American Born Chinese References An Iconic Michelle Yeoh Film In The Opening Sequence

The action-packed Disney+ series "American Born Chinese" is a mystical thrill ride with an exciting roster of talented individuals. It unintentionally reunites the cast of "Everything Everywhere All at Once" and provides viewers with another unmissable opportunity to witness these remarkable stars onscreen together. While ushering in a new generation of gifted Asian American actors, the series shines as a modern example of authentic representation that fittingly pays tribute to the legendary works that paved the way.

Before Michelle Yeoh dazzled audience members in her Oscar-winning role as Evelyn in "Everything Everywhere All at Once," she showcased her unmatched fighting skills as Yu Shu Lien in the Academy Award-winning film "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon."  The awe-inspiring feature has a similar plot to "American Born Chinese" as Yu Jiao Long (Zhang Ziyi) steals an extremely valuable sword and embarks on a life-changing excursion as a result. This mirrors Wei-Chen's (Jimmy Liu) rebellious theft of the Iron Staff, which results in a riveting chase sequence that celebrates the groundbreaking film.

As the Monkey King (Daniel Wu) chases down his son, we get a captivating introduction that sets the tone for "American Born Chinese." It also introduces the supernatural elements that culminate in the special reference, with gravity-defying feats and mystifying settings.

The opening scene of "American Born Chinese" begins in a magical red forest as the Monkey King transforms into a variety of different creatures in pursuit of his headstrong son. We start to see Wei-Chen's impressive abilities as he leaps through fallen trees and bounces off sturdy trunks, but when he makes his way to the water, we really see the extent of his power. Wei-Chen's masterful moves allow him to skip across the lake while his shapeshifting father rapidly swims after him as a hungry piranha. To get away, he jumps even higher and right into the powerful homage to "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon."

"American Born Chinese" continues to defy gravity in the memorable scene as Wei-Chen gracefully jumps and balances on top of the delicate treetops and branches. At this moment, the series undeniably resembles the unforgettable sequence in "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" where Yu Jiao Long is confronted with the consequences of stealing the valuable sword known as the Green Destiny. Rather than the lush green forest in the original film, we're treated to Heaven's bold and otherworldly red to distinguish "American Born Chinese" as its own revolutionary addition to the medium.

Directors Destin Daniel Cretton and Daniel Wu are well aware of the series' powerful impact, and they warmly discussed the representation and mythology in "American Born Chinese." This element further elevates the exhilarating opening and honors the acclaimed film in an invigorating way.