Joy Ride

Audrey's business trip to Asia derails, forcing her to lean on her chaotic but loyal childhood friend Lolo. She roams with Lolo, plus Kat, a college pal who has become a Chinese soap star, and Deadeye, Lolo's eccentric cousin. What starts as a tense assignment turns into a wild cross-country escapade filled with misadventures, bold humor, and unexpected warmth. The foursome bickers, bonds, and navigates cultural clashes as they learn to rely on one another. Through misread delays, late-night talks, and unstoppable energy, they discover that friendship can redefine who you are and where you belong. Along the way they stumble into crowded markets, taste unfamiliar street food, misunderstand local etiquette, and turn every wrong turn into a memory they will share for years.

Directed by Adele Lim, Joy Ride marks Lim's feature directing debut and is built from an original screenplay by Cherry Chevapravatdumrong and Teresa Hsiao. The 2023 comedy centers Ashley Park, Sherry Cola, Stephanie Hsu, Sabrina Wu, and Ronny Chieng.

The film grossed about 15.8 million worldwide on a 20 million budget, reflecting a modest release. It opened in select markets, then expanded, and audiences online helped keep the chatter going.

Joy Ride stands out in the crowded rom com space by centering four Asian American women whose friendship drives the humor and heart. The cast and its candid tone sparked conversations about representation and what real female camaraderie feels like on screen. It sparked conversations about casting and diverse storytelling.

Critics praised brisk pace and cast chemistry while noting uneven tonal shifts. The film explores belonging, emphasizing that chosen family can redefine who you are and how you move through the world, and that chaos can reveal your truest self. Joy Ride proves laughter and heart can anchor an ensemble.