John M. Chu's Journey as an Asian American Filmmaker

John M. Chu, known for his work on 'Crazy Rich Asians' and 'In the Heights,' reflects on his experiences growing up as an Asian American in Silicon Valley. He discusses how his immigrant parents wanted him to assimilate into American culture, emphasizing the pressures he felt to blend in, including etiquette training and various extracurricular activities. Despite initially resisting the idea of focusing on his cultural identity, Chu felt a compelling need to tell stories that resonate with Asian American experiences. His journey culminated in 'Crazy Rich Asians,' which not only marked a personal breakthrough for him but also showcased the importance of representation in Hollywood.