Top 11 Best Asian Films of All Time

Parasite, also known as 'Parasite,' is a film that won the Palme d'Or award at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival in France, making it the first South Korean film in history to receive this award. In February 2020, the film made history again by winning the prestigious Oscar for Best Picture and three other awards at the 92nd Academy Awards held in the United States. The list of awards includes:

• Best Director for Bong Joon-ho
• Best Original Screenplay
• Best International Feature Film
• Best Picture

Parasite won 4 out of 6 Oscar nominations, including the coveted Best Picture award. It became the first non-English language film and the first Asian film to win this title. The main themes of Parasite are class conflict and social inequality. The film also examines the use of 'connections,' relationships to climb up, especially not only for wealthy families but also for the poor.

Details:

• Country: South Korea
• Director: Bong Joon-ho
• Cast: Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-kyun, Cho Yeo-jeong, Choi Woo-shik, Park So-dam,...

One of the most anticipated films of 2016, 'Hidden Dragon 2' (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 2) was meticulously invested in costumes, sets, and a cast of professional, famous actors. Following the success of 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 1,' 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 2' is filled with heroic spirit, praising loyalty, bravery, and the importance of friendship. These profound philosophical principles reflect the essence of the East.

Another notable aspect is the presence of a Vietnamese actress in this film: action star Ngô Thanh Vân playing the cold-blooded assassin Đoạn Hồn Oanh. Undoubtedly, this adds an extra level of excitement for Vietnamese fans, doesn't it?

Details:

• Country: China
• Director: Viên Hòa Bình
• Cast: Donnie Yen, Michelle Yeoh, Dương Tử Quỳnh,...

The film Train to Busan tells the journey of a man and his daughter trapped on a train to Busan. What's even more frightening is that a terrible epidemic, zombies, breaks out on the train. The battle between life and death makes viewers feel extremely tense, breathless with each passing minute. A microcosm of society seems to unfold on that train: selfishness, sacrificing others to protect one's own interests; nobility, selflessness, disregarding oneself to protect loved ones; compassion, helping people escape danger, all are portrayed realistically in the movie.

It is the humane messages conveyed to the audience, as well as the suspense and excellent performances of the actors that have led to the immense success of the film, as well as Korean cinema in general. In the horror genre, 'Train to Busan' has created a sensation in cinemas in Korea and worldwide.

Details:

• Country: South Korea
• Director: Yeon Sang-ho
• Cast: Gong Yoo, Kim Su-an, Jung Yu-mi,...

'A Werewolf Boy' is a gentle romantic film of South Korean cinema, produced in 2012. Regarded as one of the most successful films of all time, 'A Werewolf Boy' achieved remarkable revenue despite its initial release.

With its gentle storyline and romance, 'A Werewolf Boy' narrates the poignant love story between a 19-year-old girl and a werewolf. They meet very coincidentally, as if fate had planned it. And it's the girl's kindness, as well as the intimate days living under the same roof, that sparks affection between them. That love is gentle, pure, yet profoundly moving.

'Wait for me! I will come back for you'

. That was the last thing he said when they parted ways. Time was expected to erase everything, yet the werewolf still waited, waited for the girl to return once again. Simply because, he loved her, a love that's pure and infinitely noble. A conclusion that might be considered bittersweet, leaving the audience with much lament. Surely if you're a cinephile, you'll immediately fancy this film 'A Werewolf Boy', for the noble human values it embodies.

Details:

• Country: South Korea
• Director: Jo Sung-hee
• Cast: Song Joong Ki, Park Bo-young,...

'Beast Hunt' is a Chinese cinematic masterpiece released in 2015. It revolves around the battle between humans and monsters, yet distinguishes itself in its narrative construction and emotionally resonant scenes.

The story follows Tống Thiên Âm, who inadvertently shelters Hồ Ba - a newborn monster. Alongside Thiên Âm in the journey against ruthless monsters is a celestial master, specialized in eradicating demons. However, not all monsters are evil, and not all celestial masters are ruthless, sparing no demon. A bond akin to father and son blossoms between Thiên Âm and Hồ Ba, leading him to always protect the little monster from the onslaught of monsters of its kind. However, as Thiên Âm puts it: 'The mortal realm still can't accept monsters like you', he and Hồ Ba must part ways forever, living separate lives. Nevertheless, the filial bond remains, the gratitude for saving a life endures, forever unfading.

With the talented performances of the cast, coupled with the adorable portrayal of the little monster Hồ Ba, the film captivates viewers with its authenticity in acting and unexpected plot twists. Despite not relying heavily on visual effects and extravagant investments, with its compelling storyline, 'Beast Hunt' remains a fitting choice for cinephiles.

Details:

• Country: China
• Directors: Hứa Thành Nghị, Tiền Văn Kỹ
• Cast: Tỉnh Bách Nhiên, Bạch Bách Hà, Chung Hán Lương, Thang Duy,...

'Artful Skin' is a highly acclaimed Chinese cinematic masterpiece. It comprises 2 parts released in 2008 and 2012 respectively, setting ablaze numerous cinemas both domestically and internationally. Based on the classic Chinese novel: 'Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio', 'Artful Skin' narrates the tale between humans and demons. The storyline of Part 1 and Part 2 differs, both unfolding in a historical setting.

The story revolves around a fox spirit named Xiao Duy who has cultivated for thousands of years, donning the guise of an extraordinarily beautiful girl, descending to the mortal realm in hopes of a chance to become human. Despite countless deeds and killings, ultimately, Xiao Duy still couldn't transcend to become a true human. No matter how wicked, how cruel, both humans and demons fundamentally desire, yearn for happiness, love for themselves, and dare to sacrifice themselves for that love.

Details:

• Country: China, Hong Kong
• Directors: Tran Gia Thuong/ Oh Nhi Thien
• Cast: Zhao Wei, Chen Kun, Chen Kuan, Angelababy, Feng Shao Feng,...

Embedded with profound humanistic philosophies, just like other renowned films, 'Departures' was honored with an Oscar in 2009. With a rather unique premise, delving into a traditional Japanese profession: the art of preparing the deceased. 'Departures' vividly portrays the authentic images of a nokanshi - one who prepares the dead for their final journey.

Alongside its innovative storyline, 'Departures' conveys meaningful messages about the love for life, marital affection, filial piety, and more. These existential philosophies add depth and elevate the value of the film. So if you have some free time, immerse yourself in the captivating moments to experience the essence of this film.

Details:

• Country: Japan
• Director: Takita Yojiro
• Cast: Motoki Masahiro, Hirosue Ryoko, Yamazaki Tsutomu,...

Regarded as one of the greatest romantic films of all time in Asian cinema, 'Love's Embrace' (In the mood for love) has been warmly embraced by viewers and firmly secured its place in the Asian film industry as well as the global cinematic landscape.

With outstanding performances by Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung, 'In the mood for love' undoubtedly resonates with audiences for its skillful portrayal of character emotions and the profound sentiments it encapsulates and communicates. With these unique qualities, the film earned the lead actor Tony Leung the 'Best Actor' award at the Cannes Film Festival in 2000, further elevating both his and the film's prominence, gaining more widespread recognition.

Details:

• Country: China
• Director: Wong Kar-wai
• Cast: Tony Leung, Maggie Cheung,...

Regarded as one of the classic Chinese cinematic masterpieces, 'Mythical Romance' (Endless love) has garnered much love and high praise from experts. Produced in 2005, 'Endless love' is set in the era of Qin Shi Huang, where General Meng Yi escorts Princess Ngoc Thau from Korea to Great Han for marriage, becoming his empress consort.

On the journey, Meng Yi fulfills his duty of protecting Princess Ngoc Thau. He forgets himself, enduring pain and cold to safeguard her. A bond begins to form between them. However, their relationship is hindered by their obligations and identities. Ultimately, Meng Yi dies from betrayal, while Princess Ngoc Thau remains faithful, preserving her love for a thousand years until she meets Jack. Jack turns out to be the reincarnation of Meng Yi in the next life. However, he no longer remembers Ngoc Thau, except for a familiar feeling, yet distant.

With the collaboration of actors from both China and South Korea, the film 'Endless Love' has achieved great success and further enhanced the fame of its two main actors: Jackie Chan and Kim Hee-sun.

Details:

• Country: China
• Director: Tang Chi Le
• Cast: Jackie Chan, Kim Hee-sun, Leon Lai,...

Comparable to India's masterpiece 'Gone with the Wind', 'Maternal Devotion' (Mother India) is considered one of the classic and renowned cinematic works of the homeland. It delves into the theme of maternal love, a mother's protection, and shelter for her son amidst life's challenges and pitfalls. The character of mother Radha serves as an ideal model for the noble character and resilience of Indian women.

Through its humane content and professional performances by the actors, 'Mother India' has left a lasting impression on viewers and garnered prestigious Oscar awards for the national film industry. It's also one of the must-watch films about family dynamics and maternal love, deserving its place in the list of the greatest Asian films of all time.

Details:

• Country: India
• Director: Mehboob Khan
• Cast: Nagris, Sunil Dutt, Rajendra Kumar,...

'The Final Reign' is considered one of the three cinematic classics of Asian cinema. Even more impressively, the film won 9 prestigious Oscars. This is a tremendous pride of Chinese cinema in particular, and Asia in general. 'The Final Reign' is a biographical film, recounting the life of the last emperor of China, as well as the Qing dynasty: Puyi. The film is based on Puyi's own memoirs, from his ascension to the throne to his death.

With authentic scenes and outstanding performances, 'The Final Reign' gives us a glimpse into the social landscape of China in the 20th century, as well as the real life of the last emperor of the Qing dynasty. Through this, we witness the collapse of feudal society, as well as the lavish yet profoundly lonely life of Emperor Puyi.

Details:

• Country: China
• Director: Bernardo Bertolucci
• Cast: John Lone, Joan Chen, Peter O'Toole,...