Have sword, will travel
Netflix may be raising their prices too damn high but at least they get some things right. Recently they’ve added a decently-sized collection of Asian movies to their Instant streaming catalog. Here’s a look at some select titles. Be advised that a few of these films are only available on streaming dubbed in English:
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
