PARK CITY, Utah — In Awkwafina’s young acting career, she’s already reinventing herself. Over just a few short years, the 29-year-old has gone from rapper to comedic powerhouse and now to indie darling. The actress’s sweet new film, “The Farewell,” premiered Friday at the Sundance Film Festival and has been the mountain town’s favorite tearjerker this year.
As a 30-year-old New Yorker named Billi, who returns home to China when she learns her grandmother — “Nai Nai” — is dying of cancer, Awkwafina is microscopic next to her breakout role as Peik Lin in “Crazy Rich Asians.” She’s introverted, lacks confidence and is frequently sad. It’s a textured, marvelous performance that shows remarkable versatility.
And it’s part of a bonkers true story.
When Nai Nai’s cancer is discovered, her family decides to keep it a secret from her. If that sounds incredibly illegal, it’s because it is … in the US. But it turns out that such deception is a common practice in China, in order to allow older loved ones to enjoy their final weeks to the fullest. So, in an attempt to see Nai Nai one final time without informing her of her illness, the clan stages a wedding between Billi’s cousin Hao Hao and his girlfriend of three months. It’s the perfect mix of hilarity and soul.
Diana Lin, writer/director Lulu Wang, rapper and actor Awkwafina, and actor Tzi Ma attend the “The Farewell.”Getty ImagesUpon arrival, Billi is torn by Chinese traditions — which she has a deep, abiding respect for — and her outspoken American sensibilities. She wants so badly to tell Nai Nai, and struggles to come to terms with cultural norms as her family obsesses over the fake nuptials. It would be farcical if it didn’t feel so real.
That’s because it’s based on the life of writer/director Lulu Wang, who expertly shoots China with great affection, neither glamorizing it nor making it look shabby. What you see is what it is. The family is also astoundingly well cast, bringing to mind superbly in-sync ensembles such as “Arrested Development” or “Little Miss Sunshine.” Each actor makes his or her mark without taking away from the whole. The funniest is Han Chen as Billi’s marrying cousin Hao Hao.
Most of the film is in Chinese with English subtitles, though it goes back and forth. But it’s a universal, well-told story any audience will adore.
