If you were moved by 'Asian Americans' (2020), a powerful documentary series exploring the rich and complex history of Asian Americans, you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article highlights compelling narratives that delve into identity, culture, and resilience, offering more stories that celebrate and examine the Asian American experience.
The Joy Luck Club (1993)
Description: A poignant portrayal of mother-daughter relationships and the intergenerational transmission of trauma and hope among Chinese immigrants.
Fact: It was one of the first mainstream Hollywood films to feature an all-Asian cast and explore Asian American themes.
Watch Now 
Better Luck Tomorrow (2002)
Description: Challenges stereotypes of Asian Americans through a gripping narrative about ambition, identity, and moral ambiguity.
Fact: The film was a breakthrough in indie cinema, proving that Asian American stories could appeal to wider audiences.
Watch Now 
The Namesake (2006)
Description: Follows an immigrant family's journey as they navigate cultural assimilation, generational divides, and the search for belonging.
Fact: Based on Jhumpa Lahiri's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, the film beautifully captures the complexities of the immigrant experience.
Watch Now 
First Vote (2020)
Description: Captures the political awakening of Asian Americans and their growing influence in U.S. elections, reflecting broader societal changes.
Fact: The documentary follows Asian American voters in swing states during the 2018 midterm elections.
Watch Now 
Meet the Patels (2014)
Description: A humorous yet heartfelt look at cultural expectations and generational clashes within an immigrant family, blending documentary and personal storytelling.
Fact: The film started as a home movie project and evolved into a critically acclaimed documentary.
Watch Now 
The Killing Fields of Dr. Haing S. Ngor (2015)
Description: Examines the immigrant experience through the lens of trauma and resilience, focusing on a Cambodian refugee's journey in America.
Fact: Dr. Haing S. Ngor won an Academy Award for his role in 'The Killing Fields' before his tragic murder in Los Angeles.
Watch Now 
The Search for General Tso (2014)
Description: Delves into the cultural significance of food as a bridge between Asian heritage and American identity, blending history with personal narratives.
Fact: The documentary traces the origins of General Tso's chicken, a dish that became a symbol of Chinese-American cuisine.
Watch Now 
The Apology (2016)
Description: Addresses themes of historical injustice and reconciliation, centering on the stories of women who survived wartime atrocities.
Fact: The film documents the fight for justice by 'comfort women' who were forced into sexual slavery during WWII.
Watch Now 
The Farewell (2019)
Description: Explores the tension between individual desires and familial duty, set against the backdrop of cultural traditions and diaspora experiences.
Fact: The movie is based on the director's real-life experience with her grandmother's illness and the family's decision to keep it a secret.
Watch Now 
The Chinese Exclusion Act (2017)
Description: Explores the historical and cultural impact of discriminatory laws on Asian communities, highlighting struggles for identity and acceptance.
Fact: The film was part of PBS's 'Asian Americans' series, which aimed to document the untold stories of Asian American history.
Watch Now 
