Nearly 30 years ago, the film “Joy Luck Club“ changed the landscape of Asian and Asian American representation in cinema. Now, a sequel is in development with author Amy Tan and Oscar-winning screenwriter from, “Rain Man” Ron Bass penning the new take which continues the story of Tan’s bestselling novel.

 

1993 original film captured a multigenerational saga of Chinese and Chinese-American mothers and daughters whose histories, stories interweave as they navigate life, Ming-Na Wen, Tamlyn Tomita, Rosalind Chao and Lisa Lu starred in the film. Touchstone produced films that paved the way for such Asian-led movies as “Crazy Rich Asians“ and “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.” “Joy Luck Club“ was executive produced by Oliver Stone and released in September 1993 and also played at the Toronto International Film Festival. It grossed some $28 million in North America and was nominated for a BAFTA Award for best adapted screenplay.

A sequel will be produced by Ashok Amritraj’s Hyde Park Entertainment Group and “The Judge” producer Jeff Kleeman. In the sequel, the mothers become grandmothers, and the daughters become mothers in their own right, introducing a new generation exploring their own relationships with culture, heritage, love, womanhood and identity.

Amritraj has been building film and cultural bridges between the East and West, and the creation of diverse, inclusive and socially relevant content.

“I am thrilled to work with Amy, Ron and Jeff to bring this special film to the screen,” he said.

“Now more than ever it is important to share authentic stories about the Asian-American experience, and we believe this film will speak to wide audiences with its narrative rooted in humanity and connection.”