Better Luck Tomorrow (2002)

User Rating:

7.1/10   

Director:

Justin Lin

Writers:

Ernesto Foronda (written by) &
Justin Lin (written by) ...

Genre:

Crime | Drama

Tagline:

Never underestimate an overachiever.

Plot:

A group of over-achieving Asian-American high school seniors enjoy a power trip when they dip into extra-curricular criminal activities.

Plot Keywords:

High School | Overachiever | Asian American | Shallow Grave | Prostitution

Awards:

1 win & 2 nominations

Cast

Parry Shen	...	Ben Manibag
Jason Tobin	...	Virgil Hu
Shirley Anderson	...	Hot Dog Planet Customer
Nanette Matoba	...	Housewife
Kenji Matoba	...	Toddler
Sung Kang	...	Han
Ashley Arai	...	Cheerleader
Danielle Conner	...	Cheerleader
Karen DiTota	...	Cheerleader
Smita Satiani	...	Cheerleader
Kristen Stinson	...	Cheerleader
Jeff DeJohn	...	Ryan
Robert Zepeda	...	Jock
Collin Kahey	...	Jock
Christopher J. Francis	...	Jock

MPAA:

Rated R for violence, drug use, language and sexuality.

Runtime:

101 min | USA:98 min (2003 version)

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Colour:

Colour

Aspect Ratio:

1.85 : 1

Sound Mix:

Dolby Digital

Certification:

USA:R | New Zealand:R16 | Australia:MA | UK:15

Filming Locations:

Alhambra, California, USA

Company:

Cherry Sky Films

Trivia:

The film was financed with credit cards and with money raised independently by the filmmakers. The actors deferred their salaries.

Goofs:

Continuity: When the picture for Virgil's candy bar drive is first shown, the words "Runners Up" do not appear. In the close-up, "Runners Up" appears.

Quotes:

Han: [to Ben] People like you and me, we don't have to play by the rules, we can make our own.

Movie Connections:

Referenced in Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (2004)

Soundtrack:

Wannabe (Night Version)

Almost there

I liked this movie. It definitely was thought and emotionally provoking and the film stays with you after you've left the the theater, especially certain scenes and I thought it was pretty funny at times. But there were certain things that I wished the film addressed, explored or handled better, such as pace, more seamless editing, more character development on Stephanie and Steve and carrying out the intentions of why it was essential the cast be all Asian American. ALL the actors gave stand out performances. The film itself, not so impressive. The film does shake up the stereotypes of AAs but I really wanted it to fully break em. I felt like I was expecting it to do that much, considering the marketing and publicity. It's definitely refreshing and I'd see it again. But it still needs some work. I appreciate it more for its intentions and vehicle for opportunity than the film itself. I'm anxious to see what Justin Lin can do with a bigger budget and support. And even more anxious to see what the actors will get for their next project because of this film.