36 Best Chinese Movies on Netflix to Watch Now in 2024

Watching Chinese films is a great way to entertain yourself, learn about the fascinating Chinese culture, and practice Mandarin. C-movies on Netflix is one such option.

Chinese language content is often available on streaming services such as movies and television shows. A new selection of Chinese flicks has been added to Netflix’s streaming library for subscribers. If you have good reasons to study Mandarin, you’ll enjoy these Mandarin-language movies on Netflix.

Hundreds of Chinese films are available on Netflix today. You can also learn Chinese through TV shows and movies.

Watching C-dramas for fun and gaining knowledge is a great way to learn Mandarin, whether interested in it for a career or enjoy it.

How do Chinese movies on Netflix help you learn Mandarin?
36 Must-Watch Chinese Films on Netflix Right Now
Wrapping Up on Netflix’s Chinese movies

How do Chinese movies on Netflix help you learn Mandarin?

Chinese is a tonal language. So as an outcome, a word’s meaning can vary depending on the tone used to pronounce it. It is also written in characters, making it challenging for non-native speakers to learn.

But with consistent study and practice, anyone can learn to speak, read and write Chinese.

Many resources, such as textbooks, language schools, online courses, podcasts, and Mandarin learning apps, are available to help learners study and improve the Chinese language. You can also immerse yourself in a Chinese-speaking environment and practice with native speakers.

Besides, one of the best ways to learn and understand Mandarin is to watch Chinese Movies on Netflix.

You can use the below points while learning the language on Netflix by binge-watching these movies on Netflix.

Watch movies with Chinese subtitles: Watching Chinese films with Chinese subtitles is a fabulous way to learn new vocabulary and grammar. It will help you better understand the spoken language and improve your reading and comprehension skills.
Watch movies in different dialects: Chinese is spoken in many different dialects, such as Mandarin, Cantonese, and Shanghainese. Also, Chinese is a complex language. Seeing movies in other idioms will expose you to foreign language variations and help you develop a more well-rounded understanding of Chinese.
Use flashcards to study vocabulary: Review the new vocabulary words you learned after watching a Chinese movie. This will help you remember and use the words in your speaking and writing.
Watch movies with friends: Enjoying Chinese movies with friends can be fun and allow you to practice speaking Chinese with native speakers. You can also practice your listening skills by discussing the film in Chinese with your friends.
Repeat the dialogues: repeat the conversations to practice your pronunciation and intonation. Pay attention to the intonation, stress, and rhythm of the speech.
Watch a variety of genres: Watch a variety of genres, including action, comedy, romance, drama, and more. This will expose you to different sorts of Chinese-language films.

36 Must-Watch Chinese Films on Netflix Right Now

There are many excellent Chinese movies available to watch on Netflix across genres. So whether you are a C-drama fan or crave romance, comedy, or suspense, there is something for everyone.

Here are the 36 best Chinese films on Netflix you can watch now. All these can also help you understand and know more about the languages of China.

1. The Yin Yang Master – Dream of Eternity (阴阳师: 晴雅集, 2020)

This is a 2020 Chinese fantasy film directed by Guo Jingming. It is based on the novel series “Onmyoji” by Baku Yumemakura. The story follows Qing Ming, a skilled yin-yang master, summoned to investigate bizarre deaths at the imperial court.

The story of “The Yin Yang Master – Dream of Eternity” follows a Yin-Yang Master named Qing Ming, who attends the heaven ceremony at the Capital, Tiandu City.

His journey Follow Boya, a noble warrior, as he unravels mysterious cases, uncovers ancient secrets and combats evil forces to save the world.

2. Cook up a Strom (决战食神 lit, 2017)

This is a 2017 Hong Kong-Chinese culinary-themed comedy-drama directed by Raymond Yip and starring Nicholas Tse, Jung Yong-hwa, and Michelle Bai.

In “Cook Up a Storm,” a Cantonese street cook and a Michelin-starred chef trained in France find common ground while preparing for a renowned cooking competition.

Their rivalry turns unexpected when they find a common enemy and combine their skills in a fusion of East and West.

3. Dynasty Warriors (真·三国无双, 2021)

The 2021 action-adventure film Dynasty Warriors, directed by Roy Hin Yeung Chow, is inspired by the popular video game series with the same title.

The film tells the story of the Three Kingdoms period in ancient China and follows the epic battles between the kingdoms of Wei, Shu, and Wu.

Based on the video game Dynasty Warriors,’ the movie narrates the tale of the Eastern Han Dynasty, plagued by war, where Dong Zhuo reigns supreme, and citizens and heroes unite to overthrow his power.

4. The Post Truth World (罪後真相, 2022)

Chen I-fu directed “The Post-Truth World,” a crime-mystery drama film from Taiwan, in 2022. It stars Joseph Chang, Edward Chen, Aviis Zhong, Caitlin Fang, and Amber An.

The tale of a community where lies and propaganda rule and a few people struggle to reveal the reality and revive honesty in their society.

5. Lighting Up the Stars (人生大事, 2022)

Featuring Zhu Yilong and Yang Enyou, Lighting Up the Stars is a 2022 Chinese drama film written and directed by Liu Jiangjiang.

It is a story of a funeral director who accidentally crosses paths with an orphan girl during a funeral after being released from prison. She brings about an unexpected change in his attitude toward life and career.

6. Double World (征途, 2020)

“Double World” (征途) is a 2020 Chinese action fantasy film directed by Teddy Chan and based on the popular online game “Zhengtu” by Shi Guangnan.

The action movie occurs in a fantasy medieval world where kingdoms fight for a valuable resource in a battle royale.

Set in a fictional universe comprising ten nations, where a warlord organizes a competition to reveal the best warriors. Dong Yilong, a brave young villager, takes up the challenge despite the distrust of his village and begins his journey.

7. Zero to Hero (媽媽的神奇小子, 2021)

“Zero to Hero” is a 2021 Hong Kong family sports drama directed by Danny Pang.

This biography film tells the story of a young boy named Leung Cheung-Yi, who has a passion for science but struggles to fit in at school. His life changes when he discovers a magical plant that gives him extraordinary abilities.

The story of Su Huawei, who was born with cerebral spasms due to jaundice and could not stand and walk normally.

Despite the challenges, Su Huawei’s mother persevered in helping him discover his running talent. Her efforts paid off when he was selected for the disabled track and field team and ultimately won the Paralympic championship.

8. The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (少林三十六房, 1978)

The 36th Chamber of Shaolin is a classic kung fu movie released in 1978, directed by Lau Kar-leung and starring Gordon Liu. The flick is full of action and dramatic scenes.

The film tells the story of San Te, a young student who witnesses the oppression of his people by the ruling Manchu dynasty. He then escapes a brutal Manchu attack and devotes himself to learning martial arts to seek revenge.

Determined to learn kung fu and fight back against the Manchu, San Te travels to the legendary Shaolin Temple to train. He masters the deadly use of his fists, palms, feet, swords, sticks, and lances and takes on the Manchus.

9. Upcoming Summer (盛夏未来, 2021)

“Upcoming Summer” is about Xia Xue and He Xiang, two high school students from different backgrounds who grow closer during summer break. Xia Xue is a hardworking student from a low-income family.

Xiang is a rich and famous student who initially appears arrogant and insensitive. However, as the two spend more time together, they understand and appreciate each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

As the summer break ends, the two must face the challenges of returning to school and dealing with the pressures of their families and social circles.

The movie explores themes of friendship, love, and personal growth, as well as the challenges faced by young people in contemporary Chinese society. It has been praised for its realistic portrayal of teenage life in China and its exploration of the complexities of modern relationships.

10. Warriors of Future (明日戰記, 2022)

Warriors of Future is a 2022 Hong Kong science fiction action movie. In his directorial debut, it is directed by visual effects artist Ng Yuen-fai and stars Sean Lau, Louis Koo, and Carina Lau.

A meteorite brings extraterrestrial life to the Earth. When powerful alien creatures threaten humanity, commanders Sing Lee’s elite forces are almost wiped out. The surviving soldier, Tai Loi, discovers an even bigger conspiracy.

Although critics had mixed opinions, Warriors of Future was applauded for its stunning visual effects, thrilling action scenes, and topical discussions about science and technology.

11. Nice View (奇迹·笨小孩, 2022)

“Nice View” is a Chinese comedy-drama film directed by Wen Muye, released in 2022.

A young man named Jing Hao moves to a new city to start a new life with his sister. Despite their struggles, they find hope in unexpected opportunities.

Jing Hao must boldly decide to secure their future when a setback threatens to derail their plans. This is one of the ideal Chinese movies for Mandarin learners.

12. The Wandering Earth (流浪地球, 2019)

The Wandering Earth is a Chinese sci-fi film released in 2019, directed by Frant Gwo. The movie is based on a novella of the same name by Liu Cixin, also known for his novel “The Three-Body Problem.”

The story is set in the future. The human race is in peril as the sun begins to die out. In a last-ditch effort to survive, a plan is devised to propel Earth out of the solar system and into the orbit of a distant star.

With the help of powerful engines, the planet embarks on a 2,500-year journey to save humanity.

Gigantic engines are constructed globally to move the planet out of its orbit. However, unexpected obstacles arise during the expedition, putting Earth’s future in danger. This Chinese film is available on Netflix to stream.

13. Man in Love (当男人恋爱时, 2021)

A Man in Love is a Chinese romantic comedy film released in 2019, directed by Han Han. The movie stars Tong Liya, Cheney Chen, Tony Yang, and Zheng Kai.

A Cheng, a compassionate debt collector, meets Hao Ting, a woman struggling to pay off her debt. He becomes drawn to her strength and resilience as he gets to know her.

To help her, he offers a unique repayment plan that leads to a complicated yet passionate relationship.

14. The Soul (緝魂, 2021)

Based on Jiang Bo’s novel Yihun Youshu, The Soul is a Chinese-Taiwanese neo-noir sci-fi mystery crime film. It is directed by Cheng Wei-hao and stars Chang Chen, Janine Chang, Sun Anke, and Christopher Lee.

The death of a powerful businessman leads to an investigation uncovering secrets and connections among his family and associates.

As criminal police A Bao delves deeper, she discovers a shocking truth behind the case, adapted from a novel by Jiang Bo.

15. Love O2O (微微一笑很倾城, 2016)

In 2016, Zhao Tianyu directed the Chinese romance film Love O2O which starred Angelababy and Jing Boran. The film is based on Gu Man’s novel of the same name.

After getting dumped by her in-game husband, Bei Wei Wei meets a top player named Xiao Nai. As they navigate the game and real life, they and their friends go on a journey filled with adventure and romance.

16. The 9th Precinct ( 第九分局, 2019)

“The 9th Precinct” (第九分局) is a Chinese action crime thriller movie released in 2019. The film stars Roy Chiu, Chia-Chia Peng, and Wen Chen-ling.

A new, determined cop joins a secret police unit and fights against evil forces threatening the balance between the human and supernatural worlds.

There is a battle between the human and supernatural realms as an idealistic cop joins an underground police unit.

17. Casino Tycoon (賭城大亨之新哥傳奇, 1992)

“Casino Tycoon” is a Hong Kong movie released in 1992, directed by Wong Jing and starring Andy Lau, Joey Wong, and Chingmy Yau. The film is loosely based on the real-life story of Macau casino magnate Stanley Ho.

Ho, a refugee from Hong Kong, rises to fame and fortune through his hard work and determination in the casino industry.

The movie features a luxurious atmosphere, focusing on the glamour and excess of the casino industry. It explores themes of ambition, greed, and the consequences of success.

“Blind Detective” is a Hong Kong action crime thriller film released in 2013, directed by Johnnie To and starring Andy Lau and Sammi Cheng.

After a tragic accident left him blind, a brilliant detective partners with a rookie inspector to solve a case from her past. He uses his unique abilities to solve cold issues for money.

This commercial success won several awards and nominations, including the Best Actor award for Andy Lau at the Hong Kong Film Awards. It was praised for its unique and engaging storyline, powerful performances by the lead actors, and innovative crime-solving approach.

19. Manhunt (追捕, 2017)

“Manhunt” is a Chinese action thriller released in 2017, directed by John Woo and starring Zhang Hanyu, Masaharu Fukuyama, and Ha Ji-won.

A prosecutor falsely accused of heinous crimes sets out to prove his innocence and clear his name.

The movie features a fast-paced, thrilling action sequence focusing on an intense pursuit and suspenseful investigation. It explores themes of trust, loyalty, and justice. This is one of the good movies for learning Mandarin.

20. Wish Dragon (许愿神龙, 2021)

“Wish Dragon” is a 2021 computer-animated fantasy film produced by Sony Pictures Animation and Beijing-based production company Base FX, directed by Chris Appelhans.

While trying to reunite with his childhood buddy, he encounters a dragon capable of granting wishes that teaches him about the potential of opportunities and aids him in fulfilling his deepest longing.

This Mandarin flick on Netflix was well-received by audiences and critics alike, who praised its charming characters, vibrant animation, and emotional storyline. It was also noted for its diverse voice cast, which included several prominent Asian-American actors.

21. Warriors of Heaven and Earth (天地英雄, 2003)

“Warriors of Heaven and Earth” is a Chinese film directed by Halonge Ping and released in 2003. The movie is set in the 7th century AD, during the Tang dynasty. It follows a group of soldiers tasked with protecting a caravan of merchants traveling through the Silk Road.

Li, a retired warrior, was hired by a Chinese official to escort envoys back to the Tang capital from the Western Region. Along the way, they encounter a group of bandits and a group of Uighur warriors who are also after the envoys.

The film features a mix of action, adventure, and drama and explores themes such as honor, duty, and loyalty. The cinematography is notable, as it showcases the vast and breathtaking landscapes of the Silk Road.

22. Your Name Engraved Herein (刻在你心底的名字, 2020)

“Your Name Engraved Herein” is a Taiwanese coming-of-age drama film directed by Liu Kuang-hui and released in 2020. The film is set in Taiwan in the 1980s, during the period of martial law.

Set in the late 1980s, two male students, Jia-han and Birdy, fall in love and face societal pressures and peer pressure they face because of it.

As Taiwan’s highest-grossing LGBT film, this movie was nominated for five Golden Horse awards at the Taipei Film Festival.

23. So Long, My Son (地久天长, 2019)

“So Long, My Son” film directed by Wang Xiaoshuai and released in 2019. The film follows the lives of two families over three decades, beginning in the 1980s and spanning the one-child policy era in China.

The story centers around two couples, Yaojun and Liyun, and their close friends, Wang Jingui and his wife. The film explores the complex relationships between couples, their children, and the society they live in. The pair are forced to deal with various challenges, including grief, guilt, and loss, as they navigate the shifting landscape of Chinese society.

It was praised for its powerful performances, emotional depth, and portrayal of China’s complex history and social changes. The film’s structure, which moves back and forth in time, was also widely lauded for its ability to capture the characters’ evolving relationships and emotions.

24. This Is Not What I Expected (喜欢你, 2017)

“This Is Not What I Expected” is a 2017 Chinese romantic comedy directed by Derek Hui. The film stars Takeshi Kaneshiro as Lu Jin, a high-powered executive chef obsessed with a quirky hotel employee named Gu Shengnan, played by Zhou Dongyu.

The film follows Lu Jin as he tries to win Gu Shengnan’s heart through his culinary skills. In contrast, she tries to navigate their relationship with her unique style.

Along the way, they face a series of misadventures and obstacles, including the disapproval of Lu Jin’s family and the interference of his ex-girlfriend.

25. Cities Of Last Things (幸福城市, 2018)

“Cities of Last Things” is a Taiwanese drama film directed by Ho Wi Ding and released in 2018. The flick is set in a dystopian future.

The story begins with a suicide, then the events leading up to the suicide are reversed to tell the story in reverse order.

There are complicated relationships, betrayals, and surprises throughout this film, making it a gripping one that keeps you hooked until the very end.

26. The Stolen Years (被偷走的那五年, 2013)

“The Stolen Years” is a Chinese romantic drama film directed by Barbara Wong and released in 2013.

The film follows a successful businesswoman named He Mann, played by Bai Baihe, who marries her longtime boyfriend, Chen Xiaozheng, played by Joseph Chang.

But, shortly after their wedding, Chen suffers from a sudden bout of amnesia and forgets the past five years of his life, including his marriage to He Mann.

The film explores the challenges faced by He Mann as she struggles to cope with Chen’s amnesia and tries to rekindle their relationship. The story delves into themes of love, loss, and the power of memory as the couple navigates their way back to happiness.

“Blind Massage” is a Chinese drama film directed by Lou Ye and released in 2014. The film follows a group of blind masseurs who work at a massage center in Nanjing, China.

The movie “Massage,” based on Bi Feiyu’s novel, received praise for its excellent cast and sensitive depiction of the visually impaired.

The film is based on the novel “Massage” by Bi Feiyu and was praised for its solid performances and sensitive portrayal of the visually impaired community.

The film’s use of sound and music was also widely lauded for its ability to immerse the audience in the sensory experience of the characters.

28. Finding Mr. Right (北京遇上西雅图, 2013)

“Finding Mr. Right” is a 2013 Chinese romantic comedy film directed by Xue Xiaolu. The film stars Tang Wei and Wu Xiubo in the lead roles.

The story follows Wen Jiajia (played by Tang Wei), a pregnant woman from Beijing who journeys to Seattle to search for her boyfriend. She hopes he will marry her and provide a better life for their child.

In Seattle, she meets Frank (Wu Xiubo), a divorced and lonely chauffeur tasked with driving her around the city. As they spend more time together, Wen Jiajia and Frank develop feelings for each other.

The film explores love, family, and cultural differences between China and the USA. It was a commercial success in China and was praised for its beautiful cinematography and charming performances by the lead actors.

29. Secret (不能说的秘密, 2007)

“Secret” (不能说的秘密) is a 2007 Taiwanese romantic drama film directed by Jay Chou. The film stars Jay Chou and Gwei Lun-mei in the lead roles.

The plot revolves around a high school student, Ye Xianglun (Jay Chou), a talented pianist and composer. He transfers to a new school where he meets a quiet and mysterious girl named Lu Xiaoyu (Gwei Lun-mei).

They quickly become friends, and Ye Xianglun teaches her how to play the piano. As they spend more time together, they fall in love.

Yet, Lu Xiaoyu has a secret she cannot reveal. She has a supernatural ability to travel through time. She uses this ability to go back in time to prevent a tragedy. Ye Xianglun becomes caught up in her secret and tries to help her, but their actions have consequences they cannot predict.

30. Under the Hawthorn Tree (山楂树之恋, 2010)

“Under the Hawthorn Tree” is a 2010 Chinese romantic drama film directed by Zhang Yimou, based on the novel of the same name as Ai Mi. The film stars Zhou Dongyu and Shawn Dou in the lead roles.

The tale is set in the early 1970s during the Cultural Revolution in China. Jingqiu (Zhou Dongyu) is a high school student from a family of intellectuals who are sent to the countryside to be “re-educated” by the peasants.

There she meets a young man named Lao San (Shawn Dou), who is also being re-educated. They fall in love, but their relationship is complicated by the social and political turmoil of the time.

31. Big Fish & Begonia (大鱼海棠, 2016)

“Big Fish & Begonia” (大鱼海棠) is a 2016 Chinese animated fantasy film directed by Liang Xuan and Zhang Chun. The film tells the story of a young girl named Chun who lives in a mystical world beneath the sea.

Chun has just turned 16, which means she is now eligible to explore the human world. So she takes the form of a red dolphin and travels to the surface, where she meets a human boy named Kun.

Chun saves Kun from drowning, but in doing so, she breaks a taboo that puts her own life in danger. Kun must journey to the mystical world beneath the sea to save Chun and face dangerous challenges.

The film explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the balance between nature and humans. Composer Kiyoshi Yoshida praised its stunning animation, imaginative storytelling, and beautiful score. The voice cast includes some of China’s most famous actors, including Guanlin Ji, Shangqing Su, and Timmy Xu.

32. The Yin-Yang Master: Dream of Eternity (阴阳师：晴雅集, 2020)

“The Yin-Yang Master: Dream of Eternity” is a 2020 Chinese fantasy flick directed by Guo Jingming. The film is based on the novel series “Onmyoji” by Baku Yumemakura, which also inspired a popular Japanese mobile game and anime series.

The story is set in a world where humans and demons coexist. The balance between the two is maintained by Yin-yang Masters, who can see and control supernatural forces.

The film follows the journey of Yin-yang Master Qingming (Mark Chao), who must investigate a series of mysterious deaths that seem connected to a powerful demon.

As Qingming delves deeper into the mystery, he discovers a plot to unleash a dangerous and destructive force that could destroy both the human and demon worlds.

Teaming up with Yin-yang Master Boya (played by Allen Deng) and demon princess Bai Ni (played by Olivia Wang), he works to thwart the criminal plot and save their realm.

33. A Beautiful Life (不再让你孤单, 2011)

“A Beautiful Life” (不再让你孤单) is a 2011 Chinese romantic drama film directed by Andrew Lau. The film stars Shu Qi and Liu Ye in the lead roles.

The story follows a young woman named Li Peiru (Shu Qi) who moves to Beijing to start a new life. She meets a handsome and successful architect named Fang Zhendong (Liu Ye), and they fall in love.

Their backgrounds, values, and personal and professional challenges complicate their relationship.

The film examines themes of love, sacrifice, and pursuing happiness. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of modern relationships and the chemistry between Shu Qi and Liu Ye. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Tian Yuan, Anthony Wong, and Liang Jing.

34. I Am Not Madame Bovary (我不是潘金莲, 2016)

“I Am Not Madame Bovary” is a 2016 Chinese comedy-drama film directed by Feng Xiaogang. The film stars Fan Bingbing in the lead role, with Guo Tao, Da Peng, and Zhang Jiayi in supporting roles.

The story follows a woman named Li Xuelian who seeks justice after her divorce from her husband is deemed invalid by the Chinese legal system. So she embarks on a decade-long quest to clear her name and get a divorce certificate, going through various bureaucratic channels and courts along the way.

The film is a satire on the Chinese legal system and bureaucracy and a commentary on gender and societal norms. It was praised for its powerful performances, especially by Fan Bingbing, and its sharp humor and social commentary. The film also features a unique circular aspect ratio, reflecting the circular nature of Li Xuelian’s quest for justice.

35. Shadow (影, 2018)

“Shadow” (影) is a 2018 Chinese martial arts film directed by Zhang Yimou. The film stars Deng Chao, Sun Li, Zheng Kai, Hu Jun, and Guan Xiaotong.

The story is set during the Three Kingdoms period of ancient China. It follows the conflict between the kingdoms of Pei and Yang.

The commander of Pei, General Ziyu (Deng Chao), seeks revenge against the Yang kingdom for his father’s death. However, due to political tensions, he must employ a body double (played by Deng Chao) to negotiate with the Yang king.

The film explores loyalty, deception, and the cost of power. The movie’s stunning visuals were widely praised, including black and white shots, depictions of rain and shadows, and intricate martial arts. The film also features a strong cast and superior performance.

36. Us and Them (后来的我们, 2018)

“Us and Them” (后来的我们) is a Chinese romantic drama film directed by René Liu. The film stars Jing Boran and Zhou Dongyu in the lead roles.

The story follows two strangers, Jianqing and Xiaoxiao, who meet on a train during the Chinese New Year holiday. They start a conversation and form a connection, but their lives take them in different directions after the train ride. Over the next decade, they meet repeatedly, but their relationship remains complicated and fraught with obstacles.

The film explores themes of love, timing, and the pursuit of happiness. It was praised for its convincing performances by Jing Boran and Zhou Dongyu and its beautiful cinematography and evocative soundtrack. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Tian Zhuangzhuang, Zeng Meihuizi, and Qu Zheming.

These Chinese movies will help you learn Chinese. If you are interested in these classic works or characters, why not try customizing movie-related keychains? The Custom Keychains are usually small and lightweight, making them perfect for hanging on a key ring or bag.

Wrapping Up on Netflix’s Chinese movies

If studying becomes dull, why not entertain it with movies? Watching Chinese films on Netflix is an effective way to learn different Chinese language varieties.

These are just a few of the fabulous Mandarin flicks available on Netflix. But, of course, there are many more to discover and appreciate!

That list of 36 C-films on Netflix will be a stepping stone in your language-learning exploration. It will also help you adapt to China’s and Taiwan’s traditions and culture.

With the proper emphasis and investment of time, delightful things like movies can offer valuable learning opportunities. So now is the time to get started on your Chinese learning journey!

If you have questions or like to share suggestions, write in the comment section below.

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