Movies serve as a reflection of a society that gives a peek into daily life, cultural dynamics, and common beliefs. For the past few years, Southeast Asian filmmakers have been producing and releasing movies that are well-received internationally.
Here are 5 movies that have garnered the world’s attention that you definitely have to put on your watchlist!
How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies (Thailand), dir. Pat Boonnitipat (2024)
Thailand is well known for its touching and feel-good movies, and How to Make Millions Befor Grandma Dies is one of them. This movie tells the bittersweet story of M, an aspiring video game streamer who tries to win his grandmother’s heart, fueled by her fortune. This heartwarming movie successfully touched everyone's heart, and as a result, making it the all-time most successful Southeast Asian movie ever.
Satan’s Slaves (Indonesia), dir. Joko Anwar (2017)
Satan's Slave is a supernatural horror movie about a family haunted by their mother, who attempted to take them to the afterworld. This Joko Anwar's masterpiece was named as one of the most successful films in Indonesia and widely released in many countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, and Mexico.
Despite its terrifying premise, Satan's Slaves offers a unique look into Indonesian society during the 1980s as it reflects on the socio-cultural challenges, capturing the society’s struggles and beliefs.
Bad Genius (Thailand), dir. Nattawut Poonpiriya (2017)
Bad Genius tells you a story about Lynn, a highly intelligent student who plots a cheating system in her school to help other students, and eventually she does it for an international test. Inspired by a true event, this movie tackles social inequality, classism, and also expectations and pressure on students to ace. The movie itself garnered attention and positive reviews by the international audiences, and thanks to its popularity, the movie received a US remake in 2024.
Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts (Indonesia), dir. Mouly Surya (2017)
This Indonesian thriller film premiered in the Director’s Fortnight, Cannes Film Festival. It tells a story about Marlina’s journey after a robbery that involved seven men that left her to take actions seeking justice for herself. Set in Sumba, Indonesia, the movie successfully shows the audience a glance at justice, gender issues, power dynamics, and an unseen part of Indonesia.
Ilo Ilo (Singapore), dir. Anthony Chen (2013)
This film was nominated for and won several prestigious awards, including the Camera d’Or and Golden Horse Film Awards. It explores the dynamics between a middle-class Singaporean family and their Filipino domestic worker during the 1997 Financial Crisis, offering a heartfelt portrayal of their relationships and the societal conditions in Singapore at the time.
Whether you are a fan of horror, thriller, or even drama, these films are perfect to celebrate the diversity of Southeast Asia. From the heartfelt family bonds in How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies to the gritty justice in Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts, these films are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, don't forget to check them out!
