Crazy Rich Asians' Director Breaks Down a Scene | Notes on a Scene | Vanity Fair

On this episode of "Notes on a Scene," Jon M. Chu, the director of Crazy Rich Asians, breaks down the scene where Rachel sees her boyfriend's family home in Singapore for the first time. Crazy Rich Asians is in theaters now.
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[@moviegal6000]

I would LOVE to see him explain the wedding scene. It was incredible.

[@kaylamedeiros3113]

Erica O'Brien it literally made me cry whoever thought that up should get a gold medal

[@peyton4895]

I’ve always thought that when/if I get married I’d just have a small wedding cause I don’t like extravagant things but I watched that scene and I was like I want that

[@8jan82]

Yes indeed! I had been watched the movie twice and I cried at the same scene!

[@thelifeuchoose]

Erica O'Brien absolutely was

[@leechungyan3]

They did it on a budget as well.

[@PatriciaHuffman]

the fact that awkwafina wasnt looking where she was going cracked me up during the scene

[@yourboss7249]

Forreals! She made that scene perfect and funny. It was good they kept that scene like that. Instead of having her actually pay attention to her driving.

[@wendyho4067]

Hkmb🍉🌶🍫🍬🍭🍬:-|

[@jessicaduong8096]

Lol ik I kept wondering if they were gonna crash

[@petershen1984]

I was like she gonna crash her audi

[@tootsbluenose9912]

😂😂😂 can’t believe she didn’t crash the car!

[@sugarcranes9882]

Honestly, this probably doesn't mean much to anyone else, but I am so happy about them actually taking into consideration small little design details like the peranakan house design, which is so Singaporean and it's just so nice to see that this isn't just a western film with asian actors

[@DesSimsify]

Pierre Png, Selena Tan, and Fiona Xie were in the movie, too! I also saw some other SG actors, like Nat Ho, have cameos.

[@gobananagirlsmeiandrai4257]

AHHH AGREED! The immense amount of details is amazing and so impressive !

[@dancer17761]

Yes!

[@nothumanlol]

I watched a Singaporean drama called “the little nyonya” that’s how I got to know the peranakan culture. I’m glad to see the design again in this movie

[@xandercorp6175]

@Chow Chee Bai Way to get angry about nothing at all, that no one said lol.

[@alyssasacriz7096]

" his voice is like butter" amEN to that

[@dancer17761]

*I don’t know why but the noise of the markers was so satisfying loool*

[@kristabel3260]

*asmr

[@mmafan2223]

Love me some good ASMR

[@spoyledbratt]

Could he narrate the mahjong scene? It was iconic!

[@unk0wn3.14]

spoyledbratt omg right? the most emotional scene ever 😭

[@GeneHChan]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/faPIfn6LZd92iNE

[@theveganmerman9302]

That line sounded so natural “wow I think I just fell in love with you all over again” I knew it could not have been scripted 😍😍😍

[@Nazaba09]

The Vegan Merman and then Jon’s like ‘I thought it was cheesy’. LISTEN, CHEESE WORKS.

[@da96103]

Awkwafina just pretending to be driving is already funny.

[@mlonerr2234]

She doesn't even know how to drive IRL hahah

[@gobananagirlsmeiandrai4257]

hahaha I feel like anything Awkwafina is funny :)

[@SplashAttackTCG]

That Mahjong scene was so POWERFUL! I was like.... *I'm not crying, you're crying.*

[@amycooper2364]

Splash Attack TCG RIGHT

[@jimkuan8493]

The most impressive about the Mahjong scene is not when Rachel speaks about leaving, it is actually Eleanor's reaction to his son proposal to Rachel and planning to leave everything behind. She knows the significance of this move and you can see the internal mind scream coming through her acting. Very powerful expression. Michelle Y's decades of professional acting delivers that hint of stormy emotion right on point.

[@jimkuan8493]

I am talking about acting.

[@chocomui-u7y]

dw i get ya

[@damn671]

Awkwafina was the best part of this movie. Give her more screen time for the sequel !

[@cathysun4887]

In the book, peik Lin only shows up at the climax

[@Dtzeo503]

That might change you'll never know what they could do. it doesn't have to follow the book word for word.

[@da96103]

Need a prequel for CRA. RACHEL AND PEIK LIN: THE STANFORD ASIANS

[@wnose]

Ken Jeong and Awkwafina did some PR interviews and they're HILARIOUS together. We need a spinoff!

[@rashad0026]

More is not necessarily always better. I would be perfectly fine with the amount of screentime she had in the first.

[@anthonybradley5713]

Can he please break down another scene this was so interesting

[@trangelayo]

Nick Melogo I second this.

[@dancer17761]

Yes !!

[@nothumanlol]

I want it too

[@thesofixu1]

the opening aerial overview of the property was so amazing!! combined with the music, you could really feel the grandness and elegance of the place. well done jon!!

[@ChrisDixon__]

Described perfectly.

[@timothyzhang9658]

that scene kinda reminded me of Jurassic Park idk why

[@VinceCheong]

It was too amazing that I felt that it doesn’t feels like singapore HAAHAH lol

[@todosassd1855]

Who was the cinematographer? Amazing shots throughout film!

[@WeiYinChan]

“I Instagram-stalked him” 😂

[@andreagalvin4834]

I love how he goes straight to focusing on the grass when they were about to kiss. 🙄

[@lavendaire]

Omg this was amazing

[@daviyen]

CG you can’t tell is best CG

[@Cali978]

He’s having fun with the markers lol

[@FireCracker3240]

I loved this! Even years later, after studying it in college, I'm still fascinated by the filmmaking process. It's such an art to get everything looking just so. This director is super cool, and I am now even more excited to see this movie. Looks fnatastic!

[@amandarachlee]

what an inspiring dude

[@naethavenir9422]

Wow, I did not expect to see you here!

[@thesofixu1]

ahh awkwafina pretending to drive is even funnier now that i know that she doesn't actually know how to drive LOL (re: her interview with wongfu)

[@hotkml3]

while watching the movie, I was wondering the whole time why her eyes were off the road most of the time

[@freshstart4423]

She disobeyed the director, refused to follow directions, ruined the scene.

[@vanthadoun1]

"I''m not an animal Rachel" needs to be a meme, Awkwafina stole this movie, I watched it with my wife and daughter and they were laughing every time she showed up. If they ever do a sequel they need to focus more on her character.

[@Pepodrops]

even when shes calling rachel to eat?

[@lesyou9866]

Sorry but dont understand that joke. What does she mean when she said 'im not an animal, Rachel.'

[@da96103]

6:25 Mr Chu, can we have Awkwafina's dirty lines takes in a youtube video? Thank you.

[@lgkgbg]

Yesssssssss

[@i2harry]

Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaas

[@daniel8chang]

That, or be a part of the deleted scenes in the Blu-ray

[@Tori-mh7fg]

PLEASE the internet demands it

[@NeoGee]

I'm sure they're saving them for the outtakes on the Blu Ray.

[@azxzn]

Awkwafina is so underrated. Girl's got comedic skills.

[@dancedj2k2]

Awkwafina just KILLS IT in this movie. She deserves a Best Supporting Actress nomination for this role.

[@da96103]

I was thinking: I have seen this house before. Then I realized this is the Carcosa Seri Negara in Kuala Lumpur.

[@Kathy-22]

I just saw the movie today. It was a fantastic movie. So many handsome and HAWT men on screen.

[@freshstart4423]

Just Google Handsome Asian Actors. There's lots of them, millionaires. They are not oppressed in USA. Those who spread lies about racism in USA will face their maker if they don't repent. Genesis 12.

[@nimigeorge8089]

Bruh it was all cg? Wow

[@ssana743]

Ikr, it looked so real

[@fetB]

Ye, pretty amazing what they can do. There's a cool 7min video on it called "Why CG Sucks (Except It Doesn't)"

[@ssana743]

fetB I'll check it out

[@exoticillusions3924]

they're cray rich asians, they can afford the cg

[@ThaoNguyen-ny9lw]

Help! What’s CG?

[@EnnyOwl]

Hollywood is headed in the right direction and I couldn't be happier! 💜💜

[@izzyshine19]

I love how in literally every interview for this film, everyone mentions how much they loved working with Awkwafina, she just seems like such a cool person!

[@TCReyes]

Dude came a long way since directing Justin Bieber

[@freshstart4423]

Justin Bieber is a world class performer. He struggled with corruption in the industry like everyone else. His pastor and Oprah told him not to get married when he was younger. The interviews are on the internet with Oprah.

[@evrrsage]

"So this is their kiss sce- WAIT NO. _LOOK AT THE GRASS_ "

[@66michelleying]

Being a director is such a creative job, it’s like a magician who can create an illusion and lure the audiences to his magic show.

[@maryamaxena5663]

really love this ❤️ love how they really paid attention to every detail and would love to see him do this with other scenesss

[@michinnunapaen]

ahhh..i want more!! this was soo freaking interesting and so cool to be able to learn all how everything was thought out and actually realized in the final production.

[@travelingtravelor]

I love how he encourages EVERYONE who played a role in this scene. What a dope director

[@izzywoods794]

I love how for some Americans, seeing all Asian cast is all shocking. But then those of us who watch Asian dramas and reality are just like; oh cool☺️

[@CafeDeDuy]

Izzy Woods I mean for Asian Americans as a whole, it’s shocking cause we’re not treated like this in Hollywood lol

[@izzywoods794]

Duy Truong i wasnt referring to Asian Americans specifically, or the fact that it IS shocking that it’s taken this long and finally happening in the US. I was speaking of the Americans that find the actual fact that people of Asian decent can act well, direct amazing movies and portray something other than a wacky side character who is good at math. I definitely appreciate how this movie is ground breaking for the American film industry

[@CafeDeDuy]

Izzy Woods OH YOURE RIGHT! Like it’s not shocking at all when there’s an entire industry of Asian dramas lol

[@Lucy-tw1dw]

I loved the fact that there were no typical Hollywood stars anywhere. Sick of those fools 😄

[@fayebaesama]

I like how he totally ignores how the smooch fits into the scene and focuses on the grass instead 😂

[@cenon415]

The most stunning wedding scene I have ever seen in this movie. Definitely enjoyed the movie!

[@fernandabluntkrasinski9026]

The wardrobe is the most expensive thing in this film

[@arkarnyay]

Can u just break down the whole movie

[@albanywong582]

This movie was truly a feast for the eyes. It was almost on par with 'The Great Gatsby' where every scene was so intricately set up and so full of detail. The wedding scene was spectacular as was the final scene by the Marina Bay Sands pool.

[@da96103]

Yeah white lanterns are only used during funeral. That's how you know an event in the compound of a house is a funeral if they hang white lanterns outside of the house.

[@uptorest]

big thanks to Michelle Yeoh for laying down the law

[@mrbluebell2735]

Missed a few at the entrance.

[@huaichien]

It takes a real ethnic Chinese (Michelle) to know the Chinese cultural nuances. Those Chinese raised in America are more culturally American than Chinese.

[@heneralantonioluna8725]

@@huaichien That's what Eleanor Believe

[@marincardenas2357]

So much love for asian directors lately keep it up!!

[@Punkimeowmeow]

The part with the garment bags in the trunk cracked me up!!! Awkwafina should add stand-up comedian to her list of many talents.

[@chegbahadur1539]

love getting these behind the scenes look at how the director thinks of his own film. super interesting too see how deliberate they are

[@theeleanorshellstrop]

Break down the wedding scene pls I wish it were longer

[@nurshahirahbintishaharudin6811]

As a malaysian i cant help but be so proud!!

[@penyuwan]

same

[@mrbluebell2735]

Be more proud. I know the catering team and they clocked 16 hour days through the fasting month.

[@potatoeskimos]

Most of the cast, production, and directors were all Chinese. I'd be more proud if Malay ourselves made it. This movie is interesting regardless.

[@shinesbrighter]

I want more of this! Loved how he explained everything! My mom and I talked about that Akwafina clothes scene multiple times now after seeing the movie haha

[@SkippyGustilo]

I really like Jon, he is the first director I have ever scene just cut right at the tip of the action, and just explain every single detail that.. not needed but needed us to know. Especially 🙈💩 hahahahaha added to my fave directors! 🙌

[@Cjewolfy]

im starting to wonder how they can act so well when their surroundings dont fit the atmosphere,but yet they are able to deliever the feelings.Proffesional actors indeed!

[@Rainman___]

lmao when awkwafina said "please don't stab my car" i cracked tf up for like 10 min

[@anesnt6645]

My husband (an Australian Malay Chinese) liked the movie so much he dragged me to the theater to watch it twice in less than a week. I must agree that the movie is brilliant!!! l love it very much. Looking forward to seeing it reach the Brazilian theaters so people can have an idea what I am talking about when I speak about how impressive Singapore is. Fantastic job!

[@lystlez]

He should do this again for the wedding scene!

[@jasminecobb1361]

I LOVED Awkwafina!! That wedding scene was absolutely breathtaking! The scenery in this movie were so beautiful, I cannot wait for the second movie!!

[@AJB9806]

ASIANS ARE NOT ALWAYS THE FOREIGNER, BROKEN ENGLISH STEREOTYPE! I was adopted as an infant and grew up as American as it gets. I still get people asking if I’m an exchange student. It doesn’t bother me, but I’m ready for that to change. I can’t wait to see this.

[@FireCracker3240]

I'm sorry for all of the ignorant Americans out there. You are right, it's about time it changes, and this movie is a great start.

[@AJB9806]

FireCracker3240 No need to apologize! 🤗 In my experience, people have always been very polite in the way they asked, so it’s never really bothered me significantly.

[@bagel8471]

FREAKING LOVE THE BOOK SO I KNOW THE MOVIE WILL BE BOMB!!👌 just showing some Asian pride

[@spicechica93]

evanescent 09 I never even heard of the title until the trailers came out. I love the Asian culture, I’m Latina btw. I’m excited to see this 😄

[@lgkgbg]

It was kinda the 1st and 2nd book combined FYI

[@Abby-wx6kl]

Asian representation is why I love Crazy Rich Asians so much!!!!!! 😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭😍😭

[@WamuyuGatheru]

main actor had never acted. Interesting

[@ilikefoodxD]

Well never acted in a MOVIE

[@FireCracker3240]

This is actually much more common than many people think.

[@rphawks6250]

He was a BBC travel host, so while he hadn't acted before, he's more experienced than your everyday person.

[@xandercorp6175]

He was the male lead, not the main actor by a long shot.

[@faith7013]

@@xandercorp6175 amen

[@scsweetie09]

I would love a breakdown of the wedding ceremony ❤️😍

[@ineedtodrive]

michelle yeoh knows almost all top guns in malaysia. she knows whats up!

[@anugerahpekertiislamilenia1869]

"Voice like butter" Amen, Sir. Amen

[@gobananagirlsmeiandrai4257]

SUCH a creative mind with such a CLEAR vision, I love it!! Great Job Jon Chu.

[@thomas420a]

Bloopers!!! I hope we get to see them soon!

[@starlyneestrada5660]

Watched the movie and I absolutely loved every part of it!! I’m hooked! I need to see more break downs!

[@nori2six]

Henry really did live up my expectations. Specially his accent where rachel really loved.

[@rolypoly2995]

I think the casting is amazing and on point

[@LilyMUTINY]

I could listen to his commentary all day. This is so interesting! I love it

[@user-uu5dc6wr6h]

I was contemplating watching this a couple days ago when my friend linked the trailer to me but this video has reeled me in completely. Super excited to see it next week with my sister!

[@airwaves7]

I want him to break down the wedding scene.

[@dancer17761]

I LOVED THIS MOVIE SO MUCH :’)

[@itssarahkimm1886]

omg a breakdown on Colin and Sonya's wedding pls

[@kristacorzine7492]

Asian pride! Love the movie

[@jayandtaynationroberts1861]

I am so going to watch this movie

[@imnotarunner]

love this breakdown of the movie!!

[@lilachodan4941]

1:58 And this shot is freaking magnificent

[@tyemaishu2961]

Goooooood movie, really loving these break downs

[@valentinavee]

This is so good. He should do a breakdown of every scene in the entire movie.

[@vinaymusuku4776]

It was a beautiful movie.awesome director and editing

[@SplashAttackTCG]

This movie is going to be amazing!

[@sfdave65]

I've seen it 3 times since it's come out....and this is one freaking incredibly well made movie.

[@Simon-ro8nh]

Watched this movie yesterday! It was absolutely brilliant! Love it! Highly recommended

[@jackharrist8180]

they absolutely nailed the cinematography in this movie

[@footyfan101ful]

I could listen to him all day

[@curiositi1117]

again agaiin!! loved this detailed analysis!

[@travelingtravelor]

Just saw it today and LLOOVVVEEDDD IT!!!!

[@estawantah]

I NEED HIS NOTES ON A SCENE FOR THE MAHJONG SCENE AT THE END THAT IS JUST WRITING AND DIRECTING GENIUS

[@internetgirl100]

Just watched this movie and it was great! Made me cry so much and laughed. Beautiful people and interesting characters.

[@Canaldefarticles416]

This is so amazing. And I didn’t expect that the director was so young!

[@heryang4019]

Jon M. Chu is a legend! 🐐

[@delauder]

He seems like a fun director

[@Destinie098]

I would love to know about the wedding scene. It was so beautiful I cried

[@benstr8156]

Singer in wedding scene is Kina Grannis. Beautiful voice. A Lot of Kina fans were so thrilled to see her.

[@Tigers6429]

YESSSSS THIS OFFICIALLY MY FAVORITE MOVIE OF 2018

[@geodawuni]

her bestfriend is a whole mood!

[@janebutterfly9450]

Such an amazing movie!! So happy for the full Asian cast too!! Loved every bit of it!!

[@freshstart4423]

They never created this movie before because their Asian parents are so controlling. They oppress their own children. Asian actors have always been loved if their parents will let them pursue their dreams.

[@melloe]

Love this, can't wait to see it this weekend!!

[@VeryMerryLou]

seen it and looooove it!!! - Vancouver, BC

[@goliaboi]

LOVE

[@weinchester]

Please do a breakdown of the wedding entrance scene!

[@abbywolffe4114]

Cannot believe it was Henry Golding's first movie, he was so good

[@TalkAsSoftAsChalk]

I love how he is just doodling while telling the stories!

[@gregfrllo]

can we have him break down all the scene instead