If you’re like any Crazy Rich Asians moviegoer, you’ve probably left the theater with a head spinning with questions. But fret not — I’ve done the research, and I have the answers.  From Mahjong to Michelin-starred street hawkers, here’s a cultural “decoding” of the summer’s hit blockbuster.

In a heated scene, protagonist Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) goes head-to-head with Eleanor Young (Michelle Yeoh) in a game of Mahjong.  They discuss the future of Nick Young (Henry Golding), specifically one that could involve a heavily despised marriage with Rachel. Rachel loses the game and leaves, holding her head high.  What actually went down in the game? Was Eleanor pushing the limits of Rachel’s game strategies? Or did Rachel purposely forfeit her winning chances? The traditional Chinese game is based on matching sets of eight tiles.  In Chinese culture, the number eight is also symbolic of fortune, wealth, and high social status. It is in this very scene that the completion of the set, as well as the climax of the plot, narrows down to the eighth tile; it’s the only tile that both Rachel and Eleanor need to win.  The two struggle for possession of this valuable tile– what better symbol for Nick? Rachel, however, folds her winning hand to Eleanor, allowing her to win the game. Rachel’s actions are juxtaposed to her sentiments, as she loves Nick so much that she is willing to sacrifice her relationship so that he won’t lose his mother and his family.   

As Rachel adjusts to life in Singapore, she tries to appreciate the local culture and make a good first impression on her anticipated mother-in-law, Eleanor, by wearing a red dress.  So, what’s the big deal about that particular hue? In Chinese culture, red corresponds with fire, and yet is another symbol of good fortune, joy, and luck. This bright, bold color can be found everywhere, especially during family gatherings, holiday celebrations, Lunar New Year–you name it, whether it’s silk pillows, paper lanterns, dragon costumes, or even eyeshadow.  Most importantly, red is associated with the red envelopes, or hong bao.  These tiny paper packets hold monetary gifts that are given during Chinese New Year.

My favorite scene, however, is when Rachel gathers with the Young family– the Nick, Eleanor, even the grandmother– to wrap dumplings for Colin (Pang) and Araminta (Sonoya Mizuno)’s wedding.   In fact, this scene brought me back to my own experiences bonding with my nai nai (grandmother).  Dumpling wrapping is an art– allowing one generation to pass a cultural tradition to the next.  I have to admit, the best part is the eating, where I get to appreciate the importance of sharing a meal with my family.  Over dumplings, Rachel tries to cherish moments with her relatives, too: she’s getting to know the grandmother, bonding with Nick, and learning more about Eleanor’s motives.   

Speaking of food, my mouth watered during the scene at the famous Chinatown Food Complex, after Nick and Rachel had just arrived in Singapore.  Together with soon-to-wed Colin and Araminta, dishes such as spicy crab, satay, and laksa curry were devoured. Food hawker centers bring a melting pot of varied menus and cheap prices to locals and tourists alike.  At this particular foodie haven, food hawkers line the streets, ringing up traditional delicacies including my personal favorite, Fried Hokkien mee (fried egg noodles), as well as adventurous eats, like barbecued stingray and frog porridge!  The best part? Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice And Noodle stand. With $1.85 chicken rice and crazy long lines, it’s home to the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred meal. In fact, we even get a glimpse of the owner in the movie.

To me, the vast breadth and depth of Asian elements is what heightens the movie’s racial significance, sending powerful messages that boldy invert Hollywood’s expectations. “Crazy Rich Asians” certainly has crazy rich culture; its wealth of eye-catching ethnic elements truly makes it a masterpiece.