May is the perfect month to celebrate, learn and get excited about powerful stories! To end this Asian Heritage Month, we want to pay tribute to the Asian voices that have conquered the big screen with talent, emotion and authenticity.
From films that make us laugh to others that make us reflect (or cry), this top is an invitation to discover the best of cinema with Asian protagonists and a dignified, close and diverse representation.
1. Turning Red (2022) – Pixar
Directed by Domee Shi, this animated gem tells the story of Mei Lee, a Chinese-Canadian teenager who transforms into a giant red panda every time she gets too excited.
What makes it special: it honestly depicts the culture clash between generations, the mother-daughter relationship, and the emotional turmoil of adolescence? all with a lot of humor and tenderness!
2. Always Be My Maybe (2019) – Netflix
Starring Ali Wong and Randall Park, this charming modern romantic comedy follows two childhood friends who reunite years later.
What stands out: it breaks stereotypes by showcasing Asian-American characters with ordinary lives, desires, failures and plenty of charisma. Plus, Keanu Reeves’ appearance is unforgettable!
3. The Farewell (2019) – Lulu Wang
Starring Awkwafina, this film is based on a true story: a Chinese family hides their terminal cancer diagnosis from their grandmother while arranging a fake wedding.
Touching, funny and deeply human, it beautifully depicts the complexity of being bicultural.
4. Minari (2020) – Lee Isaac Chung
A moving film about a Korean-American family who move to Arkansas in the 1980s to pursue the “American dream.”
It is a love letter to family perseverance and roots. It won an Oscar for Youn Yuh-jung’s performance, and no wonder!
5. Crazy Rich Asians (2018) – Jon M. Chu
With a 100% Asian cast and set in Singapore, this rom-com put a big step towards inclusivity in Hollywood.
Glamour, family drama and romance, but also a critical look at social classes and family expectations.
6. Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022) – Daniels
Starring Michelle Yeoh, this is a wonderful folly of multiverses, existentialism and absurd humor.
At the same time, it is a tribute to the role of Asian mothers, immigration and generational healing. It swept the Oscars for a reason.
7. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018) – Netflix
Based on Jenny Han’s novel, this teen love story starring Lana Condor was a phenomenon.
She represents a young Asian-American girl with gentleness and normality, without falling into clichés or stereotypes.
9. Tigertail (2020) – Alan Yang
This intimate Netflix drama tells the story of Pin-Jui, a Taiwanese immigrant who reminisces about his youth while trying to reconnect with his daughter in America.
It is a quiet but profound story about sacrifice, identity and regrets, with a heartfelt look at cultural and emotional uprooting. Its simple and poignant narrative leaves an impression.
Bottom line:
These films are much more than entertainment: they are a reflection of real lives, rich cultures and universal emotions told from an Asian gaze, without filters or stereotypes.
This Asian Heritage Month, we invite you to enjoy them, share them and celebrate them with pride. Because when a story is well told, it transcends languages, borders and origins – and connects us all.