I know Rachel's mom has a relatively small role in this movie, but that look that she gives Eleanor never fails to shake me. It's something you can't quite articulate, but in that moment Rachel leaves with her head held high, yet her mother turns to spare a look at the woman who destroyed her daughters' spirit and holds her gaze, wearing all the pain and anger and pride she must have been feeling. Even though no words passed between them Rachel's mother is the one in power here despite her low social standing and broken family, because while Eleanor may have her reputation intact, her relationship with her son is damaged, while Rachel and her mother leave with a strengthened love that surpasses the material lifestyle and wealth that the Youngs have amassed and sacrificed everything--even happiness--for.
Oh my gosh, I love it too. It gets me so emotional, not only because it reminds me of my own mom who was also an immigrant, but it's like that look between them challenges Eleanor to acknowledge this low standing woman and everything she's accomplished. And if circumstances were slightly different, what is the actual difference between them?
I give you guys a brief explanation why this mahjong scene is powerful:- 1. But first off, let's start with some basics of mahjong. To win mahjong, you would need to reach certain combinations before other player does. You will always have 13th tiles, but you would need to pick up the 14th tile to win. Think of it as a poker, or more accurately gin rummy, except you have to create your own combination. You can have three simplified combinations that can help you to win the game:- I. Chow: having three tiles of sequential number sequence of the same suite (ex: 2 bamboo, 3 bamboo, 4 bamboo is consider a chow) II. Pong - Basically three of a kind. You must shout "Pong" when someone discards the tile that you want, and then you have to show everyone that you actually have the initial two of the same tiles by laying three of it flat. III. Kong- Basically four of a kind, same mechanics as Pong, but you also draw a tile from the wall. Eye- basically a pair. To win, you would need either 4 Pong/Chow and an eye, or 3 Kong and an eye, or any combination above that fits within the 14th tile framework. You must always have an eye to win (the basic way, of course. There's also special variations of creating your 14th tile combinations, but let's stick to the basic for now). 2. In mahjong, there are four sitting positions: North, East, South, West. At the start of the scene, Rachel offers Eleanor to sit at the East seat, which is practically the dealer seat, while Rachel sat at the West seat. This is important as both of them are representing themselves of where they come from, Eleanor from Asia (East) and Rachel from America (West). 3. At the start, Eleanor started out with a Pong (three of a kind). She is showing to Rachel that she intends to win the game by having multiple Pong and an eye. Then during one of their conversation, Eleanor highlights the difference between the Western and Eastern, saying that despite American Asian look Asian, they are still American at heart. And then Eleanor explained the meaning of kaki lang, in Hokkien which means to say "one of us", and telling Rachel that she was not one of us. Note that she was also trying to Pong her way to victory, and Pong are all the same kind. 4. Then, Rachel drop the bomb onto Eleanor, saying that Nick actually proposed to her, where he was dead set on running away with her and away from his family. Right as she was saying this, Rachel draws one of the most important tile in this particular game: a bamboo of eight. To us Chinese, number 8 represents fortune, and it's considered a sign of wealth, prosperity, and happiness. However, an eight doesn't have any special value in mahjong, but the eight of bamboo was the one tile important for Rachel to complete her hand, winning the game. However, being a professor of game theory, she noted that this tile was also Eleanor's winning tile to complete her hand. 5. Rachel then told Eleanor that she turn Nick's proposal down, and to which Eleanor replied, "Only a fool folds a winning hand." THIS PART IS VERY CRITICAL, as in earlier first scenes of the movie, Rachel demonstrated that to be successful in a game where psychology and choice are the factors, you can't play with a "not to lose" mentality, but rather play to win. 6. Rachel then retorts back, saying that Eleanor has guaranteed there's no winning in any outcome when it comes to her marrying Nick. Nick choosing Rachel will cause Nick to lose his mother and his family. Nick choosing his family will result in Nick resenting his mother, where both are lose-lose situations. This is where Rachel decided to choose for him by declining his proposal. Of course she does not want to do it without Eleanor knowing, and what she is giving up to make this possible, hence this meeting. 7.With this, Rachel discarded her eight of bamboo, her symbol of happiness and her chance of winning the game, knowing that Eleanor will pick it up to win. 8. Rachel told Eleanor that she knows Nick will eventually find someone else that his family would approve of. While her heart will be broken, she is willing to suffer if it means Nick will keep the thing that is at the heart of all Asian cultures, and of his story: his family. She also elaborates that when Nick does find someone that the family approves, it will be because of a "poor, raised by a single mother, low-class immigrant nobody" who made it all possible. After that, she show her hand before walking away, making it clear to Eleanor that she could have won the game. In short, Rachel show Eleanor that she understands the concept of putting family first over everything else, and is also showing that she is as strong willed as Eleanor, which completely overwhelm Eleanor's cruel remarks of Rachel being "never good enough" for Nick. This is as good as Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows chess scene, except chess is more well known than mahjong, so explaining the symbolism behind it is tough. Hope it helps! Edit: My reference mostly came from Vox if you want read more about it. Edit edit: About it being brief, sorry about that. It was brief when I was thinking about it (not to mention the reference obtained from Vox). It somewhat exploded in my write-up itself. Sorry about that.
the “a poor, raised by a single mother, low class immigrant nobody” and then her slamming down her hand just makes me smile so much. rachel could’ve won but she let eleanor win. just like how she let eleanor have nick. it’s so powerful!
@@meejoohwang8494 I think they both needed the same tile to win, and Rachel knew that if she didn’t take it then Eleanor would win. Rachel decided to quit before winning and walk away knowing that she chose it, letting Eleanor get the tile (and her son). Someone else also mentioned that the tile in question was an 8 bamboo which means prosperity/wealth. Rachel gave it up because she doesn’t care about money as much as Eleanor does… she’s satisfied in her life without winning.
@@hookem3768 did u even watch it she said she does not wanna break their family and does not want him to lose his mom again also she experience loss because she was only raised by 1 parent
I wonder if anyone ever knows how significant the scene at 4:31 is. It gives me tears every time I watch it. The young girl that you torture and humiliate is actually someone’s daughter, someone’s most cherished child. When you face with her mother, how can you not be ashamed of all the things that you said to her, when you project all the humiliation that you received from your mother-in-law onto this girl that your son loves and who is also loved by many?
Especially considering Eleanor feels that way about Nick-her most cherished child-but understands now, partly through Rachel’s own words just now, that Nick does NOT feel the same way about her. She basically gave him up to someone else to raise. Sure, it ensured he would inherit everything, but it robbed her of the opportunity to bond with her son the way Rachel’s mother is bonded with her daughter. And she knows now that Nick WOULD have left his entire family behind, for Rachel. And Rachel sacrificed her own happiness to prevent that. And Rachel’s MOTHER sacrificed everything for Rachel’s happiness. Rachel’s mother’s look says it ALL. It says “You will never have this, no matter how much money you have.” From an immigrant woman who ran from her husband and raised a child alone, who REALLY knows what it means to sacrifice for their family.
@@v.3314-t1w right!...plus, let's not forget that Rachel didn't know the full story about her own past...or moreso...her mom's past, until Elenor opened that can wide open to try to destroy Rachel (unknowingly forcing Rachel's mom to tell a secret she was sparing Rachel from) And then having to see Rachel's mother in the flesh after *that*.....Elenor must've felt very humbled after that.
in the end, she walked away on her own terms with head high, the game was a message that she let Eleanor win, and her mother's glare said it all for them, leaving Eleanor sitting there to think on her actions
Kerry was mentally speaking to Eleanor about her own shame because now she has to live with her broken relationship with Nick. This is something she finally understands and how she truly underestimated Rachel's resolve. In the end, Eleanor did the right thing to tell Nick what she done and convinced him to go after her.
This is one of the most badass scenes in cinematic history. You don't need guns, explosions, or muscled men. All you need is smart writing, good editing, and actors who know exactly who their characters are
And to think Michelle Yeoh (who plays Eleanor) more known for martial arts roles!! Like she's that weapon-weilding lady from Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, and the Bond Girl for Tomorrow Never Dies.
Really? You think this is “one of the most badass scenes in cinematic history”? It’s a good scene but this isn’t even top 100 of the most “badass scenes”.
@@justsomebody5450 the way I figure it, you have two steel-willed ladies who don't operate with their fists, but through positioning themselves by appealing to the opinion of others, the family and social web. How to sway opinion without creating ripples in the onlooking web is akin to two martial artists having a kick boxing match on a tightrope, as much grace as it is exerting will without flinching, is no mean feat. You been in a situation where only the right words, the right touch will do? This is one of those moments. It may not be loud, but it does require guts, a prerequisite of badass.
I love how Rachel proves Eleanor wrong. she says “all Americans (Rachel) think about is themselves” but Rachel putting Nick’s family first and making that decision for him by turning his proposal down is the most selfless act
The most powerful part here is actually, Rachels mom telling the other mom "yes, this is the daughter i have , this is the kind of daughter i raised, someone that let you win game wise and life wise even though she could have choosen otherwise.Yes, here i am , a nobody raising my daughter by myself with no money no high social life no material life, yet my daughter and i gave you a lesson." She tells all that without saying a word, only the looks made it pretty clear who really won in the bigger picture, you really won in life.
The stare down between Eleanor and Rachel’s mom is so powerful. Eleanor’s stare says “you must be so proud to have raised such an honorable woman” and Rachel’s mom’s stare says “can’t say the same about your mother”
basically this is a brief explanation: each player has a deck and you can discard a piece into the middle from your deck and then someone else can take it from the middle so u can win. Rachel had a winning deck, but she handed the piece over into the middle then to Eleanor so Eleanor won. She couldn’t have won without Rachel ie she couldn’t have nick back without Rachel’s help Hope this makes sense lol
Summer Xo nope she loses, but don’t worry a lot of people think that. Eleanor actually one, if you look closely after Rachel puts her deck down the other lady playing with her shakes her head
It was more likely Kerry was speaking through her eyes the disappointment she has with Eleanor for how she's treated Rachel. While she may not have been from a wealthy family, it didn't mean she(Kerry) didn't raise her daughter properly and prepare her for the real world. Kerry mentions that while Eleanor will leave with her pride intact, her relationship with Nick is very much damaged beyond repair. She and Rachel leave the hall with their love for each other strengthen. It's only after they leave, the remorse sets in for Eleanor and she realizes how badly damaged her family structure is.
Tbh I got it even though I'm not Chinese lmao When they revealed the lineup and the facial expression of the mother in law, I was like "She probably gave away her winning tile" but I will say, my completely non Asian friend, only thought the lines had relevance and she truly thought the mahjong game had nothing to do with what they were saying lol.
고서연 Ashamed to say that my cousins and I thought Rachel actually won. I’m not Chinese, but I wanted to understand just in case so I looked it up because it looked too significant as a scene. I’m glad I did!
I'm not Chinese and I understood it just fine. Anybody paying attention to the movie (Rachel's a econ professor, talks game theory, wins the poker game at the beginning by bluffing, etc.) would understand that Rachel let Nick's mom win.
Except give a look that seems truly hateful! She has a kind, gracious, and loving countenance, that even her role in this movie couldn’t hide 😉 She’s one of my absolute favourite actresses!
Rachel truly proves in this scene what a clever and compassionate person she truly is. That *she* is worthy of Nick and his family. Despite what Eleanor thinks, she's *exactly* what Nick and his family needs.
@Sigma Geranimo until you get to the field at a decent university. Lol! What's your field? Did you get a degree without real world experience? Must fucking suck being unemployed lol
@Sigma Geranimo I'm currently working with a bad neighborhood in an inner city making a living wage. So shut the fuck up if you don't know anything about my field
@Sigma Geranimo lol unless you've actually done field work like being in the worst place of your country you will never imagine what we know. I will leave you this. Do you think doctors immediately work on healthy American patients? You're fucking deluded. Bless your heart child
The screen writers for this movie did an amazing job. They elevated what was a pretty messy (plot pacing wise) and sometimes mean-spirited, fluffy, satirical novel into an incredibly moving movie. This and the dumpling/stairway scene are the highlights of the movie for me. The nuance they gave Eleanor is fantastic.
Rachel’s mom being there and both of them walking out hand in hand was so important because it showed Eleanor that she might have built “things that last” by sacrificing happiness. But Rachel and her mom showing that them having each other was enough to make them happy and their relationship IS something that will last for them in the long run, just proves Eleanor wrong in so many ways Even showing Eleanor what she’s truly giving up. That relationship with her son that she will never truly have
YES! The whole “things that last, something that you know nothing about” is obviously meant to imply that Eleanor thinks less of Rachel’s mother because she ran away from her abusive husband and is single. Not all ‘complete’ families include a mom and dad.
It's a very interesting way to look at things, honestly, especially given current events with how China is exercising its soft power in ways that are more agreeable or have a better impression on many countries that were formerly devastated by Western imperialism... but many western powers would characterize it as a new form of imperialism.
The symbolism in this was the Mahjong tiles when she showed her hand that she could have won. It showed that Rachael let her win and decided what's best and walk away. Her mom in this scene wanted to trash Eleanore for breaking her daughters spirit but took the higher road.
I was really confused by this scene because I don’t understand mahjong but my friend who is Chinese explained it to me. When I watched it again, I absolutely burst into tears. What a beautifully constructed scene and I really respect that they didn’t dilute for someone like me to immediately understand. I had to gain some cultural competence to understand the subtext and it’s just beautiful
Diana Enriquez basically this is a brief explanation: each player has a deck and you can discard a piece into the middle from your deck and then someone else can take it from the middle so u can win. Rachel had a winning deck, but she handed the piece over into the middle then to Eleanor so Eleanor won. She couldn’t have won without Rachel ie she couldn’t have nick back without Rachel’s help Hope this makes sense lol
usually brains are not as appealing as family background. especially in more conservative minds where women shouldn’t hav careers or thought as to not be able to. if a family receives a woman with a good career but bad background, or a self made woman, she’d still be treated lower than the maids.
Swedish American I’m Indonesian (born and raised in very poor family,we have nothing) I married to American PHD teaching at One top university here in macau,it take more then a year to make my mom approve our relationship. Asian family it’s very different,part I still feel weird. People’s often questioned why why.
Even the small detail where her mom doesn't just hold her hand but tucks it in under her arm was so extremely powerful. Momma's got her back. This Singaporean actress needs so much more attention.
I love how Rachel takes back power from Eleanor and the rest of the family. Saying I know I'm more than good enough. She let's Eleanor win not just once but twice. First by giving up Nick and then at Mahjong. Then subtly shows her she could've won not just once but twice. Eleanor believes she's just like every other American who only thinks of themselves but Rachel shows she isnt. She defeats Eleanor with brains and class. Something Eleanor strives for. And then as Rachel walks out her mom in an even better moment gives her that look every mother gives another person regardless of social standing. That "if I ever catch you trying to hurt my daughter I will cut you look."
I know this scene wasn't in the book, but i absolutely loved this addition. This is probably my most favorite scene in the whole movie. Edit: holy balls. I just came back and saw how many likes my comment had. Thanks guys
Wait what???? This scene is so good. The director and the writers are brilliant to add this. Even though the mechanics of Mahjong totally flew over my head at first but then I've been able to read brief explanations for it though.
Women are from Satan. My narcissistic mother ruined my life. She had sex with every guy that liked me. I never married and never had children, no abortions just cook and clean for her and her husband.
i first watched this movie when i didn't know how to play mahjong. a few months ago my family taught me and watching this clip again now everything seems so much more symbolic. the details, the placements, everything, the writers were amazing for this wow
This scene is so incredible and does really well what the novel failed to do. The author spent so much time described Astrid’s wardrobe that he forgot to give Rachel a personality or any defining characteristics. Constance Wu’s Rachel is a great character and this scene shows how she is so much more than Eleanor gives her credit for - selfless, shrewd, and confident. Eleanor underestimated her because Rachel was trying to be the sweet, deferential model daughter-in-law (and made some unfortunate faux-pas) and it was mistaken for weakness. Also, I definitely burst into tears when she walks away and it’s revealed her mother was there. Eleanor thinks she has self-sacrificed but Rachel’s mother has her beat.
I feel like the book focused on that extravagance over substance to be satirical of the upper echelons. But yes, I do agree some character for the foil would have been nice!
Thank you for this!! This was one of the only book-to-movie conversions where I really thought the movie did a better job, and this is one of the main reasons
Eleanor couldn't see past her own bias, in the end Rachel walked away on her own terms with head high, her mother's glare was the final touch, leaving Eleanor alone at the end
My mom, may she RIP, was half Japanese, and the daughter of an immigrant and later naturalized U.S. citizen. Her mother, my grandmother, raised four children while working as a seamstress at a dress factory, while my grandfather, a former U.S. Army veteran and two time Purple Heart recipient, was a long haul truck driver. Both my mother and grandmother are now gone, and I have lost my connection to my roots. This scene is the most powerful of the film, and leaves me tearing up like a baby. Mom and I had wanted to watch this film together, but we never had the chance. Love you ma.
I just love Nick so much.. So I just wanted you to know that one day, when he marries another lucky girl who is enough for you, and you're playing with your grandkids while the Tan Hua's are blooming and the birds are chirping.. that it was because of me. A poor, raised by a single mother, low class, immigrant nobody.
This scene also *show* how 2 mother's choice for their child is. 1 wants to choose for her son while the other 1 let her daughter to make the choice. Which is why 4:30 is a very strong scene ( that also shows the respect of choice, and person).
michelle yeoh & contace wu deserved oscar nominations for this scene. it's tragic that the movie was overlooked by the academy and most major award shows
This last scene had SO much context in every move. Constance, Michelle and (the Actress who played Rachel's Mom) - played their parts Perfectly. Thank you. #Powerful
This scene is so powerful! When Rachel says if Nick chose her he will miss his family. If he chose his family he will resent his mom forever. Gave me goosebumps.
For me I would say this scene was priceless because this kind of conversation can't be brought and the last sentence Rachel said hit me very hard " That is was because of me, a poor, raised by a single mother low class immigrant, a nobody" I just was so moved by this scene that when I was it in the movie I kept repeating this very scene for at least 20 minutes because a short scene like this can change someone's life
Kurt Lim she gave her the win, representing that she would leave nick because she didn't want him to hate his mother for the rest of his life. If he he chose Rachel, he would lose his family, if he chose his family, he would resent his mother for the rest of his life.
Rachael Gave Eleanor the Win knowing that She may have lost Henry, but she kept her sense of pride. Her dignity. She let Eleanor win because truly Racheal won. The reason why Henry would be happy in the end would be because of her. A low class person. A different type of person.
But really she lost, because Rachel and her mother's relationship was only going to get stronger, while Nick and Eleanor's relationship was already bad, and would've gotten worse if she didn't give Nick her blessing. She may have won the round of Mahjong, but she really lost in the end.
Rachel has passed the Test for giving up on something called "Crazy Rich Money" because of something called "Family". That's why she got the ring from Eleanor. And the look in the end said everything. Not all parents love their kids in the same way. If its for their kids happiness, it would be theirs too. One of the most clever scene that I've seen in my life. Absolutely love it. GREAT MOVIE!!
This is my second favorite scene from the movie and cried like a baby. The favorite one is of course the wedding scene. Besides, You don’t have to know Mahjong to understand this scene.
Powerful scene that brings tears and smiles, with Rachel standing up to herself and knowing "for the first time" that she is good enough. I love it when Rachel's mother locks into a stare with Eleanor, a single-month who raised a daughter worthy of anyone. :)
Rachel decided to choose his happiness over hers because she didn’t want him to lose his mother again. This is the reason I love her, and that gaze Rachel’s mom gave at the woman was powerful.
This was definitely one of the strongest scene in the whole movie. It can say so much to someone who understands or nothing at all if they don’t get it. Rachael was selfless by giving up what she loves and runs totally in the face of what Eleanor was trying but failed to prove just a few moments ago.
I think people can sense the gist of what's going on even if they don't understand the language based on the tone. And, well, Rachel teared up so it must've been something Eleanor did.
It's natural for them to tell that Rachel has let Eleanor win. Because both have put down their tiles, and Rachel has discarded the tile that Eleanor needs.
I think what happened is that the two women knew that Rachel gave Eleanor the win which made them look at Eleanor like “what did you do to make her read you so hard?”
What is so beautiful about this scene is that you don’t have to know all the symbolism or the rules of the game to get it. The timing of the game along with Rachel’s speech towards Eleanor was perfectly in sync to understand that she was letting her win, kinda like taking back some of her power. I live for when she shows her hand with the “because of me” line
It's interesting to note that it is a first to finish in each round and an actual strategy can be to feed another person tiles so they can win over another who may be ahead. You can make educated guesses on what tiles people are after on their discards. Effectively it's easy enough for the three of them to gang up on her to ensure she couldn't win or control the game in their favour.
If you know how mahjong is played and understand the significance of each tile played during this scene, this will break you in so many ways. This was masterfully done along with the dialogue. My favorite scene.
Hollywood movie....everyone loves a happy ending. If it actually led to a sequel showing how nick won her back then that would've been great. Like avengers infinity war leading to endgame
Whenever i am on a plane which is at least 10 times a year (not counting the trip back) I always, always, watch this movie. And its all for this scene. The payoff and the emotion. I love this movie so much
This is my fave scene of all movies, of course wedding scene when they look at each other and whisper "I love you", is beautiful too.. but this one is so deep.. carry a message to a lot of girl and woman out there, you are meant to be everything you wanted.. no one is good enough to judge you, be who you are and not what people wanted..
luxon4 no in singapore we got 2 styles lol either we row with 3 dices its 1 time roll only,if got only 2 dices u roll 2 times,thats why the aunty take the dice and roll agn if u see
the look her mom gives her ugh its makes me emotional because she loves her daughter so much and you can feel her anger to nick's mom but also the pride she has in her daughter in that look.
2:25 that girl's claim turning down a proposol paired with the subtle yet huge relief shot from the mother is to me amazing part of this scene. Fight me 😅 but this part is totally relatable. I feel them
To me the most powerful moment was when Rachel's mom looked at Eleanor so that Eleanor could see that she is more than what is her story. The closeness that Rachel and her mom has (the tight grip walk) is something she doesn't have with Nick.
The look momma gives Eleanor sends shivers up my spine. It’s like her saying, you’re the trash here not my daughter. Money can’t buy manners, a personality, or love. No wonder her son was raised by somebody else, she really was a society climbing gold digger.
The way Rachel's mother looked at Eleanor, there is a powerful dignity in that look. Like saying "I don't have your wealth, but somehow I'm richer than you!". 😀
If I was Rachel’s mom, I surely would give that gaze to Eleanor too. As a mother of your son, don’t you feel shame of what you did to other people’s daughter?
I bet she did after they left and realized how unacceptablle her behavior to Rachel is. She went back to the house and apologized to Nick for her behaavior.
I just realized that this scene shows Rachel's moral superiority. She will sacrifice her own happiness for Nick. Ironically right after Nick's mother claims Americans only care about their own happiness. And her Mom's look at the end which says in 3 seconds of camera time, you thought my daughter wasn't good enough for your son, when the truth is, your family isn't good enough for my daughter.
This scene is just amazing overall, but that last bit where Rachel's mom looks at Eleanor and doesn't even speak, finally had me in tears. The pride in her eyes. Her victory over Elanor in that moment. She told her, silently, "this is the woman i raised. Me, a poor immigrant, unmarried, whatever you want to call me. Look at the person I MADE. Smart, kind, caring, not in it for money. The best your son will ever get." She said so much with just that look.
When the mother turned around and gave her that death stare, it made me more proud to have a mother that brought me up to not seek validation from other, but myself. (I am Malaysian-Chinese FYI haha). Beautifully crafted scene based on Mahjong.
I can't help but feel that there was some sort of understanding shared between Eleanor and Kerri with that last look. In that tiny moment I feel we're meant to see the one and only comparison between both characters. Mothers, willing to do anything it takes to protect their own. This scene, in it's entirety, is so powerfully strong and beautifully crafted.
I love this scene. Rachel, in this scene, showed just how much power she really had--to LET someone win in a way that is magnanimous and even gracious is fucking HUGE.
Only the lady who threw the 8 bamboo knows she won a big hand. That hand she had has high value plus self-draw means pay double. However, as only she know the card she drew is the winning card, she choose to give out the card to the auntie, knowing she needs the card to win. A skillful player will always be able to tell what card u need to form a winning hand. Therefore, the lady, knowing that this card means alot to the auntie, decided to give up her big win and let her take the win instead, which is also a big hand. In the end, the lady will also not show her initial winning hand and will reshuffle the deck to start a new round. These actions showed that the lady was willing to sacrifice her winning card, knowing what that auntie wants and at the very end, still be the only one to know that the winning card is the boy she loved and the son the auntie has. And her giving up this piece, shows that she knows how fortunate her son gave her and be the gracious one to give him back to his mom, knowing how painful her big loss to win the game (which is to be with him).
Eleanor : all Americans care about is their own happiness Rachel: turns down the man of her dreams and gives up her happinesses to give it to Eleanor Eleanor: 😱😨😰
Watching this again after understanding the mahjong just makes my tears burst. I pity Rachel but also salute her mom's stare down at Eleanor. Finally, the mother and daughter got to show whose value is truer.
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I know Rachel's mom has a relatively small role in this movie, but that look that she gives Eleanor never fails to shake me. It's something you can't quite articulate, but in that moment Rachel leaves with her head held high, yet her mother turns to spare a look at the woman who destroyed her daughters' spirit and holds her gaze, wearing all the pain and anger and pride she must have been feeling. Even though no words passed between them Rachel's mother is the one in power here despite her low social standing and broken family, because while Eleanor may have her reputation intact, her relationship with her son is damaged, while Rachel and her mother leave with a strengthened love that surpasses the material lifestyle and wealth that the Youngs have amassed and sacrificed everything--even happiness--for.
well said!
Oh my gosh, I love it too. It gets me so emotional, not only because it reminds me of my own mom who was also an immigrant, but it's like that look between them challenges Eleanor to acknowledge this low standing woman and everything she's accomplished. And if circumstances were slightly different, what is the actual difference between them?
beautiful
Very well said.
Thank you so much for your comments everyone!!! They’re so appreciated and make me smile 💕
I give you guys a brief explanation why this mahjong scene is powerful:-
1. But first off, let's start with some basics of mahjong. To win mahjong, you would need to reach certain combinations before other player does. You will always have 13th tiles, but you would need to pick up the 14th tile to win. Think of it as a poker, or more accurately gin rummy, except you have to create your own combination. You can have three simplified combinations that can help you to win the game:-
I. Chow: having three tiles of sequential number sequence of the same suite (ex: 2 bamboo, 3 bamboo, 4 bamboo is consider a chow)
II. Pong - Basically three of a kind. You must shout "Pong" when someone discards the tile that you want, and then you have to show everyone that you actually have the initial two of the same tiles by laying three of it flat.
III. Kong- Basically four of a kind, same mechanics as Pong, but you also draw a tile from the wall.
Eye- basically a pair.
To win, you would need either 4 Pong/Chow and an eye, or 3 Kong and an eye, or any combination above that fits within the 14th tile framework. You must always have an eye to win (the basic way, of course. There's also special variations of creating your 14th tile combinations, but let's stick to the basic for now).
2. In mahjong, there are four sitting positions: North, East, South, West. At the start of the scene, Rachel offers Eleanor to sit at the East seat, which is practically the dealer seat, while Rachel sat at the West seat. This is important as both of them are representing themselves of where they come from, Eleanor from Asia (East) and Rachel from America (West).
3. At the start, Eleanor started out with a Pong (three of a kind). She is showing to Rachel that she intends to win the game by having multiple Pong and an eye. Then during one of their conversation, Eleanor highlights the difference between the Western and Eastern, saying that despite American Asian look Asian, they are still American at heart. And then Eleanor explained the meaning of kaki lang, in Hokkien which means to say "one of us", and telling Rachel that she was not one of us. Note that she was also trying to Pong her way to victory, and Pong are all the same kind.
4. Then, Rachel drop the bomb onto Eleanor, saying that Nick actually proposed to her, where he was dead set on running away with her and away from his family. Right as she was saying this, Rachel draws one of the most important tile in this particular game: a bamboo of eight. To us Chinese, number 8 represents fortune, and it's considered a sign of wealth, prosperity, and happiness. However, an eight doesn't have any special value in mahjong, but the eight of bamboo was the one tile important for Rachel to complete her hand, winning the game. However, being a professor of game theory, she noted that this tile was also Eleanor's winning tile to complete her hand.
5. Rachel then told Eleanor that she turn Nick's proposal down, and to which Eleanor replied, "Only a fool folds a winning hand." THIS PART IS VERY CRITICAL, as in earlier first scenes of the movie, Rachel demonstrated that to be successful in a game where psychology and choice are the factors, you can't play with a "not to lose" mentality, but rather play to win.
6. Rachel then retorts back, saying that Eleanor has guaranteed there's no winning in any outcome when it comes to her marrying Nick. Nick choosing Rachel will cause Nick to lose his mother and his family. Nick choosing his family will result in Nick resenting his mother, where both are lose-lose situations. This is where Rachel decided to choose for him by declining his proposal. Of course she does not want to do it without Eleanor knowing, and what she is giving up to make this possible, hence this meeting.
7.With this, Rachel discarded her eight of bamboo, her symbol of happiness and her chance of winning the game, knowing that Eleanor will pick it up to win.
8. Rachel told Eleanor that she knows Nick will eventually find someone else that his family would approve of. While her heart will be broken, she is willing to suffer if it means Nick will keep the thing that is at the heart of all Asian cultures, and of his story: his family. She also elaborates that when Nick does find someone that the family approves, it will be because of a "poor, raised by a single mother, low-class immigrant nobody" who made it all possible. After that, she show her hand before walking away, making it clear to Eleanor that she could have won the game.
In short, Rachel show Eleanor that she understands the concept of putting family first over everything else, and is also showing that she is as strong willed as Eleanor, which completely overwhelm Eleanor's cruel remarks of Rachel being "never good enough" for Nick.
This is as good as Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows chess scene, except chess is more well known than mahjong, so explaining the symbolism behind it is tough. Hope it helps!
Edit: My reference mostly came from Vox if you want read more about it.
Edit edit: About it being brief, sorry about that. It was brief when I was thinking about it (not to mention the reference obtained from Vox). It somewhat exploded in my write-up itself. Sorry about that.
Dude, you said "brief"....
Thank you, finally I can sleep well now
A+
Thank you for writing this up!
What is this mahjong you are talking about?
Her look at 4:36. " My daughter won't abandon me like your son is willing to abandon you."
Thank you, I didn't catch that meaning.
That look right there - mother to mother, all money and class rank aside - is so badass you can feel it.
It's just Rachel's mom giving the "I'm wealthier than you and I hope you see that" look
the “a poor, raised by a single mother, low class immigrant nobody” and then her slamming down her hand just makes me smile so much. rachel could’ve won but she let eleanor win. just like how she let eleanor have nick. it’s so powerful!
Really? I thought she won! I admit I know nothing about mahjong but the scene looked like she won and she left her in the dust with confidence
@@meejoohwang8494 I think they both needed the same tile to win, and Rachel knew that if she didn’t take it then Eleanor would win. Rachel decided to quit before winning and walk away knowing that she chose it, letting Eleanor get the tile (and her son). Someone else also mentioned that the tile in question was an 8 bamboo which means prosperity/wealth. Rachel gave it up because she doesn’t care about money as much as Eleanor does… she’s satisfied in her life without winning.
It is a powerful scene, but its power is negative. Why would letting Nick's mom win the game and "win" Nick be morally good?
@@hookem3768 did u even watch it she said she does not wanna break their family and does not want him to lose his mom again also she experience loss because she was only raised by 1 parent
@@hookem3768 bro decided not to use any thinking at all 💀💀💀
I wonder if anyone ever knows how significant the scene at 4:31 is. It gives me tears every time I watch it. The young girl that you torture and humiliate is actually someone’s daughter, someone’s most cherished child. When you face with her mother, how can you not be ashamed of all the things that you said to her, when you project all the humiliation that you received from your mother-in-law onto this girl that your son loves and who is also loved by many?
Especially considering Eleanor feels that way about Nick-her most cherished child-but understands now, partly through Rachel’s own words just now, that Nick does NOT feel the same way about her. She basically gave him up to someone else to raise. Sure, it ensured he would inherit everything, but it robbed her of the opportunity to bond with her son the way Rachel’s mother is bonded with her daughter. And she knows now that Nick WOULD have left his entire family behind, for Rachel.
And Rachel sacrificed her own happiness to prevent that. And Rachel’s MOTHER sacrificed everything for Rachel’s happiness.
Rachel’s mother’s look says it ALL. It says “You will never have this, no matter how much money you have.” From an immigrant woman who ran from her husband and raised a child alone, who REALLY knows what it means to sacrifice for their family.
@@v.3314-t1w right!...plus, let's not forget that Rachel didn't know the full story about her own past...or moreso...her mom's past, until Elenor opened that can wide open to try to destroy Rachel (unknowingly forcing Rachel's mom to tell a secret she was sparing Rachel from) And then having to see Rachel's mother in the flesh after *that*.....Elenor must've felt very humbled after that.
well said!! made me emotional 🥹
in the end, she walked away on her own terms with head high, the game was a message that she let Eleanor win, and her mother's glare said it all for them, leaving Eleanor sitting there to think on her actions
Did she actually when the hand?
Mom had her back! That look was EVERYTHING!
India Alpha that look!!! My goodness!!!!
@Spick Cracker Wow I noticed that too thanks you noticed that little detail!
Kerry was mentally speaking to Eleanor about her own shame because now she has to live with her broken relationship with Nick. This is something she finally understands and how she truly underestimated Rachel's resolve. In the end, Eleanor did the right thing to tell Nick what she done and convinced him to go after her.
If eyes could kill
Oh I bet if Rachel's mom and Eleanor were together in the same room by themselves, I'm sure Eleanor would lose that one.
This is one of the most badass scenes in cinematic history. You don't need guns, explosions, or muscled men. All you need is smart writing, good editing, and actors who know exactly who their characters are
And to think Michelle Yeoh (who plays Eleanor) more known for martial arts roles!! Like she's that weapon-weilding lady from Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, and the Bond Girl for Tomorrow Never Dies.
Really? You think this is “one of the most badass scenes in cinematic history”?
It’s a good scene but this isn’t even top 100 of the most “badass scenes”.
@@cheesesteakphilly maybe not for you, but some people don't require ostentatious displays of macho savagery to qualify as "badass"
@@solitaryman777sorry but this isnt really that badass but i get what you mean
@@justsomebody5450 the way I figure it, you have two steel-willed ladies who don't operate with their fists, but through positioning themselves by appealing to the opinion of others, the family and social web. How to sway opinion without creating ripples in the onlooking web is akin to two martial artists having a kick boxing match on a tightrope, as much grace as it is exerting will without flinching, is no mean feat. You been in a situation where only the right words, the right touch will do? This is one of those moments. It may not be loud, but it does require guts, a prerequisite of badass.
I love how Rachel proves Eleanor wrong. she says “all Americans (Rachel) think about is themselves” but Rachel putting Nick’s family first and making that decision for him by turning his proposal down is the most selfless act
😢
The most powerful part here is actually, Rachels mom telling the other mom "yes, this is the daughter i have , this is the kind of daughter i raised, someone that let you win game wise and life wise even though she could have choosen otherwise.Yes, here i am , a nobody raising my daughter by myself with no money no high social life no material life, yet my daughter and i gave you a lesson." She tells all that without saying a word, only the looks made it pretty clear who really won in the bigger picture, you really won in life.
The stare down between Eleanor and Rachel’s mom is so powerful. Eleanor’s stare says “you must be so proud to have raised such an honorable woman” and Rachel’s mom’s stare says “can’t say the same about your mother”
basically this is a brief explanation: each player has a deck and you can discard a piece into the middle from your deck and then someone else can take it from the middle so u can win. Rachel had a winning deck, but she handed the piece over into the middle then to Eleanor so Eleanor won. She couldn’t have won without Rachel ie she couldn’t have nick back without Rachel’s help
Hope this makes sense lol
Alexia Chan DAMNNN!! THANKS!! NOW. I understand the concept of this part of the movie. 🙃
Wow! Thank you!
But doesnt Rachel win at the end when she finally puts her deck down after Eleneor?
Summer Xo nope she loses, but don’t worry a lot of people think that. Eleanor actually one, if you look closely after Rachel puts her deck down the other lady playing with her shakes her head
You da real MVP.
Her mom's look at the end is as strong as Molly Weasley curse when Bellatrix try to jinx Ginny
It was more likely Kerry was speaking through her eyes the disappointment she has with Eleanor for how she's treated Rachel. While she may not have been from a wealthy family, it didn't mean she(Kerry) didn't raise her daughter properly and prepare her for the real world. Kerry mentions that while Eleanor will leave with her pride intact, her relationship with Nick is very much damaged beyond repair. She and Rachel leave the hall with their love for each other strengthen. It's only after they leave, the remorse sets in for Eleanor and she realizes how badly damaged her family structure is.
Omg yaaaas
lmfao
Bad ass way of putting it kiddos.
Honestly, I got the impression she said “shame on you” with that gaze, but she left with her head held high.
The symbolism of this scene is so cultural that it flew over most non-Chinese viewers heads...
Tbh I got it even though I'm not Chinese lmao
When they revealed the lineup and the facial expression of the mother in law, I was like "She probably gave away her winning tile"
but I will say, my completely non Asian friend, only thought the lines had relevance and she truly thought the mahjong game had nothing to do with what they were saying lol.
고서연 Ashamed to say that my cousins and I thought Rachel actually won. I’m not Chinese, but I wanted to understand just in case so I looked it up because it looked too significant as a scene. I’m glad I did!
I'm not Chinese and I understood it just fine. Anybody paying attention to the movie (Rachel's a econ professor, talks game theory, wins the poker game at the beginning by bluffing, etc.) would understand that Rachel let Nick's mom win.
I’m Filipino and mahjong is played by many Filipinos so it’s not just chinese people who understood the game
@@newslettersarestupid1849 I like the fact that the filmmakers firmly decided not to explain it at all to White audiences
Michelle Yeoh is one of cinemas very best actors. I don’t think there is anything she cannot do.
I could not agree less, she’s amazing
@@Seb4041 Agreed ☺️😌
Except give a look that seems truly hateful! She has a kind, gracious, and loving countenance, that even her role in this movie couldn’t hide 😉
She’s one of my absolute favourite actresses!
I'm bothered she didn't win best supporting actress for this role. Nobody else could have pulled it off.
Rachel truly proves in this scene what a clever and compassionate person she truly is. That *she* is worthy of Nick and his family. Despite what Eleanor thinks, she's *exactly* what Nick and his family needs.
"Eleanor is the leader this family needs, but not the one it deserves".
~Commissioner Gordon (2022)
Can we also talk about game theory here? She is also an Economics professor.
The Indicator podcast did a whole episode on game theory using this movie. Worth a listen.
@Sigma Geranimo lol you've obviously never taken a master level economics class. Game theory is sophomore studies in college if you're an Econ major
@Sigma Geranimo until you get to the field at a decent university. Lol! What's your field? Did you get a degree without real world experience? Must fucking suck being unemployed lol
@Sigma Geranimo I'm currently working with a bad neighborhood in an inner city making a living wage. So shut the fuck up if you don't know anything about my field
@Sigma Geranimo lol unless you've actually done field work like being in the worst place of your country you will never imagine what we know. I will leave you this. Do you think doctors immediately work on healthy American patients? You're fucking deluded. Bless your heart child
The screen writers for this movie did an amazing job. They elevated what was a pretty messy (plot pacing wise) and sometimes mean-spirited, fluffy, satirical novel into an incredibly moving movie. This and the dumpling/stairway scene are the highlights of the movie for me. The nuance they gave Eleanor is fantastic.
Well put.
The actress elevated Eleanor into a role worthy of a Greek tragedy. A beautiful performance.
@@TorontoIam yes
YES. I actually loved the movie way more than the book. The book had such confusing and different conflicting storylines
Well screenwriters have officially changed for the second part 🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲 i hope they don't mess up
Rachel’s mom being there and both of them walking out hand in hand was so important because it showed Eleanor that she might have built “things that last” by sacrificing happiness. But Rachel and her mom showing that them having each other was enough to make them happy and their relationship IS something that will last for them in the long run, just proves Eleanor wrong in so many ways
Even showing Eleanor what she’s truly giving up. That relationship with her son that she will never truly have
well said
you are very wrong
YES! The whole “things that last, something that you know nothing about” is obviously meant to imply that Eleanor thinks less of Rachel’s mother because she ran away from her abusive husband and is single. Not all ‘complete’ families include a mom and dad.
@@beefburger_burger Very wrong?? Do you have a better explanation or do you comment for the sake of it?
The best interpretation I’ve ever read in a while. Love love it
"We understand how to build things that last." Every typical genuine Asian mom would say that. I had one 😁
It's a very interesting way to look at things, honestly, especially given current events with how China is exercising its soft power in ways that are more agreeable or have a better impression on many countries that were formerly devastated by Western imperialism... but many western powers would characterize it as a new form of imperialism.
The symbolism in this was the Mahjong tiles when she showed her hand that she could have won. It showed that Rachael let her win and decided what's best and walk away. Her mom in this scene wanted to trash Eleanore for breaking her daughters spirit but took the higher road.
I was really confused by this scene because I don’t understand mahjong but my friend who is Chinese explained it to me. When I watched it again, I absolutely burst into tears. What a beautifully constructed scene and I really respect that they didn’t dilute for someone like me to immediately understand. I had to gain some cultural competence to understand the subtext and it’s just beautiful
What is mahjong?
@@ariellerosario6434 the game their playing
Ooo can you explain it to me
Diana Enriquez basically this is a brief explanation: each player has a deck and you can discard a piece into the middle from your deck and then someone else can take it from the middle so u can win. Rachel had a winning deck, but she handed the piece over into the middle then to Eleanor so Eleanor won. She couldn’t have won without Rachel ie she couldn’t have nick back without Rachel’s help
Hope this makes sense lol
@@zucchini9177 It's in the description aswell
The mom forgot that her son's girlfriend is a professor
I don't think she cared all she knew was she wasn't enough. But she was wrong after all.
@Swedish American In the book, it mentions he is a history professor
usually brains are not as appealing as family background. especially in more conservative minds where women shouldn’t hav careers or thought as to not be able to. if a family receives a woman with a good career but bad background, or a self made woman, she’d still be treated lower than the maids.
Swedish American I’m Indonesian (born and raised in very poor family,we have nothing) I married to American PHD teaching at One top university here in macau,it take more then a year to make my mom approve our relationship.
Asian family it’s very different,part I still feel weird.
People’s often questioned why why.
@Swedish American haha. Thought it was an weirdest thing too. The youngest professor at NYU? Not enough? What?
This scene makes me cry every single time because it is a reminder that my mom is always going to stand by me.
me too... no matter how hard the problem it is.. if there's mom beside us, we can deal and fight with everything...
My bf is the only one who will always stay by me.
They should’ve played that song that would’ve drove it home!
not if you are up against the favored son, mother will also choose the favor over that other.
Even the small detail where her mom doesn't just hold her hand but tucks it in under her arm was so extremely powerful. Momma's got her back. This Singaporean actress needs so much more attention.
her name is tan kheng hua and she's one of our most celebrated veterens of stage and screen.
I love how Rachel takes back power from Eleanor and the rest of the family. Saying I know I'm more than good enough. She let's Eleanor win not just once but twice. First by giving up Nick and then at Mahjong. Then subtly shows her she could've won not just once but twice. Eleanor believes she's just like every other American who only thinks of themselves but Rachel shows she isnt. She defeats Eleanor with brains and class. Something Eleanor strives for.
And then as Rachel walks out her mom in an even better moment gives her that look every mother gives another person regardless of social standing. That "if I ever catch you trying to hurt my daughter I will cut you look."
this is the best comment in the scroll! thank you
I know this scene wasn't in the book, but i absolutely loved this addition. This is probably my most favorite scene in the whole movie.
Edit: holy balls. I just came back and saw how many likes my comment had. Thanks guys
I completely agree. It was great addition
trash movie
100cv cv - This trash movie 3 week on the top number 1 in the US box-office, and also top 5 rom-com movie in history. Eat lemon you, trash 😂😂😂
Wait what???? This scene is so good. The director and the writers are brilliant to add this. Even though the mechanics of Mahjong totally flew over my head at first but then I've been able to read brief explanations for it though.
Same
Damn, that expression Rachel's mom makes at the end of this scene is so powerful and moving
All that wealth in the world cannot buy unconditional love and respect.
So true it got me in tears 😭
They're literally just nodding to each other, but yeah I know what you mean
Part of what I saw was, you hurt my daughter and I’d love to kick your ass, butt I have more class than you.
"my mama don't like you and she likes everyone" XD
because sbd tried to rain on her girl's parade probably
"we can't be friends anymore because I already told my mom what you did"
LOL, heard this song today because my Chinese college students chose it to start their day. Bieber is BIG over here in China!
Women are from Satan. My narcissistic mother ruined my life. She had sex with every guy that liked me. I never married and never had children, no abortions just cook and clean for her and her husband.
Revealing the mother there was such a nice touch. A true stroke of brilliance to the film
i first watched this movie when i didn't know how to play mahjong. a few months ago my family taught me and watching this clip again now everything seems so much more symbolic. the details, the placements, everything, the writers were amazing for this wow
This scene is so incredible and does really well what the novel failed to do. The author spent so much time described Astrid’s wardrobe that he forgot to give Rachel a personality or any defining characteristics. Constance Wu’s Rachel is a great character and this scene shows how she is so much more than Eleanor gives her credit for - selfless, shrewd, and confident. Eleanor underestimated her because Rachel was trying to be the sweet, deferential model daughter-in-law (and made some unfortunate faux-pas) and it was mistaken for weakness.
Also, I definitely burst into tears when she walks away and it’s revealed her mother was there. Eleanor thinks she has self-sacrificed but Rachel’s mother has her beat.
Agreed!
She chose her mother. She chose her family. She chose love. Her mother accented the credence of "family."
I feel like the book focused on that extravagance over substance to be satirical of the upper echelons. But yes, I do agree some character for the foil would have been nice!
Thank you for this!! This was one of the only book-to-movie conversions where I really thought the movie did a better job, and this is one of the main reasons
Eleanor couldn't see past her own bias, in the end Rachel walked away on her own terms with head high, her mother's glare was the final touch, leaving Eleanor alone at the end
The way her mom grabbed her daughter’s hand as they walk away is what’s powerful to me.
Such a protective motion. Mothers are amazing
That was one of the most elegant and classic burns I have ever seen!!! AWESOME!!
this whole scene is written like a simphony
I love this part. 😭 How she stood up for her mom and for herself.
My mom, may she RIP, was half Japanese, and the daughter of an immigrant and later naturalized U.S. citizen. Her mother, my grandmother, raised four children while working as a seamstress at a dress factory, while my grandfather, a former U.S. Army veteran and two time Purple Heart recipient, was a long haul truck driver. Both my mother and grandmother are now gone, and I have lost my connection to my roots.
This scene is the most powerful of the film, and leaves me tearing up like a baby. Mom and I had wanted to watch this film together, but we never had the chance. Love you ma.
I just love Nick so much.. So I just wanted you to know that one day, when he marries another lucky girl who is enough for you, and you're playing with your grandkids while the Tan Hua's are blooming and the birds are chirping.. that it was because of me.
A poor, raised by a single mother, low class, immigrant nobody.
Tan Hua. I thought I heard a badly spoken Tang Plaza. So it didn't make sense.
@@alanlazarus7195 and what is that? Some trees?
She should have also said bastard
I came here to YT to specifically search for that line of this scene. Wow. And touche.
@@jiznimore you can find tan hua in the movie. There were a scene where it bloom.
This scene also *show* how 2 mother's choice for their child is. 1 wants to choose for her son while the other 1 let her daughter to make the choice. Which is why 4:30 is a very strong scene ( that also shows the respect of choice, and person).
michelle yeoh & contace wu deserved oscar nominations for this scene. it's tragic that the movie was overlooked by the academy and most major award shows
This last scene had SO much context in every move. Constance, Michelle and (the Actress who played Rachel's Mom) - played their parts Perfectly. Thank you. #Powerful
This scene is so powerful. Beautifully written....acted brilliantly by all.
amazing acting, amazing everything
This scene is so powerful! When Rachel says if Nick chose her he will miss his family. If he chose his family he will resent his mom forever. Gave me goosebumps.
For me I would say this scene was priceless because this kind of conversation can't be brought and the last sentence Rachel said hit me very hard " That is was because of me, a poor, raised by a single mother low class immigrant, a nobody" I just was so moved by this scene that when I was it in the movie I kept repeating this very scene for at least 20 minutes because a short scene like this can change someone's life
The scene is so good...she proves she's loves Nick so much and puts his happiness first by sacrificing everything so he could be happy.
That's love.
I've watch this scene over and over. It hits me hard after the scene is over.
basically rachel let eleanor win...
Kurt Lim she gave her the win, representing that she would leave nick because she didn't want him to hate his mother for the rest of his life. If he he chose Rachel, he would lose his family, if he chose his family, he would resent his mother for the rest of his life.
Rachael Gave Eleanor the Win knowing that She may have lost Henry, but she kept her sense of pride. Her dignity. She let Eleanor win because truly Racheal won. The reason why Henry would be happy in the end would be because of her. A low class person. A different type of person.
Xander Khem Yup. I was thinking of Henry Goulding, the actor! Haha
Xander Khem Yup. I was thinking of Henry Goulding, the actor! Haha
But really she lost, because Rachel and her mother's relationship was only going to get stronger, while Nick and Eleanor's relationship was already bad, and would've gotten worse if she didn't give Nick her blessing. She may have won the round of Mahjong, but she really lost in the end.
Rachel has passed the Test for giving up on something called "Crazy Rich Money" because of something called "Family". That's why she got the ring from Eleanor. And the look in the end said everything. Not all parents love their kids in the same way. If its for their kids happiness, it would be theirs too. One of the most clever scene that I've seen in my life. Absolutely love it. GREAT MOVIE!!
and well said
This is my second favorite scene from the movie and cried like a baby. The favorite one is of course the wedding scene. Besides, You don’t have to know Mahjong to understand this scene.
MA JANG not Majong
Exactly.
The dialog and music did it for me, but then when I researched it, I got teary eyed.
so true. context clues, people.
Powerful scene that brings tears and smiles, with Rachel standing up to herself and knowing "for the first time" that she is good enough. I love it when Rachel's mother locks into a stare with Eleanor, a single-month who raised a daughter worthy of anyone. :)
Rachel decided to choose his happiness over hers because she didn’t want him to lose his mother again. This is the reason I love her, and that gaze Rachel’s mom gave at the woman was powerful.
This was definitely one of the strongest scene in the whole movie. It can say so much to someone who understands or nothing at all if they don’t get it. Rachael was selfless by giving up what she loves and runs totally in the face of what Eleanor was trying but failed to prove just a few moments ago.
I’m sorry but are you sure those women don’t speak English. Cuz then one women was like low key judging Eleanor.
Sarah James I would too after watching that game!
@@moonlitskyes they might've been able to tell with their body language
I think people can sense the gist of what's going on even if they don't understand the language based on the tone. And, well, Rachel teared up so it must've been something Eleanor did.
It's natural for them to tell that Rachel has let Eleanor win. Because both have put down their tiles, and Rachel has discarded the tile that Eleanor needs.
I think what happened is that the two women knew that Rachel gave Eleanor the win which made them look at Eleanor like “what did you do to make her read you so hard?”
this scene makes me want to learn how to play mahjong...the way they move that mahjong tiles is so satisfying !
Garry Nelson same same same!! They are looking so powerful by playing it!
It's so fast to learn the basic game, you can so it in one session. My mum taught me last Christmas.
u probably have a local mahjong scene
4:30 Mom Stare + Mom Stare, like a couple of john wick assassins who recognize real.
What is so beautiful about this scene is that you don’t have to know all the symbolism or the rules of the game to get it. The timing of the game along with Rachel’s speech towards Eleanor was perfectly in sync to understand that she was letting her win, kinda like taking back some of her power. I live for when she shows her hand with the “because of me” line
It's interesting to note that it is a first to finish in each round and an actual strategy can be to feed another person tiles so they can win over another who may be ahead. You can make educated guesses on what tiles people are after on their discards.
Effectively it's easy enough for the three of them to gang up on her to ensure she couldn't win or control the game in their favour.
So much power in that look at the end. Props to tan kheng hua for being able to convey so many emotions with just 1 look into the camera
Such a powerful, genius scene-brings me to tears every time. Props to the director and actors for executing it so well
I cried hard at this part. Constance's acting is topnotch, you can see it in her face and feel the character's emotion.
That final look, by Rachel's mom, was everything!!!!! 😍 😍
If looks could kill...
Ok I know she's the villain but can we talk about how Michelle Yeoh slayed this scene with all the emotion she brought out?
I actually got tears from this scene when I saw the movvie.
If you know how mahjong is played and understand the significance of each tile played during this scene, this will break you in so many ways. This was masterfully done along with the dialogue. My favorite scene.
If the movie would’ve ended here i would’ve been totally ok with that. Great scene.
true so we can get a sequel
Hollywood movie....everyone loves a happy ending. If it actually led to a sequel showing how nick won her back then that would've been great. Like avengers infinity war leading to endgame
I was almost annoyed, that after they took us through ALL. that, she said yes. Lol.
@@winwinsmissinglines perhaps Nick and family owed us some sequel effort to get to that yes...smh...meanies ugh.
Whenever i am on a plane which is at least 10 times a year (not counting the trip back) I always, always, watch this movie. And its all for this scene. The payoff and the emotion. I love this movie so much
Both women are immaculate here. And lady Yeoh especially nuanced.
No matter how many times I watch, waterworks.
Masterclass.
This is my fave scene of all movies, of course wedding scene when they look at each other and whisper "I love you", is beautiful too.. but this one is so deep.. carry a message to a lot of girl and woman out there, you are meant to be everything you wanted.. no one is good enough to judge you, be who you are and not what people wanted..
Agree i love her, I totally understand yoy
Spooler Alert!
did anyone else notice eleanor rolling a 10 but then opening the tiles from her position?
luxon4 no in singapore we got 2 styles lol either we row with 3 dices its 1 time roll only,if got only 2 dices u roll 2 times,thats why the aunty take the dice and roll agn if u see
I thought it was just a random roll to get that part of the scene done and then they would start with Eleanor either way.
All the actors in this movie are just simply amazing!
4:35 was the “my baby is good enough… no she is better than enough” look that moms give.
the look her mom gives her ugh its makes me emotional because she loves her daughter so much and you can feel her anger to nick's mom but also the pride she has in her daughter in that look.
2:25 that girl's claim turning down a proposol paired with the subtle yet huge relief shot from the mother is to me amazing part of this scene. Fight me 😅 but this part is totally relatable. I feel them
To me the most powerful moment was when Rachel's mom looked at Eleanor so that Eleanor could see that she is more than what is her story. The closeness that Rachel and her mom has (the tight grip walk) is something she doesn't have with Nick.
This is literally my Fav Scene of this movie.. Literally..
The look momma gives Eleanor sends shivers up my spine. It’s like her saying, you’re the trash here not my daughter. Money can’t buy manners, a personality, or love. No wonder her son was raised by somebody else, she really was a society climbing gold digger.
And that "poor, single mother -low class immigrant, nobody" is a mother, who raised a smart and honorable woman.
I love this scene! It always gives me the chills
The mom's stare was the best part of the movie
One of the best movies of 2018.
the other two ladies sitting there like “whatt the heck, I came here for a good game, not some family drama”
The end of this clip is the look a mother gives when she's saying, "I'd end you right now if my daughter wasn't here".
The nods between the mothers was beautiful.
The way Rachel's mother looked at Eleanor, there is a powerful dignity in that look. Like saying "I don't have your wealth, but somehow I'm richer than you!". 😀
If I was Rachel’s mom, I surely would give that gaze to Eleanor too.
As a mother of your son, don’t you feel shame of what you did to other people’s daughter?
I bet she did after they left and realized how unacceptablle her behavior to Rachel is. She went back to the house and apologized to Nick for her behaavior.
I just realized that this scene shows Rachel's moral superiority. She will sacrifice her own happiness for Nick. Ironically right after Nick's mother claims Americans only care about their own happiness.
And her Mom's look at the end which says in 3 seconds of camera time, you thought my daughter wasn't good enough for your son, when the truth is, your family isn't good enough for my daughter.
This scene is just amazing overall, but that last bit where Rachel's mom looks at Eleanor and doesn't even speak, finally had me in tears. The pride in her eyes. Her victory over Elanor in that moment. She told her, silently, "this is the woman i raised. Me, a poor immigrant, unmarried, whatever you want to call me. Look at the person I MADE. Smart, kind, caring, not in it for money. The best your son will ever get." She said so much with just that look.
...I originally thought Rachel had won the Game , thank you for explaining Why she chose to lose.
My most favorite scene from the movie!! Winning is not the only justice..., but forgiving and conceding are too.
When the mother turned around and gave her that death stare, it made me more proud to have a mother that brought me up to not seek validation from other, but myself. (I am Malaysian-Chinese FYI haha). Beautifully crafted scene based on Mahjong.
Such a powerful moment in one of the centuries greatest films. This movie touches my heart every time I watch it.
I can't help but feel that there was some sort of understanding shared between Eleanor and Kerri with that last look. In that tiny moment I feel we're meant to see the one and only comparison between both characters. Mothers, willing to do anything it takes to protect their own. This scene, in it's entirety, is so powerfully strong and beautifully crafted.
I love this scene. Rachel, in this scene, showed just how much power she really had--to LET someone win in a way that is magnanimous and even gracious is fucking HUGE.
Only the lady who threw the 8 bamboo knows she won a big hand. That hand she had has high value plus self-draw means pay double. However, as only she know the card she drew is the winning card, she choose to give out the card to the auntie, knowing she needs the card to win.
A skillful player will always be able to tell what card u need to form a winning hand. Therefore, the lady, knowing that this card means alot to the auntie, decided to give up her big win and let her take the win instead, which is also a big hand. In the end, the lady will also not show her initial winning hand and will reshuffle the deck to start a new round.
These actions showed that the lady was willing to sacrifice her winning card, knowing what that auntie wants and at the very end, still be the only one to know that the winning card is the boy she loved and the son the auntie has. And her giving up this piece, shows that she knows how fortunate her son gave her and be the gracious one to give him back to his mom, knowing how painful her big loss to win the game (which is to be with him).
By the way, the lady is called Rachel and the auntie is called Eleanor. You're welcome lmao
Eleanor : all Americans care about is their own happiness
Rachel: turns down the man of her dreams and gives up her happinesses to give it to Eleanor
Eleanor: 😱😨😰
This scene is so much more effective now that I actually know the rules of Mahjong ...
Best series of comments for a video I've seen, my god.
Watching this again after understanding the mahjong just makes my tears burst. I pity Rachel but also salute her mom's stare down at Eleanor. Finally, the mother and daughter got to show whose value is truer.
AGDGFJSL THIS SCENE MADE ME CRY IM SO HAPPY SOMEONE PUT IT ON RUclips
Understanding this scene makes it so many times more meaningful. I teared watching this now.
Did you see Rachel's mom gaze to Eleanor. Just like a mother tiger to and enemy who hurt her cub. I love that.
This was a great movie and the way Rachel showed her that she had all the power without having to use it was a great touch because she new her worth
The 'goosebumps' scene . So obsessed.