Joan is a girl who emigrated to the US from China. From the outset, she feels rejected because of her origins and traditions. Determined to feel accepted, she becomes obsessed with becoming the next prom queen. But she faces a problem: all the previous queens were very white and very blonde. As a result, she decides to undergo an experimental surgery to change the color of her skin. The physical and emotional consequences prove to be irreversible.
Amy Wang makes her feature directorial debut with this self-written film, starring rising actress McKenna Grace. The result is a fierce critique of Trumpist politics and the rise of neo-Nazi ideologies, articulated through body horror reminiscent of The Substance, but with a more pop sensibility. Winner of Best Film at SXSW, it was screened to great acclaim at the latest edition of the Sitges Festival.
Year: 2025
Runtime: 102′
Country: USA
Direction: Amy Wang
Screenplay: Amy Wang
Cast: Shirley Chen, Mckenna Grace, Elaine Hendrix
Cinematography: Ed Wu
Subtitles: XXX
Genre: Science fiction, Comedy, Drama
Contact: Madfer
2025 | SXSW Film Festival | Grand Jury Award Narrative Feature
2025 | Fantasia Film Festival | Fresh Blood Award
2025 | Nashville Film Festival
2025 | Seattle Film Festival
