User reviews

Interior Chinatown is a brilliant yet understated reflection of the world-a mirror that exposes how society often judges people by their covers. The show captures this poignantly with the scene where Willis Wu can't get into the police precinct until he proves his worth by delivering food. It's a powerful metaphor: sometimes, if you don't fit the mold, you have to prove your value in the most degrading or unexpected ways just to get a foot in the door. The locked precinct doors represent barriers faced by those who don't match the "majority's" idea of what's acceptable or valuable.

While the series centers on the Asian and Pacific Islander (API) community and the stereotypical roles Hollywood has long relegated them to-background extras, kung fu fighters-it forces viewers to confront bigger questions. It makes you ask: Am I complicit in perpetuating these stereotypes? Am I limiting others-or even myself-by what I assume is their worth? It's not just about API representation; it's about how society as a whole undervalues anyone who doesn't fit neatly into its preferred narrative.

The show can feel confusing if you don't grasp its satirical lens upfront. But for me, knowing the context of Charles Yu's original book helped it click. The production team does an incredible job balancing satire with sincerity, blurring the line between real life and the exaggerated Hollywood "procedural" format. They cleverly use contrasting visuals and distinct camera work to draw you into different headspaces-Hollywood's glossy expectations versus the grittier reality of life.

Chloe Bennet's involvement (real name Chloe Wang) ties into the show's themes on a deeply personal level. She famously changed her last name to navigate Hollywood, caught in the impossible middle ground of not being "Asian enough" or "white enough" for casting directors. It's a decision that sparks debate-was it an act of survival, assimilation, or betrayal? But for Bennett, it was about carving a space for herself to pursue her dreams.

This theme echoes in one of the show's most poignant scenes, where Lana is told, "You will never completely understand. You're mixed." It's a crushing acknowledgment of the barriers that persist, even when you're trying to bridge divides. Lana's story highlights how identity can be both a strength and an obstacle, and the line serves as a painful reminder of the walls society creates-externally and internally.

Interior Chinatown doesn't just ask us to look at the system; it forces us to examine ourselves. Whether it's Willis Wu at the precinct door or Lana trying to connect in a world that sees her as neither this nor that, the show unflinchingly portrays the struggle to belong. And as viewers, it challenges us to question our role in those struggles: Are we helping to dismantle the barriers, or are we quietly reinforcing them?

It's a mystery, you have to watch it to learn more.

This is a show that goes against the grain in a way that can be a bit uncomfortable or eve disservice the plot at times. I can't say it's beautiful or perfect, but there are fantastic qualities to it. The acting is fantastic, the actors change their quality and style of acting dependent on the genres of each scene, which switch between parody and existential mystery constantly. The style of directing, camerawork, writing/dialogue, and even color grading change depending on which type of cop procedural any one scene is parodying, though the majority target the more generic slew of bland, low budget, blue tinged cop TV.

It can feel cheesy at times, the visual effects/direction of some scenes come across as weak and distracting, some of the b-plots aren't particularly engaging and seem to conflict with the tone of the show, and sometimes some of the jokes or plot points are a bit obvious before they happen. The positives do a lot to make it still a fun watch, but they don't really go much of anywhere.

The chemistry between the leads is very high, the comedy lands well for anyone who's slogged through a dumb police procedural, the characters are fun to watch on screen. It's a parody of police dramas, a police drama, a period piece, a touching family story, a coming of age adventure, and an existential allegory, but the end result is less than the sum of its parts, no matter how nice those parts are.

The main thing though, is that it sacrifices it's satisfaction and entertainment value to serve its many interwoven, painfully obvious allegories. It was made to be and end somewhat uncomfortably and unsatisfactory on purpose, to serve a point, but that point was beaten so far to death over the course of the show that this was just... unnecessary. And at the cost of enjoying the thing I'm watching? Wasteful.

It's tough to describe this show, which is probably why I feel like all the descriptions that I've read don't quite seem to fit. The way it plays with its premise, it's rather ambiguous as to how the "show within the show" really works: there's reality mixed with television, seriousness mixed with absurdity. The lines are often blurred, which is a strength. It can be a little confusing, but it's one of those premises where sometimes you just have to stop trying to overthink and enjoy it for what it is. They do a good job of easing into the concept and keeping the logic consistent. The writing is very good, the humor is abundant, and the acting is great. This is a great cast, and no character goes to waste. Good pacing, good direction. The episodes fly by. I can see why this might not be for some, but for me it's one of the best new shows I've seen in a long time.

Really happy to see Chloe Bennet again! Which is why I'm watching this. She is so awesome and gorgeous! She has such a great onscreen presence and charisma that really shows in her acting, and the roles she takes.

I've enjoyed all the episodes so far. I'm on episode 8 and it's gots its faults, but whatever, I'm sure I'll enjoy the rest of it.

I like the different atmosphere this show brings. The comedy from each of the characters has definitely pulled me in. It's a little wonky, and you're trying to figure what's really going on, but in a good, unique way.

Really hope for success with the show, with more seasons to come.

Ok so I'm like a guy who casually watches television and comes on here to look at trivia and some reviews. I never thought I had to come on here and make a review but for this show I'm happy to. This is a show for the people that are more akin to a Rick and Morty with the way if you watch from afar it'll look like total chaos and no plot but if you try to watch and look for the little things in the direction, dialogue, and the music choices you'll possibly see the brilliance that was made into this show. I need season 2. All I ask is more marketing so people can see. Well all I can say now is be nice to people and be nice to yourself have a good one.

Within one episode I usually know whether I'm going to stick with a show. "Interior Chinatown" is different. After watching 2 episodes, the jury's still out. So, what is this show about? The themes (so far) appear to be: what happens when we become personally defeated, how to offer support to others, and discovering our life's purpose and potential. This highly stylized show is a blend of fantasy, satirical comics, and slick Hollywood sets. The combo will work for some viewers. For others, it will be a sensory overload. Does this show overreach to impress and seduce the viewer? You be the judge.

First, some positives: outstanding set design and lighting. The quirky, effective music sets the tone. Overall the cast is apt, but several characterizations fall flat, primarily due to the direction. My favorite characters are Jimmy O. Yang as Willis (the central role), his buddy Fatty (Ronny Chieng), and Jimmy's dad (Tzi Ma).

One major drawback for me: the writing is uneven. There are some genuinely funny moments, but certain scenes go overboard with the physical gags. One example is when Willis attempts to enter a building... it drags on for way too long.

A few minor elements are dissuading: the amount of stuff jammed into the darkened homes of several Chinese characters is ridiculous. So they look like hoarders, just because they live in an older, cramped building in a sketchy area of town? Give me a break! Next: the heavy cosmetics on the lead detective (played by Lisa Gilroy) is too perfectly applied, which overplays the stereotype of typically attractive females in detective shows.

This show could be SO great if only it didn't meander around SO slow. The idea, the theme, and the premise that reality is shape-shifty and bendy is great. The acting is great. They NEED me as their Show-Runner. Really. Honestly.

Why should a show with such great content take so long to feed us the narrative and move it along.

Think about this: the audience for a show like this has to be mentally flexible. You assume that folks who like this kind of stuff are into trippy interesting stuff. So, why take so long to tell your story. Not enough story? Or perhaps ineptitude. The pace is too slow! It takes them 45 mins to tell you so very little. You just want it to be better. Smarter. Getting g the story to move along is like watching hot snail or turtle sex. It just doesn't deliver.

What if life is just a B-list cop show, and everyone is stuck playing ridiculous side characters?

Sure, it's weird. But it's the kind of weird that makes you go, "Am I laughing? Crying? Having an existential crisis?" Yes. The answer is yes. Interior Chinatown is like watching your favorite show while eating spicy noodles-you're amused, slightly overwhelmed, and maybe questioning your life choices.

If you like shows that are unapologetically weird, self-aware, and make you laugh while sneaking in existential punches to the gut, this is it. Just don't expect it to make sense in a traditional way-it's a kung fu fever dream.

I'm on the 2nd episode & I'll eventually get back to you when I've watched the entire show. So far I can't tell if I like this show or not. The show is half procedural half family drama. Unfortunately, I like the family part of the show more then the procedural part. I'm sure it's supposed to be the opposite. There seems to be a lot of filler. The episodes could definitely have been shorter. The episodes are almost an hour but they could really have been done in 10 minutes increments. I really like Jimmy Yang & the family dynamic, so hopefully the show gets its rhythm. I'm hoping his mom shows everyone around her how great she is. It's so depressing that her family except Jimmy her son, see her as a nonentity. Sorry I'm not a very good writer but I wanted to be the first person to write a review, but someone beat me to it. Probably someone that worked on the show since they gave it a 10. People on this website give out 10s like they're going out of style. Sorry, but a movie like Chinatown, or The Godfather II are a 10 not this.

Willis Wu is triggered by current events to research the disappearance of his older brother gone missing 12 years ago. The show makes it obvious from the start that reality is a comical illusion. That should be your warning that anything you see is just nonsense. Who tells the audience we are spoofing a tv show and then run 10 episodes as if they're trying to solve an actual case? There is just not enough content to justify this even if they took this seriously. Thus, 10 full episodes of drivel and pointless scenes which was punishing for the audience.

So the idea that they ultimately present is they're all in tv show or arcade game. None of this is real and insert coin into the machine and keep on playing. Dying in Chinatown is fake because you return whole except it causes amnesia and you remember nothing. What is really the point of this mystery?

Kung Fu Guy, Turner & Green partnership, The Wu parents living apart but living together?, the real estate agents, Painted Masks, multiple deaths in Chinatown caused by no one?, the deceased are reincarnated, the old detectives involved with KFG and a few more subplots that were just awful fillers to a really bad show. The only saving grace was Ronny Chieng who played Fatty the best friend of Willis Wu. Every scene he was in was virtual CPR to a dying man just enough to revive some interest for a moment.

All the while as I was watching these episodes I can understand the sarcasm of the plots. Asian actors here are pretty darn good and deserve more than secondary roles and/or just extras in the background. Unfortunately, in Hollywood they are not a big sell so the acting market reflects what the audience will pay for. If they made a movie of the insulting waiter I'm sure they will ironically find a big audience for it. I saw this as a missed opportunity to showcase the acting skills of many of these actors. Many people will not make it past the first or second episodes and that might be the biggest shame.

I'm not saying you have to be super intelligent to follow and enjoy this offbeat spectacular production but what I do believe though for inquisitive people searching for twists that add up and not the run of the mill entertainment there's proble no chance you wouldn't enjoy "Interior Chinatown". This being about my 250th review I've only given a 9 or higher about 35 times throughout my decade of reviews on IMDB which to me says a lot in it's self. If your unaware of the Hollywood era in TV/ Movies we currently are closing out of it's the Multiple dimensions era but what's so fascinating about this show it truly succeeded blending reality and the alternative so uniquely by squarely showing our inner anxieties, life regrets and persinal failures or ambitions so clear without pause you have no choice but to get fully swept into such a funny far out intricately woven story that turns out to be one of the truest tales ever told.. Highmarks all around Acting, Directing, Set design and casting but a super chef's kiss to the teleplay screenwriters for this outstanding idea perfectly fleshed out. BRAVO.

I have just binged watched it, started off great and I blinked, don't know where I ended up, maybe I am too dumb and missed the segues but what the hell is this? No coherent story, nothing makes sense to me after the 4th episode, I should have picked up the signs and give up when I read the name "Waititi", no disrespect to anyone who liked it, but it spiraled waaay our of the premise. Give it a shot maybe you will like it, if you are into fever dreams and unfollowable plot. I have started this show because I really like Yang but come on man, if I was an established comedian, after a first glance of the script, I would be like "not worth it"

Interior Chinatown is a masterful piece of television that transcends traditional storytelling, delivering a profound and innovative narrative that's both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Jimmy O. Yang leads an exceptional cast with a performance that masterfully balances comedy and depth, brilliantly complemented by Chloe Bennet's nuanced and powerful portrayal of Detective Lana Lee. Bennet brings a compelling authenticity to her role, expertly navigating the complex layers of a character caught between worlds, making every scene she's in resonate with genuine emotional depth. The series excels in its sophisticated layering of themes, exploring identity, belonging, and representation through a lens that's both satirical and deeply moving. The production team deserves special praise for their incredible attention to detail - from the purposeful shifts in cinematography and color grading to the perfectly curated soundtrack that enhances every scene. The way the show seamlessly transitions between different genres and tones is nothing short of brilliant, creating a viewing experience that's both challenging and rewarding. What sets Interior Chinatown apart is its ability to tackle complex social commentary while maintaining genuine heart and humor. The chemistry between Yang and Bennet is electric, creating a dynamic that anchors the show's more experimental elements in authentic human connection. The writing consistently delivers sharp, meaningful dialogue that serves both the story and its deeper themes. Each episode builds upon the last, creating an intricate narrative tapestry that becomes more rewarding as the series progresses. This is prestige television at its finest - a show that dares to push boundaries while never losing sight of its emotional core. It's a rare achievement that manages to be simultaneously entertaining, thought-provoking, and genuinely moving. Interior Chinatown isn't just must-watch television; it's a landmark series that sets a new standard for storytelling in the medium.

"Interior Chinatown" is not just a series; it's an experience that masterfully blends sharp satire with compelling storytelling. Jimmy O. Yang as Willis Wu delivers a performance that is both comedic and profound, navigating the thin line between being a background player in life and taking center stage. Chloe Bennet's Detective Lana Lee complements this with a performance that adds depth and a different perspective to the narrative, enriching the show's exploration of identity and belonging.

The show's innovative structure, where characters are aware of their TV show roles, provides endless possibilities for further exploration. The unresolved questions surrounding Chinatown's secrets, the characters' evolving self-awareness, and the potential for Willis and Lana to reshape their narratives offer fertile ground for a second season. Both the critical acclaim and audience appreciation for this unique blend of humor, cultural critique, and heartfelt storytelling suggest that "Interior Chinatown" has much more to offer, making a compelling case for its renewal.

Jimmy & Ronny are both great stand up comedians, I love watching them. At first the TV show felt a bit interesting, as it seems as if the characters are in a TV show, it reminded me of "Wanda Vision", BUT three episodes into this TV show, I lost my interest to continue to watch to find out what the plot twist is... I don't like the settling of the TV show... the characters are not funny nor smart... the pacing is quite slow....

Willis's native language is Cantonese but he and his mom sometimes speaks Cantonese, Mandarin, and English at home...I think it would feel much more authentic if they stick with speaking either only Cantonese OR Mandarin at home...

So good, the plot twists come out of nowhere. I'll admit the first few episodes it's hard to grasp the concept of the writing. But at the end all of the pieces you saw being placed down come together to form such a coherent but intricate story. All throughout you are being given bits and pieces of specific events. Only as it unfolds can you understand that not all is what it seems. The same videos you see as "footage" get added on to in a way you don't expect. I would say for those who see the first few episodes and feel confused. Keep watching it all comes together near the end, when all the perspectives are brought together.

A show that's actually unique and unpredictable. Glad one of my favorite critics said you have to trust the strange angles, beats and that many of the multiple questions will have payoff come in time. The first episode and a half are a bit of a struggle but with the whole season finished I'm glad they didn't feed us a lot of answers.

Funny, in a non-typical way but also in terms of real punchlines. Pretty well directed satire and some real good commentary on social issues, American contradictions and minorities being neglected as well as overtly mistreated. I don't feel like they forced the social commentary in there and it really is just a central part of the unorthodox flow. Really excited to see where they take it!

Any fans of non-formulaic stories, good acting, good comedy and strangeness should try. Just give it more than two episodes.

Wow! If you were looking to get mind F$%^^, you came to the right TV show! This was an excellent "A" list of characters chosen for this to be pulled off! Thanks to the Production crew! "Sound guy!" (LOL made a funny) For all the sound effects throughout the show. I was completely immersed. Thanks to the "music guy" (Yep, I am not going to stop), and Thank you to the "Director Guy" For a job well done. Now that "Actor Guy" (Jimmy Yang) did a great job :D (It's just going to continue), I wanted to thank all of the "Background Guy" and "gals" (Feeling the cancelation coming)for providing a lively background that gave me the appreciation that I was being thrown around in a parallel universe. The purpose-made confusion was well done! I was confused but not lost in my confusion in this TV series. Overall, I found no negatives except that the season ended with me feeling that I wanted more.

If you want to watch something that will lift your spirits, make you laugh, and in a way feel comforting to watch this is your series.it have an almost comic book feel, in that it almost reaches the audience like Deadpool, but doesn't call on the audience explicitly. It does contain some humor that plays on stereotypes, so be forewarned. Other than the aforementioned ,It's such a fun watch. The characters are well developed / introduced in a way that isn't boring, the scenery is solid, and the a tors all did such a wonderful job bringing this story to life. It has.been something for me to look forward to after a long day at work. I am really enjoying it right now since our holiday break!

I'll give this three stars for having an intriguing premise. A person who is apparently living inside a TV show (or is hallucinating elaborately) becomes aware of his predicament and tries not to get out of it, but rather make use of it and become the star of the show. Or something along those lines.

Which immediately leads to too many questions. Why isn't he more freaked out and concerned for his sanity? How much is he aware that being "inside" a TV show is bizarre? He seems to take it all in stride.

This just doesn't synch with how people operate. The metaphor is so heavy-handed that it's destroying any sense that this is grounded in reality, even if it's a variation on reality.

"Interior Chinatown" on Hulu is a gem, a show that doesn't just entertain but embeds itself in your soul. It's a heartfelt journey through the life of Willis Wu, capturing the essence of identity with humor and poignancy. Every episode is a masterclass in storytelling, making you laugh, cry, and think deeply about the roles we play in society.

This series isn't just about Asian American experiences; it's a universal quest for recognition and belonging. The characters are so real, so beautifully flawed and hopeful, that you're left wanting more. You yearn to see where their stories lead, to watch them evolve beyond the stereotypes. It's a show that's both a mirror and a window, reflecting our own struggles while offering a glimpse into lives we might not fully understand. If there's one series that deserves your time, it's this one, for its depth, for its characters, and for its ability to move you.

Slow paced and boring, I wanted to like this show so much. I pushed myself to watch 3 episodes but I just couldn't do anymore, the whole thing is just stereotypical nonsense with no purpose or direction. The cop characters are really bad actors and it seems like they're trying too hard, I think that's the point but it just makes the entire show hard to watch. The nonsense with the spotlight every time they enter the room is over the top and ridiculous. The whole premise of the show is lost in the relentless pursuit of nothing and it's just become tiresome and boring, it's really just a waste of time.