Beyond Mainstream: 7 Asian Films That Became Cult Classics

Asian cinema has long been a treasure trove of innovative storytelling, captivating visuals, and unforgettable characters. While many of these films have gained international recognition, there are several hidden gems that have transcended their regional appeal to become cult classics.

These films, often overlooked by mainstream audiences, have garnered devoted followings and continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers and fans alike. From the surreal landscapes of Japanese New Wave to the gritty realism of Hong Kong action cinema, these films showcase the incredible diversity and creativity of Asian filmmaking.

Each of these cult classics has its own unique charm, whether it be the haunting atmosphere of a ghost story, the over-the-top action of a martial arts epic, or the poignant exploration of social issues. These films represent a fascinating cross-section of Asian cinema's rich and varied heritage. 

So, ditch the mainstream and get ready to delve into a world of unforgettable characters, mind-bending plots, and stunning visuals. This blog post features a list of 7 Asian films that have become cult favorites, guaranteed to leave you wanting more.

The Wailing

A chilling and thought-provoking horror experience that delves into the darker aspects of human nature and the supernatural. The film's intricate plot weaves together elements of mystery, suspense, and the unknown, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats as they unravel the sinister forces at play. With its unique blend of psychological horror and folkloric elements, "The Wailing" is a must-see for fans of the genre.

The Wailing Official Movie Poster

Synopsis

In the eerie village of Goksung, South Korea, "The Wailing" unfolds a chilling tale of mystery and horror. When a series of inexplicable deaths plague the community, Police Officer Jong-Goo finds himself entangled in a web of supernatural occurrences.

As he investigates, a sinister Japanese stranger emerges as a central figure, suspected of being behind the mysterious deaths. Jong-Goo's daughter falls victim to a strange illness, leading him on a desperate quest to uncover the truth and save her from the malevolent forces at play.

As the plot thickens, "The Wailing" delves deeper into themes of possession, witchcraft, and demonic influence, blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural. The film's intricate storytelling weaves a complex narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, unraveling layers of mystery and suspense.

With its haunting atmosphere and unexpected twists, "The Wailing" stands out as a riveting psychological thriller that explores the darkest corners of human nature and the unknown, leaving audiences spellbound until the gripping finale.

Cast

• Kwak Do-won as Police Officer Jong-Goo: Investigates mysterious deaths in a remote Korean village to save his daughter.
• Hwang Jung-min as Il-gwang: A shaman summoned to save Jong-Goo's daughter from a mysterious illness.
• Chun Woo-hee as Moo-myeong: A mysterious woman suspected of setting a trap for the demon causing sickness in the village.
• Jun Kunimura as the Japanese Stranger: Suspected of being an evil spirit responsible for the illness and deaths in the village.
• Kim Hwan-hee as Hyo-jin: Jong-Goo's daughter who falls victim to a strange illness linked to the supernatural events in the village.
• Heo Jin as Jong-Goo's Mother-in-law: Seeks help from a shaman to save her granddaughter from the mysterious illness.

Country Of Origin: South Korea
Production: Side Mirror, Fox International Productions
Director: Na Hong-jin
Writer: Na Hong-jin
Original Title: 곡성 (Gokseong)
Genre: Horror
Release Date: May 12, 2016
Streaming Platform: Available in most streaming platforms

The Crazy Alien

A hilarious and action-packed ride as a hapless monkey trainer tries to salvage his career by training an injured alien instead of his monkey. With its unique blend of science fiction and comedy, this film promises a lighthearted and entertaining experience filled with wacky antics and unexpected twists. Get ready to laugh and be delighted by the absurdity of this intergalactic misadventure.

The Crazy Alien Official Movie Poster

Synopsis

In the vibrant city of Chongqing, China, "The Crazy Alien" introduces us to Ding Dong, a struggling monkey trainer whose act is turned upside down when an alien crash-lands on Earth and injures his beloved primate. Desperate to save his career, Ding Dong hatches a plan to train the alien instead, unaware of the chaos that will ensue.

As the alien regains its powers, Ding Dong finds himself caught in a whirlwind of hilarious mishaps, from dodging government agents to navigating the alien's mischievous antics.

With its clever blend of science fiction and slapstick comedy, "The Crazy Alien" takes viewers on a wild ride filled with unexpected twists and turns. Director Ning Hao masterfully weaves together a narrative that celebrates the absurdities of life while exploring the themes of friendship, perseverance, and the power of embracing the unknown.

The film's vibrant visuals and energetic performances create a delightfully entertaining experience that will leave audiences laughing and cheering for Ding Dong's underdog journey. "The Crazy Alien" is a must-see for fans of quirky comedies and those seeking a lighthearted escape from the ordinary.

Cast

• Huang Bo as Teng Shen: A monkey trainer whose act goes wrong after an alien crash lands on Earth and injures his monkey.
• Tom Pelphrey as CIA Officer: A government agent involved in the investigation of the alien's presence on Earth.
•  Matthew Morrison as Matthew: A scientist who helps Teng Shen understand the alien's powers.
•  Daniel Hugh Kelly as Daniel: A government official who is skeptical of the alien's existence.
•  Zheng Xu as Zheng: A local resident who becomes entangled in the alien's activities.
• Hua Liu as Hua: Teng Shen's love interest and a veterinarian who helps him care for the alien.
• Hewei Yu as Hewei: A local resident who becomes involved in the alien's antics.
• Fei Deng as Fei: A local resident who helps Teng Shen in his quest to understand the alien.
• Mekael Turner as Mekael: A local resident who becomes involved in the alien's activities.
• Ge Wang as Ge: A local resident who helps Teng Shen in his quest to understand the alien.
• Kat Nelson as Kat Ann Nelson: A CIA officer who is involved in the investigation of the alien's presence on Earth.

Country Of Origin: China
Production: Huanxi Media Group Limited
Director: Ning Hao
Writer: Sun Xiaohang, Wu Nan, Dong Runnian, Liu Xiaodan, Pan Yiran
Original Title: 瘋狂的外星人 (Crazy Alien)
Genre: Sci-Fi, Comedy
Release Date: February 5, 2019
Streaming Platform: Prime Video

Bad Genius

A gripping and suspenseful thriller that delves into the world of high-stakes cheating and the cutthroat competition among Thailand's elite students. This film masterfully blends together a complex narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats as they follow Lynn's daring scheme to cheat on international exams. With its sharp commentary on class inequality and teenage social pressures, "Bad Genius" offers a thought-provoking and entertaining ride that will leave viewers enthralled.

Bad Genius Official Movie Poster

Synopsis

"Bad Genius" introduces us to Lynn, a brilliant student from a working-class family who attends an elite high school on a scholarship. Determined to secure a better future for herself and her father, Lynn devises an ingenious plan to cheat on international exams, recruiting her classmates to help her execute the scheme.

As the stakes rise and the pressure mounts, Lynn navigates a treacherous world of academic competition, social hierarchies, and moral dilemmas, all while trying to keep her plan a secret.

The film's clever heist structure and fast-paced narrative keep viewers engaged from start to finish, as Lynn and her team face increasingly high-stakes challenges and unexpected obstacles.

Director Nattawut Poonpiriya skillfully balances the film's thrilling elements with sharp social commentary, exploring themes of class inequality, the pressures of academic success, and the moral ambiguity of cheating.

With its talented ensemble cast and stunning cinematography, "Bad Genius" is a must-see for fans of suspenseful thrillers and those interested in exploring the complexities of the Thai education system and social dynamics.

Cast

• Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying as Lynn: A straight-A student who devises an exams-cheating scheme which eventually rises to international levels.
• Eisaya Hosuwan as Grace: Lynn's classmate and friend involved in the cheating scheme.
• Teeradon Supapunpinyo as Pat: Lynn's classmate and friend involved in the cheating scheme.
• Chanon Santinatornkul as Bank: Lynn's classmate and friend involved in the cheating scheme.
• Thaneth Warakulnukroh as Lynn's father: Lynn's father.

Country Of Origin: Thailand
Production: Jor Kwang Films
Director: Nattawut Poonpiriya
Writer: Nattawut Poonpiriya, Tanida Hantaweewatana, Vasudhorn Piyaromna
Original Title: ฉลาดเกมส์โกง (Chalard Games Goeng)
Genre: Heist, Thriller
Release Date: May, 2017
Streaming Platform: Netflix

First Love

A thrilling and action-packed ride through the gritty underworld of crime in Japan. This film delivers a potent mix of violence, dark humor, and unexpected twists as it follows the intertwining fates of a young boxer, a call girl, and various criminal factions. With director Takashi Miike's signature style and a cast of compelling characters, "First Love" offers a rollercoaster of emotions and adrenaline-fueled excitement that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

First Love Movie Poster

Synopsis

A young boxer named Leo is struggling to make a name for himself in the competitive world of professional boxing. His fortunes take a turn for the worse when he becomes entangled in a drug-smuggling scheme involving a call girl named Yuri. As the night wears on, Leo and Yuri find themselves caught in a web of violence, deception, and moral dilemmas.

The film's fast-paced narrative hurtles through a series of intense action sequences, darkly comedic moments, and unexpected twists, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Tokyo's neon-lit streets.

Director Takashi Miike masterfully weaves together a complex narrative that explores themes of love, loyalty, and redemption. The film's blend of violence, comedy, and romance is both captivating and unsettling, reflecting Miike's signature style of blending genres and pushing boundaries.

With its talented ensemble cast, including Masataka Kubota and Shota Sometani, "First Love" is a thrilling and unpredictable ride that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Cast

• Masataka Kubota as Leo Katsuragi: A young boxer who gets caught up in a drug-smuggling scheme after meeting a call girl named Yuri.
• Sakurako Konishi as Yuri/Monica: A drug-addicted call girl who is unwittingly involved in a drug-smuggling plot and crosses paths with Leo.
• Nao Omori as Ōtomo: A corrupt cop who plans a drug-smuggling scheme with yakuza member Kase.
• Shota Sometani as Kase: A yakuza member who plans a drug-smuggling scheme with corrupt cop Ōtomo.
• Becky as Julie: Yasu's girlfriend and a yakuza member.
• Takahiro Miura as Yasu: A yakuza member whose drugs are stolen by Kase.
• Mami Fujioka as Chiachi: A female Chinese triad member sent to find Yuri.
• Yen Cheng-kuo as Wang: A Chinese triad member.
• Duan Chun-hao as Fu: A Chinese triad member.
• Seiyo Uchino as Gondō: A yakuza boss who goes out with his colleagues to find Yuri

Country Of Origin: Japan
Production: OLM
Director: Takashi Miike
Writer: Masaru Nakamura
Original Title: 初恋
Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
Release Date: May 17, 2019
Streaming Platform: Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu

Shoplifters

A deeply moving and thought-provoking exploration of family dynamics, morality, and the human condition. This Japanese masterpiece delves into the lives of a makeshift family living on the margins of society, challenging viewers to question the meaning of family, love, and societal norms. With its poignant storytelling, exceptional performances, and emotional depth, "Shoplifters" offers a compelling and unforgettable cinematic experience that will resonate long after the credits roll.

Shoplifters Theatrical Release Poster

Synopsis

"Shoplifters" is a poignant and powerful film that delves into the lives of a makeshift family living on the margins of Tokyo. The story revolves around Osamu, a day laborer who, along with his son Shota, has developed a habit of shoplifting to survive. One day, they come across a young girl, Yuri, who is abandoned and freezing on the streets.

Despite their poverty, the family takes her in, and she becomes an integral part of their lives. The family, consisting of Osamu, his wife Nobuyo, and their younger sister Aki, relies on their grandmother Hatsue's pension to make ends meet. They are a poor but happy family, bound together by their love and loyalty for each other.

As the story unfolds, the family's secrets begin to unravel, exposing the harsh realities of their existence. The film masterfully weaves together themes of family, poverty, and morality, raising questions about what makes a family and whether blood ties are essential.

Director Hirokazu Koreeda's nuanced portrayal of the characters and their relationships is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, making "Shoplifters" a deeply moving and thought-provoking experience. The film's Palme d'Or win at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival is a testament to its powerful storytelling and emotional depth.

Cast

• Lily Franky as Osamu: A day laborer who takes in a young girl and becomes a makeshift father to her.
• Sakura Ando as Nobuyo: Osamu's wife who works in a dry cleaners and helps care for the young girl.
• Mayu Matsuoka as Aki: The family's older sister who works as a dancer in a strip club.
• Jyo Kairi as Shota: Osamu's son who accompanies him on shoplifting trips and helps care for the young girl.
• Sasaki Miyu as Yuri: The young girl who is taken in by the family and becomes a part of their makeshift family.
• Kiki Kirin as Hatsue: The family's elderly grandmother who helps care for the young girl

Country Of Origin: Japan
Production: Fuji TV | AOI Pro, Inc.
Director: Hirokazu Kore-eda
Writer: Hirokazu Kore-eda
Original Title: 万引き家族 (Shoplifting Family)
Genre: Drama
Release Date: June 09, 2018 
Streaming Platform: Hulu, Peacock, Amazon Prime

The Night Comes for Us

A non-stop adrenaline rush as they follow Ito, a former triad enforcer, on a quest for redemption after rescuing a young girl from his former life. This action-packed thriller is filled with intense fight scenes, intricate plot twists, and a cast of complex characters that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With its gritty realism and stunning martial arts sequences, "The Night Comes for Us" is a must-see for fans of the genre.

The Night Comes For Us Poster

Synopsis

Ito, a former triad enforcer, has had enough of the violence and bloodshed that comes with his life. After rescuing a young girl from his former life, he decides to leave his past behind and start anew.

However, this decision does not go unnoticed, and Ito soon finds himself hunted by his former triad and other ruthless foes. As he fights to protect himself and the girl, Ito must confront the demons of his past and the moral choices he has made.

The film is a non-stop action ride filled with intense fight scenes, intricate plot twists, and a cast of complex characters. Director Timo Tjahjanto masterfully weaves together a narrative that explores themes of redemption, loyalty, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

With its gritty realism and stunning martial arts sequences, "The Night Comes for Us" is a must-see for fans of action-packed thrillers. The film's unique blend of Indonesian martial arts and Western action influences makes it a standout in the genre, offering a fresh and exciting take on the traditional action movie.

Cast

• Joe Taslim as Ito, a former member of the Six Seas Triad who is on the run after saving a young girl.
• Iko Uwais as Arian, a former gang member and friend of Ito who attempts to kill him for his own ambitions of power.
• Asha Kenyeri Bermudez as Reina, a young girl, and survivor of the massacre on her village committed by Ito and other Triad members.
• Sunny Pang as Chien Wu, a current Six Seas member who wants to kill Ito and spread chaos throughout the world.
• Julie Estelle as The Operator, a mysterious woman who is tasked to kill Ito and the rest of the Six Seas members for unknown reasons.
• Salvita Decorte as Shinta, Ito's former girlfriend.
• Abimana Aryasatya as Fatih, Ito's friend, and former gang member alongside Arian.

Country Of Origin: Indonesia
Production: XYZ Films | Screenplay Infinite Films
Director: Timo Tjahjanto
Writer: Timo Tjahjanto
Original Title: The Night Comes for Us
Genre: Action, Thriller
Release Date: October 19, 2018
Streaming Platform: Netflix

Pop Aye

This heartwarming yet unsentimental film masterfully weaves together themes of identity, community, and the human-animal bond, offering a unique and captivating cinematic experience. With its stunning visuals and authentic portrayal of rural Thailand, "Pop Aye" is a must-see for fans of character driven dramas.

Pop Aye Poster

Synopsis

A poignant and offbeat road trip film that follows Thana, a disillusioned architect, as he embarks on a journey to reconnect with his childhood companion, an elephant named Pop Aye. After a chance encounter in Bangkok, Thana decides to take Pop Aye back to their rural hometown in Loei Province, Isan, where they grew up together.

Along the way, they meet various characters who help shape Thana's perspective on life and his own mortality. The film masterfully weaves together themes of identity, community, and the human-animal bond, offering a unique and captivating cinematic experience.

The film's warm and unsentimental tone is enhanced by its picturesque framing and purposeful editing, which capture the beauty of rural Thailand. The cast, led by Thaneth Warakulnukroh as Thana, delivers strong performances that bring depth to the characters.

Director Kirsten Tan's script and direction effectively explore the alienation of urban and rural life, highlighting the struggles of finding meaning and purpose in a rapidly changing world. With its blend of humor, pathos, and surrealism, "Pop Aye" is a must-see for fans of character-driven dramas and those interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships and the natural world.

Cast

• Thaneth Warakulnukroh as Thana: A middle-aged architect who decides to take his childhood companion, an elephant named Pop Aye, back to their rural hometown
• Bong as Pop Aye: The elephant companion of Thana, who is taken back to their rural hometown by Thana
• Penpak Sirikul as Bo
• Chaiwat Khumdee as Dee
• Yukontorn Sukkijja as Jenni
• Narong Pongpab as Peak

Country Of Origin: Thailand
Production:
Director: Kirsten Tan
Writer: Kirsten Tan
Original Title:
Genre: Drama
Release Date: April 13, 2017
Streaming Platform: Mubi

Asian cinema has produced a wealth of cult classics that have captivated audiences worldwide. From the gritty realism of "The Night Comes for Us" to the heartwarming journey of "Pop Aye," these films offer a refreshing alternative to mainstream Hollywood fare. What sets them apart is their ability to tackle complex themes, push boundaries, and deliver unforgettable cinematic experiences.

One of the key factors that contribute to the cult status of these films is their unique storytelling and visual styles. Directors like Timo Tjahjanto and Kirsten Tan bring a fresh perspective to familiar genres, infusing their work with a distinct cultural flavor. This blend of the familiar and the exotic is part of what makes these films so appealing to audiences seeking something beyond the typical blockbuster fare.

Another aspect that solidifies the cult status of these films is their ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level. Whether it's the exploration of family dynamics in "Shoplifters" or the examination of identity and community in "First Love," these films resonate with viewers who appreciate nuanced, character-driven narratives. By delving into universal themes through a cultural lens, these films offer a unique perspective that challenges viewers to think beyond their own experiences.

From their innovative storytelling to their ability to connect with audiences on a profound level, these cinematic gems are a testament to the richness and diversity of Asian cinema. So, if you're looking to expand your cinematic horizons and discover something truly special, consider diving into the world of Asian cult classics. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite film.

I hope you enjoyed reading this blog post and enjoy watching these films. Thank you for reading and have an awesome day.

DISCLAIMER

The films mentioned in this blog post may not be available on the streaming websites mentioned. It is essential to verify the availability of these films on the platforms before attempting to stream them. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that the streaming sites used are legal and do not engage in piracy.

Do you like to read more on Asian TV and cinema?
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