Hey there, fellow film enthusiasts! 👋 Are you tired of the same old Hollywood blockbusters and looking for something that truly stirs your soul? Something quiet, profound, and deeply human? Then, my friend, you’ve come to the right place! As a devoted fan of Taiwanese cinema, I’m here to guide you through a selection of films that might not always grab mainstream headlines but consistently deliver an uncommon kind of emotional resonance.
Taiwanese cinema has a unique voice. It’s often characterized by its beautiful cinematography, contemplative pacing, nuanced storytelling, and a profound focus on everyday life, family dynamics, historical memory, and the human condition. It doesn’t scream for attention; it whispers, then leaves an indelible mark.
So, dim the lights, grab a cup of bubble tea, and let’s dive into my hand-picked list of 10 essential Taiwanese films that promise to leave you utterly moved. ✨
Why Taiwanese Cinema? A Glimpse into its Soul 🇹🇼🎥
Before we dive into the list, let’s understand what makes Taiwanese films so special. The “Taiwan New Wave” of the 1980s, spearheaded by masters like Hou Hsiao-Hsien and Edward Yang, brought a distinctive aesthetic to the world stage. They moved away from melodrama and embraced realism, long takes, deep focus, and a non-linear narrative approach. Their films often explore:
- Identity and History: Taiwan’s complex political past (Japanese colonial rule, KMT arrival, Martial Law) deeply informs many narratives.
- Urban vs. Rural: The contrast between bustling cities and serene countryside often serves as a backdrop for human drama.
- Family Dynamics: Filial piety, intergenerational conflicts, and the unspoken emotions within families are recurring themes.
- Youth and Coming-of-Age: Many films beautifully capture the innocence, confusion, and rebellion of adolescence.
- Quiet Introspection: Rather than flashy plot points, these films often focus on internal struggles and subtle character development, inviting the audience to reflect alongside the characters.
Now, let’s get to the gems! 💎
My Top 10 Picks for an Unforgettable Emotional Journey 🎬💖
Here are the films that have resonated with me deeply, chosen for their artistic merit, emotional impact, and unique storytelling.
1. Yi Yi (A One and a Two) (2000) – Dir. Edward Yang 👨👩👧👦💔💫
- What it’s about: This nearly three-hour masterpiece follows the Jian family in Taipei over the course of a year. NJ, the patriarch, feels unfulfilled; his wife is drawn to Buddhism; their teenage daughter deals with first love and heartbreak; and their young son, Yang-Yang, captures the world through his camera, taking photos of people’s “backs.”
- Why it’s “uncommon emotion”: Yi Yi isn’t about grand gestures or dramatic twists; it’s about the quiet, everyday struggles and epiphanies of ordinary life. It’s profoundly philosophical yet incredibly relatable. You’ll feel like you’ve lived alongside this family, experiencing their small joys and heartbreaks. It’s a meditation on life, love, and the passage of time that will leave you teary-eyed but strangely at peace.
- Perfect for: Anyone seeking deep human connection, philosophical introspection, and a film that reminds you of the beauty and sadness in everyday existence.
2. A Brighter Summer Day (1991) – Dir. Edward Yang 🏫🔪💔🌃
- What it’s about: Set in 1960s Taipei, this nearly four-hour epic follows Si’r, a shy teenager caught between rival street gangs, his first love, and the stifling political atmosphere of a nation still reeling from the Chinese Civil War. Based on a true story.
- Why it’s “uncommon emotion”: This film is a monumental achievement. It’s a sprawling, meticulous portrait of disillusioned youth, a burgeoning rock ‘n’ roll culture, and a society struggling with its identity. The “brighter summer day” refers to a song lyric, hinting at a lost innocence. Its slow burn builds to a heartbreaking, inevitable climax that reflects the hopelessness felt by many young people during that era. It’s not just a movie; it’s an experience.
- Perfect for: Those who appreciate epic storytelling, historical context, and a powerful, raw depiction of youth and tragedy.
3. City of Sadness (1989) – Dir. Hou Hsiao-Hsien 🇹🇼📜😭🤫
- What it’s about: The first film to win the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival for a Taiwanese film, City of Sadness depicts the lives of the Lin family in Jiufen, Taiwan, from 1945 to 1949, amidst the turbulent period following Japan’s surrender and the subsequent arrival of the KMT government, leading to the infamous “228 Incident” and the “White Terror.”
- Why it’s “uncommon emotion”: Hou Hsiao-Hsien’s signature long takes and static camera emphasize observation over action, creating a deeply melancholic and meditative atmosphere. The film largely focuses on the struggles of a deaf-mute character (played by Tony Leung), highlighting the communication breakdown and the unspeakable horror of the era. It’s a poignant lament for a nation’s lost innocence, beautifully shot, and incredibly moving in its quiet despair.
- Perfect for: History buffs, art-house cinema lovers, and those who appreciate profound, visually stunning films that tackle difficult historical truths.
4. The Puppetmaster (1993) – Dir. Hou Hsiao-Hsien 🎭🧵📖✨
- What it’s about: This is a biographical drama that blends documentary and fiction, telling the story of Li Tian-Lu, a renowned Taiwanese puppet master, from his birth in 1909 to the end of the Japanese occupation in 1945. It interweaves reenactments with Li Tian-Lu’s own direct-to-camera narration.
- Why it’s “uncommon emotion”: It’s a unique and deeply personal exploration of Taiwanese history and culture through the eyes of an artist. The fusion of past and present, the meticulous recreation of historical details, and the gentle, almost spiritual pace make it an unparalleled experience. It’s not just about puppetry; it’s about resilience, tradition, and the soul of a people.
- Perfect for: Lovers of cultural history, unique narrative structures, and anyone fascinated by traditional arts and their place in a changing world.
5. Dust in the Wind (1986) – Dir. Hou Hsiao-Hsien 🌾❤️🩹🌧️🛤️
- What it’s about: A tender, melancholic story of young love between Ah-yuan and Ah-yun, two teenagers from a rural mining village who move to Taipei for work and struggle to adapt to city life while their relationship faces the pressures of distance and circumstance.
- Why it’s “uncommon emotion”: Another quintessential Hou Hsiao-Hsien film, Dust in the Wind is breathtakingly beautiful and quietly devastating. It captures the fleeting nature of first love and the inexorable pull of fate. The slow pace allows you to soak in every frame, every unspoken emotion. It’s a film that resonates with anyone who remembers the bittersweet pain of young love and the challenges of leaving home.
- Perfect for: Romantics, those who appreciate poetic cinema, and anyone who enjoys a beautifully shot, quietly impactful love story.
6. Rebels of the Neon God (1992) – Dir. Tsai Ming-liang 🌃🚬🌧️🏍️
- What it’s about: A seminal work from another Taiwanese master, Tsai Ming-liang. It follows Hsiao-kang, a young man who drops out of cram school and becomes fixated on a petty criminal, Ah-tze, after Ah-tze vandalizes his father’s taxi. It explores themes of alienation, loneliness, and urban disconnection.
- Why it’s “uncommon emotion”: Tsai Ming-liang’s films are known for their minimalist dialogue, long takes, and often static camera, creating a sense of urban ennui and isolation that is strangely captivating. Rebels of the Neon God captures the restless, yearning energy of youth in a bustling city where true connection seems elusive. It’s a raw, sometimes uncomfortable, but always fascinating look at human solitude.
- Perfect for: Fans of minimalist cinema, those interested in exploring themes of urban isolation, and anyone looking for a unique, almost voyeuristic, cinematic experience.
7. You Are the Apple of My Eye (2011) – Dir. Giddens Ko 🍎🎓❤️😂
- What it’s about: A massively popular coming-of-age romantic comedy based on the director’s own semi-autobiographical novel. It follows Ko Ching-teng and his group of friends through high school and college, as they navigate their crush on Shen Chia-yi, the smartest and most popular girl in their class.
- Why it’s “uncommon emotion”: While seemingly a straightforward rom-com, this film beautifully captures the nostalgic bittersweetness of first love and the awkward, hilarious journey of growing up. It’s incredibly relatable for anyone who’s experienced unrequited crushes, friendships, and the pangs of youth. It manages to be both genuinely funny and surprisingly poignant, leaving you with a warm, fuzzy feeling and maybe a tear or two.
- Perfect for: Anyone who loves romantic comedies, nostalgic coming-of-age stories, and films that make you laugh and cry in equal measure.
8. Cape No. 7 (2008) – Dir. Wei Te-sheng 🎸💌🌊🎤
- What it’s about: A struggling rocker returns to his hometown in Hengchun, Pingtung, after failing in Taipei. He grudgingly takes on a temporary postal job, tasked with delivering a stack of undeliverable love letters from a Japanese teacher written to his Taiwanese lover during the post-WWII repatriation. Meanwhile, he’s forced to join a local band to open for a Japanese pop star.
- Why it’s “uncommon emotion”: This film became a cultural phenomenon in Taiwan, breaking box office records. It’s a feel-good movie with a huge heart, blending music, romance, comedy, and a sense of community. It celebrates local culture, explores historical echoes, and shows how seemingly disparate individuals can come together. Its charm lies in its quirky characters, infectious energy, and the way it subtly touches on the island’s complex past through the undelivered letters.
- Perfect for: Music lovers, those who enjoy heartwarming underdog stories, and anyone looking for a film that celebrates community and hope.
9. Dear Ex (2018) – Dir. Mag Hsu & Hsu Chih-yen 🏳️🌈💔⚖️🎶
- What it’s about: When his father suddenly dies, a teenage boy finds his life turned upside down as he discovers his father’s life insurance payout has gone to a mysterious man—his father’s male lover—leaving his mother distraught and furious. The boy is forced to live with the lover, navigating grief, prejudice, and a very modern family dynamic.
- Why it’s “uncommon emotion”: This film is a vibrant, witty, and deeply emotional exploration of grief, family, and acceptance in contemporary Taiwan. It tackles LGBTQ+ themes with honesty and nuance, exploring the messiness of human relationships. The performances are fantastic, particularly the leading actors, who bring both humor and raw vulnerability to their roles. It’s a film that will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately ponder the true meaning of family.
- Perfect for: Those interested in modern Taiwanese cinema, LGBTQ+ stories, family dramas, and films with sharp dialogue and compelling characters.
10. Little Big Women (2020) – Dir. Joseph Hsu 👵🍜🤫💖
- What it’s about: On the eve of her 70th birthday, Lin Shu-ying, a successful restaurateur, prepares for her celebration. However, her estranged husband, who left her decades ago, passes away, bringing a mysterious woman—his long-time companion—into her life and forcing her and her three daughters to confront unspoken truths and complicated legacies.
- Why it’s “uncommon emotion”: This film is a beautiful, character-driven drama about matriarchy, resilience, and the secrets families keep. It’s a nuanced look at forgiveness and understanding from a distinctly female perspective. The performances are incredibly strong, conveying a lifetime of emotion and unspoken grievances. It’s a film that feels both intimately personal and universally relatable in its exploration of love, loss, and the strength of women.
- Perfect for: Fans of family dramas, films with strong female leads, and stories that gently unravel complex emotional truths.
Tips for Your Taiwanese Film Journey 🍿🗺️
- Embrace the Pace: Many Taiwanese films, especially the New Wave classics, have a slower, more contemplative pace. Don’t expect rapid-fire editing or constant action. Let the film unfold and immerse yourself in its atmosphere.
- Subtitles are Your Friend: Unless you’re fluent in Mandarin/Hokkien, subtitles are a must.
- Availability: Check streaming platforms like Mubi, Criterion Channel, and even YouTube (for older, less mainstream titles). Film festivals are also a great way to discover new Taiwanese cinema. Physical media (Blu-ray/DVD) often offers the best quality for the classics.
- Read Reviews (But Not Too Many): A little context can help, but sometimes it’s best to go in with an open mind and let the film speak for itself.
Concluding Thoughts: The Quiet Power of Taiwanese Cinema ✨🧡
Taiwanese cinema offers a profound and rewarding experience. It’s a cinema of quiet observation, deep human emotion, and stunning beauty. These 10 films are just a starting point, but each one promises an “uncommon emotion” that will linger with you long after the credits roll.
So, take the plunge! Explore these hidden gems, and let yourself be moved by the unique stories and perspectives from this incredible island. You won’t regret it. Happy watching! 🎬💖
What are your favorite Taiwanese films? Or which of these are you most excited to watch? Let me know in the comments below! 👇 G