The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s surge into their fourth phase began with a variety of new movies and TV shows including “Black Widow” and “Wandavision.” As of Sept. 3, Marvel released the second movie of the phase, “Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” starring Simu Liu and Awkwafina. 

The release of the flim moved students and staff across campus with its strong representation of Asian culture. A variety of food, art and costume design showcased accurate depictions not usually found in the film industry. 

With the debut of films like “Crazy Rich Asians” and “The Farewell”, the AAPI (Asian-American and Pacific Islander) community has made their presence known in Hollywood. 

However, it has been a struggle to make this representation common. As pop culture is a dominant factor in teenagers’ lives, “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’” positive impact on students signifies how crucial it is to have AAPI representation in popular franchises like Marvel. 

Chris Taguba, a senior at West Ranch High School, recently watched “Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” and reflected on the film’s personal impact. 

“I resonated well with Katy because I felt that her depiction and actions were an accurate representation of many Asian Americans like myself, who are more American in nature and may not feel as connected to their parent’s native culture. I hope studios create more diverse and accurate representation in movies to cater to and celebrate not only East Asian audiences, but other minority groups as well,” Taguba expressed.

Janet Kim, a sophomore at West Ranch High School, passionately shared her view on the film’s influence on the Asian community.

“It finally portrays East Asian people in a non-stereotypical way. The only representation that we ever see goes hand in hand with microaggressions and cliché views that have been placed on us for decades,” Kim articulated.

As the movie is directed by many AAPI cast members and staff, it gives hope to many teenagers that dream of working in the film industry. 

With the success of “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”, AAPI representation has grown more prominent and accurate. Audiences with similar backgrounds finally feel seen as they find common ground with the characters and the plot. Despite this, there is still significant work that must be done for an intersectional future in the film industry. 

“I know how much it would’ve meant to kids and to myself as a kid seeing this when I was younger. I totally understand the importance of it,” Simu Liu mentioned in a letter published on the day of the movie premiere via social media. 

Watch “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” at your local movie theater today! The film will also be available for streaming via Disney+ on November 12th.