10 of Our Favorite Movies by Asian American Creators

As we celebrate Asian American Heritage month, we take a look at a few of our favorite movies by Asian American creators

When Crazy Rich Asians came out in 2018, I remember doing a double take (and fact checking) every article that said it was the first movie in 25 years to have an all-Asian cast and an Asian-American lead. First in my lifetime was the thought that kept running through my head.

While there’s no doubt that the premier of Crazy Rich Asians was a major step toward representation and visibility in Hollywood, it also started a movement and ultimately changed the climate of the industry as a whole. As we celebrate Asian Pacific Heritage month, we take a closer look at a few of the movies that have helped pave the way towards representation by Asian American creators.

Tigertail (2020)
Where to watch: Netflix

Synopsis: Directed by Alan Yang, Tigertail is a multi-generational movie that makes a case for embracing one’s journey and culture wholeheartedly. This movie follows Pin-Jui (Tzi Ma)– from losing his first love in Taiwan to his journey to America as he raises his family.

Why it’s a favorite: Tigertail is more than just a story about immigration to the US. It’s thoughtful, emotional (definitely made me tear up), and shows how we are all changed by the small actions we make along the way.

Late Night (2019)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime

Synopsis: Directed by Nisha Ganatra and written by Mindy Kaling, Late Night tells the story of a popular TV host who hires her first female staff writer. Although the hire was intended to smooth over diversity concerns, it brings upon hilarious consequences as the two work together to create a late night tv show.

Why it’s a favorite: Not only does this movie bring up sexism in the broadcasting world in the #MeToo era, but it also narrates the importance of female friendships– even if they don’t see eye to eye.

The Farewell (2019)
Where to watch: Youtube, Amazon Prime

Synopsis: The Farewell follows Billi (Awkwafina), who travels from her home in NYC to China under the guise of a wedding when in reality, she is saying goodbye to her Nai Nai (grandmother) who only has a short while left to live. Directed by Lulu Wang and starring Awkwafina, this heartfelt and funny movie also had a first: Awkwafina to win as the first Asian American woman to win a Golden Globe for best actress.

Why it’s a favorite: This sweet movie pulls at the ties of family and the ties of culture. The tendency to freely share one’s thoughts and feelings in Western culture vs. the way of holding emotions close and respecting hierarchy as the norm in Eastern culture unravels between generations.

Parasite (2019)
Where to watch: Youtube, Amazon Prime, Hulu

Synopsis: Parasite tells the story about a Korean family who is struggling to make ends meet and unfolds how they find themselves in a unique circumstance working for a wealthy family. Directed by Bong Joon-ho, Parasite also took home a first: First foreign language film to win an Oscar and first Korean film to win a Golden Globe for best foreign language film.

Why it’s a favorite: One of the most thought provoking films, Parasite touches the intersection of class division, welfare, and modern life. A powerful social satire, every scene of the movie hints at the underlying themes of capitalism and class.

Always Be My Maybe (2019)
Where to watch: Netflix

Synopsis: Written by Ali Wong and Randall Park, Always Be My Maybe is a romantic comedy film starring Marcus (Randall Park) and Sasha (Ali Wong) as childhood sweethearts that had a falling out. While their childhood relationship ended on a bad note, they find themselves reconnecting back in their hometown.

Why it’s a favorite: This romantic comedy shares the laughter and savors the rituals of Asian American culture. While you could spin it as a traditional rom-com, Always Be My Maybe treats both partners as equals– highlighting the success of Marcus and Sasha together.

Ms. Purple (2019)
Where to watch: Youtube, Amazon Prime, Hulu

Synopsis: Directed by Justin Chon, Ms Purple is a drama about two Korean-American siblings who reconnect as they work together to help their dying father.

Why it’s a favorite: It’s rare to see Korean-American siblings reconnecting and repairing their relationship on screen. This movie shares exactly that, while also highlighting the delicate intricacies of the bond between the children and their father.

To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)
Where to watch: Netflix

Synopsis: Adapted from a story written by Jenny Han, this teen rom-com follows Lara Jean Covey (Lana Condor) and her family as they adjust to life after their sister moves away to college. Once her younger sister exposes Lara’s love letters that she wrote to her childhood crushes, it causes complications to her high school experience.

Why it’s a favorite: When was the last time you believed in teenage romance? When?? Is it now? This movie is a charming, coming of age, gen-z rom-com that will not only make you laugh, but also invites you into the togetherness of the Covey family.

Minding the Gap (2018)
Where to watch: Hulu

Synopsis: Directed by Bing Liu, Minding the Gap is a documentary about three boys and their love of skateboarding. The film focuses on how skateboarding is used as a tool that helps the young men go through life’s challenges from middle school to adulthood.

Why it’s a favorite: Although watching the skateboarding itself is impressive, this documentary is more than just a few boys practicing how to ollie. It’s a love letter to friendship, skateboarding, and how complicated adulthood can get.

The Big Sick (2017)
Where to watch: Youtube, Amazon Prime

Synopsis: Starring and written by Kumail Nanjiani, this comedy tells the story of a Pakistan-born aspiring comedian and his evolving relationship with grad student, Emily Gordon. As they fall in love, they deal with Emily’s mysterious illness and their families’ culture clash.

Why it’s a favorite: Although spending time with your partner’s parents alone can be uncomfortable, this movie dives right in as Kumail spends two weeks with Emily’s parents in the hospital without having spent any time with them prior. This movie shares some of the realities that can come of cross-cultural love and adds humor in between.

The Tiger Hunter (2016)
Where to watch: Youtube, Amazon Prime, Netflix

Synopsis: Directed by Lena Khan, The Tiger Hunter follows Sami (Danny Pudi) and his journey from a rural Indian village to a job opportunity in Chicago.

Why it’s a favorite: While this movie does share Sami’s immigration story, it also reveals the the assimilation to American culture Sami experiences while learning to keep their own cultural traditions.