Mahjong, the ancient Chinese game of strategy and skill, has left an indelible mark on popular culture worldwide. From its depiction in movies and TV shows to its role in literature and art, Mahjong has captivated audiences and inspired creativity across various mediums. In this blog post, we’ll explore the rich tapestry of Mahjong’s influence in pop culture, tracing its presence in movies, TV shows, and literature.
In this post, we will focus on both western and eastern movie references. Mahjong has made notable appearances in several films, both as a central theme and as a backdrop for character interactions.
The Joy Luck Club
One of the most iconic portrayals of Mahjong in cinema can be found in the 1990 film “The Joy Luck Club,” directed by Wayne Wang. The movie follows the lives of four Chinese-American women and their complex relationships with their mothers, all of whom gather regularly to play Mahjong. The game serves as a metaphor for their interconnected lives and shared struggles, showcasing the power of Mahjong to bridge generational and cultural divides.
Crazy Rich Asians
In the mahjong scene, Rachel invites Eleanor to meet with her at a mahjong parlor. When Eleanor arrives, she takes the open seat across from Rachel and is offered the role of dealer — the “East” seat. Eleanor, in the role of the “East,” representing Asia, is the player in control. Rachel, sitting across from her, represents America — the “West.”
The scene than shows a number of discarded bamboo tiles. Discarded bamboo calls to mind a frequently used term for Westernized overseas Asians, this one Cantonese: jook sing, which literally means “empty bamboo.” The “empty” bamboo tiles are scattered alongside the tiles for East and West, not truly part of either, representing Eleanor’s perception of Rachel.
Although, the number eight is of huge symbolic importance to the Chinese; as it resembles the character for fortune and is considered a sign of wealth, prosperity, and happiness. It doesn’t have special value in the game of mahjong. However, in this scene the eight of bamboo is also the one tile Rachel needs to complete her hand. This is a winning tile for her.
That’s when Rachel throws out the eight of bamboo as a discard — folding her winning hand, knowing that Eleanor will pick it up and declare victory. While this happens, she explains that when Nick finds the proper match in the future, she wants Eleanor to understand that the only reason it occurred was because a “poor, raised by a single mother, low-class immigrant nobody” — Rachel — made it possible.
She then reveals her hand, which would have won, making it clear to the whole table what she’s done, and walks away.
Others
Other notable films featuring Mahjong include “In the Mood for Love,” and “The Gambler,” each offering unique perspectives on the game’s role in storytelling and character development.
Some movies have had passing references to mahjong, for example “Suicide Squad” and “Mission Impossible III”.
As you can there are references to Mahjong in both western and eastern movies and films. Now, you can enjoy it yourself.
Let’s play mahjong 🀄!
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