CHRIS PANG
Chris Pang had a supporting, yet significant role as Colin Khoo, Nick’s (Henry Golding) best friend in the box office and critically-acclaimed hit “Crazy Rich Asians.” As of September, the film has grossed over $208 million worldwide against its $30 million production budget—proving once again the power of diversity in film. “Lack of presentation is damaging. If your image or preference is not validated in society, then you are alone and it is hard not to feel lesser. This is exactly how I felt growing up in Australia: I didn’t see myself in characters on TV, in cinemas, in magazines, on billboards,” said Pang on the issue. “Being a minority is not a choice and no one should be punished for something outside of their control. But the landscape is changing and diversity and representation of minorities are hot topics right now so hopefully we will continue to see a change for the better.”
Aside from “Crazy Rich Asians,” the Australian actor of Taiwanese descent is also known for the 2010 Australian war drama film “Tomorrow, When the War Began,” which also became the highest grossing Australian film of that year. Pang is currently filming a drama film, “Empty By Design” alongside Yoshi Sudarso, which he also produces. “It’s my first attempt at producing a film and so far every step forward amazes me,” Pang expressed, “It’s a character drama exploring the loneliness you can experience growing apart from your own culture, regardless of whether you’re at home or overseas. I’ve never been more stressed out and had more responsibility in my life.” Though he ends it with a positive note: “It’s been a very rewarding experience all round.”