Parents' Guide to The Wedding Banquet

This funny, crowd-pleasing remake shines thanks to its talented, charming cast. Director Andrew Ahn, who co-wrote the screenplay for The Wedding Banquet with James Schamus (who co-wrote the 1993 original with director Lee and Nick Peng), centers this reboot on the close bond between two queer couples who've created a found family. Star Yang, best known for his comedic chops, reveals a more dramatic side as Chris, a birder who's deeply in love with his partner but hesitant to commit to a marriage that could have life-altering consequences for Min. South Korean actor Han is irresistibly endearing as Min, a graduate student and textile artist who still longs for his grandmother's approval, even as he wishes that Chris would finally agree to be his husband. Gladstone impresses as Lee, a thoughtful activist and devoted partner, while Tran is perfectly cast as Angela—Chris' best friend since college orientation—who isn't quite as certain as Lee that she'd be a good mother (given her own mom issues).

Two critically acclaimed veteran actors, Youn and Joan Chen, deliver pivotal supporting performances from opposite ends of the emotional spectrum. Chen's May (a nod to the actor in the original film) is a PFLAG mom who delights in sharing her LGBTQ+ ally credentials, while Youn's Halmoni is fiercely protective of Min and determined to shield him from her homophobic husband. The banter-filled screenplay skillfully balances humor with heavier themes of family, friendship, and romantic relationship drama. The detailed production design adds a layer of depth and humor, particularly in standout scenes like the "degayification" of Lee and Angela's home or the whirlwind planning of a traditional Korean wedding. With its standout performances and emotionally resonant screenplay, this remake is a heartfelt and winning crowd-pleaser.