W2TCH

100 Best Chinese Mainland Films

100 titles

Default order ↑PopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox office
  1. 1Purple ButterflyMovie · 2003 · 127mIn Japanese-occupied Shanghai, Ding Hui is part of the formidable resistance group, Purple Butterfly. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she unexpectedly encounters Itami, her former lover and an officer in the secret police, assigned to destroy Purple Butterfly.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.6
  2. 2The Swordsman in Double Flag TownMovie · 1991 · 91mFollowing his father's final wishes, a young man travels to the isolated desert village of Double Flag Town to marry his bride. The villagers dismiss him as clumsy and uneducated. His life changes when he kills a man who tries to assault his bride, drawing the attention of the Lethal Swordsman – the victim's brother and a notorious killer. Will the young man flee with his bride, or confront the deadly swordsman?IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7
  3. 3The Black Cannon IncidentMovie · 1985 · 99mA mining engineer working as a translator is suspected of industrial espionage when a routine telegram he sends is intercepted by a watchful official. He's quietly investigated and moved to a less important job, without being told why. He asks to return to his original position, which leads to a confusing and increasingly complicated series of meetings within the Party.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.6
  4. 4In the Heat of the SunMovie · 1995 · 141m · Drama, RomanceBeijing, 1970s. During the Cultural Revolution, teenagers navigate adolescence in a city largely emptied of adults. Fourteen-year-old Monkey and his friends gain freedom and explore their independence, roaming the streets and seeking adventure. Their lives change when they encounter the complexities of girls, sparking camaraderie, curiosity, and personal growth. The film explores themes of lost innocence and adolescent challenges, capturing the energy of youth during a pivotal historical moment. It’s a look at young people finding their way through uncharted social and personal territories.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8
  5. 5Emperor Visits the HellMovie · 2012 · 67mThis is a contemporary take on the classic Chinese story *Journey to the West*. The narrative begins with the sudden death of Emperor Li Shimin.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.3
  6. 6Last Train HomeMovie · 2009 · 85m · Documentary, DramaEach year, a family joins a massive, grueling migration with 130 million other workers, traveling to be with relatives. The journey is a test of their love and resilience as China grows into a global superpower.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4
  7. 7Two Stage SistersMovie · 1964 · 112mSet in China before the revolution, the lives of two young sisters, Chunhua and Yuehong Xing, change as they become successful performers in Chinese opera. However, their newfound fame brings unexpected difficulties in their personal lives and within their community.Stream onIMDb 6.7TMDB 7.1
  8. 8The DaysMovie · 1994 · 80mThis film explores the alienation of city life through the story of two bohemian artists navigating the hazy atmosphere of old Beijing in the 1980s.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3
  9. 9Tie Xi Qu: West of the TracksMovie · 2004 · 551m · DocumentaryThis film closely examines the slow decline of Tiexi, an industrial district in Shenyang that was once a thriving symbol of China's socialist past. As industry shifts, factories in Tiexi are shutting down. Director Wang Bing profiles the workers impacted by these closures, and explores the effects on their families.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.7
  10. 10Summer PalaceMovie · 2006 · 135m · Drama, RomanceYu Hong journeys from her rural village to university in Beijing, where she becomes deeply involved with a fellow student. Their intense relationship is complicated by the 1989 student protests that erupt and profoundly impact their lives.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3
  11. 11Sacrificed YouthMovie · 1985 · 92mDuring China's Cultural Revolution, a young city girl is sent to live and work with the Dai people in a rural village. There, she discovers the joys of youth and develops a fresh perspective on life.IMDb 7.3TMDB 8.0
  12. 1224 CityMovie · 2008 · 108m · Drama, DocumentaryA state-owned aeronautics munitions factory in downtown Chengdu, China, is being demolished to make way for a luxury apartment building. Director Jia Zhangke interviews those connected to the factory – former workers, managers, and others – capturing their recollections of its history.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
  13. 13Keep CoolMovie · 1997 · 93m · ComedyIn 1990s China, a young bookseller becomes involved in a love triangle between an artist and her wealthy boyfriend. The boyfriend's power leads to violence against the bookseller, damaging a bystander’s laptop. The bookseller teams up with the laptop owner, a man from a different generation and social class, to seek justice. Together, they navigate the complexities of modern China as they pursue their own paths. The story explores themes of love and revenge while highlighting the country's changing society. Their quest for resolution reveals a poignant look at human connection and the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.5
  14. 14Red SorghumMovie · 1988 · 91m · Drama, Romance, HistoryThis story follows Jiu'er, who unexpectedly takes charge of a secluded winery after her husband, a man with leprosy, dies. In their close-knit community, she finds support in "my Grandpa," her secret lover and ally in building a new, women-led society. When Japanese invaders seize control of the area, destroying vital sorghum fields for a new road, the determined community unites under Jiu'er’s leadership to resist. They fight to reclaim their land and cultivate more sorghum, showcasing the enduring power of the human spirit when facing hardship.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  15. 15ShowerMovie · 1999 · 92m · Comedy, Drama"Shower" is a heartwarming comedy about family, friendship, and tradition. It's set in a small-town bathhouse where an elderly father and his mentally challenged son have worked together for years, serving their regular customers. Their peaceful routine is disrupted when the elder son returns from pursuing a career in Shenzhen. The strained relationships between father and son are tested, creating a humorous yet touching story about family bonds. This charming film features relatable characters in a distinctive setting, reminding us that simple pleasures can bring great joy and healing.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9
  16. 16Taking Father HomeMovie · 2005 · 100mA 17-year-old boy from a Sichuan village journeys to the city to find his father, who disappeared six years ago. His mother continues to receive money from his father, fueling his simmering anger. He isn't seeking reconciliation; revenge is his sole motivation. Lost and alone, he wanders the sprawling city with a basket of ducks on his back.Stream onIMDb 6.5TMDB 5.0
  17. 17Early SpringMovie · 1963 · 120mA young man, seeking a simpler life and a more truthful community, relocates to the countryside. However, he discovers that even in this isolated village, he encounters injustice.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.9
  18. 18The Horse ThiefMovie · 1986 · 88m · DramaNorbu, a devout member of a Tibetan community who lives by Buddhist principles, finds his family at odds with their beliefs due to his life as a highwayman. Accused of stealing from the temple, Norbu, Dolma, and their young son Tashi are banished from their clan, leaving them impoverished and desperate. Their hardship deepens when Tashi falls ill and dies of a fever. Grieving but determined to protect his newborn child, Norbu undertakes a dangerous journey to regain acceptance for his family and secure their survival through the winter. The story explores themes of love, devotion, and the power of human connection as they struggle for salvation and a place to belong.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6
  19. 19East Palace, West PalaceMovie · 1996 · 95mA straight police officer in Beijing finds his understanding of his own sexuality questioned when he encounters a young man who is openly gay, leading to a complex dynamic between them.Stream onIMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2
  20. 20FatherMovie · 2000 · 96mA widowed father, Ma Lisheng, struggles to connect with his school-age son, Ma Che. While holding a mundane job as a party functionary, Ma finds raising his son incredibly difficult. He oscillates between attempts at bonding – even sharing drinks with him – and harsh verbal attacks, leaving him feeling lost. Desperate to escape his father's torment, Ma Che decides to find him a new wife, eventually selecting Qing Huaiyuan, the mother of a classmate.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0
  21. 21The Lin Family ShopMovie · 1959 · 85mA Chinese store owner is driven to financial ruin by mounting economic and political pressures.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.1
  22. 22Still LifeMovie · 2006 · 108m · Drama, RomanceAs the Three Gorges Dam project progresses, a town in Fengjie County is being dismantled and submerged. A man and woman travel to the town to find their former partners, and are confronted by the community's evolving circumstances.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  23. 23PlatformMovie · 2001 · 155m · Drama, HistoryThe story follows four performers in a theater troupe as they navigate China's dramatic transformation from the late 1970s to the early 1990s.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0
  24. 24New WomenMovie · 1935 · 106mWei Ming, a woman with a captivating allure, unexpectedly achieves overnight success as a novelist. However, driven by the urgent need to afford her daughter's medical treatment and facing harassment from a wealthy and unethical man, she is ultimately forced into the world of high-end prostitution.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.5
  25. 25OxhideMovie · 2005 · 110mDirector Liu Jiayin stars alongside her parents as members of a Beijing family struggling financially. They survive by crafting bags from oxhide to sell.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.0
  26. 26Crows and SparrowsMovie · 1949 · 113mIn a Shanghai apartment, Mr. Hou, a Nationalist official, prepares to relocate to Taiwan as the Civil War nears its end. His wife demands that the other tenants leave, as Mr. Hou intends to sell the flat, which he claims ownership of. Conversations reveal Mr. Hou’s past as a collaborator with the Japanese during the Sino-Japanese War and his forceful takeover of the apartment from the previous owner, Mr. Kong. Initially united, the tenants – including Mr. Kong, Mrs. Xiao, Little Broadcast (also known as Mr. Xiao), and a schoolteacher, Mr. Hua, and his wife – are forced to seek alternative solutions. Mr. Hua tries to secure lodging at the KMT-run school where he teaches. Little Broadcast and Mrs. Xiao invest in the black market gold trade. As tensions rise, Mr. Hua is arrested by KMT agents, and his young daughter becomes seriously ill.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.4
  27. 27ErmoMovie · 1995 · 98mIn a quiet Chinese province, Ermo, a simple noodle maker, feels undervalued by those around her. Determined to win their respect, she resolves to buy the largest, most expensive television available, even if it means working tirelessly to earn the money.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.9
  28. 28Nezha Conquers the Dragon KingMovie · 1979 · 65m · Animation, Fantasy, AdventureThis film tells the story of Nezha, a courageous young warrior from Chinese legend. He goes on a grand adventure to fight a powerful group of evil dragons. The story combines mythology and action, offering suspense, adventure, and a look at important qualities like bravery and strength. We see Nezha grow from a regular warrior into a hero as he faces many challenges and tries to do what's right.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.7
  29. 29If You Are the OneMovie · 2008 · 124m · Drama, Comedy, RomanceQin Fen, a cheerful and straightforward inventor who is single, meets a woman named Smiley who is heartbroken after her boyfriend's betrayal. They journey to Hokkaido, attempting to help Smiley heal emotionally. Along the way, both Qin Fen and Smiley discover love and a renewed sense of purpose.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7
  30. 30The GoddessMovie · 1934 · 79m · DramaThis film follows a determined young woman fighting for a better life for her child while facing the difficult realities of her work. In a world marked by prejudice, she battles to escape the control of a manipulative pimp. The story explores the complexities of human resilience and the strength people discover when confronted with hardship. It’s a moving portrayal of hope found in the most unexpected places.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.7
  31. 31Street AngelMovie · 1937 · 91mIn 1930s Shanghai, two sisters – one a prostitute, the other a singer – seek refuge from dangerous men. They find unexpected help in a trumpet player and a newspaper vendor.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6
  32. 32Yellow EarthMovie · 1984 · 91m · Drama, Music, HistorySet against the backdrop of Maoist China, the film follows a communist soldier sent on a mission to collect folk songs from remote villages. He arrives at a secluded community of peasants, whose lives stand in contrast to his own beliefs. Initially met with suspicion, the soldier slowly gains the trust of a widowed father and his children as he spends time with them. Through shared moments, he begins to understand their way of life and the importance of their songs. The film explores cultural exchange, empathy, and the power of human connection. Navigating this unfamiliar world, the protagonist discovers the beauty and resilience of these people, who offer him valuable life lessons. The story examines how different worlds can find common ground through understanding and shared experiences.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.2
  33. 33PetitionMovie · 2009 · 120mChina's legal system offers a way for citizens to challenge local government actions, but requires them to travel to Beijing to petition the courts, facing lengthy delays. "Petition" follows a group of petitioners between 1996 and 2008, unfolding like a sweeping story in the vein of Zola or Dickens. Filmed from the petitioners' perspective, the movie offers an intimate look at their experiences, avoiding the viewpoints of authorities like officials, police, and local enforcers.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.0
  34. 34The September of MineMovie · 1990 · 88mIn the lead-up to the 1990 Beijing Asian Games, a group of elementary school students vie for a spot in the opening ceremony's martial arts performance. This coming-of-age story follows the earnest An Jianjun as he strives for his dream, navigating challenges with hard work, friendship, and disappointment. The film offers a detailed, humorous, and affectionate look at life for Beijing residents.IMDb 7.3TMDB 8.5
  35. 35Spring in a Small TownMovie · 1948 · 94m · Drama, RomanceAfter World War II, a couple struggles to survive in a remote Chinese village. Their routine is disrupted when the husband's old friend arrives, having traveled far to find them. The emotional reunion brings up hidden secrets and unexpected possibilities, challenging the couple's relationship as they face life's hardships in a war-torn land. This drama examines friendship, loyalty, and the power of human connection in post-war China.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  36. 36Woman Demon HumanMovie · 1987 · 108mThis is the story of a celebrated actress in Chinese opera who defied convention by focusing on male roles, particularly the character of Zhang Kui, a kind ghost frequently featured in traditional performances. While her career earned her both wealth and renown, it came at the cost of fighting against a deeply ingrained societal bias against women and enduring personal unhappiness.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.5
  37. 37Crazy StoneMovie · 2006 · 98m · Action, ComedyThree thieves attempt to steal a valuable jade guarded by a vigilant security chief. However, they aren't the only ones after it; a notoriously unlucky, internationally famous master thief is also pursuing the same prize. Where will this extraordinary jade ultimately end up?IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6
  38. 38The MessageMovie · 2009 · 118m · Drama, ThrillerFollowing a string of killings in Nanking, a Japanese spy master brings together a collection of individuals at a mansion. A suspenseful game of deception unfolds as a Chinese agent attempts to conceal their true allegiance.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4
  39. 39Drug WarMovie · 2012 · 107m · Action, Drama, CrimeDuring a raid, a powerful drug cartel leader is captured and pressured into cooperating with authorities. He agrees to provide information and turn on his former associates as part of a covert operation.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9
  40. 40The WorldMovie · 2004 · 140m · DramaIn Beijing World Park, a sprawling entertainment complex blending the styles of Las Vegas and Epcot, a security guard's personal life unravels when he cheats on his dancer girlfriend with another woman. The park offers visitors the experience of interacting with famous international landmarks, all within the city's outskirts.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9
  41. 41Let the Bullets FlyMovie · 2010 · 132m · Action, ComedyForced into disguise, an outlaw assumes the identity of a county governor to reform a town riddled with corruption. The reluctant hero soon faces a dangerous confrontation with the town's powerful crime boss.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.7
  42. 42The Missing GunMovie · 2002 · 90m · Comedy, Crime, DramaFollowing a night of heavy drinking, a police officer finds himself without his service weapon. He desperately searches for the lost revolver while also pursuing the killer responsible for the death of his former lover.Stream onIMDb 6.6TMDB 7.0
  43. 43HeroMovie · 2002 · 99m · Drama, Adventure, ActionIn ancient China's Warring States period, a district official journeys to the court of Qin Shi Huang, asserting he eliminated the three individuals who previously tried to assassinate the king.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5
  44. 44Suzhou RiverMovie · 2000 · 83m · Drama, RomanceFresh out of prison, low-level criminal Mardar encounters a woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to the woman he tried to kidnap three years prior.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
  45. 45House of Flying DaggersMovie · 2004 · 119m · Adventure, Drama, ActionIn 9th century China, a dishonest government fights a rebellion led by the Flying Daggers. A skilled warrior rescues a captivating rebel from jail to aid her in reuniting with her forces, but the situation is more complicated than it appears.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3
  46. 46Black SnowMovie · 1990 · 107mAfter a stint in a labor camp, a man returns to Beijing only to discover he's lost his family, his future, and his friends. Struggling to find work, he's pulled back into a criminal world by old acquaintances.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9
  47. 47Hibiscus TownMovie · 1987 · 164m · Drama, History, RomanceBased on the novel by Gu Hua, the film follows a determined young woman as she lives through China's turbulent Cultural Revolution. This moving story portrays her struggles during a time of widespread social and political upheaval. The film immerses viewers in the complexities of the era, showing how deeply it affects people and their connections. It balances moments of hope and difficulty, highlighting the strength of the human spirit in the face of hardship.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9
  48. 48Ju DouMovie · 1990 · 95m · DramaIn a quiet Chinese town, a woman is trapped in a difficult marriage to the owner of a dye mill. His cruelty extends to his inability to have children. A secret child is born to the wife and the husband's nephew, and the child must live in this oppressive world without revealing his true parentage. This tragic story, beautifully filmed in color, explores the complexities of love – romantic and familial – within a society bound by tradition. The film examines universal themes of loyalty, desire, and family ties, and how the human spirit endures despite overwhelming societal pressures.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1
  49. 49City of Life and DeathMovie · 2009 · 132m · Drama, History, WarIn 1937, at the height of the Second Sino-Japanese War, the Imperial Japanese Army captures Nanjing, the capital of the Republic of China. What follows is the Nanking Massacre, also known as the Rape of Nanking, a six-week period during which tens of thousands of Chinese soldiers and civilians are killed.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
  50. 50This Life of MineMovie · 1950 · 120mThis film chronicles fifty years of modern Chinese history (1900-1950) – a period marked by war, revolution, and political upheaval – as experienced by an ordinary Beijing policeman and his family.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4
  51. 51Back to Back, Face to FaceMovie · 1994 · 148mWang Shuangli, the Deputy Director of the local Cultural Centre, aspires to become Director. His ambitions are thwarted when Old Ma is appointed as the new Director. This decision triggers a series of events as Wang's allies exploit the system to undermine Old Ma's position.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.2
  52. 52Doctor Ma's Country ClinicMovie · 2008 · 210mIn the arid, mountainous region of Huangyangchuan, Gansu province, China, respected local doctor Ma Bingcheng's clinic is a daily hub for farmers. Within its walls, conversations flow freely – about life, local issues, and neighbors. The clinic becomes a microcosm where the stories and experiences of diverse people converge, revealing the realities and destinies of ordinary Chinese farmers, both young and old.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.2
  53. 53Unknown PleasuresMovie · 2002 · 112m · Comedy, DramaTwo young men in a Chinese industrial town, feeling lost and without work, spend their days wandering the streets. Their lives intersect with a local singer and dancer who promotes liquor as a spokesperson for a company.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.4
  54. 54Beijing BicycleMovie · 2002 · 113m · DramaA seventeen-year-old country boy working as a courier in Beijing has his bicycle stolen. He later discovers it in the possession of a schoolboy who is also his age.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8
  55. 55King of the ChildrenMovie · 1987 · 107mDuring China's Cultural Revolution, a young man with no formal education is sent to work in the countryside. He's later assigned to teach at a local school. Slowly, he moves away from the official Maoist curriculum, encouraging his students – who are barely able to read and write – to express themselves through writing about their own experiences and emotions.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
  56. 56The Next LifeMovie · 2012 · 81mIn May 2010, Ye Hongmei, from Dujiangyan, Sichuan province, began a difficult journey to conceive another child. Her eight-year-old daughter had died in the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, a disaster that killed and injured over 6,000 children. China's one-child policy had left many grieving families like hers without any children.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 8.0
  57. 57Waves Washing the SandMovie · 1936 · 68mAfter a long trip abroad, a man returns to find his wife and child with another man. Consumed by rage, he kills the other man and must go on the run to avoid arrest. His flight eventually leads him to a deserted island, where he confronts his ultimate fate.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0
  58. 58Zero Thousand Li Under the Clouds and MoonMovie · 2013 · 85mDrawing inspiration from three actual events, this film by director and Buddhist scholar Cheng Yusu follows three travelers on a journey across the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
  59. 59KaramayMovie · 2010 · 356mIn 1994, a devastating fire in Karamay, a city in Northwest China known for its oil industry, killed nearly 300 schoolchildren. The students were performing for government officials and were instructed to remain standing so the officials could exit first. Following the tragedy, news of the fire was heavily censored by Chinese state media. The families of the victims have since been denied public mourning.Stream onIMDb 8.5TMDB 7.5
  60. 60Winter VacationMovie · 2011 · 91mOn the final day of winter break in a quiet Northern Chinese village, four bored teenagers gather at the home of Zhou Zhixin, who lives with his father, brother, and nephew. Like many teens today, they just want to spend the last day of holiday together, relaxing in a place where little excitement ever happens. Their conversations are casual, sometimes turning into pointless arguments. One of them, Laowu, openly discusses with his girlfriend how teenage romance could impact their studies, while Laobao questions the purpose of school and its connection to real life.Stream onIMDb 6.4TMDB 6.9
  61. 61The Blue KiteMovie · 1994 · 141m · DramaThis is a touching story about a young boy growing up in a poor neighborhood in Beijing during the 1950s and 60s. It’s a nostalgic coming-of-age story about the relationships, struggles, and joys of a time when China was changing quickly. We see the boy's resilience and resourcefulness as he navigates life with his friends in their tight-knit community. The film beautifully captures a sense of the past while offering a glimpse into a little-known part of Chinese history through the eyes of one boy.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2
  62. 62PickpocketMovie · 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
  63. 63A Touch of SinMovie · 2013 · 131m · Drama, CrimeFour separate stories from contemporary China depict sudden, unexpected acts of violence.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.2
  64. 64The Monkey King: Uproar in HeavenMovie · 1961 · 114m · Animation, Adventure, FantasyIn a world of gods, Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, challenges the Jade Emperor's authority over Heaven. Refusing to accept the rigid order of the celestial realm, he rebels against the Emperor and other gods. The story explores power, freedom, and finding oneself, as the Monkey King’s bold spirit and cleverness clash with the established heavenly rules. It’s a story where fantastical mythology meets relatable human emotions.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.7
  65. 65Spring FeverMovie · 2009 · 116m · Drama, RomanceLuo Haitao is hired to secretly monitor a cheating husband, but she unexpectedly develops a hidden relationship with the husband's partner. Luo and her girlfriend then find themselves caught up in a series of passionate encounters. The synopsis questions how long this secret affair can continue.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2
  66. 66Third Sister LiuMovie · 1960 · 117m"Liu Sanjie" is a legend originating from the Zhuang people, China's largest ethnic minority group. The story centers on a woman named Liu Sanjie, meaning "third sister of the Liu family." Passed down through generations as an oral tradition, similar characters appear in other minority cultures. Legend says Liu Sanjie possessed an extraordinary singing voice from childhood, capable of calming anger and lifting spirits. The story gained national prominence after the 1960 film "Liu Sanjie," a notable musical in Chinese cinema.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.6
  67. 67Beijing BastardsMovie · 1993 · 88mA rock musician searches for his girlfriend, who has left him after becoming pregnant. He struggles with the decision of whether or not to have the child.IMDb 5.5TMDB 6.0
  68. 68Song of the FishermenMovie · 1934 · 56mThis is the story of a fishing family living near Shanghai. The family welcomes twin babies – a boy and a girl. The film briefly follows their childhood, including their friendship with a boy from a wealthy family who is their age.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.7
  69. 69DisorderMovie · 2009 · 58mThis film is a darkly humorous exploration of city life, presenting a series of bizarre and interconnected moments. It's a collection of strange sounds and happenings, creating a unique and unsettling urban experience.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0
  70. 70Woman Basketball Player No. 5Movie · 1957 · 84mTian Zhenhua travels to Shanghai to coach a women's basketball team. Xiaoje, the team's star player (number 5), is talented but uncertain about her future in the sport. As Tian works to train Xiaoje and the team, he recalls his own past as a prominent basketball player before the revolution.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.7
  71. 71Raise the Red LanternMovie · 1991 · 125m · DramaIn 1920s China, the young and innocent Songlian is brought into a new world when she becomes the fourth wife of a powerful Lord. She must quickly adjust to the strict social rules governing the lives of her husband and his three wives. The film explores power struggles, jealousy, and ambition as Songlian competes with the other women for the Lord's attention. Set against a backdrop of political and social change in 1920s China, the story reveals layers of drama within the Lord’s estate. Within the lavish setting, Songlian fights to gain acceptance in a world defined by status. She learns about alliances, deception, and vulnerability, showcasing the strength of the human spirit during a time of uncertainty and hardship.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9
  72. 72My Memories of Old BeijingMovie · 1983 · 96mIn late 1920s Beijing, six-year-old Yingzi and her family arrive in the city. While exploring the bustling streets and alleyways, Yingzi befriends a grieving widow who has become consumed by sorrow, waiting endlessly at her home for her daughter's return.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.7
  73. 73Rainclouds Over WushanMovie · 1996 · 96mA police officer investigates an introverted signal-station manager who is suspected of raping a hotel clerk.IMDb 7.0TMDB 4.6
  74. 74CowMovie · 2009 · 105m · Drama, WarIn 1940, a Chinese peasant is tasked with guarding his village's prized dairy cow throughout a severe winter.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0
  75. 75The Sun Also RisesMovie · 2007 · 116m · Fantasy, DramaThe film weaves together several stories set in different locations and time periods: a village in Yunnan, a university campus, and the Gobi Desert.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.4
  76. 76The Dream FactoryMovie · 1997 · 90m · ComedyFour friends start a business pretending to be anyone their clients want, for a price. Through this unusual service, they experience different worlds and help people feel better and overcome their anxieties. This interesting work is both entertaining and reveals a lot about how people behave, giving the friends and their clients important life lessons.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0
  77. 77Secrets of the Heavenly BookMovie · 1983 · 89m · Animation, Fantasy, AdventureIn a realm where gods rule and humans live cautiously between the spiritual and everyday, Yuangong, formerly a respected god, is banished for sharing forbidden knowledge from a sacred book with humans. As punishment, the Jade Emperor condemns him to eternally guard the book. Now, a cunning fox opposes Yuangong's efforts to share this knowledge with humanity. She relentlessly tries to stop him, forcing him to face both external challenges and his own internal struggle after his fall from grace. Amidst a world of divine beauty and earthly dangers, Yuangong must find redemption by confronting the fox and fulfilling his duty before it’s too late.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5
  78. 78A World Without ThievesMovie · 2004 · 113m · Action, DramaA skilled con artist couple flees east after swindling a city businessman out of his BMW. Their plans are complicated when they meet a young, trusting carpenter on his way home with his life savings, forcing them to reconsider their life of crime.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2
  79. 7911 FlowersMovie · 2012 · 110mDuring China's Cultural Revolution, an 11-year-old boy named Wang Han becomes involved with a fugitive and grapples with the complexities of adulthood. It's a story about growing up amidst upheaval.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5
  80. 80Fortune TellerMovie · 2010 · 157mLi Baicheng is a charming fortune teller who works with sex workers and others living on the fringes of Chinese society – people whose livelihoods, like his own, are technically illegal. He practices his traditional craft in a village near Beijing while caring for his wife Pearl, who is deaf and mute and whom he rescued from an abusive family. When the authorities launch a crackdown on fortune tellers and prostitutes during the winter, Li and Pearl are forced to flee to his hometown, where he confronts painful memories of his past. The film is structured with chapter headings reminiscent of popular stories from the Qing Dynasty.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7
  81. 81Princess Iron FanMovie · 1941 · 73m · Fantasy, Animation, DramaThis film adapts the classic Chinese tale *Journey to the West*, focusing on Princess Iron Fan in a major conflict between good and evil. The story explores the complicated connection between the Monkey King and the princess, whose magical fan can stop fires threatening a village. The film features an exciting fight between them, showcasing martial arts and magic, and examining themes of power, forgiveness, and the dangers of wanting too much. The fantastical world reveals both the good and bad in people and the results of endless desire. Blending action, magic, and insightful storytelling, this movie takes viewers to a magical place where old legends meet modern narratives, creating a captivating experience from beginning to end.Stream onIMDb 6.3TMDB 5.3
  82. 82Oxhide IIMovie · 2009 · 134mFour years after the film *Oxhide* (2005), director Liu Jiayin and her parents reunite for a single evening, recreating scenes from the movie while preparing and eating dumplings together.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6
  83. 83Mr. ZhaoMovie · 1998 · 89mMr. Zhao's film centers on a doctor in Shanghai who has an affair. His life becomes complicated when his mistress, Tian Jing, tells him she's pregnant. At the same time, his wife discovers the affair but refuses to divorce him.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7
  84. 84Mountain PatrolMovie · 2004 · 85m · Action, DramaThis is a powerful true story of volunteers working to safeguard antelope from poachers in the challenging, high-altitude mountains of Tibet.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5
  85. 85The Big RoadMovie · 1935 · 104mSix young men from the city take jobs building roads for the Chinese Army.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.9
  86. 86To LiveMovie · 1994 · 133m · Drama, Romance, WarAmidst significant political upheaval in China, Fugui and Jiazhen's lives are dramatically altered as they transition from prosperous landowners to impoverished peasants. Fugui's gambling addiction leads to a series of disastrous decisions, resulting in the loss of their wealth. Forced to adapt to a rapidly changing world, both are thrust into unexpected circumstances: Fugui is drafted into both the nationalist and communist armies, while Jiazhen must take on grueling labor to support their family. Throughout these hardships, their resilience is tested, and their bond deepens as they navigate the difficult realities and unexpected strengths of human endurance during a period of great uncertainty.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.1
  87. 87PeacockMovie · 2005 · 144mThe film offers an intimate look at life in a quiet Chinese city, revealing the universal aspects of human experience – our hopes, flaws, and aspirations – through the ordinary moments of everyday life.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.3
  88. 88On the BeatMovie · 1995 · 102mThis film follows the mundane routines of police officers in Beijing's western sector, where crime is minimal and procedures dominate. A loose dog triggers a sector-wide hunt, escalating when authorities order all dogs captured due to rabies fears and their popularity among the wealthy. The officers occasionally apprehend petty criminals – a pornography dealer, a three-card monte operator – but mostly they smoke, attend meetings, and undergo training. Patrolling on bicycles and enforcing regulations, they navigate their duties. Officer Guoli works the night shift, facing domestic pressure from his wife who desires more from him. Is there anything more to be done?IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6
  89. 89People Mountain People SeaMovie · 2012 · 91mIn the rugged Southwest China, a tale of revenge unfolds where violence is commonplace.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.1
  90. 90The SearchMovie · 2009 · 105mA filmmaker travels to the Himalayas in search of a lead actor and actress for his Tibetan opera.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7
  91. 91AssemblyMovie · 2007 · 123m · Action, HistoryThe film centers on a soldier determined to secure recognition for his fallen comrades from the 1948 civil war. The story unfolds during a critical period of conflict between the communist and nationalist forces of the Kuomintang.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0
  92. 92For FunMovie · 1993 · 97mOld Han, recently retired from his job as a utility worker at a Peking Opera theater, finds himself with nothing to do and wanders the backstreets of Beijing searching for something to fix.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0
  93. 93Blind ShaftMovie · 2003 · 92m · Drama, CrimeTwo Chinese miners profit by killing colleagues and then blackmailing the mine owner to cover up the deaths as accidents. While dealing with their latest victim, one of the killers starts to question their actions.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5
  94. 94The 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
  95. 95The TroubleshootersMovie · 1988 · 110mYu Guan and his friends launch a business designed to solve people's problems – marital issues, work troubles, and more. They offer solutions ranging from dealing with a wife's nagging to securing recognition for a little-known writer.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2
  96. 96Devils on the DoorstepMovie · 2001 · 139m · Drama, WarDuring the Japanese occupation of China, two prisoners are hidden in a peasant's home in a quiet village. The peasant is forced to shelter them until they can be collected at the New Year. The village leaders gather to question the prisoners. The community then faces challenges in providing for the hidden men. One is an aggressive Japanese nationalist, the other a timid translator. Can the villagers successfully conceal the prisoners until the New Year arrives?IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.2
  97. 97Sorrows and Joys of a Middle-Aged ManMovie · 1949 · 105mIn China before the communist revolution, a widower develops feelings for a young woman he works with – a woman who is the same age as his children.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.3
  98. 98Farewell My ConcubineMovie · 1993 · 171m · DramaIn 1924 Peking, two young boys meet at a prestigious opera school. Their friendship blossoms as they navigate the world of music and performance. Over the following decades, their bond endures despite China's turbulent history – including war and revolution. The film explores how their unwavering loyalty shapes their lives and remains strong through profound historical events, in a story about love, friendship, and perseverance.Stream onIMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9
  99. 99Long Live the Mistress!Movie · 1947 · 108mA man's newfound wealth leads him to an affair, which his wife is aware of but chooses to ignore. As the affair progresses, it begins to negatively impact his business. Simultaneously, the man's sister develops a relationship with his wife’s brother.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
  100. 100The Story of Qiu JuMovie · 1992 · 100m · Comedy, DramaIn a rural Chinese village, pregnant peasant woman Qiu Ju's life changes when her husband is injured by the village head. Defying traditional expectations, she journeys to seek justice. Initially confronting the bureaucracy in a nearby town, she discovers even greater obstacles. Qiu Ju’s pursuit of justice leads her through the complex system of a large city. Her determination stands in sharp contrast to the oppressive bureaucracy. This difficult journey tests Qiu Ju's strength, transforming her into a symbol of empowerment for women seeking equality in a patriarchal world.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3