AFFD

by Steve Norwood

Avid Netflix users should be impressed by the abundance of Asian cinema available both on DVD and streaming.  Listed below are some current releases that I recommend, whether your tastes go toward flaming martial arts death matches or out-of-work cellists facing life lessons.

 Departures (2008)

This award-winning drama comes from director Yojiro Takita (Onmyoji), and is the story of an out-of-work cellist who returns home and begins training as a nakanshi (one who prepares the dead for burial).  (Buy DEPARTURES on DVD; streaming on Netflix soon)

 24 City (2008)

Zhang Ke Jia’s drama about the impacts of a state-run factory being shut down so that it can be replaced by a luxury apartment building.  (Buy 24 CITY on DVD; streaming now)

 Still Walking (2008)

Hirokazu Koreeda’s overlooked drama about a family re-grouping 15 years after the death of a loved one.  A richly-detailed, powerful film that deserves a second chance.  (Currently available on DVD and streaming)

 Lost In Beijing (2007)

Yu Li directed this story of five people caught up in the perceptions and realities of a sexual assault and its aftermath.  A brilliant film, it surprisingly and flawlessly combines dramatic and comedic elements, and gives each character plenty of depth.   (Buy LOST IN BEIJING on DVD ; streaming now)

 Fireball (2009)

Thanakorn Pongsuwan’s martial arts hybrid is best summed up thusly:  “Determined to find out who put his beloved twin brother in a coma, ex-con Tai infiltrates a criminal world dominated by the brutal underground sport of fireball — a hyperviolent mash-up of basketball, martial-arts and street fighting. Now part of a fireball team, Tai soon learns that getting his revenge may cost him his own life.”  Yeah, that pretty much says it all.  (Available on DVD  1/26/10; Pre-order FIREBALL)

 Thirst (2009)

Park Chan-wook’s perverse, cheeky tale of a priest turned sort-of vampire is a fan favorite: dark, comical, bloody and lovingly made.  If you’re only familiar with Park’s Vengeance Trilogy, give it a try.  You’ll be pleasantly surprised.  (Buy THIRST on DVD)