Harold and Dolores Williams are two black Americans who have adopted two Vietnamese children, Mia and Dwayne, who are in desperate need of a home. The two children are brought to the U.S. after the unfortunate death of their father and the imprisonment of their mother. Fast-forward 15-18 years and both children are successful adults. Mia has had a life-long ambition to find her mother. When she does finally find her, and brings her to the U.S,. it deeply affects the remaining family’s lives. Dwayne, Mia, and the Williams must cope with this new parental influence.

“Mama, you’re trying to stick me with a blind cat?”

Chi Muoi Lo delivers Cat Fish and Black Bean Sauce in his directorial debut. Chi Muoi Lo stars, wrote, and directed this wonderful film. His depiction of two cultures is marvelous. He also infused a perfect blend of humor with emotional drama. The cast was also well selected and included Sanaa Lathan, Paul Winfield, Mary Alice, and Lauren Tom.

“You spent all this time looking for your mother. You found her; it’s time to stop looking.”

The stupid cat conversation, the sleeping cat scene, the ATM fraud taunt, the next Saturday debate, the English lessons scene, the “scaring him” scene, Mia showing Dwayne mom’s room scene, choking on the fishbone story, the story of Vietnamese political refugees, the karaoke scene, the seminar commercial, the adoption scene (splitting up), the “he’s coming” conversation, the “you’re gay” conversation, and the telling Samantha he’s sorry scene were amongst the better portions of the film.

“Get some wax.”

Cat Fish and Black Bean Sauce is a fresh, new, romantic comedy. Those are two rare elements for this genre of film. Chi Muoi Lo does a wonderful job of picking-at two ethnicities and having a beautiful love story blossom as the outcome. Sanaa Lathan is beautiful in her role (in all her roles honestly). Nevertheless, Chi Muoi Lo’s character was hilarious. This is an underrated film. I strongly recommend this movie to those who enjoy romantic comedies and are looking for something new and aspiring.

“Your guest is still here.”

Grade: A-