Netflix Instant Asian Film Archive

Here’s a look at select Asian titles streaming on Netflix Instant. Be advised that a few of these films are only available on streaming [dubbed] in English and that earlier movies on this list may have expired:

11/4/12

White Vengeance (2011) – a Chinese historical epic from the director of “Black Mask,” Daniel Lee. Streaming in HD

The Viral Factor (2012) – Dante Lam directs this explosive Hong Kong action flick starring Nicholas Tse and Jay Chou. Streaming in HD

Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale (2011) – John Woo produced this Taiwanese epic about the aborigines’ battle against the Japanese Imperial army. Streaming in HD

My Way (2011) – one of the most successful Korean films of all time, this tells the story of two friends – one Korean, one Japanese – as they are separated and reunited during the war. Streaming in HD

Fireball (2009) – this Thai action movie combines basketball with the brutal martial art of Muay Thai. Streaming in HD

Wind Blast (2010) – a modern Chinese action picture with a Western spin, co-starring Francis Ng. Streaming in HD

Butterfly Sword (1993) – a high-flying wuxia from the director of “A Chinese Ghost Story,” starring Michelle Yeoh, Tony Leung Chiu Wai, and Donnie Yen. Streaming in HD

Dragon Lord (1982) – Jackie Chan directs and stars in this vintage martial arts picture. Streaming in HD but [dubbed]

Riki-Oh: Story of Ricky (1991) – the outrageously violent Hong Kong cult classic. Streaming in HD

Gothic & Lolita Psycho (2010) – also known as “Psycho Gothic Lolita,” this Japanese splatter/action flick comes in the vein of “The Machine Girl.” Streaming in HD

Hana & Alice (2003) – a drama about two teenage friends divided by their mutual attraction for a boy. From the acclaimed director of “All About Lily Chou-Chou,” Shunji Iwai

Hansel & Gretel (2007) – this Korean horror film unfolds as a dark fairy tale for adults. Highly recommended. Streaming in HD

Headshot (2011) – in this acclaimed Thai thriller, a hitman recovers from a bullet to the head and discovers he now sees everything upside down. Streaming in HD

Kagemusha (1980) – a drama set in Medieval Japan from internationally renown director Akira Kurosawa. Streaming in HD

Mutant Girls Squad (2010) – the latest shocking Japanese splatterflick from Sushi Typhoon. Streaming in HD

Salvage Mice (2011) – an obscure martial arts beat-em-up from Japan, featuring a cast of female fighters. Streaming in HD

Jan Dara (2001) – this controversial Thai drama co-stars Hong Kong starlet Christy Cheung in a tale of sexual obsession

Blood Brothers (2007) – a glossy remake of John Woo’s “Bullet in the Head” set in 1930’s Shanghai, starring Daniel Wu and Shu Qi

I Wish (2011) – a heartfelt Japanese drama about two young brothers separated by their parents’ divorce. Streaming in HD

7/16/12

The Chaser (2008) – this grim ‘n gritty film is a must see for fans of Korean revenge flicks. Streaming in HD

Dark Forest of Death (2006) – four campers become stranded in this Korean horror movie. Streaming in HD

Finding Mr. Destiny (2010) – a woman tries to reunite with her first love in this winsome Korean romantic comedy. Streaming in HD

Glove (2001) – a Korean baseball drama. Streaming in HD

Open City (2008) – a Korean drama about pick-pockets. Streaming in HD

Parallel Life (2010) – a newly appointed judge discovers the tragic events of his life mirror those of a judge who lived 30 years ago in this Korean drama. Streaming in HD

Private Eye (2012) – a private detective is on the case of a mysterious murder in this Korean period thriller. Streaming in HD

Punch (2011) – based on a popular young adult novel, this Korean coming of age tale follows a poor kid living in the slums and the cranky teacher who inspires him. Streaming in HD

See You After School (2006) – in this Korean film, a geeky kid picks a fight with the school bully before he realizes what he’s done. Streaming in HD

Silenced (2011) – based on a true story, this haunting Korean drama follows a teacher as he tries to uncover abuse at a school for the hearing impaired. Streaming in HD

Sunny (2011) – a Korean film about a group of seven female friends preparing for a dance festival. Streaming in HD

The Story of Mr. Sorry (2009) – a bizarre and surreal Korean animated film about a shy man who suddenly shrinks down to the size of a spider. Streaming in HD

The Shock Labyrinth (2009) – set in a haunted amusement park, this new experience in terror arrives from “The Grudge” director Takashi Shimizu. Streaming in HD

Norwegian Wood (2010) – a melancholy Japanese love story based on the novel by internationally acclaimed author Haruki Murakami. Streaming in HD

Blood: The Last Vampire (2009) – a live-action adaptation of the popular anime from the French director of “Kiss of the Dragon.” Streaming in HD on your TV

In the Mood For Love (2001) – Wong Kar-Wai’s modern romantic classic starring Tony Leung Chiu Wai and Maggie Cheung

Sector 7 (2011) – a group of oil riggers are besieged by a deadly sea monster in this special FX-infused Korean movie. Streaming in HD

6/24/12

Battle Royale (2000) – it’s ‘Lord of the Flies’…with machine guns! Streaming in HD

Battle Royale II (2003) – the sequel was not as well received, though. Streaming in HD

Let the Bullets Fly (2010) – Chow Yun Fat plays the bad guy in a blood-splattered Chinese homage to the spaghetti Western. Streaming in HD

6/18/12

Detective Dee and the Mystery of the Phantom Flame (2010) – Tsui Hark’s visually stunning wuxia-detective story, featuring Andy Lau in the title role. Streaming in HD

The Twins Effect 2 AKA Blade of Kings (2004) – a martial arts fantasy from Hong Kong, featuring appearances by Donnie Yen and Jackie Chan

Attack the Gas Station Part 2 (2010) – a sequel to the popular Tarantino-esque Korean film. Streaming in HD

Blood Rain (2006) – a murder mystery set in early 19th century Korea. Streaming in HD

The Curse of February 29th (2006) – a grisly Korean horror flick revolving around Feb 29th. Streaming in HD

Ghost (2010) – believe it or not, this is a Korean remake of the famous Patrick Swayze/Demi Moore movie. Streaming in HD

Lump of Sugar (2006) – a Korean film about the bond between a young girl and her horse, named Thunder. Streaming in HD

My Scary Girl (2006) – a college lecturer finds out his new love may not be as sane as she appears in this Korean romantic comedy. Streaming in HD

Over the Border (2006) – a South Korean family flee to the North when they lose everything in this drama. Streaming in HD

Project Makeover (2007) – a fashion assistant tries to become a designer in this Korean comedy. Streaming in HD

The Recipe (2010) – an inspiration Korean drama revolving around a death row inmate’s one of a kind recipe. Streaming in HD

Sex is Zero II (2007) – Korean college kids are up to all sorts of hijinks in this sex comedy. Streaming in HD

White (2011) – an all-girl pop group gets more than they bargained for when they record a haunted song in this Korean horror film. Streaming in HD

Hwang Jin Yi (2007) – in 16th century Korea, a well-to-do woman purposefully chooses the life of a commoner. Streaming in HD

5/25/12

Dragon Tiger Gate (2006) – Nicholas Tse and Donnie Yen headline this martial arts fantasy in the “Storm Riders” vein [dubbed]

Full Contact (1992) – a classic early 90′s Hong Kong action film from director Ringo Lam that features plenty ‘o testosterone, spent bullets, and Chow Yun Fat [dubbed]

House of Fury (2005) – actor Stephen Fung steps behind the camera to direct this action/comedy about a family of super spy martial artists [dubbed]

Initial D: Special Edition (2005) – Jay Chou is in the driver’s seat for this Hong Kong film based on the popular Japanese anime about racing [dubbed]

Kung Fu Fighter (2007) – considered by many to be a rip-off of “Kung Fu Hustle.” You may want to pass on this one since it’s [dubbed]

4/20/12

Fire of Conscience (2010) – one of Dante Lam’s best films is a gritty cop tale starring Leon Lai and Richie Ren. Streaming in HD

Punished (2011) – a dark Hong Kong revenge film, produced by Johnnie To and starring Anthony Wong and Richie Ren. Streaming in HD

War of the Arrows (2011) – this bloody Robin Hood-esque tale was a smash hit at the Korean box office. Streaming in HD

Ocean Heaven (2010) – Jet Li stretches his acting chops in this heart-warming father/son story. Streaming in HD

Yakuza Weapon (2011) – more gory madness from Japanese production house Sushi Typhoon, starring Tak Sakaguchi of “Versus” fame. Streaming in HD

4/2/12

Flash Point (2007) – Donnie Yen headlines one of the best modern Hong Kong action flicks of the past ten years. Streaming in HD

A Tale of Two Sisters (2004) – the terrifying Korean horror tale that launched the career of director Kim Ji-woon (“I Saw the Devil”)

Triad Election (2006) – the sequel to “Election” is Johnnie To’s electrifying tale of Triad deception and manipulation

A World Without Thieves (2004) – Andy Lau headlines this big-budget Chinese film about international thieves

Romeo Must Die (2000) – Jet Li’s urban take on “Romeo & Juliet” proved to be one of his more successful American ventures. Streaming in HD

Samaritan Girl (2004) – Korean bad boy director Kim Ki-duk offers this tale of a teenage prostitute

Shutter (2004) – this Thai tale of a camera that captures ghosts is exactly the kind of Asian horror flick you’d expect

Oldboy (2003) – this Korean revenge tale most likely needs no introduction to Cityonfire.com readers

Phone (2004) – you may want to think twice before answering the phone in this Korean horror flick

The Quest (1996) – Jean Claude Van Damme made his directorial debut with this glorified remake of “Bloodsport” that is actually pretty damn good. Streaming in HD

R-Point (2004) – this South Korean military horror flick is set during the Vietnam War and quite effective in its chills

The Heroic Duo (2003) – Hong Kong actors Ekin Cheng and Leon Lai team up for action maestro Benny Chan film that somehow feels less than the sum of its parts

The Maid (2005) – an Asian horror film courtesy of the Philippines, which actually ended up breaking box office records there

Enter the Dragon (1973) – okay, yeah, not much I can add here. This Bruce Lee film is an institution. Streaming in HD

Face (2004) – this Korean horror film involves a conspiracy around organ theft

Ghost of Mae Nak (2005) – more creepy Asian horror, this time courtesy of a British director and a Thai cast

The Ghost (2004) – a college girl suffers from amnesia as her friends are killed off by various water-related incidents in this Korean horror flick

Carved: The Slit Mouthed Woman (2007) – a Japanese horror film about the mysterious slit mouthed woman, who is presumably up to no good

Cinderella (2006) – an art school student fears her plastic surgeon mother is up to no good in this Korean horror movie

Divergence (2005) – director Benny Chan delivers a cast of Hong Kong regulars including Daniel Wu, Aaron Kwok, and Ekin Cheng in this action flick

Dorm (2006) – a Thai horror film set in, where else, but a dormroom

Bloody Reunion (2006) – a high school reunion ends up bloody in this Korean horror film

Ab-Normal Beauty (2004) – a young photographer discovers a disturbing fascination with death in this horror film from one half of the Pang Brothers

Broken Arrow (1996) – one of John Woo’s more successful American ventures, starring John Travolta and Christian Slater. Streaming in HD on your TV

Mandril (2009) – the bad guy from “Undisputed III,” Marko Zaror, breaks out in his own spy-action movie. Streaming in HD

The Assailant (2009) – the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira gets its own spotlight at last with this film based on a true story. Streaming in HD

1911 (2011) – Jackie Chan goes all political for his 100th film, this Chinese historical piece. Streaming in HD

My Kingdom (2011) – a Chinese historical romance with the occasional flair for action, featuring Yuen Biao and Rongguang Yu in supporting roles. Streaming in HD

3/1/2012

Outrage (2010) – Takeski Kitano’s outrageously violent Yakuza thriller comes to Netflix. Streaming in HD

Dororo (2008) – a Japanese action/fantasy film based on the popular manga by the creator of Astro Boy. Streaming in HD

Wushu (2008) – a Mandarin-language martial arts film aimed at younger audiences and produced by Jackie Chan. Streaming in HD

Never Back Down 2: The Beatdown (2011) – the Cityonfire.com favorite Mixed Martial Arts flick directed by and starring Michael Jai White. Streaming in HD on TV

Midnight Eagle (2007) – a suspenseful Japanese action-adventure film based on a popular novel. Streaming in HD

Godzilla vs. Monster Zero (1965) – it’s Godzilla vs. Monster Zero AKA the three-headed menace Ghidorah

Ran (1985) – legendary Japanese auteur Akira Kurosawa retells Shakespeare’s tragedy King Lear as a samurai epic. Streaming in HD

1/27/12

Beginning of the Great Revival (2011) – a history of the rise of the Communist Party, featuring Hong Kong heavies like Andy Lau and Daniel Wu in “blink and you’ll miss them” cameos. Streaming in HD

Dynamite Warrior (2006) – a mystical Thai martial arts movie starring Dan Chupong, co-star of Muay Thai Stunt Team flicks like “Born to Fight,” “Ong Bak 3,” and “Muay Thai Giant”

Exiled (2007) – a gritty gangster picture about loyalty and brotherhood from the master of the genre, Johnnie To. Starring top actors Anthony Wong and Francis Ng. Streaming in HD

Audition (1999) – Takashi Miike’s landmark horror film shocked audiences around the world and helped put his name on the map. Wanna know why Miike himself has a cameo in “Hostel”? This is it

Caterpillar (2010) – acclaimed Japanese director Kôji Wakamatsu tells the story of a soldier who returns gravely injured from the Second Sino-Japanese War

United Red Army (2007) – Kôji Wakamatsu’s critically acclaimed docudrama details the political unrest in Japan during the early 1970’s. Streaming in HD

Kiltro (2006) – Chilean stuntman and martial artist Marko Zaror of “Undisputed III” fame stars in this kung fu film by way of Latin America. Streaming in HD

Oliver Stone Presents: Bang Rajan (2007) – set in 18th century Thailand as 11 villagers stand their ground against an invasion of the Burmese Army. At only 71 minutes, there is word this film heavily cut for its Western release

Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior (2003) – the original “Ong Bak” and most would still say the best. This bone-crunching martial arts flick announced Tony Jaa as an international talent to watch. Streaming in HD

Tears of the Black Tiger (2002) – a hallucinatory spaghetti Western-style film from Thailand. Unfortunately, the version available on streaming is the Miramax edit as opposed to Magnolia’s DVD release so it’s cut by 30 minutes. Streaming in HD

The Butcher, the Chef and the Swordsman (2010) – Doug Liman of “Go” and “Bourne Identity” fame presents this Chinese action-comedy told from multiple perspectives. Streaming in HD

Mirageman (2007) – Mark Zaror of “Kiltro” and “Undisputed III” returns with a comedic martial arts take on the superhero genre. Streaming in HD

Triple Tap (2010) – Hong Kong filmmaker Derek Yee (“Shinjuku Incident”) directs Louis Koo and Daniel Wu against each other in this action-thriller. Streaming in HD

1/1/12

A Chinese Ghost Story (1987) – the supernatural kung fu love story that would become a Hong Kong new-wave classic, starring the late great Leslie Cheung. Streaming in HD

A Chinese Ghost Story 2 (1990) – director Ching Siu-Tung (“Swordsman” series) returns for the sequel to his landmark film. Streaming in HD

A Chinese Ghost Story 3 (1991) – a loosely related sequel, produced by Tsui Hark and once again directed by Ching Siu-Tung. Streaming in HD

City on Fire (1987) – this is it, the movie that started it all! Chow Yun Fat stars in a gritty crime film directed by Ringo Lam, which would go on to inspire Quentin Tarantino’s “Reservoir Dogs.” Streaming in HD

Swordsman (1990) – Ching Siu-Tung of “A Chinese Ghost Story” fame directs the first entry in this popular wuxia series, starring Jacky Cheung. Streaming in HD

Bunraku (2010) – what do you get when you cross the Western with film noir and classic martial arts flicks? Somethign like “Bunraku,” which stars Josh Hartnett, Japanese rock god Gackt, Woody Harrelson, and Ron Perlman. Streaming in HD

Helldriver (2010) – the latest and greatest in blood-soaked Japanese splatterpunk from your friends at Sushi Typhoon, the creators of “Machine Gun Girl” and “Tokyo Gore Police.” Streaming in HD

Cold Fish (2010) – a chilling exercise in real world horror from Sion Sono, the director of “Suicide Club.” Highly recommended for fans of extreme Asian cinema. Streaming in HD

Secret Sunshine (2007) – a powerful and moving Korean language drama, which won a Best Actress award at Cannes for lead actress Jeon Do-yeon

12/14/11

Shaolin (2011) – Benny Chan’s ode to the Shaolin Temple stars Andy Lau, Nicholas Tse, Fan Bingbing, Wu Jing, and Jackie Chan. Streaming in HD

A Better Tomorrow (2010) – John Woo’s classic heroic bloodshed film is re-imagined as a slick Korean melodrama in this remake. Streaming in HD

Avalon (2001) – from the director of “Ghost in the Shell” comes this Polish language science-fiction film, praised by James Cameron for its stylish and artistic filmmaking. Streaming in HD

A Beautiful Life (2011) – a romantic drama from top Hong Kong director Andrew Lau (“Infernal Affairs”) and starring Shu Qi (“The Transporter,” “So Close”). Streaming in HD

If You Are the One: Love and Marriage (2010) – get a double dose of Shu Qi and romance as she stars in this 2010 romantic comedy. Streaming in HD

11/23/11

The Warring States (2010) – a Chinese historical epic co-starring Francis Ng that combines romance, comedy, and action

Ultraman: Towards the Future (1990) – feeling nostalgic? The early 90’s American version of the Japanese superhero TV show Ultraman is now on streaming

11/19/11

The Haunted Drum (2007) – a Thai horror movie about a musician who has a cursed placed on him

Wu Ho: Undercover Operation (2006) – a Hong Kong Triad movie cashing in on “Infernal Affair’s” success, starring Eric Tsang, Francis Ng, and Jordan Chan

Saviour of the Soul (1993) – Hong Kong superstars Andy Lau, Anita Mui, and Aaron Kwok take center stage in this wire-fu fantasy epic from director Cory Yuen

11/17/11

Zen of Sword (1992) – two lovely and talented ladies, Kara Hui and Cynthia Khan, star in this Hong Kong wire fu spectacle

Heavenly Mission (2006) – Ekin Cheng and Stephen Fung headline this gritty Triad drama

11/16/11

Swordsman 2 (1991) – the classic Jet Li picture is presented on streaming with subtitles so can finally say good-bye to your crappy Miramax dub!

Jet Li’s Fearless (2006) – Jet Li teamed up with “Bride With White Hair” director Ronny Yu for what may end up being Jet’s last truly great martial arts epic

Tai Chi Fist AKA Tai Chi II (1996) – Jacky Wu and Billy Chow star in Yuen Woo-Ping’s ode to Tai Chi, the film that gave Darren Shahlavi of “Ip Man 2″ fame his first big break

The Three Swordsman (1994) – Brigitte Lin and Andy Lau headline this early 90′s wire fu period action flick

Doctor Mack (1995) – Tony Leung Chiu Wai headlines this drama about a doctor who works in the red light district, viewed as an angel to the poor and dispossessed but as an outcast by mainstream society

Cup Unbowed (2004) – Alex Fong plays a cop looking to escape his troubled line of work in this action-packed crime thriller

Dating a Vampire (2006) – in this Hong Kong thriller, two med students become smitten with their beautiful vampire. Only problem is, she’s a vampire

Ghost Mother (2007) – a Thai horror movie about a mommy who returns from the afterlife to protect her kids from vicious drug lords

Slim Till Dead (2005) – Anthony Wong stars in a thriller about the then-popular Hong Kong trend of crash dieting. Directed by Wong Jing so you have been warned

11/15/11

49 Days (2006) – a Hong Kong horror flick starring Stephen Fung and Gillian Chung

C’est La Vie, Mon Cherie (1994) – a Hong Kong romance about love and rock ‘n roll, starring Anita Yuen

Dr. Lamb (1992) – notorious Category III nastiness about a taxi driver who murders for a thrill, starring Simon Yam and Donnie Yen

Eternal Evil of Asia (1995) – another notorious Category III flick, featuring black magic and lots of skin on display

Eye in the Sky (2007) – a Milkyway Production about crime and police surveilance starring Simon Yam and Tony Leung Ka Fai

Green Snake (1993) – Tsui Hark’s early 90’s fantasy romance starring Maggie Cheung is a dreamy, sensual masterpiece

Kung Fu Mahjong (2005) – Yuen Wah stars in this slapstick cash-in on the popularity of “Kung Fu Hustle”

Isabella (2006) – from the director of “Dream Home” comes this drama about a fired cop who tries to seduce a young woman, only to discover that she is his long lost daughter

New Legend of Shaolin AKA Legend of the Red Dragon (1994) – Jet Li stars in this off-the-wall martial arts flick co-directed by Wong Jing and Cory Yuen

Perhaps Love (2005) – Takeshi Kaneshiro stars in this romantic musical from “Wuxia” director Peter Chan

Red Trousers (2004) – “Mortal Kombat” actor Robin Shou headlines this half-documentary, half-action flick about Hong Kong stuntment

Rich and Famous (1987) – Chow Yun Fat and Andy Lau headline the first part of this vintage Triad film

Tragic Hero (1987) – the sequel to “Rich and Famous,” featuring one of the most gloriously violent ‘heroic bloodshed’ endings of all time. A must see for Chow Yun Fat fans!

Shamo (2007) – from the director of “Dog Bite Dog” comes this violent adaptation of a manga, co-starring Francis Ng

Treasure Hunt (1994) – action, comedy, romance, and CIA intrigue with Chow Yun Fat

What Women Want (2011) – superstars Andy Lau and Gong Li headline this remake of the American romantic comedy of the same name. Streaming in HD

Yesterday Once More (2004) – Johnnie To directs onscreen super couple Andy Lau and Sammi Cheng in this caper romantic comedy

11/3/11

Shinjuku Incident (2009) – Jackie Chan stretches his acting chops in this gritty drama with violence that will surprise you

The Sky Crawlers (2008) – the director of “Ghost in the Shell,” Mamoru Oshii, helms this meditative and gorgeous-looking anime

Triads: The Inside Story (1989) – this film received a Category III rating in Hong Kong due to its detailed look at Triad initiation rituals. Chow Yun Fat stars in a supporting role

The Stool Pigeon (2010) – Dante Lam’s explosive Hong Kong thriller set in the world of cops and criminal informants stars Nicholas Tse and Nick Cheung

Machete Maidens Unleashed! (2010) – a rousing documentary about Filipino exploitation cinema from the 70’s and 80’s, chock full of plenty of clips from the wildest drive-in movies you can imagine

The Warrior’s Way (2009) – one of the biggest stars in Asia, Dong-gun Jang, stars in this green-screened action movie that combines Eastern sword-slaying with a Western setting

Showdown in Little Tokyo (1991) – not an Asian movie but it does features Bruce Lee’s son, Brandon Lee, in one of his precious few starring roles. Alongside him is that lumbering hunk of a man, Dolph Lundgren, in this action-packed buddy flick

10/15/11

The Wall (2002) – a Hong Kong crime thriller starring Jordan Chan, from director Marco Mak

The Unseeable (2006) – Thai horror film about a small town woman whose lover may be more than human

Tokyo Gore School (2009) – Japanese horror film about students pitted against each other by an mysterious website

Tiramisu (2002) – Dante Lam directs this ghostly Hong Kong love story starring Nicolas Tse

To Catch a Virgin Ghost (2004) – this Korean horror-comedy has gangsters stuck in a haunted town

Siamese Outlaws (2004) – Thai action/crime flick about crooks who end up at each other’s throats when it comes time to split the money

Shiver (2003) – Francis Ng stars in this Chinese language horror film about a marriage on the rocks after the wife is injured in a robbery

The Show Must Go On (2007) – Korean drama starring Song Kang-ho (“The Host”) as a family man who also happens to be a criminal kingpin

Short Time (2005) – Korean film about a corrupt cop who learns he has a brain tumor

Screen at Kamchanod (2007) – Thai horror movie concerning a rumor that film projectionists screened a movie for an audience of ghosts

Searching for the Elephant (2009) – Korean drama about a gorup of childhood friends who each suffer from a social disorder

Running on Empty (2010) – Japanese film about a fed-up girlfriend who stages a kidnapping in order to get back the money her ex-boyfriend owes her

The Righteous Thief (2009) – Korean film about a descendent of Robin Hood who fights corrupt businessmen

On the Edge (2006) – Hong Kong crime drama about an undercover cop played by Nick Cheung who has difficulty recovering from his time spent in the underworld

Once Upon a Time in Corea (2008) – Comedy-adventure film from Korea about the Japanese government trying to transport a priceless diamond from Korea to Japan

Once Upon a Time in Seoul (2008) – Korean film about two brothers who find themselves pitted against local gangsters after the Korean War

One Night: Choice of Evil (2010) – Japanese movie about four people whose paths cross on one fateful night

Persona (2008) – Japanese fantasy drama about a grieving widow who follows a mysterious girl into the park

The Pit and the Pendulum (2009) – Korean film about classmates who reunite for a funeral and each have a different version of their friend’s death

Possessed (2002) – a college student may be possessed in this Chinese language horror film

The Pot (2009) – hit Korean horror movie about a family who moves to the countryside and becomes embroiled in an ancient ritual

Psychedelic Cop (2002) – Danny Lee stars as, what else, a cop in this Hong Kong crime thriller

The Replacement Suspect (2001) – Hong Kong crime thriller in the “Infernal Affairs” mold from director Marco Mak

Rainbow Eyes (2007) – in this Korean thriller, two cops investigate a murder case tied to their past on a military base

The Loner (2008) – Korean horror film about a girl who begins to talking to people who aren’t there after the death of her best friend

M (2006) – in this Japanese film, a disturbed young man tries to save his housewife neighbor from a life of prostitution

Missing Person (2009) – dark and disturbing Korean movie about a real estate agent immersed in a dog-eat-dog world

Meatball Machine (2002) – a Japanese splatterhorror flick in the vein of “Tokyo Gore Police”

Monopoly (2006) – Korean crime thriller about a scheme to steal millions from Korean banks

Mr. Tadano’s Secret Mission (2008) – Japanese film about a businessman who is an undercover agent by night

Muoi: The Legend of the Portrait (2007) – a novelist searches Vietnam to solve the local legend of a haunted painting in this Korean horror film

Nightmare Detective II (2008) – Shinya Tsukamoto directs the follow-up to his film about a man who can enter dreams

No Doubt (2010) – Korean drama about a father out to solve the mystery of his daughter’s death

Hissatsu: Sure Death (1984) – Japanese samurai movie about a band of merchants who are really mercenaries

Hellevator: The Bottled Fools (2005) – Japanese horror film set in a future where elevators are a main mode of transportation

Heat Team (2004) – Dante Lam directs this Hong Kong action-comedy starring Aaron Kwok and Eason Chan

Hit Team (2001) – Dante Lam also directs this more serious Hong Kong action flick starring Daniel Wu

Holiday (2006) – Korean film about protestors who are jailed after rallying against the government’s destruction of poor neighborhoods before the 1988 Olympics

Insadong Scandal (2009) – Korean movie about a recently discovered painting and the disgraced artist hired to restore it

Leave Me Alone (2004) – Danny Pang of the Pang Brothers directs this Hong Kong thriller about a fashion designer forced to assume his twin brother’s identity, starring Kenny Bee, Ekin Cheng, and Charlene Choi

The Last Days of the World (2010) – Japanese film about a student who is taken on a surreal journey after he learns the world will soon be destroyed

Dream (2008) – a dark and surreal fantasy from acclaimed Korean director Kim Ki-duk

Elevator Trap (2009) – in this Korean movie, four people find themselves trapped in an elevator for reasons they must unravel

Epitaph (2007) – a Korean horror anthology, centered around a Korean hospital

The Evil Twin (2008) – Korean horror film about a girl who awakes from a coma and finds her village plagued by a terrible family secret

The Executioner (2009) – the first scheduled execution in 12 years creates tension among prison guards in this Korean drama

Fly High (2006) – Korean drama about a young man whose life is sent upside down when the girl he loved returns after a two year disappearance

For Bad Boys Only (2000) – a young Ekin Cheng and Louis Koo tear it up as two bad boys with an eye for trouble and the ladies in this Hong Kong action-comedy

Ghost Photos (2006) – Japanese horror film about a girl who receives a text from her brother, foretelling of death

Green Chair (2005) – this Korean drama about the real life affair between a housewife and an underage boy won a Sundance Jury Prize

Handphone (2009) – in this Korean thriller, a movie agent will go to any means to protect his actress client from a looming sex scandal

Bloody Innocent (2010) – a Korean drama about two students whose friendship is torn apart after the girl they love is found murdered

The Boat (2009) – a Korean/Japanese co-production about two smugglers who are hired to kidnap the daughter of a Korean businessman

Boys on the Run (2010) – Japanese film about a socially awkward virgin nearing 30  who tries to win the heart of his co-worker

Crazy ‘n the City (2005) – an underrated ‘slice of life’ cop comedy/drama from Hong Kong starring Francis Ng and Eason Chan

The Death Curse (2003) – a Hong Kong horror comedy starring the Twins of “Twins Effect” fame

Dachimawa Lee (2008) – a box office smash in Korea that spoofs the James Bond movies

Antarctic Journal (2005) – a Korean film about a journey across the Antarctic which may prove fatal

Ashura (2005) – a surreal Japanese film which arrives on streaming just as the DVD from AnimEigo goes out of print

Bestseller (2010) – Korean thriller about a plagiarism scandal

The Big Swindle (2004) – Korean crime thriller about a group of thieves trying to find the whereabouts of their missing loot

10/1/11

Arahan (2004) – this action-packed, special-effects laden superhero flick was a blockbuster hit in Korea. Streaming in HD

I’m a Cyborg, But That’s Okay (2006) – from the director of “Oldboy” comes this quirky love story set in a mental institution

The Unjust (2010) – this gritty Korean crime film from the director of “No Blood, No Tears” and “City of Violence” follows a battered detective trying to solve a string of child murders

Silmido (2004) – this hit Korean film is based on the true story of a group of North Korean soldiers trained to infiltrate the South and attempt to assassinate the President in 1968

Supercop (1992) – the Miramax edit and dub of “Police Story 3” with Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh is now on streaming. There is an upside: Streaming in HD.

Castaway on the Moon (2009) – this hit Korean romantic-adventure follows a man stranded on a tiny island and the woman who observes him from her window

Moss (2010) – in this Korean thriller a man returns to his father’s remote village for a funeral, only to discover that the town may have terrible secrets. Streaming in HD

No Mercy (2010) – in this Korean thriller, a forensic pathologist must race against time to rescue his kidnapped daughter. Streaming in HD

Rikidozan (2010) – this Korean biopic tells the real story of sumo wrestler Rikidozan, who was held back in his career solely because of his half Korean heritage

Secret (2010) – after the death of his son, a detective discovers his estranged wife may have links to a murder case in this Korean crime movie. Streaming in HD

Murder, Take One (2005) – this Korean crime movie shows what happens when a murder investigation becomes the subject of a reality television show

Going By the Book (2007) – this Korean crime comedy involves a group of police officers who attempt to stage a bank robbery for the benefit of the public. Streaming in HD

Sophie’s Revenge (2008) – this Chinese romantic comedy stars Fan Bingbing and Zhang Ziyi. Can you handle that much cute? Streaming in HD

The King and the Clown (2005) – this Korean period piece concerns two clowns who stage a play mocking the king

Love In Between (2010) – a Korean thriller about a jilted wife who secretly attempts to befriend her husband’s mistress

Killer Bride’s Perfect Crime (2009) – this Korean road trip comedy follows a young bride with a corpse on her hands

Sayonara, Itsuka (2010) – this Japanese film is a romantic drama about two people who reunite after 25 years and realize they’re still in love

Good Morning President (2009) – this Korean comedy mixes complex national politics with personal drama

The Servant (2010) – this Korean movie is labeled as a comedy period piece about a servant who falls in love with a girl her Master also desires

9/30/11

BKO: Bangkok Knockout (2010) – this Thai stunt-filled spectacular from the director of “Born to Fight” and “Ong Bak 2” is a must see for action fans. Streaming in HD

9/23/11

Tiger Cage II (1990) – this Hong Kong action flick was directed by Yuen Woo-Ping and stars “Ip man” Donnie Yen. In other words: watch it! [dubbed]

Rumble in the Bronx (1995) – the dubbed, Miramax cut of Jackie’s classic 90’s movie is available courtesy of Starz Play, which usually means poor visual quality on streaming [dubbed]

Howl’s Moving Castle (2004) – this anime from the revered Studio Ghibli is also streaming courtesy of Starz Play [dubbed]

Dream Lovers (1986) – this 80’s romance starring Chow Yun Fat and Brigitte Lin (“The Bride With White Hair”) is billed as Hong Kong’s answer to “Somewhere in Time” with a dreamy, synth-pop soundtrack. Streaming in HD

The King of Masks (1999) – this arthouse drama from Mainland China is about an aging street performer looking to pass his tradition on

9/22/11

Little Big Soldier (2010) – Jackie Chan’s latest action-comedy, this time set during the Warring States period, makes it way to streaming. Streaming in HD

Twinkle Twinkle Lucky Stars (1985) – this Hong Kong action comedy, the third in the Lucky Stars series, stars Sammo Hung and Yuen Biao with Jackie Chan in a supporting role. Also look for Andy Lau and Michelle Yeoh, the latter making her big screen debut. Streaming in HD

Dr. Wai in the Scripture With No Words (1996) – martial arts icon Jet Li stars with Takeshi Kaneshiro (“House of Flying Daggers”) in this global action adventure that has an Indiana Jones vibe. Directed by Ching Siu-tung of “A Chinese Ghost Story” fame. Streaming in HD [dubbed]

Sun Valley (1996) – this ‘Chinese Western’ was a Chinese-Hong Kong co-production from the director of “Warriors of Heaven and Earth.” Streaming in HD

9/21/11

Dragons Forever (1988) – this vintage Hong Kong action film was the last to star Jackie Chan, Sammo Hung, and Yuen Biao together as the Three Dragons, and is considered by many to be their best. Streaming in HD

Wheels on Meals (1984) – another classic starring Jackie, Sammo, and Yuen! This film was shot on location in Spain and features a legendary fight scene between Jackie and Benny “the Jet” Urquidez. Streaming in HD

Zu: Warriors From the Magic Mountain (2001) – in a confusing twist, this film is falsely labeled on Netflix as 1983’s “Zu: Warriors From the Magic Mountain” but it’s actually the uncut, subtitled version of 2001’s “The Legend of Zu,” which is also available on streaming in its cut and dubbed version. Streaming in HD

Yes, Madam (1985) – this classic girls-with-guns film from director Cory Yuen teamed up Michelle Yeoh with Cynthia Rothrock. Streaming in HD

Tiger Cage (1988) – a vintage Hong Kong action flick directed by Yuen Woo-Wing and starring Donnie Yen, Jacky Cheung, and Simon Yam. Streaming in HD

Executioners (1988) – Michelle Yeoh, Maggie Cheung, and Anita Miu return in Johnnie To’s sequel to the popular “The Heroic Trio.” Streaming in HD

Flaming Brothers (1987) – this 80’s Hong Kong gangster film stars Chow Yun Fat and Alan Tang. Streaming in HD

Iron Monkey II (1977) – Netflix says “not to be confused with the sequel to 1977’s smash hit ‘Iron Monkey.'” I’m as confused as you are! Streaming in HD [dubbed]

9/20/11

The Housemaid (2010) – this Korean thriller about an affair that develops between the man of a household and their new maid was an Official Selection of the 2010 Cannes Film Festival. Streaming in HD

9/14/11

King of Beggars (1992) – this hit martial arts comedy stars Stephen Chow (Kung Fu Hustle), was directed by Gordon Chan (Fist of Legend), and features a cameo from legendary choreographer Yuen Woo-Ping! Streaming in HD

Negative Happy Chainsaw Edge (2007) – billed as an “atmospheric Japanese drama,” this crazy-looking flick follows a hapless high school student who falls for the girl of his dreams – a skilled martial artist gal who must do battle with the Chainsaw Man!

Goth (2008) – this film is a live-action adaptation of a popular Japanese manga about two death-obsessed high school students who try to track down a serial killer, mostly so they can get an up close look at his victims. Streaming in HD

YOGA: The Movie (2009) – silly title aside, this Korean horror film follows a TV reporter who enrolls in a yoga school, only to find that the students are mysteriously disappearing

Geisha Assassin AKA Geisha vs. Ninja (2008) – at a glance, this looks to be low-budget, direct-to-video Japanese action at its finest

City Hunter (2011) – this 20-episode Korean TV series is based off the popular manga that was once adapted into a feature film by Jackie Chan. The show’s been available on streaming for at least a month but it has enough fans that we figure it deserves a mention on this list!

9/1/11

Clash (2009) – high octane Vietnamese action film from the makers of “The Rebel“; starring Johnny Nguyen of “The Protector” fame. Streaming in HD

Kingdom of War: Parts 1 and 2 (2006) – historical action epic from Thaland. Could this be Thailand’s answer to “Red Cliff”? Streaming in HD

8/28/11

The Expendables (2010) – Sly Stallone’s all-star action flick is now streaming in HD. The film features at least two highly trained martial artists, namely Jet Li and Gary Daniels (“Bloodmoon”); and Jason Statham, who underwent some rigorous training from Hong Kong director Cory Yuen before filming “The Transporter.” Streaming in HD

King of Fighters (2010) – live action adaptation of the popular and long-running Japanese video game series, directed by “Fist of Legend” director Gordon Chan and starring the always lovely Maggie Q (“Naked Weapon”). Streaming in HD

Assault Girls (2009) – a surreal and meditative science-fiction film about online gaming in the future, from “Ghost in the Shell” director Mamoru Oshii. Streaming in HD

Bodyguards & Assassins (2009) – this historical action drama from Hong Kong starring Donnie Yen comes highly recommended. Streaming in HD

Drop (2009) – a coming-of-age tale about teenage Japanese delinquents. A mix of humor and brutal fight scenes. Highly recommended. Streaming in HD [dubbed]

Dream Home (2010) – a Hong Kong slasher movie with elements of comedy and drama from acclaimed filmmaker Pang Ho-Cheung. Starring the lovely Josie Ho. Streaming in HD

8/5/11

13 Assassins (2010) – Takashi Miike’s samurai epic is a must see for fans of Asian cinema. Streaming in HD

Sukiyaki Western Django (2007) – an update on the Django tale from “13 Assassins” director Takashi Miike, featuring a cameo by Quentin Tarantino. Streaming in HD

Project A (1983) – one of Jackie Chan’s most beloved films that saw him reuniting with his old friends Sammo Hung and Yuen Biao. Streaming in HD [dubbed]

Iron Monkey (1993) – Quentin Tarantino cut and subbed this Donnie Yen martial arts film for Western consumption and had his buddies at Miramax release it. Streaming in HD

Zu Warriors (2001) – Tsui Hark’s special FX-laden blockbuster was to Hong Kong what the Star Wars prequels were to American audiences. Streaming in HD [dubbed]

Dragon Lord (1982) – the opening sequence of this little-known Jackie Chan film served as an inspiration for the tree-climbing scene at the beginning of “Ong Bak.” Streaming in HD [dubbed]

The Game of Death (1978) – the classic Bruce Lee film that the actor was tragically never able to complete. Streaming in HD

Easy Money (1987) – Michelle Yeoh stars in a feminized Hong Kong take on “The Thomas Crown Affair.” Streaming in HD

Project A 2 (1987) – Jackie Chan returns for more action in the sequel to the popular “Project A.” Streaming in HD [dubbed]

Three…Extremes II (2002) – an Asian horror anthology from directors Ji-woon Kim, Nonzee Nimibutr, and Peter Chan

Revenge (1964) – a samurai film from director Tadashi Imai

The Secret of the Urn (1966) – a samurai film from director Hideo Gosha

8/1/11

The Man From Nowhere (2010) – a supremely violent and well done revenge movie from Korea. If you thought “Taken” was bad-ass, you have to see this. Streaming in HD

I Saw the Devil (2010) – from acclaimed director Ji-woon Kim and the star of “Oldboy” comes this relentlessly grim revenge thriller. Streaming in HD

Mother (2009) – the director of “The Host,” Joon-ho Bong, weaves this dark murder mystery, co-starring Won Bin from “The Man From Nowhere.” Streaming in HD

Wing Chun (1994) – this Hong Kong martial arts film stars Michelle Yeoh and Donnie Yen, and was directed by master Yuen Woo-Ping. Streaming in HD

The Heroic Trio (1993) – Michelle Yeoh, Maggie Cheung, and Anita Mui team up as three superheroines to fight crime in a futuristic Hong Kong. Directed by Johnny To! Streaming in HD [dubbed]

Operation Condor 2: Armour of God (1987) – as you can probably tell from the title, this is an edited and dubbed version of “Armour of God” that was released in America as a sequel to “Operation Condor,” even though that film is actually “Armour of God II.” Confused yet? Streaming in HD [dubbed]

Sonatine (1994) – Takeshi Kitano’s critically acclaimed Yakuza thriller. Streaming in HD

Kung Fu Dunk (2008) – this Hong Kong crowd pleaser features Taiwanese superstar Jay Chou, who played Kato in the most “Green Hornet” movie, and Eric Tsang. Streaming in HD

Mighty Peking Man (1997) – this Shaw Brothers’ take on the King Kong story stars Danny Lee. Streaming in HD

Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives (2010) – this thought-provoking film from Thailand won the prized Palme d’Or at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival. Streaming in HD