Race-Swap Body Horror Film Explores Provocative Racial Identity Questions
In March 2021, a tragic mass shooting in Atlanta claimed the lives of six Asian women. This incident left a lasting impression on many, including Amy Wang, an Asian Australian writer and director. Wang immigrated to the United States in 2015 and recalls feeling unsafe for the first time in her new home. It triggered memories of her childhood, unraveling experiences of racism and the struggle to fit into her surroundings.
“Wouldn’t life be easier if I were white?” was a recurring thought that drove Wang to explore her feelings through art. This introspection led to the creation of her feature film, *Slanted*. The film’s narrative addresses provocative questions surrounding racial identity and societal perceptions, utilizing an audacious premise.
Film Overview: *Slanted*
*Slanted* portrays the journey of an insecure Asian American teenager named Joan, who undergoes a transformative cosmetic procedure at a clinic called Ethnos. The clinic’s tagline, “if you can’t beat them … be them,” encapsulates the film’s extreme commentary on race and identity. The surgery permanently alters individuals of color, making them visibly white, a concept that exaggerates the phrase “I don’t see color.”
Critical Reception
The film, which won the Grand Jury Prize for Narrative Feature at SXSW 2025, combines elements of dark satire and body horror, alongside coming-of-age drama. Wang emphasizes that the film’s directness was intended to spark conversations about race, body image, and the immigrant experience. It aims to provide insight without feeling preachy.
- Title: Slanted
- Director: Amy Wang
- Setting: High School
- Main Characters:
- Joan (portrayed by Shirley Chen)
- Post-transformation Jo (portrayed by McKenna Grace)
- Release Year: 2025 (Winner of SXSW Grand Jury Prize)
Joan’s transformation into Jo seems to grant her a life of ease, but it carries a hidden cost. Wang mixes genres to reflect the narrative’s shift from lightheartedness to examination of deeper issues, including familial struggles and cultural sacrifice. The film’s personal angle is strengthened by Wang’s own experiences, particularly her interactions with Jo’s parents, portrayed by Fang Du and Vivian Wu.
Character Development
Although Grace is not of Asian descent, she connected deeply with the character’s struggles, exploring themes of acceptance and belonging. Her commitment extended to learning Mandarin, showcasing her dedication to character authenticity.
A particularly poignant moment arises from a line delivered by Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, which reveals that experiences of identity can contrast starkly even among people of color. This aspect serves as a reminder of the diverse realities existing within shared cultural spaces.
Thematic Significance
Wang asserts that *Slanted* invites viewers to confront their discomfort surrounding identity and self-image. The narrative challenges individuals to reflect on their own expressions of identity. It prompts questions about the lengths one would go to change themselves, leading to cathartic discussions about body image, race, and personal acceptance.
Having worked in Hollywood since graduating from the American Film Institute in 2017, Wang’s film captures not only the triumphs but also the burdens associated with representation. She aspires to continue creating impactful films that encourage audiences to explore their identities and find solace in shared experiences.
Currently residing in the U.S., Wang embraces her multicultural identity. She remains committed to her artistic vision, hoping that *Slanted* serves as a means for others to feel understood and less alone on their personal journeys.
