149 Chinese Films: A World Cinema Collection
149 titles
- 101
Blood BrothersMovie · 1973 · 123m · Action, DramaSet during the final years of the Qing Dynasty, this compelling film tells a story of love, betrayal, and revenge from one of China's most famous scandals. The film's powerful story and action sequences launched the director and actors to fame. Ti Lung's performance as a governor consumed by jealousy, who murders his friend for his wife, won him Taiwan's Golden Horse Award for Best Actor, cementing the film's legacy.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3
- 102
Fulltime KillerMovie · 2001 · 102m · Action, Crime, DramaO is a professional assassin living a solitary life. His routine is disrupted when he meets Chin, who is hired to clean his apartment. Soon after, Tok arrives, determined to expose O's identity and take over O's position as the top assassin.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8
- 103
Flowers of ShanghaiMovie · 1998 · 113m · DramaLate 19th century Shanghai is divided into foreign concessions, creating a distinct social world. Within this world are opulent "flower houses," exclusive spaces where Chinese dignitaries can engage in activities forbidden to them. These establishments become self-contained worlds with unique customs and traditions.
More than just places for intimate encounters, flower houses function as clubs where men can enjoy fine dining, opium, mahjong, and escape their daily lives. The women who work there, known as "flowers of Shanghai," are renowned for their elegance and grace within the secrecy and luxury of this hidden realm. This film explores the complex relationships between these men and women, revealing societal pressures and the measures people take to maintain their position in a rapidly transforming city.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8
- 104
The Legend of the 7 Golden VampiresMovie · 1974 · 89m · Action, HorrorIn rural China, villagers live in terror from relentless, skeletal creatures that bring death and destruction. Professor Van Helsing, a supernatural expert, arrives to stop this horror. He discovers the creatures' source is Count Dracula, a powerful and evil entity.
Van Helsing is aided by a mysterious brotherhood of seven martial arts warriors – skilled fighters dedicated to fighting evil. Together, they join forces against Dracula and his undead army in a thrilling battle of courage and supernatural power to protect the villagers.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.8 - 105
The Private EyesMovie · 1976 · 94m · Comedy, ThrillerThis crime-noir film follows the leader of the Manix Private Detective Agency and his partner as they navigate the city's hidden world. The leader is a charismatic figure with a mysterious past, respected by those around him and always calm under pressure. His partner is more impulsive but highly skilled at solving cases. Together, they are an unlikely team that solves mysteries and exposes corruption.
Their investigations lead them through a dark urban environment populated by suspicious individuals, untrustworthy clients, and dangerous criminals. The film blends suspense, intrigue, and dark humor as the two detectives unravel complex lies. It explores themes of loyalty, trust, and friendship in a world where those qualities are rare.
Each case reveals the detectives' unique abilities and their unconventional approach to crime-solving. With strong visuals and compelling performances, the film offers a gripping and memorable experience for fans of crime dramas and thrillers.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.2 - 106
Once Upon a Time in ChinaMovie · 1991 · 133m · Action, DramaSet in 19th-century Canton, this action film follows Wong Fei-Hung, a legendary martial artist, as he defends China from foreign invaders who are exploiting its resources. The story depicts intense battles and strategic fighting as Wong Fei-Hung confronts these adversaries during a time of colonial expansion and cultural upheaval. The film portrays not only impressive martial arts but also explores themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and the strength of the Chinese people during this important historical period.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1
- 107
Leaving in SorrowMovie · 2001 · 90mLeaving In Sorrow offers a raw and realistic look at Hong Kong following the Asian Financial Crisis. Shot in the "Dogme 95" style – with hand-held cameras, natural lighting, and on location – it's the first Hong Kong film to do so. The story centers on a diverse group of people: a pastor, a magazine editor, and a slacker from San Francisco. Their lives are unexpectedly disrupted by circumstances they cannot control.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.5 - 108
Love Without EndMovie · 1961 · 117mOrphan Li Qingqing arrives in Hong Kong and pursues a career as a singer, dedicating herself completely to the man she loves.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6 - 109
Infernal Affairs IIMovie · 2003 · 119m · Action, Thriller, CrimeThis film explores the violent conflict within the Triad organizations as Hong Kong transitions back to Chinese rule in 1997, events that ultimately lead to the story of the first movie.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3
- 110
The Bride with White HairMovie · 1993 · 92m · Fantasy, Drama, ActionCho Yi-Hang, a respected swordsman, becomes the leader of the powerful Wu-Tang clan. He must now lead his people in a war against foreign tribes and a dangerous cult, all while struggling with the burden of responsibility and missing a simpler life focused on his martial arts.
He meets Lien, a beautiful and deadly assassin working for the cult they are fighting. They find common ground in their dissatisfaction with their lives and develop a forbidden romance. Their love puts both the Wu-Tang clan and themselves in danger as they become targets in the escalating conflict.
The film explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and forbidden love, set against a backdrop of exciting sword fights and action. It examines the complexities of human relationships during war and the constant battle between good and evil.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.4
- 111
PickpocketMovie · 1997 · 113m · DramaThis film tells the story of a young pickpocket in a close-knit community. As his friends seek more stable lives, he struggles to adjust and feels resentment.
His world changes when an unexpected event forces him to confront his past and consider his future. This difficult time leads him on a journey of self-discovery as he feels isolated and misses what he’s lost.
The film explores the protagonist's relationships with his friends as they pursue different paths, examining themes of loyalty, growth, and the impact of choices. It emphasizes the need to accept change for true happiness.
With a moving story and visuals, the movie offers a look into the life of someone grappling with the past and navigating a constantly changing world.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
- 112
Days of Being WildMovie · 1990 · 94m · Crime, Drama, RomanceYuddy, a charming playboy in Hong Kong, discovers the woman he believed to be his mother is not his biological mother. This revelation sparks an emotional journey as Yuddy seeks to understand his true origins.
His search for his real mother forces him to reconsider his relationships and his understanding of love and loyalty. The film follows Yuddy's transformation from a carefree playboy into a man who appreciates the bonds he has built.
Blending drama, mystery, and self-discovery, the story explores Yuddy's emotional world as he confronts his newfound knowledge and searches for answers, balancing humor and heartbreak.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
- 113
Taipei StoryMovie · 1985 · 120m · DramaIn Taipei, a young woman navigates the difficulties of building her life. She relies on her boyfriend, Lung, for stability and guidance. But Lung's past – memories of playing baseball and a strong sense of loyalty – leads him into financial problems. He spends his life savings trying to help her father, which strains their relationship and threatens their future together. The film explores ambition, love, and the conflict between holding onto the past and pursuing an uncertain future.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5
- 114
GallantsMovie · 2010 · 98m · Action, ComedyMaster Law awakens from a 30-year coma with no memory of the past, though his martial arts abilities remain. He discovers his prestigious kung fu academy has been transformed into a teahouse, and now ruthless developers are attempting to demolish it for a condominium project.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5 - 115
You Shoot, I ShootMovie · 2001 · 94m · Crime, ComedyA professional assassin teams up with an aspiring filmmaker to create satisfying video footage of their targets being eliminated, fulfilling client requests for cinematic takedowns.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9
- 116
God of GamblersMovie · 1989 · 126m · Action, Comedy, DramaKo Chun is a famous gambler known for his exceptional skills. He's about to compete against a top Singaporean gambler when he's tricked by someone called Knife. The trap was meant for someone else, but Ko ends up unconscious and with amnesia. He's lost his memories and the abilities that made him a master gambler, reverting to a childlike state.
Knife takes advantage of this, making Ko his personal gambler and using his natural talent for profit. The film explores the complex relationship between them as they navigate the world of high-stakes betting. It examines memory, identity, and friendship as Ko tries to recover his past and reclaim his reputation, while Knife confronts his own ambitions and insecurities.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2
- 117
Vengeance!Movie · 1970 · 102mA skilled martial artist seeks revenge for his brother's death. His brother was murdered by a group of four ruthless businessmen and his own wife, who betrayed him.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3
- 118
Happy TogetherMovie · 1997 · 96m · Drama, RomanceTwo men from Hong Kong travel to Argentina hoping for peace and a fresh start. As they explore the country and settle into a new life, their relationship is tested, revealing underlying problems. The film contrasts the beautiful Argentine landscape with the couple's emotional struggles, exploring love, separation, and the difficulties faced by same-sex couples. Their journey reveals a complex mix of affection, loss, and strength as they search for belonging in an unfamiliar place. This film is a thoughtful look at relationships and the pursuit of happiness, suggesting that sometimes the unexpected paths we take reveal the most about ourselves and our bonds with others.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6
- 119
The One-Armed SwordsmanMovie · 1967 · 111m · Action, DramaIn a society where swordsmanship holds great importance, a skilled warrior seeks to reclaim his honor after a humiliating defeat cost him his arm. Years later, he discovers his former teacher is caught in a dangerous conflict with rival swordsmen. Driven by loyalty, the warrior journeys to protect his mentor, adapting new fighting methods and weapons to overcome his injury and become an even stronger fighter. As the conflict intensifies, he faces difficult choices and treacherous alliances while battling his inner struggles. The story is about redemption, resilience, and determination, following one man's path to self-acceptance.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8
- 120
Center StageMovie · 1991 · 155m · Drama, RomanceThis moving film explores the life and challenges of Ruan Lingyu, China's first celebrated actress who became a sensation in Shanghai during the 1930s. It vividly depicts her rapid ascent to stardom as a movie icon, alongside the personal difficulties she endured. The story immerses viewers in Ruan's world, showing the intense pressures and societal expectations she experienced both as an actress and in her private life. This powerful narrative honors the strength of a talented woman while also examining fame, tragedy, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of hardship.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
- 121
Ip ManMovie · 2008 · 106m · Drama, Action, HistoryThis semi-biographical film tells the story of Yip Man, the martial arts grandmaster who popularized Wing Chun. Set in Foshan during the 1930s and 1940s, amidst the Second Sino-Japanese War, the film follows Ip Man's life. Directed by Wilson Yip and starring Donnie Yen, with fight choreography by Sammo Hung.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8
- 122
DragonMovie · 2011 · 115m · Drama, Action, ThrillerA skilled martial artist, haunted by a past filled with wrongdoing, seeks peace and quiet. But his attempt at a new life is thwarted when he becomes the target of a relentless detective and his former teacher.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9
- 123
Dust in the WindMovie · 1986 · 109m · Drama, RomanceA-Yuan and A-Yun, from the small mining town of Jio-fen, travel to Taipei hoping for a better life. A-Yuan works as an apprentice while attending night school, and A-Yun helps at a tailor shop. Everyone around them notices their growing affection.
They don't realize that time and fate are quietly influencing their lives. As they experience city life, they face challenges and opportunities, leaving the question: will these forces separate them, or guide them to an unforeseen future? This story gently examines how relationships are tested and changed as people adapt and evolve.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6 - 124
The Time to Live and the Time to DieMovie · 1985 · 136m · DramaThis autobiographical film by acclaimed Taiwanese director Hou Hsiao-hsien recounts his childhood experiences after his family migrated from mainland China to Taiwan. The story evokes a gentle sense of nostalgia, taking viewers back to a time of significant cultural change and challenges for those seeking refuge.
The film portrays Hou Hsiao-hsien's upbringing with both beauty and hardship, illustrating the impact of displacement on a young person and their family. Using vivid visuals and understated storytelling, it offers insight into the director's formative years and how they shaped his artistic vision.
The movie explores themes of cultural identity, assimilation, and the intricacies of family relationships against the backdrop of a transforming society. As the protagonist grows up in Taiwan, he searches for belonging while remembering a life left behind in China.
This intimate look into Hou Hsiao-hsien's personal history is a tribute to his cultural roots and a demonstration of storytelling's ability to connect generations and nations.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 125
BishonenMovie · 1998 · 101mA street hustler and a police officer hiding his homosexuality begin a clandestine relationship.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.1 - 126
Lan YuMovie · 2001 · 87m · Drama, RomanceA love story unfolds between a young man from the countryside who travels to Beijing for his studies and a successful businessman, all against the backdrop of the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9
- 127
A Brighter Summer DayMovie · 1991 · 237mSet in 1960s Taiwan, the film follows a young boy as he navigates the complexities of first love, the bonds of friendship, and the realities of injustice during his formative years.Stream onIMDb 8.2TMDB 8.3
- 128
PTUMovie · 2003 · 88m · Crime, ThrillerA Hong Kong police tactical unit navigates a perilous night on the streets to retrieve a stolen firearm belonging to one of their own. Their mission escalates into a dangerous entanglement with organized crime.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9
- 129
Fist of FuryMovie · 1972 · 108m · Drama, Action, ThrillerIn Shanghai, Chen Chen's life changes when his teacher is murdered in their university. Driven by duty and grief, Chen investigates the crime and discovers a dangerous secret: a Japanese school is involved in drug smuggling.
Seeking justice for his teacher, Chen faces enemies from China and Japan, including a deadly Russian assassin. The story explores loyalty, revenge, and international tensions amidst a changing Shanghai. Chen must confront both external threats and his own personal struggles to find justice and honor his mentor's memory.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2
- 130
Yi YiMovie · 2000 · 174m · DramaIn Taipei, a family grapples with personal and ethical dilemmas as ordinary moments reveal cracks in their relationships and challenge what they believe matters.Stream onIMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9
- 131
The PuppetmasterMovie · 1993 · 143m · Drama, War, HistoryThis moving film follows master puppeteer Li Tien-lu as he reflects on his life during Japanese occupation of Taiwan in the early 20th century. It portrays a difficult period through the art of traditional Chinese puppetry, showing Li Tien-lu using his puppets to tell stories reflecting the era's social and political struggles. The film reveals his successes and hardships, offering a glimpse into the strength of people facing hardship. It explores artistic expression, cultural preservation, and personal identity during colonial rule.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 132
KJ: Music and LifeMovie · 2009 · 90mKJ is a biography of a Hong Kong musical prodigy. At 11, KJ won first prize for piano and subsequently performed with a professional orchestra in the Czech Republic. Over six years of conversations with director Nancy Loo, the film explores themes of life's meaning, faith, and the creative process, revealing how KJ is inspired by his teacher while also navigating conflicts with his peers and family. KJ isn’t a story about achieving genius, but about learning to become a fully realized person.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8
- 133
MongaMovie · 2010 · 140m · Thriller"Monga," set in the 1980s, follows five boys – Mosquito, Monk, Dragon, White Monkey, and A-Lan – as they join the "Gang of Princes." This group, fed up with being intimidated, begins to gain influence. However, their growing power attracts the attention and resentment of rival gangs, leading to escalating conflicts.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6
- 134
VengeanceMovie · 2009 · 108m · Action, Crime, ThrillerA French chef seeks vengeance following a brutal attack in Macau where his daughter's husband and two children are killed. To track down those responsible, he employs three local assassins connected to the mafia.Stream onIMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6
- 135
The HoleMovie · 1999 · 95m · Drama, Romance, Science FictionAs 1999 ends, a mysterious plague devastates Taiwan, leaving few survivors in a desolate, rain-soaked world. An isolated plumber finds himself unexpectedly responsible for an unfinished job and a new passage connecting his home to the apartment below. While trying to fix the damage, he develops a unique relationship with the woman who lives there, forged by circumstance and the eerie quiet of a grieving nation. This story explores human connection and strength in the face of disaster, set against the haunting backdrop of a country struggling with an unprecedented crisis.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9
- 136
He's a Woman, She's a ManMovie · 1994 · 107m · Comedy, RomanceWing becomes intensely devoted to famous singer Rose and embarks on an unusual path when she learns about Rose's complicated relationship with her producer, Sam. Determined to get closer to Rose, Wing disguises herself as a man to work at the record company and be near her idol. Unexpectedly, Wing's bold plan works, and she's chosen as a new rising star under Sam's direction. This exciting story examines obsession, identity, and the cost of fame, while also exploring the difficulties of relationships in a world where appearances can be misleading.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 137
Lady WhirlwindMovie · 1972 · 89mDriven by vengeance for her sister's death, a young woman resolves to assist a man targeted by gangsters. Her plan: to orchestrate his demise, allowing her to carry out the killing herself.Stream onIMDb 6.4TMDB 6.1
- 138
Formula 17Movie · 2004 · 93mA sheltered country youth named Tien-Tsai journeys to Taipei, hoping to lose his virginity. However, his desire for a meaningful romantic connection proves to be a significant obstacle in his pursuit.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.3 - 139
Drunken MasterMovie · 1978 · 111m · Action, ComedyA troublemaking youth faces strict discipline after a latest escapade. As punishment, he's assigned to train with an unlikely mentor: a disheveled old beggar. Though rough around the edges, the old man is a master of the ancient Drunken Fist martial art. Through challenging trials and lessons, the boy learns to master this unique fighting style, forging a surprising connection with his stern instructor. This story explores discipline, mentorship, and finding oneself, blending humor and exciting martial arts action.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4
- 140
ButterflyMovie · 2004 · 124m · Drama, RomanceFlavia, a woman in her thirties, is a married teacher feeling trapped in her life. She has buried a memory of a teenage romance with a woman named Jin. A chance meeting with the charming singer Yip in a supermarket stirs up old feelings and prompts Flavia to revisit her past relationship with Jin.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3 - 141
Long Arm of the LawMovie · 1984 · 106m · Action, CrimeIn Hong Kong, a group of Chinese criminals aiming for a quick payoff get caught in a dangerous situation. Their planned heist quickly turns chaotic as tensions rise and they lose trust in each other. They accidentally kill an undercover officer, making things much worse.
Forced to hide until the police investigation cools, the criminals must depend on each other to survive. While trying to stay hidden, they become involved in a complicated mix of alliances, betrayals, and second chances. Their hopes for an easy score change into a fight to stay alive as their actions have consequences, forcing them to face not only the law but also their own values. This intense story explores loyalty, trust, and the results of choosing a life of crime.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8
- 142
Cape No. 7Movie · 2008 · 129m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceAga, a frustrated band singer, returns to her hometown of Hengchun. Tomoko, a Japanese model, is tasked with assembling a local band to warm up for a concert by a famous Japanese star on the beach. She unexpectedly teams up with five ordinary residents of Hengchun – people who aren't known for musical talent – to form a band that seems destined for failure.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 143
The Spring River Flows EastMovie · 1947 · 192mIn 1930s China, the Japanese army invades the village of a struggling family. Zhongliang leaves behind his wife and young son to join a medical unit with the Chinese Army, while his brother Zhangmin goes into hiding to safeguard his family. The story alternates between the hardships faced by the brothers' parents, Zhongliang's wife Sufan, and her son Kongeson, and Zhongliang’s unexpected life of comfort in a nearby town as he rises within a prosperous company.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.4 - 144
Infernal Affairs IIIMovie · 2003 · 118m · Crime, Drama, ActionAs Yeung Kam Wing attempts to distance himself from the criminal underworld, Lau Kin Ming watches his every move, fueled by a deep-seated personal resentment.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.9
- 145
The Man from Hong KongMovie · 1975 · 106m · Action, Crime, AdventureA veteran Hong Kong inspector, Fang Sing Leng, travels to Australia at the request of local authorities to question a suspect connected to Sydney's criminal network. When the suspect is suddenly killed, Inspector Leng teams up with Australian police to find those responsible.
The investigation forces them to navigate the dangerous criminal organizations in both cities, with Inspector Leng contributing his distinct Hong Kong policing methods. Together, they uncover a complicated plot of lies and betrayals that endangers their investigation and their lives. The film is a compelling story of international crime and cultural differences, following two law enforcement teams as they collaborate to achieve justice.Stream onIMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6
- 146
Lust, CautionMovie · 2007 · 158m · Action, Drama, RomanceIn World War II, a secret agent is tasked with a dangerous mission: gain the trust of a high-ranking official in the Japanese-controlled government of Shanghai, with the ultimate goal of assassinating him.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2
- 147
My Intimate PartnerMovie · 1960 · 101mBased on a popular three-cent novel, the story follows two impoverished friends: one sharp and street-smart, the other innocent and good-natured. These unlikely companions experience both hardship and fortune, ultimately achieving success.IMDb 6.6TMDB 8.0 - 148
The House of 72 TenantsMovie · 1973 · 98mThe film follows the everyday lives of the residents of a single city building during the Depression. It explores the lives of the diverse people who live within its walls.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 149
China BehindMovie · 1978 · 110mDuring the Cultural Revolution, a group of people from mainland China risk everything to reach Hong Kong, a British territory seen as a place of freedom. However, their hopes for a better life are quickly dashed as they discover that reality is very different from what they imagined.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.8