Nancy Kwan Says Director Forced Her to Wear ‘Sexy’ Lingerie in “The World of Suzie Wong, ”and ‘Exploded’ When She Pushed Back

Actress Nancy Kwan Reflects on ‘Rebellion’ Triggered by Costume Disagreement in 1960 Film

Actress Nancy Kwan recently shared insights into a notable disagreement that unfolded on the set of the 1960 film “The World of Suzie Wong.” In her new memoir, Kwan revealed that a contentious issue regarding her wardrobe choice during a particular scene led her to rebel against director Richard Quine. The Chinese American actress, who was just 20 years old at the time, recounted the incident where her decision about the undergarments she wore underneath her dress caused a significant stir.

The film, centred around a romance between a Hong Kong sex worker and an American architect portrayed by William Holden, required a scene where Holden’s character was to rip off Kwan’s dress, revealing lingerie underneath. However, Kwan, feeling uncomfortable with the wardrobe choice of “sexy” black undergarments, discreetly opted for a full slip instead. This unexpected move led to a clash with the director, triggering what Kwan described as a moment of rebellion amidst an otherwise enjoyable filming experience.

Kwan expressed in her memoir, titled “The World of Nancy Kwan,” that during that era, the concept of an intimacy coordinator to support actors in sensitive scenes was non-existent. She reflected on the pressure she faced to comply with the director’s vision, even if it meant sacrificing her comfort and values. The actress highlighted the lack of protection she felt as a young and inexperienced performer, suggesting that the industry may have taken advantage of her in that vulnerable position.

Following the disagreement, the set was restricted to only essential crew members during the filming of the scene, yet the impact lingered. Despite the challenging experience, Kwan persevered and completed the scene, reflecting on the complex dynamics and power struggles inherent in the world of filmmaking. She vowed to navigate such situations cautiously in the future, recognising the importance of asserting boundaries and protecting her integrity in the face of adversity.

In addition to the costume clash, Kwan’s memoir delves into other incidents she encountered while working on the film, including sustaining a black eye during a fight scene that the director insisted on making realistic. These revelations offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes challenges and compromises that actors often face in the pursuit of their craft. Kwan’s candid reflections shed light on the complexities of navigating expectations and boundaries in an industry where creative vision sometimes clashes with personal values.

Despite the hurdles she faced during the production of “The World of Suzie Wong,” Nancy Kwan’s performance resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning her a Golden Globe nomination. Her subsequent work in iconic projects like “Flower Drum Song” and “The Wrecking Crew” showcased her resilience and talent as an actress. Through her memoir, Kwan not only shares her personal journey in the entertainment industry but also offers valuable insights into the evolution of filmmaking practices and the enduring challenges of balancing artistic expression with individual autonomy.

As Nancy Kwan’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities underlying artistic collaborations, it prompts a reflection on the importance of respect, communication, and agency in creative endeavours. Her courage to speak out about past injustices and advocate for greater accountability in the industry contributes to ongoing conversations about inclusivity and empowerment in storytelling. Nancy Kwan’s legacy endures not only through her acclaimed performances but also through her unwavering commitment to authenticity, self-empowerment, and advocacy within the realm of cinema.