Interior Chinatown, released on Hulu, is one of the most surprising and brilliant shows of the year, and yet, it seems to have flown completely under the radar. Based on the novel of the same name by Charles Yu, who also adapted it for the screen, the series is a remarkable blend of surrealism, magical realism, and biting social commentary. It centers on Willis Wu, a perpetually sidelined "Generic Asian Man" in a procedural cop drama, who decides to reject the limiting role he’s been given and transform the world around him. The show deconstructs the tired stereotypes Asian characters are often relegated to in media, while also exploring universal questions about identity, purpose, and self-worth. With an incredible performance by Jimmy O. Yang as the protagonist and Chloe Bennet as a no-nonsense cop who unexpectedly supports his rebellion, Interior Chinatown is as introspective as it is innovative.
Fans of shows and films like Severance, Everything Everywhere All at Once, or Palm Springs will find much to love here. The series is wonderfully strange and deeply moving, blending sci-fi whimsy with profound cultural commentary. Its humor is sharp and self-aware, as it skewers TV tropes—especially those of the police genre—with biting precision. The ensemble cast, including Ronnie Chieng and Lisa Gilroy, is phenomenal, with each actor bringing depth and humor to their roles. Lisa Gilroy, in particular, is a standout, transforming what initially seems like a one-dimensional role into a character with an incredible arc. The show is meta in the best way, both celebrating and critiquing the medium of television while delivering a rich narrative about family, friendship, and identity.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Interior Chinatown is its ability to balance hilarity with heart. It tackles deeply ingrained cultural stereotypes while delivering a broadly relatable story about self-discovery and defying expectations. The show is a visual and narrative feast—witty, unpredictable, and stunningly beautiful. It’s the kind of series that keeps you thinking long after the credits roll. Hulu’s lack of promotion for this gem is baffling, but it deserves every bit of attention. Funny, smart, and visually inventive, Interior Chinatown is not just worth watching; it’s a must-watch.