Awkwafina reteams with the producers of Crazy Rich Asians, nabbing the lead in the upcoming gambling movie The Baccarat Machine. Released in 2018, Crazy Rich Asians was a hit both critically and commercially. Based on Kevin Kwan’s novel of the same name, the romantic comedy followed a Chinese-American professor that travels to meet her boyfriend’s family. She then learns, much to her surprise, that the family is among the richest in Singapore. The film has led to an increase in visibility for many of its main stars. Henry Golding, Constance Wu and Gemma Chan have all appeared in high-profile projects since the premiere of Crazy Rich Asians, with Golding frequently rumored for notable roles. In the case of Awkwafina, who played the charismatic Goh Peik Lin in the romcom, she’s continued a remarkable rise.
Multi-talented, as an actress, comedian, writer, and rapper, Awkwafina began her path to a Golden Globe win in an unlikely fashion: one of her songs went viral on YouTube. These days, Awkwafina is likely better known for a myriad of memorable performances. She shared the screen with Sandra Bullock and Cate Blanchett in Ocean’s 8, in a scene-stealing supporting turn. She’s rubbed shoulders with Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart in Jumanji: The Next Level. Awkwafina caught many by surprise with her depth handling of dramatic material, headlining The Farewell. For her portrayal in Lulu Wang’s film, Awkwafina became the first woman of Asian descent to win a Golden Globe in any lead actress film category. Awkwafina has plenty to look forward to, going forward. In addition to the Comedy Central series Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens, which has already been renewed for a second season, she’ll be joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe as part of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.
Now, Deadline is reporting that Awkwafina has been chosen as the lead in The Baccarat Machine which is inspired by the true story of Cheung Yin “Kelly” Sun. Sun is regarded as the most successful female gambler in modern history. The project reunites Awkwafina with SK Global Entertainment, the producers behind Crazy Rich Asians.
Based on an article by Michael Kaplan published in Cigar Aficionado, the film will follow Sun as she painstakingly develops a talent for beating the casino system at their own game. Through a mix of subterfuge and ingenuity, and with the help of poker legend Phil Ivey, Sun aims to take down the same casinos which seek to bar her from their properties. What results ranks among the most ingenious legal gambling sagas ever to be documented.
While there is rightfully plenty of concentration about the lack of consideration for women creators and diverse performers in Hollywood, there are signs of change. The big night for Parasite at the Oscars is one prominent example. Awkwafina’s spectacular ascent is another. The Baccarat Machine, if it plays out as intriguingly as its premise suggests, could keep the young star in the conversation for future accolades.
More: Awkwafina’s 10 Best Movies (According To Rotten Tomatoes)
Source: Deadline
