Always Be My Maybe: Film Screening and Discussion

Join us in watching Always Be My Maybe, a modern take on a classic love story. In this film childhood sweethearts reconnect after going on to live very different lives. Asian-American stars Ali Wong and Randall Park not only wrote this touching story, but star in it as well. After watching Always Be My Maybe, Dr. SunAh Laybourn will lead a conversation focused on the evolution of Asian American representation in film, particularly examining how the portrayal of Asian American love interests has shifted from the early film era to the present. Participants will discuss the significance of the film’s contemporary portrayal of Asian American characters, the dynamics of their romantic relationship, and how these representations reflect broader societal changes. The discussion will also consider the impact of Always Be My Maybe on current and future Asian American actors and filmmakers, and how it continues to challenge and redefine stereotypes in Hollywood. We recommend viewing this in tandem with November 17th screening of Shanghai Express, also followed by a discussion led by Dr. SunAh Laybourn.

Dr. SunAh Laybourn is an Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Memphis. Her research examines questions of race, identity, and belonging. She is the author of Out of Place: The Lives of Korean Adoptee Immigrants (New York University Press, 2024). In 2023, Dr. Laybourn organized Memphis’s first month-long celebration honoring Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Additionally, she is the host of WYXR 91.7FM’s Let’s Grab Coffee, a weekly radio show featuring experts from around the world, who are investigating our most pressing social issues and common curiosities (also available on Appleand Spotify).

Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Members receive a free snack with ticket purchase.