Always Be My Maybe

Fifteen years after a rough and ready hometown romance, Sasha the chef and Marcus the busker drift back into each other’s orbit when a chance encounter rekindles the old attraction. She has built a name on inventive, high end cuisine while he keeps playing clubs and street gigs, comfortable with the life he knows. As their renewed chemistry flares, they realize their worlds run on different tempos and expectations. The spark is there, but the gap between a celebrity kitchen and a walk-up music scene proves tricky to bridge. The film plays this push and pull with warmth and humor. Memories linger, yet the film lets humor ease the strain while it asks what home truly means for people who change.

Directed by Nahnatchka Khan, Always Be My Maybe came to Netflix in 2019 as an original screenplay by Michael Golamco with Ali Wong and Randall Park. Its limited theatrical exposure was secondary to the streaming release, maximizing online audience reach.

Keanu Reeves' surprise cameo as a lovable, deadpan version of himself became a defining moment, fueling memes and chatter across social media. The film also earned praise for its natural chemistry and its candid, affectionate portrayal of Asian American characters. Its playful tone helped broaden conversations about representation for all.

Critics highlighted the balance of lighthearted wit with genuine feeling, praising the performances of Ali Wong and Randall Park as they navigate ambition, love, and the pull of home. The story leans into cultural specificity while delivering a broad, feel good romantic arc. The humor never undercuts heartfelt moments either.

Box office data is not a focus for this Netflix release, and traditional grosses were not the measure of its reach. The film found its audience through digital watching, word of mouth, and social media buzz across global audiences online.