These Asian actors, directors, writers and editors prove that good stories and great talent are universal
With the momentous win of Malaysia’s Michelle Yeoh at the 2023 Golden Globes Awards, we highlight even more brilliant storytellers and entertainers on Asia’s Most Influential list. Via multi-million blockbusters that have enthralled movie lovers around the world or experimental films that have influenced the direction of filmmaking, they prove that good stories and great talent are universal. Moreover, these actors, directors, writers and editors, whose works often portray authentic Asian experiences, are championing representation so that we see more of ourselves on the silver screen.
Adele Lim, Malaysia
Adele Lim began her career in Hollywood as a writing assistant for the fantasy TV show Xena: Warrior Princess, a gig that gave her valuable on-the-job experience, which then led to a steady string of writing and producing work for popular series such as One Tree Hill, Private Practice and Reign. All these culminated in groundbreaking projects as one of the screenwriters for the romcom Crazy Rich Asians and the animated film Raya and the Last Dragon, both global hits that championed not only Asian stories but also Asian actors. Crazy Rich Asians went on to make more than US$230 million worldwide, while Raya and the Last Dragon received nods from the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes.
Up next, the storyteller will make her directorial debut with a comedy starring Ashley Park of Emily in Paris. “It’s exciting to know that because of our backgrounds and our heritage, there are all these opportunities to bring new stories to the world. Stories to the world that they have not seen before. That's what we were doing with Crazy Rich Asians, that’s what we were doing with Raya and the Last Dragon and hopefully, that’s what we’re doing for the movie I just directed!” she told Tatler.
