In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, IMDb has curated a watchlist featuring 60 outstanding films from renowned filmmakers such as Bruce Lee, Ang Lee, Chloé Zhao, Jessica Yu, and many more. These talented creators have brought their culture and traditions to life through the medium of film, and it’s essential to celebrate and amplify their voices now more than ever. So, let’s dive into IMDb’s top 60 films in honor of APAHM.
Unleashing the Dragon: Bruce Lee’s Iconic Legacy
One of the most famous Asian martial artists in history is none other than the director of The Way of the Dragon, Bruce Lee. Lee not only directed but also starred in this film, where he plays a man visiting his relatives at their restaurant in Italy, only to find himself defending them against brutal gangsters.
Ang Lee’s Cinematic Masterpieces
Ang Lee has directed numerous critically acclaimed films, including the adventure-fantasy Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, where a young Chinese warrior steals a sword from a famed swordsman and embarks on a romantic adventure with a mysterious man. Lee also directed the visually stunning adaptation of the classic book, Life of Pi, which follows a young man’s epic journey of adventure and discovery after surviving a disaster at sea with a Bengal tiger.
Chloé Zhao’s Poignant Storytelling
Recent Oscar winner Chloé Zhao has made a name for herself with her powerful storytelling. In Songs My Brothers Taught Me, Zhao tells the story of Johnny and his sister Jashuan, who face new challenges when their absentee cowboy father suddenly dies. Zhao’s Oscar-winning film, Nomadland, is not on IMDb’s list but is another must-watch for its captivating portrayal of modern-day nomads.
Jessica Yu’s Fascinating Documentaries
Jessica Yu is known for her intriguing documentaries, such as In the Realms of the Unreal, which delves into the life of visionary artist, janitor, and novelist Henry Darger. Yu’s work often explores unique and lesser-known subjects, making her documentaries a captivating watch.
Exploring Identity and Culture in Film
Many of the films on IMDb’s list explore themes of identity, culture, and the complexities of the Asian American and Pacific Islander experience. Some notable examples include The Joy Luck Club, directed by Wayne Wang, which tells the interwoven stories of four East Asian women and their daughters; Mississippi Masala, directed by Mira Nair, which follows an Indian family expelled from Uganda and living in Mississippi; and Saving Face, directed by Alice Wu, which centers on a Chinese-American lesbian and her traditionalist mother as they navigate secret loves and cultural expectations.
Contemporary Hits and Rising Stars
The list also features contemporary hits and films from rising stars in the industry. Crazy Rich Asians, directed by Jon M. Chu, is a romantic comedy that took the world by storm with its all-Asian cast and opulent visuals. The Farewell, directed by Lulu Wang, is a heartwarming film about a Chinese family who decides to keep their grandmother’s terminal illness a secret and plan a wedding to bring everyone together before she passes. Always Be My Maybe, directed by Nahnatchka Khan, is a charming rom-com starring Ali Wong and Randall Park as childhood friends who reconnect as adults.
Discovering New Voices and Perspectives
IMDb’s watchlist for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month offers a fantastic opportunity to discover new voices and perspectives in film. From acclaimed directors like Ang Lee and Chloé Zhao to rising stars like Lulu Wang and Cathy Yan, these films showcase the incredible talent and diverse stories within the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. So, grab some popcorn and start exploring these 60 must-watch films!
Follow Us
