Writer/Director Eddie Huang (Fresh Off the Boat, Huang’s World) delivers his Focus Features directorial debut film, BOOGIE in theaters March 5, 2021.
At first glance, one would consider this film to be a comedic feel-good crossover film that depicts the trials and tribulations an Asian American faces as he dreams of entering the NBA. After reviewing the film, Eddie Huang desires to bring forth an unfamiliar narrative about the inner turmoil of being a minority in a heavily biased country where dreaming outside of a box should be considered a norm for people of all races and ethnic backgrounds.
Also, the idea of a house not being a home sheds light on families that are bewildered by physical and mental abuse and its impact on a child’s upbringing. Utilizing the film as a backdrop for his own experiences growing up as a son of Taiwanese immigrants in Orlando, Florida, Huang states, “I’m always unpacking my personal stuff in my work. The reason why I wanted to make this movie is because I come from a family with a history of domestic violence.”
Portraying the lead role of BOOGIE is actor Taylor Takahashi. He delivers a hip-hop-inspired aura in his feature-film debut as an exceptionally striking and charming character on screen. As we walk through the valley of Boogie’s path to freedom of playing in the NBA, the film reminds me of puzzle pieces that a viewer must connect to grasp the story entirely.
In appreciation of the unexpected plot twist, Mrs. Chin (Pamelyn Chee) held nothing back and made her presence known as an authoritative parent who would do anything to help her child get out of their twisted family lifestyle. Another surprise that shocked me is Lenard Larry McKelvey’s appearance, also known as Charlamagne tha God, who looked comfortable in his role. Taylor Paige embraced her love interest role as “Eleanor” in the film; however, I wanted to see more fluidity in her and Boogie’s rigid relationship.
It always saddens me to see the promising future of a shining star gone too soon, but fans of the late Brooklyn rapper Bashar “Pop Smoke” Jackson will undoubtedly appreciate his role as “Monk” in the film. Huang’s original intent for this character, “Monk,” is not to be seen as a nemesis, but a hierarchy to basketball greatness that all must aspire to reach the pinnacle of NBA success.
Another interesting fact is that Harlem-based rapper Dave East was initially cast and shot scenes as “Monk”; however, an accident in Las Vegas left him unable to continue the role in the film. A connection between Huang and Pop Smoke’s label head Steven Victor led to a massive opportunity for Bashar to participate in his feature film debut. With no time to read the script, Bashar auditioned and began shooting scenes within a 3-day timeframe. Viewers will receive a taste of Bashar’s basketball and acting skills more towards the film’s end.
Overall, I applaud Huang’s ability to turn his pain into purpose and utilizing his platform to honor cultures that make our world worthy of diversity. Although the depth wasn’t as meaty as I hoped for, this film’s motive and intent give notice that more stories from a diverse perspective are welcome in this day and age.
ABOUT THE FILM– From acclaimed writer, producer and restaurateur Eddie Huang comes his directorial debut BOOGIE, the coming-of-age story of Alfred “Boogie” Chin, a basketball phenom living in Queens, New York, who dreams of one day playing in the NBA. While his parents pressure him to focus on earning a scholarship to an elite college, Boogie must find a way to navigate a new girlfriend, high school, on-court rivals and the burden of expectation.
Director/Writer: Eddie Huang
Producers: Josh Bratman, Josh McLaughlin, Michael Tadross
Cast: Taylor Takahashi, Taylour Paige, Pamelyn Chee, Mike Moh, Jorge Lendeborg Jr., Alexa Mareka, Perry Yung, Pop Smoke
