In New Jersey and around the US, Asian cinema is experiencing somewhat of a boom. Thanks to masterpieces like Parasite and even television shows like Squid Game, more eyes are now firmly on this growing genre of entertainment. In fact, Parasite’s success is unrivaled, with the Bong Joon Ho-directed movie becoming the first non-English language film to win an Academy Award for Best Picture.
These successes, and others, have helped catapult Asian cinema further into the public consciousness. As such, major streaming services are now adding more and more productions from this part of the world into their catalog of movies. Even outside of the movie sphere, there are Asian-themed games like Dragon’s Luck, too. Overall, it’s a part of the world that is being exposed to American audiences more prominently, with some Asian flicks filmed in English, while others are shot in their native language but are available to watch with subtitles. The genres are diverse also, with a number of notable releases gracing a selection of genres in recent times, including action movies, thrillers, documentaries, and a whole lot more.
As Asian cinema continues to flourish, Netflix has certainly embraced it a great deal more. The American subscription streaming service and production company has added some excellent Asian movies in recent times in particular. Let’s assess some of the top options below. Make no mistake about it, Asian productions will only continue to grow in the coming months and years ahead.
The Super Parental Guardians
One of the highest-grossing movies in Filipino cinema history, The Super Parental Guardians is an action-comedy with plenty to offer American audiences. When a best friend is forced to step in and take care of a loved one’s children after they sadly pass away, he realizes that he’s in for quite a ride. Named Arci, the new guardian, has to master the role of both mother and father in this hilarious watch.
Seoul Searching
After receiving rave reviews at Sundance in 2015, Seoul Searching has reached more audiences. Following the journey of teenagers of Korean descent as they grow up in countries like the UK and Mexico, this interesting yet comical cultural dive makes for an all-round worthwhile watch. A comedy-drama, Seoul Searching’s cast of teenagers help make the movie what it is, too.
Okja
Here she is. The one, the only. OKJA. Now streaming. pic.twitter.com/cKrKwpJpIm
— OKJA (@OKJAnetflix) June 28, 2017
While Okja isn’t new in 2022, some people still haven’t seen it. If you’re one of them, then consider putting a few hours aside to watch this excellent production. Featuring a Korean kid and her adorable hippo-like friend, this movie has a moving and powerful message focussing on corporate greed and the mistreatment of animals. While there are some comical moments along the way, Okja’s underlying message is hugely important in today’s world.
BLACKPINK: Light Up the Sky
This particular production can’t really be compared to powerful masterpieces like Parasite, but BLACKPINK: Light Up the Sky will most definitely appeal to music fans, particularly those who already listen to the K-Pop sensation. Focussing on the story behind their success and the journey the band has embarked on to reach the level of fame that they have, it’s an interesting watch. If you aren’t keen on BLACKPINK’s music, though, then it might be one to avoid.
Time to Hunt
A dark dystopian action thriller coming out of South Korea, Time to Hunt went down a treat at the Berlin International Film Festival and has since received a number of positive reviews from Netflix viewers. Featuring everything from assassins to a well-planned heist, you’ll enjoy this 2020 release.
Other options include Night in Paradise and Always Be My Maybe.
About the Author/s
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.
