Maxine

Allie is a newly out teen who is keeping her girlfriend a secret from her Chinese American family. During her family’s celebration of the Hungry Ghost Festival, Allie meets the ghost of a long lost relative named Maxine, who was queer when she was alive several decades ago. Though they come from different times, they find that they share many feelings about struggling to belong, especially within their own family’s legacy.

Directed by Niki Ang, Maxine leans on a strong ensemble — Ben Wang, Margaret Cho, Isabella Day — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2023.