to go on again and again.