Sometimes movies try to come off as a comedy and really miss the mark. And the latest in a long line of them is Asian Persuasion, a movie about a man who is trying to control the future of his ex-wife just to benefit himself. Sure, thing may work out for the best in the end, and it’s so funny, if we ignore the wall of red flags and the manipulating behavior that almost borders on abusive control.
After emotionally and mentally checking out of his marriage, Mickey de los Santos (Dante Basco) just wants his divorce over and done with. Agreeing to everything his ex-wife wants, Mickey plots with his best friend to find the best way out of the situation for him. Instead of paying the alimony he can’t afford, he makes a dating profile for his now ex-wife and starts finding the perfect match for her, without her knowing. It goes as far as setting up mock dates for the protentional suitors and coaching them in the things she likes so she will fall for them and he’s “off the hook”.
Asian Persuasion is supposed to be a light comedy and a movie that you can laugh at the ridiculous antics of a man who just wants to get out of paying alimony. But it barely offers a handful of laughable moments. But instead leaves you with a cringeworthy film as they lie and manipulate a woman to try to get the best benefit for them. And that’s if we don’t take into account them partying and passing out while his daughter is asleep in the next room.
Whoever greenlit this movie as comedy probably thought the whole idea of manipulating and lying to someone and controlling their whole life just to make their easier was a fun and flirty idea. But what it does, it shows just how much the show runners see women as just a plot device and not even as a person. It doesn’t show her own agency in the film. Her value only is to her ex husband once he sees it and he thinks someone else may have her instead of him. It’s demeaning and there’s nothing funny about the movie or the concept of it at all.
Asian Persuasion will be in theaters this weekend.
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About Asian Persuasion
Set to capture the hearts of viewers with its witty dialogue, charming performances, and unique cultural insights, ASIAN PERSUASION tells the story of a lovable underachiever who hatches a hilarious and outrageous scheme to avoid paying alimony to his fashion-executive ex-wife. The film deftly combines humor, drama, and romance, offering audiences a heartfelt and entertaining exploration of love, relationships, and second chances. Its blend of romance and comedy provides a fresh take on familiar themes, making it a must-watch for rom-com fans.
Alongside Basco and Concepcion, ASIAN PERSUASION features a dynamic ensemble cast including Kevin Kreider (“Bling Empire”), Paolo Montalban (“Cinderella”), Geneva Carr (“It’s Complicated”), Scarlet Sherr (“Hustlers”) Celia Au (“Lodge 49”), and newcomer Jax Bacani.
The film is set to open in major markets including Los Angeles, Seattle, Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Chicago, Toronto, Honolulu, and Washington D.C. on March 21, followed by a VOD, digital releasee on May 27.