In the world of film, pushing boundaries and embracing uninhibited creativity is a rare privilege. Actress Stephanie Hsu, recognized for her outstanding performance in “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” discovered this liberating experience in the audacious film “Joy Ride.” As the anticipation builds for its release in theaters this Friday, director Adele Lim, known for her work on “Crazy Rich Asians,” expresses gratitude that there were no imposed limits on the raunchy U.S. comedy.
“Joy Ride” takes viewers on a wild and adventurous journey, centering around childhood friends Audrey and Lolo, accompanied by Lolo’s cousin Deadeye and Audrey’s former college roommate Kat. Together, they embark on a quest to China in search of Audrey’s birth mother. What sets this Lionsgate production apart is its all-Asian main cast, featuring queer and non-binary actors who breathe life into multifaceted characters that transcend racial and gender stereotypes.
The film’s cast is led by the talented Stephanie Hsu as Kat, alongside Ashley Park from “Emily in Paris” as Audrey Sullivan, Sherry Cola as Lolo, and Sabrina Wu as Deadeye. Wu, who identifies as non-binary, emphasizes the empowering nature of the movie, stating, “This is led by three women and me, and it’s awesome. We definitely throw the patriarchy around in a way that is awesome.” Furthermore, “Joy Ride” aims to resonate with audiences of all backgrounds, with Wu affirming that the film is for “all humans.”
Breaking free from preconceived notions, “Joy Ride” challenges the assumption that every Asian character has the same outlook on their identity. Stephanie Hsu reflects on the tendency to homogenize Asian experiences, asserting, “I think people like to just kind of lump us all into one.” The movie not only marks a significant milestone for the Asian community but also presents an intersection of gender queerness that is both valuable and groundbreaking.
With its unapologetic storytelling and diverse representation, “Joy Ride” shatters stereotypes and sets new standards for queer Asian voices in cinema. Audiences can look forward to a cinematic experience that embraces authenticity and celebrates the power of diversity.
