TED Radio Hour Bonus Episode: Jon M. Chu
Jun 8, 2021
Jon M. Chu, acclaimed director of 'Crazy Rich Asians' and 'In the Heights,' dives into his journey in Hollywood. He discusses his early passion for storytelling influenced by his immigrant family's experiences. Jon reflects on the importance of Asian American representation in film and how 'Crazy Rich Asians' changed the narrative landscape. He also shares insights from 'In the Heights,' emphasizing the need for authenticity in bridging cultural divides. Join him as he explores identity, resilience, and the power of cinema to inspire empathy.
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Chu's Childhood and Family
- Jon M. Chu's parents, immigrants from Taiwan and China, opened Chef Chew's restaurant in Los Altos in 1969.
- Chu, the youngest of five, used his family's video camera to make home movies, sparking his filmmaking passion.
Cultural Assimilation
- Chu's parents encouraged their children to assimilate into American culture through various activities like dance, music, and etiquette classes.
- While Chu's mother emphasized fitting in, his father maintained some traditional Chinese practices.
Realizing Filmmaking Passion
- Chu's parents' emotional reaction to his first edited home video cemented his decision to pursue filmmaking.
- This experience demonstrated the power of storytelling and its ability to evoke strong emotions.
