Top AANHPI Shows and Movies to Stream Now: IGN's Picks

IGN is proud to honor AANHPI Heritage Month (also known as AAPI Month), a national celebration that recognizes the vibrant contributions and influence of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in May. While this important cultural observance takes place each year, we are committed to uplifting AANHPI voices and heritage throughout the year—not just within our content, but also within our own teams at IGN and Ziff Davis.

With the growing presence of AANHPI representation in global media—spanning film, television, and beyond—we reached out to our AANHPI colleagues here at IGN and Ziff Davis to share their favorite movies and TV shows that highlight Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander narratives. Below is a list of recommendations available for streaming in the U.S., covering a wide range of genres and platforms. Explore these titles and join us in celebrating AANHPI stories all year long.

When Life Gives You Tangerines (2025)

Based on a touching true story and starring K-pop sensation IU and actor Park Bo-gum, this Netflix original series unfolds across decades of life’s challenges and changes on Jeju Island, South Korea.

“The show is a gentle reminder of the enduring power of love and family.”
– Aimee Carr, Ziff Davis Sr. Manager of Client Services

Watch it on: Netflix

Shaolin Soccer (2001)

A hilarious sports-comedy classic blending kung fu with soccer, packed with over-the-top action and unforgettable special effects. At nearly 3.5 hours long, it's a must-watch for fans of Stephen Chow and quirky martial arts cinema.

Watch it on:
[Paramount+] | [Prime Video] | [Hulu]

Kung Fu Hustle (2004)

Another crowd-pleasing comedy from Stephen Chow, this time following Sing, an aspiring gangster who stumbles into a chaotic underworld conflict. Packed with physical humor and iconic fight sequences, this film is pure entertainment.

Watch it on: [Prime Video]

Perfect Days (2023)

Directed by Wim Wenders, this contemplative drama follows Hirayama, a Tokyo toilet cleaner whose quiet routine reveals unexpected beauty and meaning. The film earned Koji Yakusho the Best Actor award at Cannes.

Watch it on: [Hulu]

Kim’s Convenience (2016–2022)

A heartwarming Canadian sitcom about a Korean immigrant family running a convenience store in Toronto. It features Simu Liu in one of his breakout roles and offers a mix of humor and heartfelt storytelling.

Watch it on: [Netflix]

Ne Zha (2019)

An action-packed animated adventure about a powerful young boy destined to choose between good and evil. While its sequel made waves at the box office globally, it's not yet available to stream in the U.S.—stay tuned!

Watch it on: [Peacock]

Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In (2024)

A gritty neo-noir martial arts film set in 1980s Hong Kong’s infamous Kowloon Walled City, where rising tensions explode into a violent gang war after a lone fighter defies a Triad boss.

Watch it on: [Prime Video]

Rocketry: The Nambi Effect (2022)

A compelling biographical film based on the life of Nambi Narayanan, an Indian aerospace engineer falsely accused of espionage. Through flashbacks and interviews, the film chronicles his journey through betrayal and redemption.

Watch it on:
[Prime Video] | [Tubi] | [YouTube TV (Premium)]

Reply 1988 (2015)

The third installment in the beloved Reply series, this South Korean drama explores the lives of five families living in the same neighborhood during 1988. With a stellar cast and emotional depth, it’s a fan favorite.

“One of my all-time favorite K-dramas!”
– Dean Kim, Software Architect, Ookla

“It’s still my top pick—even better than the spin-offs.”
– Karen Oh, Ziff Davis Leadership

Watch it on: [Netflix]

Studio Ghibli Films

Studio Ghibli has brought some of the most beautiful and emotionally rich animated films to life, many crafted by visionary director Hayao Miyazaki. Nearly all of their 25 feature films are now available to stream online.

What’s the best Studio Ghibli movie ever?
Our team picked favorites like:

• Ponyo
• Howl’s Moving Castle
• From Up on Poppy Hill
• Kiki’s Delivery Service
• When Marnie Was There

Explore the full library on: [HBO Max]

Rescue: Hi-Surf (2024)

*A thrilling new drama spotlighting Ocean Safety lif