ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS)- Arriving in theaters April 18, The Wedding Banquet (2025) brings a fresh and heartfelt perspective to the classic romantic comedy, blending cultural tradition, modern relationships, and the complexities of identity. Directed by Andrew Ahn (Spa Night, Driveways, Fire Island), the film is a reimagining of the beloved 1993 movie of the same name, now updated for a new generation with humor, warmth, and a stellar cast.

At the center of the story is Min, portrayed by Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live, Wicked), a gay man who finds himself under pressure to maintain appearances for his traditional family. In a mutually beneficial arrangement, he agrees to a green-card marriage with his best friend, played by Kelly Marie Tran (Raya and the Last Dragon, Star Wars: The Last Jedi), who is seeking access to in vitro fertilization. The plan is simple—on paper.

Things take an unexpected turn when Min’s grandmother makes a surprise trip from Seoul and insists on throwing a full traditional Korean wedding banquet. What follows is a whirlwind of secrets, revelations, and genuine emotion as the pair tries to keep up the façade in front of loved ones while quietly confronting their own personal truths.

Rounding out the cast is Lily Gladstone, whose acclaimed, Oscar-nominated performance in Killers of the Flower Moon made her one of the most compelling actors to watch. Her role adds a grounded presence and emotional depth that further elevates the film’s dynamic ensemble.

This remake arrives at a particularly meaningful moment in cinematic history. The original The Wedding Banquet, directed by Ang Lee and released in 1993, was officially added to the U.S. National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2023. This prestigious recognition is reserved for films considered “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant,” ensuring their preservation for future generations. The original broke new ground by bringing Asian American and LGBTQ+ stories into mainstream consciousness, and its selection by the Library of Congress underscores its enduring impact and relevance.

By reimagining The Wedding Banquet through a contemporary lens, Andrew Ahn not only honors the legacy of Ang Lee’s original but also introduces new audiences to a story that still resonates—one that navigates love, family, identity, and the universal human desire to be accepted. The 2025 version embraces both the comedic and emotional beats of the original while creating space for modern perspectives, representation, and storytelling.

With standout performances, sharp writing, and a balance of sincerity and laughter, The Wedding Banquet (2025) is more than just a romantic comedy—it’s a celebration of chosen family, cultural connection, and the beautifully messy ways we find love and acceptance.

Opening April 18—bring tissues, bring laughter, and don’t miss the invitation.

__________________________________________

Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (FNN NEWS) – Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis has once again proven her star power and storytelling prowess in Amazon Prime Video’s newest blockbuster action-thriller G20, which has surged to become the platform’s most-watched movie since its release. Davis not only stars as U.S. President Danielle Sutton, but also served as a producer, helping bring this bold, global political thriller to life after seven years of development.

“This was a long road, but oh, so worth it!” Davis shared on Instagram, celebrating the film’s success. “@JuVeeProductions continues our mission to bring dynamic storytelling, characters, and actors that reflect the world—and, most importantly, to deliver a film that truly entertains.”

A GLOBAL CRISIS. A COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF LIKE NO OTHER.

In G20, President Danielle Sutton attends the G20 Summit in South Africa, but when a violent terrorist siege threatens the safety of world leaders and her own daughter, Sutton is thrust into a high-stakes survival mission. With communication lines cut and chaos unfolding, Sutton relies on her elite military background to outwit enemies and prevent a global catastrophe.

This isn’t your typical action flick—G20 is a pulse-pounding, character-driven political thriller that blends intense physical action with deep emotional gravitas. Davis’s portrayal brings raw humanity and strategic brilliance to the role, capturing a leader who is fearless, focused, and unshakably fierce.

BLACK-ISH REUNION, EMOTIONAL DEPTH

The film also features a compelling reunion of Anthony Anderson and Marsai Martin, best known as father and daughter in the hit sitcom Black-ish. In G20, they portray family in a much darker, higher-stakes environment, and their chemistry adds warmth, urgency, and authenticity to the story’s emotional core.

DAVIS’S CAREER MOMENTUM CONTINUES

Following her groundbreaking performance as General Nanisca in The Woman King (2022), Davis has continued to evolve her creative reach:

• Narrated Disney’s Candlelight Processional (2022)

• Portrayed Dr. Volumnia Gaul in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

• Voiced the villain in Kung Fu Panda 4 (2024)

• Honored as a Barbie doll for International Women’s Day

• Reprised her role as Amanda Waller in DC’s Creature Commandos animated series

“SEEING IT TO BELIEVE IT”: VIOLA’S MISSION FOR REPRESENTATION

To prepare for G20, Davis underwent intense physical training, but her purpose was clear.

“I did it to put every young Black girl in this story,” she explained.
“When you see it, you can believe it… So when you get the baton in your hand, that’s your new job—to pay it forward.”

G20 stars Viola Davis (Image via YouTube/Prime Video)

A MOVEMENT IN MOTION

G20 is more than a film—it’s a cultural statement. It proves that blockbuster action thrillers can be inclusive, thoughtful, and empowering while still delivering big on spectacle and suspense. Davis redefines the image of a global leader, showing the world that the face of power is diverse, capable, and here to stay.

Move over, Will Smith—Viola’s got the shades, the stance, and the state of emergency.

Once again, Viola Davis doesn’t just headline a movie—she leads a movement. And with G20 holding strong as Amazon Prime Video’s top-streamed film, the world is watching.

__________________________________________

Florida National News

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN News) – Canadian singer, songwriter, and dancer Tate McRae is set to ignite the stage at Orlando’s Kia Center on September 13 and 14, 2025, with both performances commencing at 7:30 PM. These concerts are part of her highly anticipated Miss Possessive Tour, promoting her third studio album, So Close to What, released on February 21, 2025. ​

McRae’s journey from being the youngest finalist on So You Think You Can Dance at age 13 to becoming a multi-platinum artist is nothing short of remarkable. Her breakout single, “you broke me first”, paved the way for subsequent hits like “Greedy” and “Sports Car”, establishing her as a force in the pop industry. ​Orlando Theatre

Joining McRae on the tour is Swedish pop sensation Zara Larsson, known for chart-toppers like “Lush Life” and “Ruin My Life”. Their collaboration promises an unforgettable evening of dynamic performances and catchy melodies. ​Live Nation

Tickets for the Orlando shows are available through Ticketmaster and the Kia Center’s official website. Given McRae’s rising popularity and the tour’s demand, fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early to ensure attendance.​

For additional event details, including parking information and venue policies, visit the Kia Center’s event page.​

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Tate McRae’s electrifying performance and hear tracks from her latest album live in Orlando.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com