Discovering Taiwan's Cinematic Gems

Diego Santillán
Diego SantillánSeptember 24, 2025
Taiwan's film industry has undergone a significant transformation since the turn of the millennium, producing a wide range of captivating movies that showcase the country's unique culture and perspectives. From romantic dramas to fantasy thrillers, Taiwanese cinema has something to offer for every kind of film enthusiast.

The period between 2000 and 2009 was particularly notable, with the release of several critically acclaimed films that gained international recognition. Movies like "What Time Is It There?" and "Three Times" demonstrated the versatility and creativity of Taiwanese filmmakers, exploring complex themes and emotions through innovative storytelling.

One of the defining characteristics of Taiwanese cinema during this period is its ability to balance traditional values with modern sensibilities. Films like "Millennium Mambo" and "Cape No. 7" offer a glimpse into the lives of young Taiwanese people, navigating love, relationships, and identity in a rapidly changing world.

As we delve into the world of Taiwanese cinema, we find a diverse range of genres and styles, from the haunting horror of "Silk" to the nostalgic charm of "Goodbye, Dragon Inn". Whether you're a fan of romance, drama, or science fiction, there's something on this list that's sure to captivate and inspire. With their unique blend of Taiwanese culture and universal themes, these movies are a must-watch for anyone looking to explore the best of Taiwanese cinema.
Secret
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Secret

#1

Ye Xiang Lun, a talented piano player is a new student at the prestigious Tamkang School. On his first day, he meets Lu Xiao Yu, a pretty girl playing a mysterious piece of music.

2007101 min
FantasyDramaThriller
7.6
189 votes
What Time Is It There?
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What Time Is It There?

#2

A street vendor with a grim home-life forges a connection with a young woman on her way to Paris.

2001116 min
DramaRomance
7.0
110 votes
Three Times
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Three Times

#3

In three separate segments, set respectively in 1966, 1911, and 2005, three love stories unfold between three sets of characters, under three different periods of Taiwanese history and governance.

2005130 min
RomanceDrama
7.0
95 votes
Millennium Mambo
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Millennium Mambo

#4

Vicky recalls her romances with her exes Hao Hao and Jack in the neon-lit clubs of Taipei.

2001106 min
DramaRomance
7.0
225 votes
Beijing Bicycle
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Beijing Bicycle

#5

A seventeen-year-old country boy working in Beijing as a courier has his bicycle stolen, and finds it with a schoolboy his age.

2002113 min
Drama
6.8
74 votes
Goodbye, Dragon Inn
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Goodbye, Dragon Inn

#6

On a dark and rainy night, a historic and regal Taipei cinema sees its final film: 1967 martial arts feature "Dragon Inn".

200382 min
Drama
6.8
163 votes
Cape No. 7
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Cape No. 7

#7

Aga, a band singer, returns to Hengchun with frustration. Tomoko is a Japanese model assigned to organize a local warm-up band for the Japanese super star beach concert. Together with other five ordinary Hengchun residents who were not expected to be great or anything, they formed an impossible band.

2008129 min
ComedyDramaRomance
6.5
64 votes
Silk
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Silk

#8

A scientist uses his invention - the "Menger Sponge" - to capture the energy of a dead child's spirit in an old building. In trying to determine why the energy of the ghost does not dissipate, the team discovers the identity and the dramatic story of the boy.

2006108 min
HorrorScience FictionMystery
6.2
85 votes