Opened: May 31, 2019
Directed by: Nahnatchka Khan
Starring: Ali Wong, Randall Park, James Saito, Michelle Buteau, Vivian Bang, Keanu Reeves, Susan Park, Daniel Dae Kim, Karan Soni, Charlyne Yi, Lyrics Born, Casey Wilson, Raymond Ma, Peggy Lu & Peter New
Written by its lead actors, Always Be My Maybe doesn’t stray from a lot of the typical romantic comedy tropes but manages to still be original and hilarious.
Friends since childhood, celebrity chef Sasha Tran (Ali Wong) and San Francisco musician Marcus Kim (Randall Park) lose contact after an awkward sex encounter. Years later, they reunite when Sasha opens a new restaurant at home and their feelings reignite.
Wong and Park have undeniable chemistry and push each other’s comedic limits. They’re elevated by supporting actress Michelle Buteau, who plays their friend Veronica. Buteau is an absolute standout who makes her mark in every scene she’s in.
Though the storyline is predictable, it’s an absolute joy taking this journey that you’ll wish lasted longer than its just over 90-minute runtime.
Final say: Maybe? Of course. ★★★★★