"American Born Chinese" Make a Splash (TV Episode 2023) Poster

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2/10
painful to get through.
megancgarvin9 June 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I've been enjoying this show overall so far but my god, this episode was awful. It also felt completely unnecessary. Why is there an entire episode dedicated to the dad's origin story? Why is there suddenly a narrator? Why take away from the main plot? There's only 8 episodes and an entire episode felt wasted to me. I actually struggled to get through this episode. And it's not that it was mostly in Chinese, I watch shows in other languages with subtitles all the time so i'm use to it. It's the fact that the acting and story was BAD. Some of the costumes were cool but others looked worse than 1960s doctor who. This episode was such a dip in quality I'm honestly shocked.
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8/10
Very Uniquely Different
Coolmade20008 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I really love the old generational filmmaking style of this episode as it pays homage to the classic Hong Kong cinema.

The fact that about 95% of this episode is spoken in Mandarin shows the authenticity of Chinese culture. I love the costumes and the different gods & goddesses at the party.

Even with little screentime, James Hong cracked me up. I love his limited performance.

The makeup was very well done for both Daniel Wu as Sun Wukong and Leonard Wu as Bull Demon. I was very impressed by the abilities of the makeup artists to make them look younger than their current day appearances.

The last exchange of dialogue between Sun Wukong and Bull Demon had some rough edges, but proves well enough not just how Bull Demon began his antagonist arc. The conversation scene does well explaining how both Bull Demon and Sun Wukong were in their own wrongs.

This episode could've been a terrible filler episode if it was not handled during this point of departure from the main storyline, but luckily it works.
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10/10
The Best Episode Ever with Trashy Style and Cinematic References
peppolone28 June 2023
If I have to describe this episode, I simply have to say that it is the best of them all. It is an explosion of references to old Chinese films that captures attention and imagination in an incredible way.

The episode is a masterpiece of unique trashy style that pays homage to Chinese cinematography and transports viewers to a completely new world. The characters, dressed in funny monster costumes, are simply extraordinary. Every detail has been carefully crafted to create a stunning visual experience.

What makes this episode even more special is its audacity. It is a true celebration of cinematic art, and only those who appreciate and know old Chinese films will be able to fully grasp the beauty of the references present. Every scene is a small treasure that brings to mind the great classics of the past.

There is a touch of brilliance in the writing and direction of this episode. Every dialogue is brilliant, and the action sequences are impeccable. The director has managed to capture the essence of Chinese cinema and blend it with a modern style, creating something truly unique.

There is a certain melancholy in knowing that this was the only episode of its kind. I would have really loved to see more episodes of this caliber because it is a true joy for the eyes and the soul. It is an episode that stands out from the rest and will forever remain in the memory of the audience.

Lastly, I can't help but think that Quentin Tarantino could have directed a similar episode. The episode exudes the same extravagant, bold, and unconventional energy that characterizes his works. Tarantino would definitely have appreciated this unique and surprising tribute to Chinese cinema.

In conclusion, this episode is the beating heart of this long series. Anyone who fails to appreciate its beauty is perhaps too young or lacks a passion for cinema and culture. It is an experience to be lived, an overwhelming homage that will forever be remembered as one of the most unforgettable moments in television.
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