The Farewell (2019)

Synopsis

A headstrong Chinese-American woman returns to China when her beloved grandmother is given a terminal diagnosis. Billi struggles with her family's decision to keep grandma in the dark about her own illness as they all stage an impromptu wedding to see grandma one last time.

Watch the trailer

Where to watch

Rent

• Amazon Video
• Apple TV Store
• Google Play Movies
• YouTube
• Fandango At Home

Buy

• Amazon Video
• Apple TV Store
• Google Play Movies
• YouTube
• Fandango At Home

Streaming availability via JustWatch

Cast

• Awkwafina as Billi
• Zhao Shuzhen as Nai Nai
• Hong Lu as Little Nai Nai
• Hong Lin as Doctor Wu
• Tzi Ma as Haiyan
• Lin Xiao Jie as Lu Jian
• Yang Xuejian as Mr. Li
• Becca Khalil as Shirley
• Jiang Yongbo as Uncle Haibin
• Chen Han as Hao Hao

If you liked The Farewell, try

• The War with Grandpa
• Spirited
• A Real Pain
• My Girl
• Death at a Funeral
• My Mother's Wedding
• Mr. Church
• Hannah and Her Sisters

BingeNext's take

If you’re looking for a heartfelt film that mixes comedy and drama in a way that feels both genuine and touching, The Farewell is a great pick. It follows a Chinese-American woman named Billi, played by Awkwafina, who returns to China after learning her grandmother has a terminal illness. The family decides not to tell grandma about her diagnosis and instead plans a fake wedding to gather everyone one last time. Watching this movie feels like sitting in on a family gathering where love, cultural clashes, and tough choices all come to the surface, making it perfect for anyone who enjoys stories about family bonds and emotional honesty. The performances, especially by Awkwafina and Zhao Shuzhen, bring warmth and humor to a story that’s both funny and deeply moving. It’s a thoughtful, intimate film that stays with you long after the credits roll.