Saving Face

Wilhelmina 'Wil' Pang is a Chinese-American surgeon living in New York City, whose life is thrown into a delightful disarray when her conservative mother, pregnant and unmarried, moves in with her. As Wil navigates her mother's expectations and her own secret relationship with Vivian Shing, she finds herself caught between tradition and modernity. The film explores themes of family, cultural identity, and finding love in unexpected places.

Saving Face was widely acclaimed by critics for its charming storytelling, sharp wit, and authentic portrayal of Chinese-American culture and lesbian relationships. It resonated with audiences for its humor, heartwarming moments, and relatable characters. The film is celebrated for being a groundbreaking romantic comedy that offered diverse representation.

• Praised for its humor and warmth in exploring cultural expectations and family dynamics.
• Celebrated for its authentic and nuanced portrayal of a lesbian romance within a Chinese-American immigrant family.
• Applauded for Michelle Krusiec's compelling performance as the lead character.

Google audience: Google users generally loved 'Saving Face,' highlighting its humor, charming story, and relatable characters. Many appreciated its refreshing take on romance and its authentic depiction of family and cultural pressures, finding it both funny and emotionally resonant.

Won the Audience Award for Best Feature Film at the Outfest Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Film Festival (2004). Nominated for a Gotham Independent Film Award for Best Feature (2004) and an Independent Spirit Award for Best Screenplay (2005).

Director Alice Wu drew inspiration for the film from her own experiences and observations of her family and community, aiming to tell a story that felt personal and true to her heritage.