Born in Los Angeles in 1905, Anna May Wong faced discrimination and prejudice from a young age due to her Chinese heritage. Yet, her passion for acting and her unwavering determination led her to defy societal expectations. With a few bit parts in silent films, she quickly rose to prominence, becoming a symbol of hope and inspiration for Chinese-Americans.
Anna May Wong's journey was a tumultuous one. She navigated the racist and exclusionary policies of Hollywood, where she was often typecast as the exotic "Dragon Lady" or denied leading roles because of her ethnicity. Still, she persevered, making her mark in both the United States and Europe, captivating audiences and critics alike.
The biopic "Shanghai Dreams" paints an intimate portrait of Anna May Wong, chronicling her personal struggles and triumphs. We witness her complex relationships with her family, especially her traditional Chinese father who disapproved of her career choice, and her deep friendship with actress Marlene Dietrich. Anna's story also explores her love life, including her relationships with influential figures like director Tod Browning and actor Philip Ahn.
