Fans undecided over remake of Oscar winning filmmaker's romantic comedy from Bridgerton director

Fans are divided on the new take of a beloved '90s romcom from an Oscar winning director that has been remade.

Aiming to deliver a modern twist, a new version of The Wedding Banquet hits UK cinemas this Friday, May 9. Touted as a contemporary reinterpretation, it salutes the original classic released in 1993 by the legendary director Ang Lee.

Before he became famous for his work on masterpieces like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, and Brokeback Mountain, Lee had already struck gold with this romantic comedy gem. Admirers hold this piece of his early work dear, with one fan raving on Rotten Tomatoes, where the film boasts an impressive 92% approval rating: "An early Ang Lee film which is impossible to forget."

READ MORE:

READ MORE:

The man at the helm of the remake is Andrew Ahn, known for directing Fire Island and episodes of Netflix's Bridgeton. He's taken on both directing duties and revamped the script.

The stellar cast features Oscar nominee Lily Gladstone known for Killers of the Flower Moon, along with Kelly Marie-Tran, famed for her role in Star Wars, SNL's Bowen Yang, Oscar-winner Youn Yu-Jung, and Han Gi-chan from South Korea, reports .

While there are updates to the original storyline, the central plot remains similar – we follow the lives of Lee (played by Gladstone) and Angela (Marie-Tran), a couple facing the emotional and financial strain of financing another IVF cycle after several failed attempts.

The couple's friends Chris (Yang) and his partner Min (Gi-chan), a talented art student from a wealthy Korean family, live in the guesthouse. But as Min faces visa woes and pressure from back home, he pops a different sort of question to Angela: tie the knot for a green card, and he'll cover the costs for her next IVF round.

It becomes less simple when Min's grandma (Yuh-jung) touches down with plans to throw them a big traditional wedding.

Critics have already dished their verdicts online and although it doesn't trump the original, the flick's scored a decent 87%. Still, the jury's out on whether this new interpretation was even needed. One reviewer penned: "This version of The Wedding Banquet proudly walks down the aisle with confident grace and beauteous determination."

While another chimed in: "Though Ahn's The Wedding Banquet never achieves the comic momentum or emotional depth of Lee's original, it's an unfailingly pleasant film filled with endearing characters.."

Meanwhile, someone else enthused: "It's a bold move to take on an Ang Lee classic, but Andrew Ahn with his ace cast evolves The Wedding Banquet into a layered heartfelt story that treads depths the first film didn't."

Yet, not all were impressed, as one naysayer huffed: "The original Wedding Banquet by Ang Lee is among my favourite movies. This 2025 re-imagining is The Lion King to the original's Hamlet."

Another remarked: "You have to admire Hollywood's willingness to burn money making movies no one asked for. Those involved would have been much wiser sending this movie straight to streaming."

This reporter, too, echoes that disappointment after screening the film prior to its cinematic debut in the UK. It seems that in trying to bring the classic romcom into the 21st century, the magic of comedy has vanished.

It's yet another drama dipping its toes in the comedy pool for a dash of allure – but with the few gags it offers, viewers might confuse the build-up with a sombre occasion instead of a joyful romantic celebration.

In an attempt to defy the romcom staples, Ahn's take seemingly rejects the very essence that defines and endears the genre to its fans. Without the customary charm, 'The Wedding Banquet' becomes a stark lesson in what happens if you strip away the enchanting elements.

Seeking to reinvent the genre with a dose of harsh reality, the film often stumbles into the realms of improbability. The audience may find it tough to buy into these characters' friendships or romances.

When the movie does finally revel in romcom traditions, the effort feels wholly unconvincing. There will likely be those rooting for the original version to hit Netflix or another leading streamer to rediscover the unique sparkle that once captivated audiences.

The Wedding Banquet is in cinemas May 9.