Cinema Escapist
Explore and connect the world through a cinematic lens
Netflix Reveals New Korean Dramas and Movies For 2020
BY Richard Yu
Korean drama and movie fans on Netflix can expect more hits from Korea and more originals.
Review: “Time To Hunt” Blends Heist Thrills and Korean Economic Anxiety
BY Richard Yu
Yoon Sung-hyun's sophomore feature “Time to Hunt” blends capitalist apocalypse with classic heist thriller elements.
Review: Ha Jung-woo’s “The Closet” Offers Surprisingly Heart-Warming Horror
BY Richard Yu
Starring Ha Jung-woo, Korean film “The Closet” blends horror with father-daughter bonding.
Review: “Mellow” Is a Calming Slice of Japanese Life With Flowers and Ramen
BY Richard Yu
Japanese director Rikiya Imaizumi's personal drama “Mellow” is a soothing break from heavy-hitting fare.
The 10 Best Hong Kong Movies of 2019
BY Richard Yu
Cinema Escapist reveals the top Hong Kong movies of 2019, across genres like action, crime, drama, comedy, and more.
The 10 Best Chinese Movies of 2019
BY Richard Yu
Discover the top Chinese movies of 2019, ranging from comedies to animations, and action movies to deep dramas.
Review: “Ip Man 4” Captures the Spirit of China’s National Rejuvenation Through Kung Fu
BY Richard Yu
In Donnie Yen’s final kung fu film, action takes a backseat to China-US tensions and identity politics.
Review: “Ina and the Blue Tiger Sauna” is a Uniquely Macanese Neo-Noir
BY Richard Yu
Directors Faria and Rao tell "a story that could only happen in Macao."
Review: “I’m Livin’ It” Shines Light on Hong Kong’s Homeless
BY Richard Yu
Danny Wong Hing Fan's directorial debut focuses on emotional wealth over material.
Variety’s “Asian Stars: Up Next” Highlights Local Talent in Asia at 2019 IFFAM
BY Richard Yu
"Asian Stars: Up Next" winners from Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, India, the Philippines, and Japan highlighted social issues and online bullying at IFFAM 2019.