Joy Ride

Adele Lim's directorial debut, Joy Ride, takes audiences on a thrilling, raw adventure full of laughter, self-discovery and the power of friendship. The film follows four friends, Audrey, Lolo, Kat and Deadeye, as they embark on a global escapade that explores themes of identity, belonging and the challenges faced by transracial adoptees.

The script, written by Cherry Chevapravatdumrong and Teresa Hsiao, strikes a perfect balance between clever humor and emotional depth. The jokes are brilliantly crafted and elicit full-throated laughter, while the script delves into the characters' personal journeys and explores the complexities of their relationships. The story unfolds at a steady pace, moving seamlessly from comedy to drama, captivating the audience throughout.

Joy Ride's lead actresses are all truly perfect, bringing their characters to life with remarkable talent and undeniable chemistry. Ashley Park shines as Audrey, a driven and powerful lawyer on the verge of promotion. Sherry Cola makes us laugh out loud as the rebellious, quick-witted Lolo, while Stephanie Hsu's performance as Kat, a renowned Chinese actress, is a delightful blend of hilarity and poetry. Sabrina Wu steals the show with her portrayal of Deadeye, infusing the film with both comic relief and heartwarming moments.

Adele Lim's direction is confident and dynamic, perfectly capturing the essence of the story and its characters. Paul Yee's photography is visually stunning, transporting audiences to diverse international locations and immersing them in the film's vibrant atmosphere. Lim's background as a screenwriter is evident in her directorial choices, as she expertly balances comedy, drama and social commentary, creating a coherent and impactful cinematic experience.

One of the highlights of Joy Ride is its celebration of the Asian experience. The film fearlessly shatters stereotypes, allowing Asian women to be raucous, authentic and uninhibited. It also presents Asian men as desirable and attractive, challenging common stereotypes and encouraging inclusion. Joy Ride embraces diversity and authenticity, encouraging individuals to assert themselves against societal expectations.

While Joy Ride is undeniably this summer's must-see comedy, it does have a few minor flaws. Some viewers might have wished for a more in-depth exploration of Audrey's quest to discover information about her biological mother. In addition, some parts of the film's ending seem somewhat rushed, leaving the audience waiting for a more in-depth development. Nevertheless, these minor flaws do not significantly detract from the film's overall impact and enjoyment.

Joy Ride is a bold, authentic film that offers laughter, tears and a powerful message. Adele Lim's directorial debut is a resounding triumph, showcasing her remarkable skills as a writer and director. The excellent cast, sharp script and thoughtful direction make Joy Ride a must-see film this summer, and one that leaves a lasting impression. It's a joyous, exhilarating adventure that resonates with audiences long after the credits roll. With its intrepid humor, diverse portrayal and exploration of universal themes, Joy Ride "stands out as an outstanding comedy that defies convention and brings a fresh perspective to the genre.

Joy Ride
Directed by Adele Lim
Written by Cherry Chevapravatdumrong, Teresa Hsiao
Story by Cherry Chevapravatdumrong, Teresa Hsiao, Adele Lim
Produced by Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, James Weaver, Josh Fagen, Cherry Chevapravatdumrong, Teresa Hsiao, Adele Lim
Starring Ashley Park, Sherry Cola, Stephanie Hsu, Sabrina Wu
Cinematography : Paul Yee
Edited by Nena Erb
Music by Nathan Matthew David
Production companies : Point Grey Pictures, Red Mysterious Hippo
Distributed by Lionsgate
Release dates : March 17, 2023 (SXSW), July 7, 2023 (United States)
Running time : 95 minutes

Seen April 28, 2023 at Caesars Palace (Las Vegas)

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