Joan Chen on Career: From “Twin Peaks” Regrets to “Didi” Redemption

“Didi,” a term endearingly used for “younger brother,” is what Chungsing Wang (Joan Chen) calls her son (Izaac Wang). However, the Taiwanese teenager in Fremont, Calif., prefers his American name, Chris. This name contention is just one of many conflicts Chris has with his mom. Embarrassing him in front of friends and incessantly nagging about studying, especially when comparing him to her friends’ overachieving kids, adds to the tension.

Sean Wang’s debut feature “Didi,” inspired by his life, centers around Chris. Set in 2008, the film humorously depicts the 13-year-old spending time with friends, fumbling to kiss his attractive classmate Madi (Mahaela Park), and filming skateboarders during summer. The mother-son dynamic, however, anchors the film emotionally. “Didi” won the Sundance Film Festival Audience Award for its heartfelt portrayal of family struggles.

Chungsing’s life isn’t easy. She’s practically a single mother, with her husband working overseas. Her chaotic household includes Chris squabbling with his older sister, Vivian (Shirley Chen), who is heading to college, and Chungsing clashing with her mother-in-law Nǎi Nai (Zhang Li Hua). Joan Chen brings a touching poignancy to Chungsing, portraying a woman dreaming of being a painter but settling for an “ordinary life.” Her frustrations often spill over onto her children as she pushes them to achieve more.

Chen’s career spans across Asia and America, with notable roles in “The Last Emperor,” “Twin Peaks,” and her directorial works “Xiu Xiu: The Sent-Down Girl” and “Autumn in New York.” Discussing her role in “Didi,” Chen reflects on the challenges and rewards of motherhood. The film allowed her to revisit her own experiences with her teenage children, marked by misunderstandings and drama. She admits struggling with the right decisions and felt performing Chungsing’s character was partly a chance for catharsis.

Didi (Focus Features)

Chen feels that Chungsing tries her best, despite not always being effective. She wants her children to succeed but often alienates them through nagging and embarrassing moments. Chen believes Chungsing represents many immigrant mothers who juggle caring for their families while trying to fulfill personal dreams.

According to Chen, defining a “good mother” is complex. Mistakes are inevitable, yet the burden of raising children who must blossom into something significant is immense. She describes the constant struggle to balance giving children freedom, protection, discipline, safety, and enough excitement in life. The role of a mother is laden with expectations, and she feels this keenly in her portrayal of Chungsing.

“Didi” also touches on the model minority issues faced by Asian Americans. Chungsing mirrors many Asian mothers, not fitting into the stereotype of tiger moms but instead dreaming for her children’s broader horizons. Sean’s mom, the inspiration behind Chungsing, provided wisdom and patience, qualities Chen observed closely.

On set, Chen befriended Sean’s mom, exchanging stories about raising American children as immigrants. She notes that Sean’s mom was present every day, recording lines, and sharing her experiences, which Chen used to shape her character.

Didi (Focus Features)

Reflecting on her illustrious career, Chen discusses her work with directors like Wayne Wang, Bernardo Bertolucci, Ang Lee, and David Lynch. Despite some career choices she considers mistakes, like leaving “Twin Peaks” for “Turtle Beach,” she expresses fulfillment in her diverse roles. “Didi” particularly resonated with her as it allowed her to portray complex mother-son relationships and immigrant experiences.

Chen acknowledges improvements in the visibility of Asian women in film, citing successes like “Minari” and “Everything Everywhere All at Once.” She feels the industry has evolved since the 1980s, with more opportunities and recognition for Asian actors. Although challenges remain, Chen is optimistic about the future, as she continues to work in both the United States and China.

“Didi” opens in New York and Los Angeles on July 26, with a nationwide release on August 16.

Source: various sources