Cinema Escapist
Explore and connect the world through a cinematic lens
Review: “Hyper HardBoiled Gourmet Report” Is Japan’s Gonzo Answer to “Parts Unknown”
BY Anthony Kao
Streaming on Netflix, this Japanese food show contains a fascinating blend of gonzo journalism and Terrace House-esque calm.
Review: “The Wolf’s Call” Shows France Still Has Military—And Cinematic—Relevance
BY Anthony Kao
Now streaming on Netflix, this submarine thriller reminds us France hasn't forgotten how to fire nukes and make entertaining movies.
Review: Political K-Drama “Chief of Staff” Tries Emulating “The West Wing”
BY Anthony Kao
Streaming now on Netflix, this K-drama dives into the details of Korean legislative politics—with mixed results.
The 10 Best Malaysian Movies on Netflix
BY Anthony Kao
Cinema Escapist reveals the best Malaysian movies streaming on Netflix, across genres like action, romance, drama, horror, and more.
Review: “The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil” Blends Korean Crime and Justice
BY Anthony Kao
Starring Ma Dong-seok, this action movie blends classic Korean crime archetypes into something new and entertaining, though not necessarily memorable.
“Love Boat: Taiwan” Traces Asian Diaspora and Taiwanese Identities
BY Anthony Kao
Director Valerie Soe explores a study tour that’s become a legend among Taiwanese-Americans.
Review: Netflix’s “Persona” Flexes IU’s Artistic Ambitions
BY Anthony Kao
If IU wants audiences to see her as a serious artist, will Netflix’s “Persona” help?
The 11 Best Korean Comedy Movies
BY Anthony Kao
Cinema Escapist reveals the top Korean comedy movies—with streaming links included.
Review: “Ash Is Purest White” Stands Stubbornly Still While China Moves Forward
BY Anthony Kao
Jia Zhangke's "Ash is Purest White" makes us wonder where stubbornly idiosyncratic auteurs belong in contemporary China.
Review: Taiwan’s “Dear Ex” Tells An Offbeat And Poignant Family Story
BY Anthony Kao
One of Taiwan's best films of 2018, "Dear Ex" offers an emotionally complex look at a modern family.