Cinema Escapist
Explore and connect the world through a cinematic lens
The 10 Best Jung Woo-sung Movies, Ranked
BY Anthony Kao
From teen idols to steely villains: Cinema Escapist looks at leading Korean actor Jung Woo-sung's best performances, ranked in order of increasing quality.
Review: “Air Strike” Is a War Movie Plagued By Tragedy…And Taxes
BY Anthony Kao
Meet the “Sharknado” of Chinese war movies: with US$65M worth of misery... and Bruce Willis.
“On Happiness Road” Beautifully Embodies Taiwan’s Existential Malaise
BY Anthony Kao
This animated movie perfectly captures Taiwan’s struggles—both in its story and behind the scenes.
Interview: “Liyana” Directors Aaron and Amanda Kopp on Crafting a Film That Empowers Swazi Orphans
BY Anthony Kao
Half documentary and half fiction, "Liyana" offers a beautiful narrative from Swaziland—and pioneers a new model for films that grapple with trauma.
Review: “The Song of the Tree” Is Like “La La Land” With Central Asian Nomads
BY Anthony Kao
Set amidst beautiful mountain steppes, this surprisingly entertaining musical movie might make you want to visit Kyrgyzstan.
The 10 Best Song Kang-ho Movies, Ranked
BY Anthony Kao
Song Kang-ho is Korea's premiere character actor. Cinema Escapist looks at his best performances, in order of increasing quality.
Review: “Salyut 7” is Russia’s “Apollo 13” — With A Geopolitical Twist
BY Anthony Kao
This space rescue movie offers gripping suspense…and insight into Russian geopolitics.
Netflix’s Highly Relatable “On Children” Is “Black Mirror” With Tiger Moms
BY Anthony Kao
If you grew up with a tiger parent, or find yourself becoming one—this show is for you.
Review: “The Spy Gone North” Is A Thrillingly Relevant Look at Korean Politics
BY Anthony Kao
Making deals with North Korea? Check. Election interference? Check. "The Spy Gone North" offers a captivating, timely spy story.
Why Anyone Who Cares About Korea Should Watch “The Host”
BY Anthony Kao
12 years on, this monster blockbuster still offers an apt reflection on South Korean society.