What happens when a green-card marriage spirals into a full-blown Korean wedding extravaganza? The Wedding Banquet (2025) answers that question with a riotous blend of humor, heart, and cultural nuance. This modern remake of Ang Lee's 1993 classic isn't just a retread—it's a bold reimagining that speaks to today's world, where love and family come in all shapes and sizes.
Directed by Andrew Ahn (Fire Island, Driveways), the film follows Min (Han Gi-chan), a gay man who strikes a deal with his lesbian friend Angela (Kelly Marie Tran): a green-card marriage for him, in exchange for costly IVF treatments for her partner, Lee (Bobo Le). But their plans go hilariously awry when Min's grandmother (Youn Yuh-jung) arrives unannounced, demanding a traditional Korean wedding banquet.
The ensemble cast is a dream team: Bowen Yang brings his signature wit as Min's commitment-phobic boyfriend, Chris, while Lily Gladstone shines as Angela's no-nonsense partner. Joan Chen adds gravitas as Min's mother, and Youn Yuh-jung steals every scene as the skeptical yet endearing grandmother.
The screenplay, co-written by Ahn and James Schamus, balances laugh-out-loud moments with poignant reflections on identity, acceptance, and the messy beauty of family. The film premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival to rave reviews, with critics praising its fresh take on a beloved story.
What makes The Wedding Banquet stand out is its ability to honor the original while carving its own path. Ahn's direction is both tender and sharp, capturing the complexities of queer relationships and immigrant experiences without losing sight of the story's universal themes. The film's humor is rooted in authenticity, whether it's the chaos of planning a wedding or the awkwardness of explaining a green-card marriage to a traditional grandmother.
The cinematography, by frequent Ahn collaborator Ki Jin Kim, is lush and vibrant, contrasting the intimacy of the characters' relationships with the grandeur of the wedding banquet. The score, composed by Jay Wadley, blends traditional Korean melodies with modern beats, underscoring the film's themes of cultural fusion.
The Wedding Banquet is more than just a remake—it's a celebration of love in all its forms. With its stellar cast, sharp writing, and heartfelt direction, it's a film that will leave you laughing, crying, and maybe even calling your family to say “I love you.”
The Wedding Banquet (2025) is a triumph, proving that some stories are timeless—but they can always be told in new ways. Andrew Ahn's vision is both nostalgic and forward-thinking, offering a fresh perspective on love, family, and the ties that bind us. The film's humor and heart are perfectly balanced, making it a must-watch for fans of romantic comedies and queer cinema alike.
What do you think makes a great remake? Is it staying true to the original, or taking bold new risks? Share your thoughts below!
