Even though Hollywood stubbornly remains the primary source of the majority of cinematic and media content for the global scene and marketplace, one cannot help but acknowledge the importance of other, international cinematography. Asian cinematography, for example, is not commonly associated as the main source of mass entertainment, even though it amasses millions of dollars and contributes greatly to the cultural diversity of the global movie industry. Nevertheless, people, as well as those highly associated with the industry, did not fail to recognize the exquisite, unique and completely different take Asian cinematography has when it comes to creating movies for all times. Therefore, we are now going to take a look into the most critically acclaimed movies coming from China, South Korea, and Japan.
In the Mood for Love (2000)
Probably the best Chinese movie ever created, In the Mood for Love is also Wong Kar Wai’s best work. This Hong-Kong romantic drama tackles the most mundane aspects of people’s lives, like adultery and love in this case, and turns them into thought-provoking, eye-opening experience that changes our life perception for good. If you need an essay or other assignment writtenby EssayShark on the topic of outstanding movies, this is the movie you need to use as an example. Ever since its release, this movie has been nominated for and received dozens of awards; from the awards for best actors, art director, costume and make-up design, to best cinematography and screenplay, all over the world at the most renown film festivals. With its captivating aesthetics and exceptional acting, it is no wonder that this movie has won the worldwide audience and managed to put Chinese cinematography at the very top of the global movie industry.
Chunking Express (1994)
Another Wong Kar Wai movie has made it to the list, and for a reason. Chunking Express has become the staple of not only the Chinese cinematography but also the global movie industry. A movie so stunning, memorable and striking has left the global audience in awe, as two wonderful and heartbreaking stories are unfolding before the spectators’ eyes for almost 25 years now. The plot of this movie is quite impressionable and profoundly, aesthetically pleasing, as all Kar Wai movies are. For the same, and aforementioned, reasons, this movie has received global attention and awards on numerous film and movie award festival across the world. Just like the previous movie on the list, Chunking Express is a movie worthy of every second of your time, so make sure to watch and enjoy this masterpiece.
The Man from Nowhere (2010)
If there is one movie in this world that will have you on the edge of your seat throughout, that it is the masterpiece of Korean cinematography, The Man from Nowhere. This movie has not only received a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score, but also global recognition through awards at film festivals in Europe, North America, and Asia respectively. It follows a heart-wrenching story accompanied by an insight into the criminal undergrounds of South Korea, serving an unnerving plot that will stay with you days after you’ve watched it. The Man from Nowhere serves scenes of outstanding action, breathtaking fighting, emotional connection and dramatic turnovers that will leave everyone watching this nerve-racking movie fully immersed and on the edge of their seat.
A Bittersweet Life (2005)
Another Korean movie, defining of the Asian cinematography, is the ruthlessly violent, yet stunningly aesthetical, A Bittersweet Life. The movie revolves around the morality and ethical codes of the Korean underground criminal groups when they end up being broken. The critical acclaim for A Bittersweet Life came from around the world, as it was highly praised for its plot, visual presentation and acting abilities of the main cast. Claimed to be one of the best movies of 2005 , and one of the best gangster movies in Asian cinematography, it is definitely worthy of every second you spend watching it. The movie is utterly thrilling, intense and riveting; all wrapped in breathtaking shots and accompanied by hauntingly beautiful music. It has received a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, so make sure to check it out.
Battle Royale (2000)
If you think that the Hunger Games is a great movie, think again. The plot to this staple of Japanese cinematography is basically what inspired the Hunger Games. Battle Royale is a Japanese masterpiece, created by the talented Kinji Fukasaku in 2000. The movie was an instant hit in Japan and Asia but only received recognition with the release of the Hunger Games, due to a similar plot. Nevertheless, the movie was instantly characterized as a cinematic wonder, with its gripping, unusual plot, gruesome, sometimes over-the-top violence and emotional depth that carries the plot above the expected. However, it is also described as a cultural critique, a satire that is violent, yet odd and wonderful in aesthetic visualization of what it means to fight to the death. Battle Royale is a cinematic achievement that has turned itself into a cult amongst critically acclaimed Asian movies.
