Isabella Wei, Ming-Na Wen, and Tzi Ma Join Forces in Mina Shum’s New ‘Whatcha Want’ Film Supported by Crave and Mongrel Media
Emerging Actress Isabella Wei Set to Star in Indie Feature ‘Whatcha Want’
Isabella Wei, an actress gaining recognition for her recent roles in Bridgerton and Black Doves, is set to star alongside esteemed actors Ming-Na Wen and Tzi Ma in the upcoming indie film Whatcha Want. Wen is well-known for her performances in The Mandalorian, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and The Joy Luck Club, while Ma has appeared in The Farewell and Mulan.
Producers describe the film as a blend of Crazy Rich Asians and Flashdance, featuring Wei in the role of a recent immigrant and trophy wife from Hong Kong. The character is poised to rediscover her passion for dance following a betrayal by her wealthy husband.
The film is spearheaded by writer-director Mina Shum, a regular at film festivals. Shum’s previous works, including Meditation Park, which was acquired by Netflix, have showcased her talent. Her debut feature, Double Happiness, starring Sandra Oh, received the Best First Feature award at the Berlin Film Festival. Shum has also recently penned the drama This is Always, co-produced by Daniel Dae Kim’s 3AD.
Principal photography for Whatcha Want is currently underway in Victoria, Vancouver, and Hong Kong. The production team includes producers Stephen Heyges, Raymond Massey, and Mina Shum, with Naveen Prasad serving as executive producer. Financial backing comes from Telefilm Canada, Mongrel Media, Crave, and CBC. The film will be released theatrically by Mongrel and is set for streaming through Crave in Canada.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Shum remarked, “Going to camera with so much gratitude and joy for our phenomenal cast and the talent gathered behind the scenes. Looking forward to every moment of this.”
Mina Shum is represented by CAA, Hopscotch Pictures, and Gang, Tyer; Isabella Wei is represented by Benchmark Management and 2pm Sharp; Ming-Na Wen is with Innovative Artists and Link Entertainment; Tzi Ma is represented by BRS/Gage Agency and Echelon Talent Management.
