Go Back to China (2019)

Go Back to China Poster

When party girl Sasha Li blows through most of her trust fund, she is cut off by her father and forced to go back to China and work for the family toy business.

Introduction
"Go Back to China" is a 2019 dramatic funny movie composed and directed by Emily Ting. The movie stars Anna Akana, Lynn Chen and Richard Ng. Focusing around a young millennial lady's journey to better comprehend her roots while browsing obligations to family, society and individual development, the movie works as a semi-autobiographical representation of Ting's experiences.

Plot Summary
"Go Back to China" unfolds with celebration lady Sasha Li (played by Anna Akana), living a carefree, lavish lifestyle in Los Angeles, rich by her father's riches. When her father, Teddy Li (played by Richard Ng), cuts off her funds, she is entrusted to no option but to follow his call to return home to China and work for the family toy service. Teddy Li, a rich toy magnate in Shenzhen, makes her a deal that she can only access her trust fund if she logs a year's worth of work at his company.

Character Development
Sasha's flare and spirit clash with the reality of the manufacturing world and its severe working conditions. Facing a cultural shock and multiple roles, including her position as the boss's child, a pushed away expat, and a newbie factory worker, Sasha feels lost. She develops and grows as she takes on these obstacles head-on. Her relationship with her daddy starts strained, afflicted with years of resentment over limited contact and his egocentric, reliable character. Yet, gradually, they develop an understanding.

Themes and Messages
"Go Back to China" explores themes of cultural identity, opportunity, social expectations, and familial responsibilities nestled in a coming-of-age comedy-drama tone. Beyond the primary plot, Sasha's journey towards self-awareness and understanding of the dynamics of working life in China hibernates a nuanced narrative technique on wage problems, labour conditions, and workers' rights in China's manufacturing industries.

Visual and Narrative Style
Ting employs a vivid color combination to contrast the characters' lifestyles-- intense, vibrant tones for Sasha's opulent LA life and comparatively soft tones for her life in China. The film ingenely utilizes humor to inform and envelope the audience in numerous cultural shocks Sasha experiences. It exposes the significant divide in between the working class and factory owners alongside the issues that come with being an immigrant.

Conclusion
"Go Back to China" is a film about personal growth and self-discovery, laced with the struggles of adapting to an unfamiliar environment and repairing separated family relationships. Anna Akana brilliantly enters Sasha's shoes and portrays her personal development convincingly. The movie is a perfectly woven tapestry of funny, drama, and themes that resonate internationally. The narrative's true to experiences element adds an enriching layer of credibility, making it a must-watch for those who like a balance of humor and psychological depth.

Top Cast

  • Anna Akana (small)
    Anna Akana
    Sasha Li
  • Richard Ng (small)
    Richard Ng
    Teddy Li
  • Lynn Chen (small)
    Lynn Chen
    Carol Li
  • Kelly Hu (small)
    Kelly Hu
    May Li
  • Kendy Cheung
    Lulu
  • Aviva Wang
    Dior Li
  • Brittany Finamore (small)
    Brittany Finamore
    Jessica
  • Akemi Look (small)
    Akemi Look
    Tracy
  • Christina Thomas
    Renee
  • Ines Laimins (small)
    Ines Laimins
    Margaret
  • Joe Fiorello
    Ryan