Gigi Lau

As a Hong Kong-born American living in New York, I resonated deeply with the portrayal of Hong Kong in the Amazon show "Expats," particularly in alignment with the perspective of author Janice Lee, who shares a similar background. The show adeptly captures the essence of Hong Kong in several facets: Visual Splendor: Visually, "Expats" captures the captivating essence of Hong Kong. From the majestic views of The Peak to the bustling energy of Mongkok's night market, the vibrant mid-levels with their iconic streets and escalator, and the dynamic scenes in Central, featuring domestic helpers and protesters alike. Of course, the inclusion of Mido Cafe adds a nostalgic touch. Social Strata: The series successfully navigates the complex social classes present in Hong Kong. It effectively contrasts the lives of wealthy expats like Margaret Woo and affluent locals like Flora Chan with those of working-class individuals, both expats like Mercy and local citizens. Conservative Norms vs. Gender Equality: While Hong Kong undoubtedly embraces some aspects of Western values, particularly among a smaller segment of the population, the show accurately portrays the disparity in gender equality compared to major metropolitan cities like New York. The power struggle between Hilary Starr and David Starr exemplifies this discrepancy. Cantonese Authenticity: Unlike many American-produced shows I've watched, "Expats" features native Cantonese speakers authentically representing the local population. This attention to detail adds a layer of realism and immersion to the series that is truly commendable. A big thank you to Janice Lee, Lulu Wang, Nicole Kidman, Brian Tee, Sarayu Blue, Ji-young Yoo, Jack Huston, Ruby Ruiz, and Flora Chan for crafting a compelling story with outstanding performances! The series evoked deep emotions, and I found myself tearing up on multiple occasions. Additionally, kudos to Amazon Prime for producing such a captivating show. "Expats" offers a global perspective while maintaining a deep understanding of the intricacies of Hong Kong society.