To celebrate Asian-American Pacific Islander month, we're shining a spotlight on actors and filmmakers who are making a mark on movies today, based on a list created by RT Recommends and available on a playlist created by Vudu. Consider this a starting point for a deep dive into the many different, rich cultures that are represented in films today, with links to where you can watch them. We tip our hat to what has been accomplished in the past and look ahead to upcoming projects.
Michelle Yeoh
Born in Malaysia, Michelle Yeoh became a movie star in Hong Kong before she gained international recognition in Ang Lee's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. She is currently saving the world in the mind-bending breakout hit Everything Everywhere All At Once and will soon be featured in the highly-anticipated Avatar: The Way of Water.
Sandra Oh
The Canadian-American actress voices a maternal role in Turning Red and stars as a mother confronting ghosts in Umma. She is well-known for her roles on the small screen in Grey's Anatomy and Killing Eve, and will soon be returning to the big screen alongside Michelle Yeoh in the animated feature The Tiger's Apprentice.
Justin Chon
An actor of Korean descent, Justin Chon received critical acclaim for his directing debut, Gook, followed by Ms. Purple and Blue Bayou, as well as the multiple episodes of streaming series Pachinko. His next directorial effort, music drama Jamojaya, has only recently been unveiled.
Hong Chau
Born in Thailand to Vietnamese parents who fled their native land, Hong Chau may best be known for her key role in Alexander Payne's Downsizing, though she gives a lovely lead performance in the indie drama Driveways. Her versatility will soon be showcased in horror comedy The Menu as well as in the next films from Kelly Reichardt (Showing Up) and Darren Aronofsky (The Whale).
Awkwafina
Before she broke out in Ocean's 8 and Crazy Rich Asians, Awkwafina appeared as one of four Asian-American rappers in the documentary Bad Rap; which displayed her star potential. Speaking of which, her distinctive voice can currently be heard in The Bad Guys and she will soon be appearing opposite Nicolas Cage's Dracula in the upcoming Renfield.
Dante Basco
The writer, producer, actor and director stars in the lively comedy The Fabulous Filipino Brothers, which he co-wrote with his siblings and explores their shared family heritage. Basco has enjoyed a long and varied career, and it's good to see him gaining recognition for his work. He is currently filming the romantic comedy Asian Persuasion.
George Takei
Today the actor is known as much for his activism as for his many film and television roles; the documentary To Be Takei explores his life and career, including his years as a child in Japanese-American internment camp. He will soon be heard in the animated action-adventure Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank, alongside Michelle Yeoh.
Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa
Known for the great variety of roles he has played over nearly 40 years, including The Last Emperor and Mortal Kombat, the Japanese actor memorably embodies a certain type of very unpleasant character in the indelible Picture Bride. He has a key role in next year's action-drama Duel of Legends.
Brian Le
Playing a featured role in Everything Everywhere All at Once which also serving as fight coordinator allows Brian Le to show off many of his talents. He's also great in The Paper Tigers and will be showcased for his stunt work opposite Brad Pitt in the upcoming Bullet Train.
Taika Waititi
The actor and filmmaker has explored his roots as a Pacific Islander who was born and raised in New Zealand in films such as Boy and Hunt for the Wilderpeople. He will be featured in his next directorial effort, Thor: Love and Thunder.
