Added to the National Film Registry in 1995.

Wayne Wang’s debut is also the first Chinese American feature-length narrative film to achieve broad critical acclaim. This neo-noir indie dramedy invites its viewers into the private homes and businesses of San Francisco’s Chinatown for an exceptionally unique filmic presentation of an underrepresented swath of the American population. As two taxi drivers search for Chan (but is he even real?), Wang also considers the humor of language-based misunderstandings and explores the complicated history of Chinatown and its politics. Made in the golden age of American independents for $22,000, Chan Is Missing is essential viewing for those interested in a dynamic cinematic take on the Chinese American experience.