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John Cho = the New Bruce Lee?
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John Cho (top left) is Sulu in the Star Trek Reboot
Could John Cho be the new icon for young Asian-American boys coming up in today’s wacky multimedia world? I suppose it’s a possibility. While Cho is the furthest thing from a celebrated martial arts movie star (save that for Russell Wong), he has one of the most diverse acting resumes, particularly for an API ranging from support in indie fanfare such as “Better Luck Tomorrow” to his own vehicle, “Harold and Kumar…”
But perhaps it’s how awesome he looks in the new “Star Trek” trailer that has me thinking that this guy is going to blow up big time.
I think the most fascinating part of Cho’s visibility is the fact that he’s been able to have some pretty respectable roles without having to resort to the typical chop-sockey stereotypes to be in plum movies.
I’ve long advocated the additions of more Asian-Americans in media (particularly in film and television) and in, hopefully, non-stereotypical roles. While there are plenty of API actors out there, most find themselves competing for the worst of the worst roles (the CSI episode with the Khmer murders comes to mind), Cho’s ascension gives a sense of hope that Hollywood can be a bit more colorblind when it comes to casting.
