The film industries of China and Singapore have grown remarkably over the past two decades, producing a diverse range of movies that blend compelling storytelling with cultural depth. While China is known for its grand historical epics and martial arts masterpieces, Singapore has carved out a reputation for grounded, emotionally rich dramas that explore identity, family, and multicultural life. Here are the top 10 movies from China and Singapore that have earned global recognition and continue to attract cinephiles around the world.
1. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (China)
Directed by Ang Lee, this Oscar-winning film is considered one of the greatest martial arts movies ever made. Its stunning choreography, poetic storytelling, and breathtaking visuals introduced wuxia cinema to a global audience.
2. Hero (China)
Starring Jet Li, Zhang Ziyi, and Maggie Cheung, Hero is a visually stunning historical epic set during the Qin dynasty. With its colour-coded cinematography and philosophical undertones, the film remains a masterpiece of Chinese cinema.
3. Farewell My Concubine (China)
A landmark film by Chen Kaige, this critically acclaimed drama spans several decades of Chinese history through the lives of two Peking Opera performers. It explores themes of loyalty, love, and political turmoil.
4. The Wandering Earth (China)
This sci-fi blockbuster helped redefine China’s presence in global science fiction cinema. With impressive visual effects and a thrilling storyline, it became one of the highest-grossing films in Chinese history.
5. Infernal Affairs (China)
A gripping crime thriller that inspired Hollywood’s The Departed, this Hong Kong-Chinese production follows an undercover cop and a mole inside the police force. It remains a must-watch for fans of suspense and intricate storytelling.
6. Ilo Ilo (Singapore)
Directed by Anthony Chen, Ilo Ilo won the prestigious Camera d’Or at Cannes. The film portrays the touching relationship between a Filipino domestic worker and a troubled Singaporean family during the 1997 financial crisis. Its emotional depth and realism have earned it international acclaim.
7. Shirkers (Singapore)
This unique documentary by Sandi Tan investigates the mysterious disappearance of a film she shot in the 1990s. Combining nostalgia, reflection, and mystery, Shirkers is considered one of Singapore’s best documentary features.
8. 881 (Singapore)
Directed by Royston Tan, 881 is a musical drama inspired by Singapore’s vibrant “getai” culture. With its colourful performances and emotional undercurrents, the film celebrates the blend of tradition and entertainment.
9. Ah Boys to Men (Singapore)
Jack Neo’s popular comedy-drama series explores Singapore’s mandatory National Service (NS). The film blends humour with patriotic themes, making it one of the highest-grossing Singaporean films of all time.
10. The Maid (Singapore)
This horror-thriller remains one of Singapore’s standout contributions to Asian horror. The story follows a domestic worker who encounters supernatural forces linked to local customs and past tragedies.
Why These Films Stand Out
These ten movies showcase the best of Chinese and Singaporean cinema—whether it’s China’s epic narratives and world-class action sequences or Singapore’s intimate dramas and culturally rich stories. Together, they offer a cinematic journey that reflects the diversity, heritage, and creative evolution of both nations.
