Is The Chinese Exclusion Act Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2017)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of The Chinese Exclusion Act (2017), audiences are invited back into the world of Documentary, History. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "A sweeping chronicle of the entire exclusion era - the latter part of the 1800s, when anti-Chinese agitation led to federal laws targeting Chinese abroad and those already in the country. Go far beyond the legislation with the survival and growth of Chinese American communities in the face of prejudice and outright violence, the “paper” sons and daughters who emigrated despite the seemingly impassable barriers, and the legal challenges that produced some of the most momentous decisions in Supreme Court history."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. The performance by Hoon Lee is a highlight, bringing a palpable intensity to the screen. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Documentary. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is The Chinese Exclusion Act worth your time? If you appreciate Documentary, History films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 2017, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, The Chinese Exclusion Act is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 161 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.