Daughter of Shanghai

One of the most frustrating things about being a classic film fan is keenly knowing how many talented people's careers were inhibited by the racism of the period. Anna May Wong was a gifted actress with a unique, beautiful face, and yet her roles were often limited due to her Chinese heritage. DAUGHTER OF SHANGHAI was allegedly her favorite of her films because for once the Chinese characters were the heroes-- and they were actually played by Asian characters rather than white actors in yellowface.

DAUGHTER OF SHANGHAI is a better than average potboiler. It's fast-paced like a serial and the atmosphere is one of heady adventure. But it is Anna May Wong who is the central attraction, outthinking her enemies and kicking ass. I really loved her character and am so glad this film still exists. It's such a shame opportunities like this were so few for Wong.