AKA Mr. Chow

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2:14

AKA Mr. Chow

2023

1h 30m

Documentary

Biography

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3 Reviews

67%

Popcornmeter

Fewer than 50 Ratings

AKA MR. CHOW details the vibrant and varied life of Michael Chow. Born Zhou Yinghua in 1930s Shanghai, he would use creativity to triumph over childhood trauma, personal loss, and systemic prejudice, growing up to become the actor and artist before inventing a new identity, Mr. Chow, when he opens the first of his iconic restaurants. Having found fame and fortune in the West, Mr. Chow celebrates his Chinese roots and finds catharsis by returning to painting, reemerging as the artist M.

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John Anderson

Wall Street Journal

Over the great operatic journey that is Mr. Chow’s life, can anything top the overture performed by this supremely self-confident, mildly abrasive, quasi-pugnacious but likable impresario-artist-actor and feeder of the elite? Well, yes, it can.

Oct 23, 2023

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Neely Swanson

Beverly Hills Courier

“AKA Mr. Chow” is far from an in depth portrait of a complicated man; nevertheless, the opportunity to learn some of his history and see him make his art is well worth the fast-moving 90 minutes Nick Hooker has put together.

Oct 28, 2023

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John Serba

Decider

AKA Mr. Chow tackles a difficult task – truly getting to know a nigh-unknowable man – and ultimately succeeds.

Oct 25, 2023

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alan g

Another self centered narcissistic billionaire wanting to immortalize his life. Pass.

Rated 0.5 out of 5 stars

05/14/25

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Daniel O

Not bad, but also not my favourite film to watch on an overnight flight. I had never of Mr. Chow in the past and his character drew my attention. I can't say I was inspired or in awe, but I believe there's a lot to take away from his story and self confidence. He's not hesitant, loves what he does, aims for perfection and is someone I have deep respect for after watching the film. Not a must-watch, but if you're looking for something to watch on a flight, this is a good choice.

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

07/14/24

Full Review

MT C

Delightful, insightful, fascinating - wonderful storytelling about a very surprising man

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

12/04/23

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Michael W

This HBO documentary was great. Michael Chow and the entire crew did a great job on making this documentary. It goes into specific detail on who Michael Chow is and what inspired him to become a successful actor, artist, and restauranteur. He even stayed true to his roots and never changed who he was born to be. If you haven't seen this documentary yet, check it out sometime. It's worth watching.

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars

11/08/23

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Rosanne K

What a talented human being! Loved the film and was delighted to discover M's recent fine art explosion!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

10/29/23

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George B

I found it to be interesting and informative.... I really knew nothing about this guy at all... Remember this is a documentary.....

Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars

10/27/23

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Nick Hooker

Director

Michael Chow

Self

Jean Tsien

Writer

Diane Moy Quon

Producer

Graydon Carter

Executive Producer

Annabelle Dunne

Executive Producer

AKA Mr. Chow: Trailer 1

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Synopsis

AKA MR. CHOW details the vibrant and varied life of Michael Chow. Born Zhou Yinghua in 1930s Shanghai, he would use creativity to triumph over childhood trauma, personal loss, and systemic prejudice, growing up to become the actor and artist before inventing a new identity, Mr. Chow, when he opens the first of his iconic restaurants. Having found fame and fortune in the West, Mr. Chow celebrates his Chinese roots and finds catharsis by returning to painting, reemerging as the artist M.

Director: Nick Hooker
Producer: Diane Moy Quon
Screenwriter: Jean Tsien
Distributor: Max
Production Co: HBO Documentary Films, Pulse Films
Genre: Documentary, Biography
Original Language: English
Release Date (Streaming): Oct 22, 2023
Runtime: 1h 30m

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