Back in August 2018, news broke that Michelle Yeoh and Awkwafina had landed roles in a captivating “interdimensional action film” crafted by Kwan and Scheinert. The project had the renowned Anthony and Joe Russo on board as producers. The film was Everything Everywhere All At Once. The movie went on to grab seven Oscars, including Best Picture.
In January 2020, Awkwafina had to depart from the project, leading to another actress taking her place. Subsequently, the cast welcomed new additions, including James Hong, Ke Huy Quan, and Jamie Lee Curtis. Interestingly, this marked Quan’s return to film acting after a notable absence.
The Film Almost Brought Together The Cast Of Crazy Rich Asians
Prior to her current acclaim, Michelle Yeoh‘s last prominent recognition came from her supporting role as Eleanor Young in the movie adaptation of Kevin Kwan’s novel, Crazy Rich Asians. Portraying the disapproving mother of Nick (Henry Golding), Yeoh’s performance was highly praised by critics, just like the movie itself, which received widespread acclaim.
While Yeoh and Awkwafina had limited on-screen moments together in Crazy Rich Asians, one could envision how their distinct energies might have complemented each other in Everything Everywhere All At Once. Regrettably, by early 2020, Awkwafina had to withdraw from the movie due to scheduling conflicts, and the role of Evelyn’s daughter, Joy, was assumed by Stephanie Hsu instead.
Fate brought Yeoh and Awkwafina together once more, as they reunited in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, released in 2021. The movie featured Simu Liu as the titular hero, with Awkwafina portraying Katy and Yeoh embodying the character of Ying Nan. Interestingly, Stephanie Hsu also made an appearance in the MCU hit, adding to the excitement of this star-studded film.
In the film Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Awkwafina plays the role of Soo, a close friend of Shang-Chi and Katy in San Francisco. While Simu Liu’s return has been confirmed for the sequel, the fate of the supporting cast remains uncertain. However, there’s a strong likelihood that Yeoh, Awkwafina, and Hsu might make a reappearance in Shang-Chi 2, although it’s likely to be a few years before the sequel hits the screens.
Awkwafina Might’ve Helped Stephanie Hsu’s Rise To Stardom
Stephanie Hsu stepped in to replace her real-life friend and Shang-Chi co-star, Awkwafina. Embracing the opportunity to assume such a substantial film role from an established and widely renowned actress like Awkwafina, Hsu found herself at the precipice of a potential breakthrough as a movie star.
In Everything Everywhere All at Once, Hsu adeptly portrays two distinct characters as Joy. One is the real-world version, requiring a poignant and dramatic performance, while the other is the multiversal villain Jobu Tupaki—an alternate-universe incarnation of Joy, brimming with potential for malevolence.
Everything Everywhere All At Once is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
Source: Screen Rant
