Six Lighthearted K-Dramas to Binge Through Spring

Gather ‘round, Ohana. Our favorite Disney blue alien is back, and this time he’s fluffier, cuter, and wilder than ever!

Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch” returns to the big screen in a brand-new live-action reimagining, bursting with heart, humor, and Hawaiian spirit! The feature film has already broken records before the release, being the most viewed Disney live-action trailer of all time with a whopping 158 million views! It just goes to show how much audiences loved the 2002 film and how excited they — we’re talking about the Disney Millennials and the new generation of Disney fans — are to witness a refreshed version of this timeless tale of found family, endearing misfits, and unconditional love.  

This record-breaking news, however, made us expect a little bit more, hoping the studios would do better than the recent “Snow White” reimagining, which received lackluster reviews from critics and Disney fans alike. Will “Lilo and Stitch” flip the coin? 

The Beat Asia got to attend the advance screening last May 18 at the SM Mall of Asia, where we were treated to a Hawaiian Roller Coaster ride of fun activation booths, free snow cones, and, yes, a film that brought on a wave of nostalgia and a whole lot of good fun! 

We’re here to tell you all about the experience and how we think this latest live-action remake from Disney is done right, and why it’s bound to become the family film to watch this summer. 

A Balance of Nostalgia and Refreshed Storytelling

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

“Show us that there is something good inside you.” This is one of the lines from the 2002 animated feature, a quote from the Grand Councilwoman who stood before Stitch as he was judged before the entire Galactic Federation. 

We chose this line to show how loyal this remake was to the original from the start. From the beginning till the end, the film gave us the iconic scenes, beloved quotes, and nostalgic music, which made us tear up. And we weren’t even 10 minutes in!

The 2025 “Lilo and Stitch” separates itself from other Disney live-action movies, which are mostly about the Disney Princesses. More than a story of an alien crashing to earth, the story is about feeling out of place and alone, which remains a relevant theme today. Disney’s decision to produce this live-action remake is a testament to its enduring charm to audiences everywhere, and shows the studio’s desire to keep its legacy alive by introducing it to the new generation. 

Although many live-action reimagining have failed either in the nostalgia department or in bringing something new to the table, “Lilo and Stitch” balances both with effortless ease, so much so that it might even be better than the original. Shocker, we know, but hear us out.

So many of us know the story. Set in modern-day Hawai’i, the story follows Lilo (Maia Kealoha), a girl full of imagination with a rebellious streak, and how she meets a blue alien fugitive, Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders), who crashes into her world and changes her life forever. The live-action movie pretty much follows the same events from the original animation, with some changes in the second half. These changes didn’t feel forced or random, with every one of them an effect of an earlier scene or rooted in a character’s journey. 

We loved how Stitch’s biology was made clearer in this remake, explaining why he’s afraid of water. Even though it was mentioned in the original that he couldn’t swim, the remake reiterated that his molecular density was too great and would cause him to sink and drown, which heightened the stakes and added drama.

Lilo’s sister, Nani (Sydney Elizabeth Agudong), also got a bit more of the spotlight as the remake shed more light on her struggles in keeping Lilo and trying her hardest to be a responsible guardian. Those additional scenes where we see her working and failing, and also those glimpses of her life before they lost their parents gave us more insight into who she is as a character — how she was more than just Lilo’s big sister, but also a young girl thrust into adulthood before she even had the chance to make her own dreams a reality. 

We also saw an improvement in David’s (Kaipo Dudoit) role as he is now the grandson of Tūtū (Amy Hill), a new character who plays Nani and Lilo’s longtime neighbor. This dynamic explained why David was so close with Nani (childhood friends to lovers, duh!) and showcased that the concept of Ohana among the Hawaiian people goes beyond just blood relations.  

And what of the iconic alien duo, Jumba and Pleakly? Pleakly (Billy Magnussen) was pretty much the same, adding humor into the film as effortlessly as breathing, while Jumba (Zach Galifianakis) had an interesting transformation and had a more villainous image in the film, which we thought matched his whole Mad Scientist character. We liked how he remained consistent with his initial goal when he created Experiment 626 (a.k.a. Stitch), which was to create a monster of destruction, and kept pursuing Stitch till the end. This, however, would’ve made Captain Gantu’s character redundant, which was why it was understandable that the character didn’t make it into the film.

Although we have to admit that we did miss Jumba and Pleakly’s Partners-in-Crime vibes, and the actors who, though great individually, didn’t show as much chemistry as we had hoped. 

A fresh, well-ironed storyline, well-developed characters, and fascinating new faces that were significant to the overall progression of events, the 2025 “Lilo and Stitch” just showed us how amazing a live-action remake can be when done right. 

On Acting and Effects

Maia Kealoha, who played Lilo, did such an amazing job that it almost felt like animated Lilo magically turned into an actual person. It’s hard to believe that this is her debut film, given how she performed the character with clever playfulness and heartfelt charm. 

Producer Jonathan Enrich even said in a press statement, “Finding Lilo was the biggest challenge. We needed someone young who could realistically play a girl growing up in Hawai’i. Maia Kealoha blew us away with her energy, humor, and dramatic ability. She truly is Lilo.” So yes, folks, they’re not exaggerating. This kid shows much promise, and we can’t wait to see her in more projects. 

One thing we loved about the entire movie was how the cast looked so much like the animated characters, which added to the nostalgia, making it easier for longtime Stitch fans to connect and empathize with their live-action versions. Sydney Elizabeth Agudong, who is of Hawaiian and Filipino heritage, brought Nani to life well from her reactions to Lilo’s tantrums down to her silent tears as she struggled with her responsibilities. 

There were new and old characters, and then there was Agent Cobra Bubbles. The iconic man in a suit and dark shades played an important role in the original animation, being the social worker who monitored Nani and who turned out to be an undercover agent. The live-action remake split this character into two, which we thought made more sense as it gave us more insight into the alien side of the story and how — as Pleakly said, aliens were made to believe that mosquitoes were an extinct species, making it a protected wildlife reserve.

The social worker, Mrs. Kekoa, was played by Tia Carrere, who voiced Nani in the original animation. This was one of the ways the new film paid homage to the original: by letting these talented voice actors take part in the reimagining. Other characters you’ll catch include David’s voice actor Jason Scott Lee, Amy Hill, who voiced Mrs. Hasagawa, and of course, Chris Sanders, who is the then and now voice of Stitch. 

The film showcased wonderful CGI, which was expected of a big studio project from Walt Disney Studios. The space scenes looked real but still retained that whimsical charm, so it didn’t feel like we were watching a scene out of a Marvel movie. The alien characters looked impressive and so much like their animated counterparts, and Stitch looked even better in this version now that he had fur. Cute and fluffy, but 100x!

Majority of the scenes were filmed on the island, so the setting is as authentic as it gets, and truly captures the beauty of Hawaii, its culture, and people. 

Final Verdict

Any fan who watches this in the cinema has to be prepared to have their hearts stolen by Stitch again, because this remake is good in all the right ways, and checks off all our marks for a Disney live-action movie worth watching. While Disney had a rough journey with these movies, at least we know that they gave “Lilo and Stitch” a fresh new look but still managed to retain its emotional core, which many of the remakes lacked. 

New look, but same ‘ole vibes with pure Disney magic. An easy five stars! Don’t miss this heartfelt, action-packed summer adventure in theaters now!

Follow Walt Disney Studios on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for more Disney movie magic.

The 78th Cannes Film Festival is ongoing from May 13 to 24, 2025, promising an exceptional showcase of films. This year, the renowned awarding body is shining the spotlight on a diverse array of movies from across the world, including entries from Asia that are making their mark on the international stage.

From poignant dramas to genre-defying thrillers, we’re listing down some of the standout films in the official lineup that highlight rich storytelling and cinematic innovation by Asian filmmakers. 

Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated Asian films premiering at Cannes 2025. 

Renoir (Japan, Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia, France)

In Competition (Palme d’Or) | Coming-of-age, Drama

Directed and written by Chie Hayakawa, “Renoir” is a coming-of-age story set in 1980s Tokyo and is told through the point of view of 11-year-old Fuki (Yui Suzuki), who’s navigating her adolescence amid family struggles as she lives with her terminally ill father and a mother who’s constantly stressed due to work pressures and caring for her husband. 

Often left to her own devices, Fuki retreats into an imaginary world where her curiosity for telepathy grows. This Japanese film was co-produced by studios in Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, and France, and was Japan’s submission for the Oscars.  

• Cast: Yui Suzuki, Hikari Ishida, Lily Franky
• Screening Dates: May 17, 18, and 20
• Running Time: 1 hour, 56 minutes

Magellan (Portugal, Philippines, Spain, France, Taiwan)

In Competition (Palme d’Or) | Historical Drama 

Directed and written by award-winning director Lav Diaz, the film follows the story of how the Portuguese navigator Magellan rebels against the power of the King, who doesn’t support his dream of discovering the world. The film explores the truth of his journey as he becomes obsessed with conquest and conversion upon reaching the island of the Malayan Archipelago, as well as the hardships and difficulties he faced throughout the long, exhausting voyage.  

Known as one of the members of the slow cinema movement, Lav Diaz has made some of the longest narrative films on record. “Magellan,” which had to be trimmed down for the competition, was originally nine hours long and was around eight years in the making.  

• Cast: Gael Garcia Bernal, Dario Yazbek, Angela Ramos, Ronnie Lazaro as Raja Humabon, Hazel Orencio
• Screening Dates: May 18 and 19
• Running Time: 2 hours, 36 minutes 

Sons of the Neon Night (Hong Kong)

Out of Competition (Midnight Screening) | Crime Thriller

Also known by its Chinese title, “Feng Lin Hou Shan,” this genre-defying crime thriller by director Juno Mak starts off with an explosion in Causeway Bay, which kills a wealthy Hong Kong businessman and sparks a war between drug traffickers and those who oppose them. The movie follows Lee Mo-tung (Takeshi Kaneshiro), the heir to a major financial company, who wants to get rid of his family’s dark legacy by declaring war on the drug trade. His actions, however, ignite chaos in the criminal underworld. 

This is Juno Mak’s sophomore feature following his 2013 debut, “Rigor Mortis,” which premiered at the Venice Film Festival in 2013. 

• Cast: Takeshi Kaneshiro, Sean Lau, Tony Leung Ka-Fai, Louis Koo, Michelle Wai
• Screening Dates: May 16, 17, 18, and 20
• Running Time: 2 hours, 12 minutes

A Useful Ghost (Thailand, France, Singapore, Germany)

Critics’ Week | Dark Comedy, Fantasy

Written and directed by Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke, who is known to weave folklore into contemporary narratives, this film centers on Nat (Davika Hoorne), whose spirit returns after passing away from a respiratory illness. She possesses a vacuum cleaner to protect her husband from falling into the same fate when he begins to show symptoms. While her family copes with their unusual human-ghost relationship, Nat proves her worth by cleaning their factory — not just literally, but also spiritually as she cleanses the place of vengeful spirits. 

This is Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke’s feature debut, and was co-produced by studios from France, Singapore, and Germany.

• Cast: Davika Hoorne, Witsarut Himmarat, Apasiri Nitibhon
• Screening Dates: May 17 and 18
• Running Time: 2 hours, 10 minutes

Agapito (Philippines)

In Competition (Short Films) | Science Fiction, Drama 

“Agapito” follows the story of a bowling pin setter named Mira (Nour Hooshmand), whose days are spent resetting pins at a rundown bowling alley. She works this dangerous job in order to support her brother, Junior (André Miguel), who suffers from cerebral palsy and developmental delays.   

The film is directed by Arvin Belarmino and Kyle Danelle Romero, and made history as the first project by a Filipina director selected in the short films category. In an interview with Rolling Stones Philippines, the directors described the film as a love letter to their families. Director Belarmino dedicated it to his brother, who also has special needs, while co-director Romero mentioned how her father had supported their family by working in a sports facility.  

• Cast: Nour Hooshmand, André Miguel, Jeremy Calilung, Mark Emil Nolasco, Veronica Reyes, Bullet Dumas
• Screening Dates: May 24
• Running Time: 15 minutes 

Resurrection (China)

In Competition (Palme d’Or) | Science Fiction, Drama

Known to create films with poetic storytelling and stunning visuals, renowned director Bi Gan weaves a sci-fi narrative in “Resurrection,” which follows the story of a woman lost in a world of in-between called the “eternal time zone” while undergoing a surgical procedure. In her dreams, she finds an android corpse whom she tries to awaken through stories. 

This film is competing for the Palme d’Or, the festival’s highest prize, marking the director’s debut in the category following his romantic drama “Long Day’s Journey Into Night,” which was screened in the Un Certain Regard section in 2018.

• Cast: Jackson Yee, Shu Qi, Mark Chao, Li Gengxi, Huang Jue, Chen Yongzhong, Zhang Zhijian, Chloe Maayan, Yan Nan, Guo Mucheng
• Screening Dates: May 22 to 24
• Running Time: 2 hours, 40 minutes

A Pale View of Hills (Japan and England)

Un Certain Regard | Historical drama

The film was adapted from the Nobel prize-winning novel of the same name by Kazuo Ishiguro, and follows the story of a young writer named Niki (Fumi Nikaido) from London born to a Japanese mother and British father. 

When her half-sister passes away, she reconnects with her estranged mother, Etsuko (Yo Yoshida), and uncovers her past as a survivor of the Nagasaki atomic bombing. The film is directed by Kei Ishikawa (“A Man” and “Listen to the Universe”) and takes viewers on a journey through post-war Nagasaki in the 1950s and 1980s England during the Cold War.

• Cast: Fumi Nikaido, Suzu Hirose, Yo Yoshida, Camilla Aiko, Kouhei Matsushita, Tomokazu Miura
• Screening Dates: May 15 to 17
• Running Time: 2 hours, 3 minutes

Exit 8 (Japan)

Out of Competition (Midnight Screening) | Psychological horror, Thriller

Directed by Genki Kawamura, the author who penned the Japanese bestseller “If Cats Disappeared from the World,”  this video game adaptation is about navigating an endless underground. 

The horror game puts players in a Japanese subway station where they’re tasked to find “Exit 8” without overlooking anything out of the ordinary. A single oversight can lead them back to the very beginning, trapping players in an endless corridor. 

Yikes. Talk about being unable to get off a wild thrill ride!

• Cast: Kazunari Ninomiya, Yamato Kôchi
• Screening Dates: May 18, 19, 21, and 23
• Running Time: 1 hour, 35 minutes

Love on Trial (Japan)

Out of Competition (Cannes Premiere) | Drama, Romance

This film, directed by Koj Fukada, shines the spotlight on Japan’s Idol Industry as it follows the story of a rising J-Pop idol named Mai (Kyoko Saito) who finds her career in jeopardy when she falls in love and violates the “no dating” clause in her contract. 

“Living in Japan, you’re constantly exposed to idols: in films, on TV, in advertising,” director Koj Fukada said in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. “This project was born from my own discomfort and conflicted feelings toward idol culture, but my intention was not to totally deny or condemn it outright. I wanted to question the system, while not disregarding the efforts of young women who dream of becoming idols.”

• Cast: Kyoko Saito, Yuki Kura, Erika Karata, Kenjiro Tsuda
• Screening Dates: May 22 and 23
• Running Time: 2 hours, 4 minutes

It Was Just an Accident (Iran)

In Competition (Palme d’Or) | Action, Adventure, Crime

Another film in the competition roster is Jafar Panahi’s “It Was Just an Accident,” which we don’t know much about and is only described by the logline: “What begins as a minor accident sets in motion a series of escalating consequences.” Apart from its secretive nature, the film seemed to be cloaked in controversy as it was also reported that the director, who was just recently released from prison, made the film without official filming permission from the Iranian authorities. 

Jafar Panahi is considered of the most celebrated directors in Iran and has previously been recognized at Cannes, Venice, and Berlin for his notable works such as “The Circle” (2000), “Offside” (2006), “Taxi” (2015), and “No Bears” (2022).

• Cast: Majid Panahi, Ebrahim Azizi, Vahid Mobasseri
• Screening Dates: May 20 to 23
• Running Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes

Once Upon a Time in Gaza (Palestine)

Un Certain Regard | Drama, Comedy

This film centers on a young student named Yahya (Naber Abd Alhay) who befriends a restaurant owner, Osama (Majd Eid), and together they start selling illegal drugs while delivering falafel sandwiches. Their business takes a turn, however, when a police officer gets in their way.

Filmed by director duo Arab Nasser and Tarzan Nasser, this film explores Gaza’s social and political realities and will screen in the Un Certain Regard section of the festival. 

• Cast: Naber Abd Alhay, Majd Eid, Ramzi Maqdisi
• Screening Dates: May 19, 20, and 21
• Running Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

To know more about this year’s Cannes entries, you can browse through the official list and screening schedule on their website or follow Cannes Film Festival on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

A new team of heroes has arrived, and who would’ve thought it’s an odd group of antiheroes who just coincidentally worked together to face a greater threat?

Marvel Studios released their second Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) theatrical release this year and despite the lukewarm reception to “Captain America: Brave New World,” this new adventure has received a wave of positive reviews from critics and moviegoers alike, earning an 88% rating from critics and 94% from verified audience on Rotten Tomatoes. 

Marvel’s “Thunderbolts*” brings together an unusual band of superhero rejects comprised of Florence Pugh's Yelena Belova, Sebastian Stan's Bucky Barnes, David Harbour's Red Guardian, Hannah John-Kamen's Ghost, and Wyatt Russell's John Walker. If you’re a fan of the MCU or have been keeping up with the films, you already probably know that these characters have been a thorn in the side of the Avengers one way or another and have done some pretty bad things. 

At first glance, this film might look like another “Suicide Squad,” DC’s popular movie about a group of criminals working together to fight off a greater villain, but after watching the film, we realize Marvel has much more in store in this action-packed adventure. With this film, the company was able to explore a darker kind of villain, one that resides in our minds. 

Redemption Arc at Its Finest

Warning: Spoilers ahead! 

"Thunderbolts*” is a redemption film at its core, a story that tells of an unconventional group of antiheroes working together to fight a greater evil. Although trauma has been an overused plot device in many movies, this film utilizes it in all the right ways as it plunges deeply into the state of mind of each character and explores their mental health issues, a theme that is both relevant and timely. 

Directed by Jake Schreier and written by Eric Pearson and Joanna Calo, “Thunderbolts*” gave us an original treatment of mental health issues told in a heartfelt way. We don’t think we’ve ever teared up over a Marvel film outside of character deaths, but here we are. 

Like most movies in the MCU, “Thunderbolts*” begins right into the action as we witness Yelena standing on the edge of a skyscraper. As she jumps and parachutes to a lower floor, we hear her voiceover saying, “There’s something wrong with me. An emptiness. I thought it started when my sister died, but now it feels like something bigger. Just a…void.”

She goes on a monologue about being bored and discontent with how her life has turned out as she fights her way into the building. From there, we see her wanting to leave her assassin life for a more “public-facing” role in the hopes of finding purpose in her life. Yelena explained, without ever saying the word, what depression is. 

Throughout the film, we are not only given impressive combat scenes and daredevil stunts, but also an emotional and deeper understanding of what goes on in these characters’ heads. Superhero films are mostly plot-driven, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats with back-to-back action sequences, but what makes “Thunderbolts*” unique is their treatment of emotions on a character level, the story unfolding through the choices they make, heavily influenced by their histories, and their mental and emotional states. 

Director Jake Schreier was quite clever with his shots from the start of the film, like how he ushered viewers into Yelena’s state of mind, which was mostly filled with darkness. This was shown in the hallway scene as she moved in to fight the guards. A single light source came from behind her at the end of the hall, and the Director intentionally placed the camera above to capture long shadows, making it look like Yelena was fighting shades — a representation of the demons she’s battling in her head. 

We suppose this also makes it the most (if not the first) artistic film in the MCU as it leans more into artistry and presentation rather than flashy stunts, which beautifully supports the theme and overall storyline.

But that doesn’t mean the movie lacked in the action department because there were plenty of explosions and hand-to-hand combat to go around, which is a signature in the franchise. CGI was also top-tier, and one of our favorite effects was how Bob, a.k.a. The Sentry, shrouded the city in darkness as he brought them into the darkest and deepest parts of their mind. 

We also loved the chemistry between the antiheroes. The concept of found family has been a recurring theme in the MCU, and we enjoyed their journey — how they found common ground to work together as a team. It was a bumpy ride where they endlessly fought and often clashed, understandable considering this band of misfits was like putting together a bunch of magnets that will inevitably repel each other, but that’s what made their teamwork rewarding in the end and why we think this group can indeed be named as — spoiler alert! — “The New Avengers.”

What made these characters an interesting group to watch was their relatability. The director had mentioned this in an interview with Disney, quoting, “I think they’re sort of your least anticipated group of Marvel heroes. *laughs* But in that way, they’re like us. There’s something that everyone can relate to in all of these characters. They’re people who have found themselves in a place they didn’t expect to be, or maybe things didn’t work out for them quite in the way that they thought. I think anyone can relate, certainly.”

It made the moral of its tale even more profound, which Yelena mentioned earlier in the film when Bob asked her about what she does when the loneliness or darkness gets too much. She advised him to shove it all down, to keep it in, but towards the end, she learned that the best way to get through it is to let go, find connection in others, and move forward. 

One thing we wished to have seen more, however, is the Ghost coming into play more. We thought she was overshadowed by the others, who all had interesting back stories. We’ve had a brush with this antihero in the “Antman” franchise, but considering this is her first film where we see her playing a role outside of being a villain, we hope Marvel develops her character more and gives her more substance. 

Final Verdict

“Thunderbolts*” may not be the strongest or flashiest film in the franchise, but it’s got a lot of heart and a strong message that makes a lasting impact, making it one of the more memorable Marvel movies out there. This is more than just a superhero film. It’s about being in one place and learning how to move forward from it. It’s about being human despite your power, strength, and capacity. 

More importantly, this film shows us that the “void” is an all-consuming force and can easily take over if you let it. After seeing the characters’ journey in the film, we hope people learn that staying in the void is also a choice and that the connections and relationships we build with others can lighten our load and help us step out of that darkness. Speaking of building connections, the film’s theme song, “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us” by Starship, is so on point! Marvel truly knows how to tickle our ears with classic 80s music that’s not only a jam, but encapsulates what the film is about. 

The film company has succeeded in ushering in a new era for its A-Team, one that is comprised of heroes that are superhuman but still undeniable human, which gives way to more realistic and grounded stories. Action-packed, hilarious, and heartfelt, it has all the ingredients that make up a blockbuster masterpiece. 

It also seems that we’ll be seeing more of these family-themed stories with the upcoming “Fantastic 4: Four Steps” later this year and “Avengers: Doomsday” in 2026, and we simply can’t wait to see more of these exciting storylines unfold on the big screen. 

Go see it if you haven’t yet!

Follow Marvel on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates on action-packed thrills within the MCU.

Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to slow down, cozy up, and share a heartwarming movie with the most important woman in your life. 

Whether you’re in the mood for something nostalgic, fun, heart-wrenching, or inspiring, we’ve got a lineup of movies guaranteed to make this weekend extra special. And you only have to sit back and relax for an hour or two!

Here are seven films that celebrate motherhood in all its forms — perfect for bonding, laughing, and maybe shedding a few happy tears with mom.

Ang Tanging Ina (2003)

Filipino | Comedy, Drama

This film stars the Philippines’ “Queen of Comedy” Ai-Ai delas Alas as she takes on the role of Ina, a widowed mother with twelve kids. The movie tells the hardships and sacrifices of parenthood presented in a series of comical events and situations. One thing you can count on with Filipino films is that they know how to do a family movie well, and this one touches themes of not just motherhood but is also a coming-of-age story as we see glimpses of her children’s struggles while growing up, raised by a single mother. 

The film was one of the most successful comedy movies in Philippine cinema and was once the highest-grossing Filipino film until the horror movie, “Sukob,” dethroned it in 2006. Its popularity spawned a television series of the same name, and three sequels, namely, “Ang Tanging Ina N'yong Lahat” (2008), “Ang Tanging Ina Mo: Last na 'To!” (2010), and “Enteng ng Ina Mo.” The movie also boasts a star-studded cast that includes Angelica Panganiban, John Pratts, and fashion icon Heart Evangelista. 

If you want a good laugh with some tear-jerking moments, this is it!

Running Time: 1 hour, 35 minutes

Where to watch: YouTube

Little Forest (2018)

Korean | Drama, Slice of Life

This South Korean drama film is adapted from a manga and stars Kim Tae-ri (“Twenty-Five Twenty-One”), who portrays a young woman named Hye-won, who returns to her hometown in the countryside after failing to pass the national qualification exam to become a teacher. There, she reconnects with her roots, cultivates the land (the “Little Forest”), and prepares meals using recipes passed down from her mother, who had mysteriously left years ago. 

Central to the narrative is the theme of motherhood. Hye-won’s relationship with her mother is explored through memories and the act of cooking. As the movie unfurls over four seasons with Hye-won immersing herself in the rhythms of rural life, she gains a deeper understanding of her mother’s choices and sacrifices, which leads her to reconcile her feelings of abandonment. 

Poignant and heart-warming, “Little Forest” explores familial ties through the healing power of food and nature. 

Running Time: 1 hour, 43 minutes

Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Plex, Tubi

Suddenly Twenty (2016)

Thai | Drama, Musical, Comedy

This Thai musical-comedy-drama film stars Araya Suriharn, who portrays Parn, an old woman who magically turns back to being twenty years old and is invited to join a band. This film is filled with nostalgia and has woven the theme of motherhood into the narrative, considering Parn’s identity is deeply rooted in her role as a mother who raised her son alone and has made a lot of sacrifices for his well-being. Even when she was given a second chance at being young again, her maternal instincts still won over, which is shown in a touching moment when she had to choose between keeping her youthful façade and saving her son. 

This film was adapted from the 2014 South Korean movie “Miss Granny,” a film that was well-received by critics and audiences, and was even adapted into several remakes across the region, including the Philippines, Japan, China, India, Vietnam, and Indonesia. 

Running Time: 2 hours, 4 minutes

Where to watch: Moviefone

Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

American | Sci-Fi, Dark Comedy, Drama

This genre-bending Sci-Fi action dramedy starring the iconic Michelle Yeoh (“Crazy Rich Asians”) follows Evelyn, a laundromat owner whose life takes a surreal turn when she’s thrust into a multiverse conflict where she must connect with versions of herself across infinite realities to stop a threatening existence. 

Amid the sci-fi theme, the film explores the many facets of motherhood. Evelyn’s journey through the multiverse is a metaphor for the weight of maternal expectations, generational trauma, and the difficulty of understanding a child’s identity and pain. This film celebrates a mother’s everyday choices of love and empathy, showing us that despite the infinite possibilities, choosing to support your child might just be the most heroic act of all. 

The film was a box office success and was the highest-grossing film at the 95th Academy Awards, where it won seven out of the eleven awards it was nominated for, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor (Ke Huy Quan), and Best Actress (Michelle Yeoh).  

Running Time: 2 hours, 19 minutes

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon Prime

Freaky Friday (2003)

American | Teen Comedy, Fantasy, Family

Let’s face it, we all had our fights with mom, especially during those turbulent teen years. “Freaky Friday” centers on mother-daughter Tess and Anna, who constantly clash over their differing perspectives in life. Their relationship takes an unexpected turn, however, when a magical fortune cookie causes them to swap bodies! Through the experience, they gain a deeper understanding of each other’s challenges, which develops a renewed appreciation for their bond. 

The movie stars Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis and is a classic 2000s film filled with funny and heartfelt moments. This is peak Disney family film, and it even has a sequel coming out in August 2025 called “Freakier Friday,” which brings back the iconic characters. 

Running Time: 1 hour, 37 minutes

Where to watch: Disney+

Brave

American | Animated, Adventure, Family

A good ‘ole Disney Princess film always hits the spot, and this Pixar animated feature set in medieval Scotland follows the story of a strong-willed princess named Merida who defies old-age tradition by refusing to be betrothed. It also centers on her complex relationship with her mother, whom she accidentally turns into a bear after a spell gone wrong in her attempt to change her fate. 

This exciting adventure is packed with that signature Disney magic, making it the perfect feel-good film for the weekend. More importantly, it reminds us of our familial bonds, of understanding and empathy, as it shows us that despite the many things we disagree on with our moms, the depth of their love is unfathomable.  

Running Time: 1 hour, 33 minutes

Where to watch: Disney+

Mother's Day (2016)

American | Romantic Comedy, Drama

Of course, we have to include a film that is literally about Mother’s Day. Funny, touching, and star-studded, this film directed by Garry Marshall (“Pretty Woman” and “Valentine’s Day”) features multiple storylines in the days leading up to the holiday. 

It follows the story of a diverse group of characters with different backgrounds: a single mother navigating her ex-husband’s new marriage, a widower raising two daughters alone, and sisters dealing with their disapproving mother.

This film explores motherhood in different forms and celebrates the joys, sacrifices, and complexities of being a mom. It also highlights how motherhood shapes identity and relationships through the intersecting storylines. 

Running Time: 1 hour, 58 minutes

Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Hulu

If you’re a fan of K-Dramas or have perused Netflix shows, chances are the name Song Joong-Ki has come up a few times. 

A household name in the South Korean entertainment scene, the award-winning actor made his breakthrough in 2010 in a coming-of-age K-Drama and as one of the original members of the longest-running variety show in South Korean television history. Since then, he has proved himself a versatile and talented actor, playing diverse roles in films and TV series from a charming soldier in the special forces army to a ruthless and clever mafia lawyer.

With numerous fan-favorite projects coupled with endorsements under his belt, including his recent partnership with IAM Worldwide in the Philippines, Song Joong-ki has been captivating viewers worldwide for more than a decade, cementing his name as one of South Korea’s brightest stars. 

But if you’re a newbie in the scene, don’t worry! From Science Fiction thrillers to melodramatic romances, here are some of his best works to get you started.

7. Sungkyunkwan Scandal (2010)

K-Drama | Historical, Coming-of-age

After taking on supporting roles in K-dramas, Joong-ki finally made his breakthrough in this coming-of-age drama as the mischievous Goo Yong-ha. The drama is set in an era where females are forbidden to be educated or employed, and so Kim Yoon-hee (played by Park Min Young) disguised herself as her brother in order to make ends meet. She takes a series of odd jobs, including being an illegal test taker for the examinations at Sungkyunkwan, Joseon’s most prestigious education institution. Long story short, she gets caught and is offered a chance to enroll in the university. 

Song Joong-ki was every bit charming in this one, and though the ratings weren’t all that spectacular, the show became an instant cult favorite. His chemistry with his co-star Yoo Ah-In also made an impression on viewers, calling it bromance at its finest. 

Running Time: 60 minutes per episode

Where to watch: Viu

6. Running Man (2010)

TV Series | Variety show

Not many people remember that Song Joong-ki was one of the original members of the hit variety show, “Running Man,” which debuted in 2010. Yes, you heard that right, a young Joong-ki who was only starting to get recognized for his charm and good looks went and did some hilarious shenanigans with the iconic cast of the show. 

He was even nicknamed “Flower Boy Joong-ki” and stayed on till the 41st episode. Despite having left, he made some brief appearances in later episodes and remained close with the cast. Just check out this hilarious episode where they all tried to get Song Ji-hyo’s heart rate up!

Running Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes per episode

Where to watch: YouTube, Viu

5. The Innocent Man (2010)

K-Drama | Romance

Nothing screams 2000s K-Drama than a wronged main character and a finely planned revenge plot woven with drama and passion. Joong-ki transforms himself into Kang Maru in “The Innocent Man” — a brilliant medical student who gives up everything to go to prison to take the blame for his girlfriend. The worst part is that instead of repenting, his girlfriend abandons him and runs after a rich man. This betrayal transforms him from being the “nice guy” to a heartless man keen on getting his revenge. 

This drama is more on the heavier side and has a lot of twists and turns, making it feel longer than it actually is. But if you’re up for some heavy drama complete with suspense, unplanned romances, and even tragic memory loss moments, you’ll definitely like this. 

Running Time: 60 minutes per episode

Where to watch: Viu, Rakuten Viki

4. Space Sweepers (2021)

Film | Science Fiction

Song Joong-ki orbits into outer space to play the role of a space junk collector who gets involved in a risky business deal when he and his crew discover a weapon of mass destruction — a humanoid robot named Dorothy.

More than the impressive CGI effects and set props, we especially loved how the theme of found family is interwoven through its action-packed plot. We love the crew’s chemistry and how they all softened towards Dorothy and ended up protecting her instead of handing her over for ransom. If you’re looking for an action-packed adventure in space with heartfelt character interactions, make sure to check out “Space Sweepers.”

Running Time: 2 hours, 16 minutes

Where to watch: Netflix

3. A Werewolf Boy (2012)

Film | Fantasy Romance

Ready your tissues, this one sneaks up on you and takes your heart in a vice grip. In “A Werewolf Boy,” Sun-Yi (played by Park Bo-young) moves to the countryside due to her delicate health. There, she comes across a wild wolf boy whom she adopts and names Chul-Soo (Song Joong-ki).

The two eventually become close as she trains him to act more human and opens her heart to him. In turn, Chul-soo falls in love with the only person who has ever shown him affection. Difficulties arise, however, when Chul-Soo is blamed for a murder he didn’t commit, and Sun-yi is forced to push him away so he wouldn’t get caught. Years later, she finds that her wolf boy is still waiting for her. 

A story about first love and unbound loyalty, this film is like a tragic love song that will haunt you long after the credits roll, showing us love in its purest form. 

Running Time: 2 hours, 5 minutes

Where to watch: iQIYI, Apple TV

2. Descendants of the Sun (2016)

K-Drama | Romance

Probably the project that catapulted him to global fame, “Descendants of the Sun” revolves around a brilliant surgeon Kang Mo-yeon (Song Hye-kyo) and her romance with a captain in the South Korean Army’s special forces, Yoo Si-jin (Song Joong-ki). It’s romance mixed with action, suspense, drama, and comedy. A true, well-rounded K-Drama that hits all the right spots, coupled with a timeless OST (Official Soundtrack) that perfectly encapsulates the emotions and relationships of the characters. 

But what truly carried this drama was Joong-ki and Hye-kyo’s chemistry, which spilled over to their real lives when they married a year after the drama ended. The drama was a massive hit internationally and helped boost the Hallyu wave, drawing more visitors to the country and spreading Korean culture. It also had a couple of adaptations in Philippine and Vietnamese television. 

Running Time: 59 minutes per episode

Where to watch: Netflix, Rakuten Viki

1. Vincenzo (2021)

K-Drama | Crime, Dark Comedy

Once you play the first episode, you’ll immediately start to wonder: wasn’t this a K-Drama? Why is Song Joong-ki speaking Italian and cruising along vineyards in Italy? 

In this action-packed crime drama, the actor portrays a South Korean consigliere (Italian mafia lawyer) who returns to his homeland to recover gold stashed beneath a commercial building in Seoul. He realizes that he has to demolish it in order to acquire his fortune, but a massive conglomerate, Babel Group, has illegally taken ownership of the property. And not only that, this company had also committed a series of crimes, which pushes Vincenzo to use his skills and serve justice where it’s due. 

Vincenzo Cassano is the epitome of an anti-hero, and we love how the actor portrayed this iconic role. He’s handsome, smooth, and incredibly ruthless, but you still can’t help but root for him despite all the violence and crimes he commits to serve justice for those wronged by Babel. He spoke Italian impressively well too and shared amazing chemistry with the cast, specifically the tenants of the building who became his found family in the show as he forms friendships and even a budding romance with the feisty lawyer, Hong Cha-young (played by Jeon Yeo-been). 

We ranked this first because Vincenzo keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish without any dull moments and wraps up pretty well — a pleasant surprise considering many K-Dramas fail to give a satisfying end. It’s dark and twisted, but also comedic and heartfelt. 11/10, would watch and rewatch for a good time. 

Running Time: 1 hour, 24 minutes per episode

Where to watch: Netflix