While it may seem like a bummer that we’re welcoming the Lunar New Year festivities amidst unending restrictions and regulations, we now get to have some leisurely hours to ourselves at home, with the people we love most.
From old-but-gold classics to the newest, hottest favourites, here are 5 shows on Netflix to connect over with the family, whether it’s for a quick mealtime entertainment or a cosy hang out in the living room.
Casino Tycoon
Set in World War II, this rags-to-riches storyline chronicles the journey of a young refugee from Hong Kong who rises to the top of a casino empire in gambling haven Macau through pluck, diligence, and wit. Boiling on a bed of inevitable drama, the plot is a whisper of a gangster movie that manages to meld grotesque bloodshed, sprinkles of romance, cruel antagonists, and heartbreaking sacrificial acts of heroism together seamlessly. Starring Andy Lau, Joey Wang, and Chingmy Yau. Now available on Netflix.
Ip Man
The first instalment of a decade-spanning franchise, this bona fide martial arts classic is based on the life story of the eponymous grandmaster of Wing Chun. Packed with thrilling, seat-gripping action and stunts, the film revolves around Ip Man’s time in Foshan, tracing his fall from wealth, struggles during the Second Sino-Japanese War, and stubborn refusal to ever give in to the enemy. In the midst of it all, the film explores simple yet powerful universal concepts of honour, dignity, and love. Starring Donnie Yen, Simon Yam, and Louis Fan. Now available on Netflix.
Midnight Asia: Eat · Dance · Dream
A beautiful tribute to Asia’s nightlife, this travel docuseries sees Director Joe Evans take his cameras across some of the most energetic and vibrant metropolises on Earth’s largest continent. Capturing tasty eats, drinks, and music, the 6-episode series puts the spotlight on night owls who shine their brightest in the dark, as they helm hidden gems that shape the culture of major cities like Tokyo, Mumbai, and Seoul. Now available on Netflix.
Our Beloved Summer
Years after starring beside one another in a viral documentary from their high school days, two bickering ex-lovers get pulled back in front of the camera once more despite vows to never see each other again. This feel-good coming-of-age story depicts the awkwardness and ugliness of a break-up, the languid slowburn of an evolving romance, and all the reality-bites dynamics of a romantic relationship. Starring Choi Woo-shik, Kim Da-mi, and Kim Sung-cheol. Now available on Netflix.
Wish Dragon
One of the latest productions released by Sony Pictures Animation, Wish Dragon follows a working-class college student with big dreams but small means, and a cynical but all-powerful dragon capable of granting any and every wish. Produced by Jackie Chan, this fantasy-comedy forces viewers to answer some of life’s biggest questions — like, what really matters most when you can wish for anything? Starring Jimmy Wong, John Cho, and Constance Wu. Now available on Netflix.
