Joy Ride is a brilliant comedy in a similar vein to films like Bridesmaids or The Hangover, from director Adele Lim, known for her writing on Crazy Rich Asians and Raya and the Last Dragon. Joy Ride sets itself apart from The Hangovers of the world by being created by female Asian American filmmakers and actors who draw from common life experiences in The United States, with the result being something genuinely hilarious, chaotic and entirely full of heart.

Childhood friends Audrey and Lolo set out to China with Lola’s cousin Deadeye to support Audrey as she attempts to navigate her way through an extremely important client meeting, one that will have immense implications for her future at her prestigious American law firm. Her first problem is that she can’t speak Mandarin. Secondly, life with her adoptive white American parents has left her at a cultural disadvantage, which Lolo is happy to attempt to rectify on the fly.

The casting of this movie is just excellent, the core cast of Ashley Park (Audrey), Sherry Cola (Lolo), Stephanie Hsu (Kat) and Sabrina Wu (Deadeye) have great chemistry which is bolstered by some side splitting supporting roles from talented comedic actors and just as importantly, a strong script from Teresa Hsiao (Nora from Queens) and Cherry Chevapravatdumrong (Family Guy, The Orville), helping the actors to create endearing characters through preposterous and hilarious situations.

Joy Ride is a brilliant comedy with an extremely talented cast and great writing, which combined with Adele Lim’s direction results in Joy Ride deserving its place next to films like Bridesmaids or The Hangover.

★★★★