The upcoming romantic comedy “The Wedding Banquet” is set to premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival on January 27, 2025, followed by a theatrical release in the United States on April 18, 2025. Directed by Andrew Ahn and co-written with James Schamus, this film is a contemporary remake of Ang Lee’s 1993 classic, offering a fresh perspective on cultural and personal identities.
The Wedding Banquet 2025 Movie Cast
The film features a stellar ensemble cast:
- Lily Gladstone as Lee
- Kelly Marie Tran as Angela
- Bowen Yang as Chris
- Han Gi-chan as Min
- Joan Chen
- Youn Yuh-jung
This diverse lineup brings together acclaimed actors to portray a narrative that intertwines tradition with modernity.
Storyline
In this modern retelling, the story centers on Min (Han Gi-chan), a gay Taiwanese immigrant in Seattle, who enters a marriage of convenience with his friend Angela (Kelly Marie Tran), a woman seeking funds for IVF treatments. Their arrangement aims to satisfy familial expectations and secure personal goals. However, the plan becomes complicated when Min’s boyfriend, Chris (Bowen Yang), and Angela’s partner, Lee (Lily Gladstone), become involved, leading to a series of comedic and heartfelt events that challenge their relationships and cultural identities.
Production
Announced in April 2024, the project brought together director Andrew Ahn and co-writer James Schamus, who also co-wrote the original film. Principal photography commenced on May 27, 2024, in Vancouver, Canada, and concluded on June 28, 2024. The film is produced by ShivHans Pictures, Symbolic Exchange, and Kindred Spirit, with distribution handled by Bleecker Street and ShivHans Pictures.
Total Budget
While specific budget details have not been publicly disclosed, the involvement of prominent production companies and a notable cast suggests a substantial investment to authentically portray the film’s themes and settings.
Anticipation
The announcement of “The Wedding Banquet” remake has generated significant buzz, particularly with its contemporary take on cultural and LGBTQ+ themes. Director Andrew Ahn’s personal connection to the material, inspired by his own experiences and his brother’s wedding, adds depth to the narrative. The film’s premiere at the Sundance Film Festival positions it as a potential standout in the 2025 cinematic landscape.
As the release date approaches, audiences eagerly await how this modern adaptation will resonate with contemporary themes while honoring the legacy of the original film.
