Always Be My Maybe

Childhood friends navigate love and fame.

Watch on Netflix
About Always Be My Maybe

Released: 2019

Platform: Netflix

Rating: PG-13

Run time: 1h 42m

Cast
Ali Wong, Randall Park, James Saito, Michelle Buteau, Vivian Bang, Keanu Reeves, Susan Park, Daniel Dae Kim, Karan Soni, Charlyne Yi

About Always Be My Maybe

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About

Always Be My Maybe is a romantic comedy film released in 2019. It follows the story of childhood friends Sasha Tran and Marcus Kim who reconnect after 15 years and slowly fall in love. The film was directed by Nahnatchka Khan and written by Ali Wong, Randall Park, and Michael Golamco. It received widespread acclaim for its hilarious performances, heartwarming storyline, and witty dialogue. The plot revolves around Sasha, a successful celebrity chef, and Marcus, a struggling musician and handyman. When Sasha returns to her hometown of San Francisco, she reconnects with Marcus and they start spending more time together. As they spend time with each other, old feelings resurface and they must navigate their complex feelings while dealing with their individual career ambitions. The film explores themes of friendship, identity, and love in a refreshing and entertaining manner.

Making / Production

Always Be My Maybe was produced by Netflix and was created with the intention of having an Asian-American romantic comedy that celebrates culture and diversity. The film was also seen as a platform to showcase the talents of Ali Wong and Randall Park, both of whom played major roles in the film and also co-wrote the screenplay. Nahnatchka Khan, known for her work on TV shows like Fresh Off the Boat, directed the film. The production of the film took place in various locations in San Francisco, including the famous Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, and the iconic Bay Area neighborhoods. The filmmakers worked to capture the vibrant and diverse essence of the city, infusing it with the story of Sasha and Marcus. Always Be My Maybe was released globally on Netflix, allowing audiences around the world to enjoy this heartfelt romantic comedy.

Actors

  • Ali Wong as Sasha Tran - Sasha is a successful celebrity chef who returns to her hometown and reconnects with Marcus, her childhood friend.
  • Randall Park as Marcus Kim - Marcus is a struggling musician and handyman who still holds feelings for Sasha and is conflicted about pursuing his dreams.
  • Keanu Reeves as Himself - Keanu Reeves plays a fictionalized version of himself and becomes a love interest for Sasha during her journey of self-discovery.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • Ali Wong and Randall Park previously worked together on the TV show Fresh Off the Boat.
  • Always Be My Maybe is known for its memorable cameo appearance by Keanu Reeves, which became a highlight of the film.
  • The film's title is a nod to the song "Always Be My Baby" by Mariah Carey.
  • The screenplay of the film was inspired by Ali Wong and Randall Park's real-life experiences.

Awards

Always Be My Maybe received critical acclaim and was appreciated for its performances, writing, and representation. Although it did not win any major awards, it was widely praised for its contribution to the romantic comedy genre and Asian-American storytelling.

Quotes

  • "I am feeling like a sexual icon and a ninja – it's a very confusing time." - Sasha Tran
  • "I love you but you don't love yourself." - Marcus Kim

Music

The film features a variety of music that complements the romantic and comedic tone. The soundtrack includes songs from various genres, ranging from pop to hip-hop, and includes tracks like "I Punched Keanu Reeves" by Daniel Pemberton and "Heart of Glass" by Blondie.

Soundtrack

  • "I Punched Keanu Reeves" by Daniel Pemberton
  • "Heart of Glass" by Blondie
  • "Always Be My Baby" by Mariah Carey