Common Sense Media Review
Real-life Crazy Rich Asians has swearing, consumerism, fun.
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Bling Empire
What's the Story?
BLING EMPIRE is a reality series featuring some of the wealthiest Asians living in Los Angeles, and an up-and-coming model learning more about their world. Kevin Kreiger grew up in Philadelphia after being adopted from Korea by a white family. But Kevin, who grew up sticking out as the only Asian-American in his East Coast community, now finds himself standing out among the members of an exclusive and diverse social group of Asian people for whom money is no object. He's now rubbing elbows with folks like Singapore billionaire Kane Lim, whose money comes from oil and Asian retail real estate, Christine Chiu, the wife of a plastic surgeon who also happens to be a descendant of the emperor of the Chinese Song Dynasty, and Kelly Mi Li, an entrepreneur whose relationship with Power Rangers Mega Force actor Andrew Gray is creating some serious problems. Also in the group is Jamie Xie, who lives off of a trust fund provided by her tech industry billionaire father, popular East Asian DJ Kim Lee, and Cherie Chan and Jessy Lee, who come from money and have children together, but are flaunting tradition by not being married. Rounding out the gang is the eccentric Anna Shay, a long-time Los Angeles socialite who sees little need to spend a lot of time competing with the others. As they throw dinner parties, show off their jewels, and spend their wealth with abandon, Kevin is trying to figure out how he fits in with this crowd.
Is It Any Good?
This unscripted series, which feels a lot like the movie Crazy Rich Asians, reveals what it's like to be thrust into an inner-circle of wealthy Asians living in the Los Angeles area. Some cast members spend a lot of time talking about how much they love their jewels and status in society, while others simply live their lives and spend their money. Throughout it all, Kevin Kreiger asks questions, and offers his thoughts about what these folks are like.
In an attempt to create classic reality storylines, competitions between stars like Christine Chiu and Anna Shay emerge. But this often feels contrived, and the petty things that they argue about (like who wears what expensive jewelry and when), is almost laughable. Meanwhile, you have to wonder if the wealthy cast would really accept Kevin into their materialistic group, if not for the fact that they are on a reality show. Overall, Bling Empire offers lots of obnoxious moments that reality fans will either find ridiculous, or extremely entertaining.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why people find reality shows featuring the lives of wealthy people appealing. Is it to live vicariously through them? Or is it the spectacles that they create?
Are series like Bling Empire and House of Ho creating and reinforcing stereotypes about Asian-Americans, and Asian immigrants, living in the United States? Or are they challenging them? What do you think?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 15, 2021
- Cast : Kevin Kreiger , Anna Shay , Christine Chiu
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : January 19, 2021
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