[Our critic shares her favorites from Sundance.] Amazon spent $13 million to acquire this crowd-pleaser, which is really a showcase for everything Thompson can do. Kaling, who takes a supporting role in the film, may also be in contention for her script. Still, the biggest breakthrough was probably Awkwafina’s: The Asian-American comedian was a scene-stealer in “Ocean’s Eight” and “Crazy Rich Asians,” but with “The Farewell” she adds dramatic dimensions to her onscreen persona. Both “The Farewell” and Awkwafina deserve awards consideration, and I hope that will extend to Zhao Shuzhen’s nimble work as the hoodwinked grandma.

Source: New York Times February 01, 2019 21:45 UTC