Thirty-seven years after her Hollywood breakthrough in The Last Emperor, Chen is back in new drama Dìdi. She discusses her roots in China, objectification and the protective power of creativity
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As she talks about her busier-than-ever work schedule, her face lights up with excitement when she mentions being “in the winter of my career”. After decades in the film industry, she sees this as the final chapter. But the Chinese American actor never expected there could be new beginnings, too: at 63, she has been earning glowing reviews for her moving performance in the indie film Dìdi (弟弟).
After her breakout role in 1987’s sumptuous historical epic The Last Emperor, Chen became a huge star in the 90s, until she got tired of being typecast as the exotic, seductive temptress and started making her own films. She has continued to work quietly and consistently as an actor and director, in Hollywood and China, but now appears on the brink of a career renaissance. Last year, Chen appeared in Disney+’s critically acclaimed mystery A Murder at the End of the World, and we speak while she is in Atlanta shooting Oh. What. Fun., a festive film with an all-star cast led by Michelle Pfeiffer. With Dìdi, a hilarious and touching immigrant coming-of-age story, she is firmly back in the Hollywood conversation.
Even so, Chen had second thoughts about taking the role. When director Sean Wang approached her about playing Chungsing, the mother of a 13-year-old Taiwanese American boy (played by Izaac Wang) who has a transformative summer shooting skateboarding videos, she was concerned she was too old for the part. “The most important thing, when you walk into a theatre, is that you believe that person is that person. Sean was very enthusiastic about me being a part of the film, but I was hesitant. He said: ‘I know there won’t be a problem.’ He was right. You just imbue the character with humanity and complexity, and no one even thinks about that other thing.”
It helps, of course, that Chen looks far younger than her years, but her casting makes a change from seeing actors barely out of their 20s in the role of a mother to older children. She also welcomed the chance to play against the stereotype of older Asian women as tough “tiger mothers” who care only about their children achieving good grades and getting into good universities.
Chen has been in the industry for decades, and has had her fair share of struggles. She has spoken publicly about feeling typecast and objectified, and has struggled to find roles that showcase her talent. However, in recent years, she has been enjoying a renaissance of sorts, with a renewed focus on her craft and a fresh perspective on her career.
In our conversation, Chen spoke about her career, her struggles, and her triumphs. She talked about the importance of staying creative, and how that has helped her navigate the ups and downs of the industry. She also reflected on the changing landscape of Hollywood, and the opportunities that are now available to Asian actors and filmmakers.
As we concluded our conversation, Chen seemed radiant, her eyes sparkling with a newfound sense of purpose. She is an artist who has been in the industry for decades, and yet she still has so much to give. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, and a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is always the possibility of renewal and rebirth.
Conclusion
Chen’s story is one of resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her career, she has continued to push forward, always seeking new opportunities and challenges. Her experiences have given her a unique perspective on the industry, and she is now using her platform to advocate for greater representation and diversity.
FAQs
What is Dìdi, and why is it significant for Chen’s career?
Dìdi is an indie film that Chen has been a part of, and it has received glowing reviews. It is significant for Chen’s career because it marks a new chapter in her acting career, and it has given her renewed focus and purpose.
What is Chen’s experience like as a Chinese American actor in Hollywood?
Chen has spoken publicly about her experiences as a Chinese American actress in Hollywood. She has faced challenges and biases throughout her career, but she has also spoken about the importance of representation and diversity.
What is Chen’s advice for young Asian actors and filmmakers?
Chen’s advice is to stay creative, and to never give up on their dreams. She has spoken about the importance of perseverance, and how that has helped her navigate the ups and downs of the industry.
What is Mao Yu, and why is it important to Chen?
Mao Yu is a book that Chen has written, based on her experiences during the pandemic. It is important to Chen because it allowed her to express herself creatively, and to find joy and purpose during a difficult time.
What is Chen’s outlook on her career going forward?
Chen is excited to continue acting and directing, and she is optimistic about the future. She is also committed to using her platform to advocate for greater representation and diversity in the industry.
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