Cast
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Gua Ah-leh
as Mrs. Gao
Lung Sihung
as Mr. Gao
May Chin
as Wei-Wei
Winston Chao
as Wai-Tung Gao
Mitchell Lichtenstein
as Simon
Neal Huff
as Steve
Michael Gaston
as Justice of the Peace
Mason Lee
as Baby
Dion Birney
as Andrew
John Nathan
as Joe
Jeanne Kuo Chang
as Wai-Tung's Secretary
Paul Chen
as Guest
Chung-Wei Chou
as Chef
Yun Chung
as Guest
Ho-Mean Fu
as Guest
Crew
Director
- Ang Lee
Producer
- James Schamus
- Ang Lee
- Ted Hope
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Wedding Banquet examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Ang Lee brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1993, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Wedding Banquet took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.9 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 157 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 32 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 2354 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1993, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Wedding Banquet shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Bridges of Madison County, which focuses more on action than character development, The Wedding Banquet subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Pink Flamingos and Meet the Fockers explore similar territory, The Wedding Banquet stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 1, 1993
- Runtime: 1h 48m
- Budget: $875,000
- Revenue: $23,633,459
