Best Asian Movies You Should Watch Right Now + The Best OTT Platforms to Stream Them

Asian cinema has been gaining tremendous global recognition in recent years. Whether you’re into thrillers, romance, drama, or historical epics, the diversity of Asian films offers something for every taste. Along with the rise of high-quality production, the accessibility to these films through OTT (Over-the-top) platforms has also made it easier than ever to explore the beauty of Asian movies from the comfort of your home.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best Asian films, and guide you on how to get access to these masterpieces for free. Plus, we’ll dive into why Netflix stands as the top choice for streaming services.

Top Asian Movies You Must Watch

1. Parasite (2019) – South Korea Directed by Bong Joon-ho, Parasite is a dark social satire that explores class inequality. It became the first non-English film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, making it a must-watch. The story of the Kim family and their unexpected involvement with the wealthy Park family will keep you on the edge of your seat.

2. Your Name (2016) – Japan This animated feature directed by Makoto Shinkai tells the story of two teenagers who mysteriously swap bodies. A beautifully animated film that combines romance, fantasy, and drama, Your Name became a massive hit both in Japan and worldwide.

3. The Wandering Earth (2019) – China A thrilling sci-fi epic, The Wandering Earth is set in a future where Earth is in danger of colliding with another star. The film follows a group of people trying to save the planet by relocating it to another solar system. With stunning visuals and a unique premise, it’s a must-see for sci-fi fans.

4. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000) – China Directed by Ang Lee, this martial arts masterpiece is filled with breathtaking choreography and a deeply emotional narrative. The film takes viewers through stunning landscapes and beautiful sword fights, while exploring themes of love, betrayal, and honor.

5. Oldboy (2003) – South Korea A revenge thriller directed by Park Chan-wook, Oldboy is a mind-bending film with twists and turns that will leave you shocked. It follows a man who is inexplicably imprisoned for 15 years and then released, only to embark on a quest to find out who did this to him and why.

6. The Lunchbox (2013) – India A heartwarming romantic drama, The Lunchbox explores the unlikely connection between two strangers through a mistaken lunch delivery. The film beautifully captures the nuances of life in Mumbai, touching on themes of love, loneliness, and second chances.

7. Train to Busan (2016) – South Korea One of the most thrilling zombie films, Train to Busan combines horror and action in a story about passengers trying to survive a zombie outbreak while on a train to Busan. Its emotional depth and intense suspense made it a global sensation.

How to Watch These Movies for Free

Many streaming services require a paid subscription, but there are also ways to watch your favorite Asian films without spending a dime. Here are some options to watch these movies for free:

• Tubi: This ad-supported platform offers a wide range of movies and TV shows for free, including many Asian films. While you may have to watch ads, it’s a great option for those looking to enjoy films without committing to a subscription.

• Pluto TV: A free streaming service that offers movies, TV shows, and live channels, including Asian movies. The platform’s extensive library includes titles from multiple genres.

• Viki: Rakuten Viki offers a good selection of Asian dramas, movies, and variety shows, especially from Korea, Japan, and China. You can watch a lot of content for free, but ads will be included in the free version.

• YouTube: Many Asian movies are available for free on YouTube, either on official channels or through uploaded content. Look for legal channels that post films with English subtitles.

• Public Domain Torrents: Some older Asian films may be available in the public domain and can be downloaded for free through trusted torrent sites. Make sure to verify the source to ensure you’re accessing the content legally.

Best OTT Platforms for Asian Movies

When it comes to paid streaming services, the following platforms offer great options for accessing Asian cinema:

1. Netflix: Netflix remains one of the best OTT platforms globally, and it offers an extensive library of Asian films and TV series. Whether you’re into K-dramas, Japanese anime, or Chinese thrillers, Netflix has something for everyone. It also produces high-quality original content from Asia, like Money Heist: Korea and Squid Game. The user interface is intuitive, and the platform supports multiple devices, making it easy to watch your favorite movies on the go.

2. Amazon Prime Video: Amazon offers a great selection of international content, including Asian movies. Their catalog includes classics, indie films, and regional cinema, with some titles available for rent or purchase. It’s a great alternative for discovering lesser-known gems.

3. Hulu: Hulu has a growing collection of Asian movies, including Japanese and Korean titles, and frequently adds new releases. Its interface is easy to navigate, and it also offers a mix of international and domestic content, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking diverse movie options.

4. Disney+: While primarily known for family-friendly content, Disney+ also offers a strong catalog of Asian films, including titles from Japan, such as Studio Ghibli classics, and various Chinese films produced by Marvel and Star Wars franchises.

5. Crunchyroll: Best known for anime, Crunchyroll is a great platform if you’re into Japanese animated series and films. You can watch many anime movies for free with ads, and the premium subscription unlocks an ad-free experience with access to more content.

Why Netflix is the Best OTT Platform

While there are many great OTT platforms, Netflix stands out for several reasons:

1. Extensive Library: Netflix offers an extensive range of Asian movies, series, and documentaries. From award-winning films to niche genres, its catalog caters to diverse tastes.

2. Original Content: Netflix produces high-quality original Asian content, including films and series from South Korea, Japan, and India. The success of shows like Squid Game and Money Heist: Korea has proven that Netflix knows how to tap into Asian storytelling.

3. Global Availability: Netflix is available in over 190 countries, making it easy to access Asian films regardless of where you are in the world.

4. Subtitles and Dubbing: Netflix provides subtitles in multiple languages, making it easy for international viewers to enjoy Asian films. Many titles also offer dubbed versions.

5. User Experience: With an intuitive interface, personalized recommendations, and the ability to download content for offline viewing, Netflix offers a seamless experience for movie lovers.

Conclusion

Asian cinema is rich with diversity, offering something for every type of viewer. Whether you’re into intense thrillers, beautiful animations, or moving dramas, these films are a gateway to understanding different cultures and storytelling traditions. To enjoy these masterpieces, platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Viki are your best bets, and if you’re looking to stream for free, options like Tubi, Pluto TV, and YouTube can help you discover new titles without breaking the bank.

Ultimately, Netflix stands out as the best OTT platform, with its vast library, original content, and user-friendly features. Whether you’re a long-time subscriber or just starting, it’s a great platform to explore the world of Asian cinema.

Disclaimer:
The content provided in this article is intended for informational purposes only. We do not claim ownership of any movies, shows, or content mentioned herein, nor do we host or distribute any of the listed media. All trademarks, movie titles, and branding mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

Additionally, we are not responsible for any legal issues, disputes, or claims related to streaming, downloading, or accessing the movies or content discussed in this article. It is the responsibility of the reader to ensure they are accessing content through legitimate and legal means.

By following any advice or suggestions in this article, the reader acknowledges that they do so at their own risk. Please review the terms and conditions of any streaming platform for more information on their usage and legal policies.