In 2020, acclaimed author Charles Yu took the literary world by storm with his novel "Interior Chinatown," an innovative work presented in screenplay format. The narrative revolves around the journey of Willis Wu, a man labeled as a "generic Asian male" yearning to rise to the coveted role of “kung fu guy.” The novel not only captivated readers but also sparked discussions about the representation of Asian-Americans in Hollywood, ultimately winning the National Book Award for Fiction.

Fast forward four years, and "Interior Chinatown" has transitioned from page to screen, with its much-anticipated 10-episode adaptation set to premiere on Disney+ on November 19, featuring Hong Kong-American comedian Jimmy O. Yang as Willis Wu. The series is backed by notable figures including Taika Waititi, which adds to the excitement.

CNA Lifestyle recently caught up with stars Chloe Bennet and Ronny Chieng, who portray Detective Lana Lee and Fatty Choi, to discuss their motivations for joining this groundbreaking project. Both actors expressed a profound connection to the material, sharing that they resonated deeply with their characters and the overarching themes of the story.

Chloe Bennet, whose mixed heritage (Chinese father and Caucasian mother) influenced her perspective, revealed that her connection to the character of Lana was almost uncanny. “I felt so seen and understood by the way Charlie wrote about these inner monologues,” she shared. "It was like reading my own thoughts."

Ronny Chieng echoed her sentiments, calling the decision to join "Interior Chinatown" a "no-brainer." He noted, “The book was fantastic, and the caliber of people attached to the project is incredible. I was eager to be a part of it.”

During our interview, the duo humorously recounted their experience filming a significant drinking scene in the fifth episode, in which Chloe insisted they take real shots, resulting in some unforgettable moments. “We had drivers that night, so it was easy to let loose,” Chloe laughed. Ronny added, “It was a blast, even if I ended up feeling sick from eating too much during another scene!”

As they prepared for their roles, both actors drew on their personal experiences to inform their characters. Chloe remarked that playing Lana felt like an extension of herself and her experiences in Hollywood, considering her seven-season tenure on Marvel’s "Agents of SHIELD." Meanwhile, Ronny utilized his comedic background to imbue his role with authenticity, highlighting the mutual respect and collaboration with the show’s writers and directors.

In the spirit of the series, the themes resonate far beyond the Asian-American context, touching on universal issues such as feeling voiceless or playing a secondary role in one's own life. “The show handles these social themes in an accessible way,” Ronny noted. “Everyone can relate to the feeling of not being in control of their own story.”

Ultimately, Chloe captured the essence of "Interior Chinatown" perfectly: “It’s weird, fun, and talks about serious things in a light-hearted manner. It invites viewers to immerse themselves in its quirky world while offering meaningful commentary on life.”

Don't miss the chance to experience this charmingly complex series; all 10 episodes of "Interior Chinatown" will be available on Disney+ starting November 19. Get ready for a blend of laughter, introspection, and striking visuals that seamlessly intertwine serious themes with delightful absurdity!