BLOCKBUSTERS

Marvel is releasing two titles this year that are so much more than just superhero movies: they celebrate Asian culture and cultural contributions. This month, Shang-chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings introduces Marvel Cinematic Universe’s newest hero Shang-chi, played by Chinese Canadian star Simu Liu. Liu will be the first actor of Asian descent to play the lead in a Marvel film. The action movie also stars other Asian actors including Awkwafina, Hong Kong’s Tony Leung Chiuwai, Malaysian Michelle Yeoh, mainland star Meng’er Zhang and Chinese American actress Fala Chen.

Due out in November is Chloé Zhao’s Eternals, starring British Chinese actor Gemma Chan and Pakistani American comedian Kumail Nanjiani. The plot follows a secret, immortal superhuman race that resurfaces to fight the evil Deviants and protect humanity. The Beijing-born director, who won Best Director at this year’s Oscars, co-wrote the script and is directing and producing her first superhero movie. Now that’s the kind of news we want to read about Asian filmmakers.