Summary
Interior Chinatown by Charles Yu presents its narrative as a screenplay. This format encapsulates the life of Willis Wu, who experiences life as if he is part of an ongoing Hollywood production. The setting is Golden Palace, a Chinese restaurant, which provides the backdrop for the cop show Black and White. This setting critiques Hollywood's habit of casting Asian characters in restrictive roles such as "Generic Asian Man." Yu explores themes of identity, aspiration, and self-worth. Willis aims to transcend his stereotypical roles and aspires to achieve the status of "Kung Fu Guy."
Plot
Interior Chinatown by Charles Yu follows Willis Wu, an Asian American actor limited to stereotypical roles on the set of the cop show Black and White. The story, depicted in screenplay format, alternates between Willis's internal struggles and his pursuit of the "Kung Fu Guy" role. He lives above the Golden Palace restaurant in Los Angeles's Chinatown, where others also face typecasting constraints.
His parents had roles in Hollywood: his father as the "Mysterious Kung Fu Master" and his mother as the "Asiatic Seductress." Now, they face unfulfilled aspirations. His brother, known as Older Brother, once became the "Kung Fu Guy" but mysteriously disappeared, creating a subplot that reflects the family's real-life challenges.
Willis briefly escapes typecasting as a "Special Guest Star," gaining temporary success and a relationship with actress Karen Lee. However, the scripted death of his character prompts him to confront his career's repetitive cycle.
The narrative peaks in a surreal courtroom scene. Willis is tried for his supposed failures. Older Brother's character returns and challenges the stereotypes confining their community. Through direct dialogue, Willis reclaims his story and rejects the imposed roles.
Willis metaphorically "dies," shedding his past identity. He turns towards authenticity and family, moving away from Hollywood's unrealistic allure, and envisions a future free from rigid stereotypes.
Characters
Willis Wu: Willis Wu is the central character, navigating Hollywood as an Asian American actor often cast in stereotypical roles. He portrays "Background Oriental Male" and aspires to become "Kung Fu Guy," reflecting his internal conflict and search for identity beyond typecasting.
