The Her Campus National Editors write about products we love and think you’ll love too. Her Campus has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase. All products are in stock and all prices are accurate as of publication.
In light of Women’s History Month, which has been annually observed since 1987, here are some Asian movies and TV shows to watch in March—or any other time—to celebrate women’s contributions, relationships, and experiences.
Ali & Ratu Ratu Queens (2021)
As someone who has constantly questioned the meaning of home since I moved from Indonesia to the United States for college last fall, this Indonesian dramedy is a comfort watch for me. Although the story contains some clichés, such as the idea that Ali, the protagonist, could only find himself and “home” when he left his hometown for New York City, it is heartwarming and full of personality. I particularly enjoyed watching the tante-tante(“aunts” in Indonesian) who make up the “ratu ratu” (“queens”) in the title. I identified with how the characters found a home in people. They are what my friends and I aspire to be in the future: supportive queens who, most importantly, are together no matter what.
Stream Ali & Ratu Ratu Queens on Netflix.
Thirty-Nine (2022)
JTBC’s ongoing mini-series Thirty-Nine starring Crash Landing on You’s Son Ye Jin, Hospital Playlist’s Jeon Mi Do, and Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha’s Kim Ji Hyun is a Women’s History Month must-watch. Thirty-Nine follows three friends, who met in high school, as they navigate life, friendship, and romance on the brink of turning 40. If you’re a K-drama veteran like myself, you would know that this series is more than promising. Grab your friends and a box of tissues and catch up before its final episode airs on March 26.
Stream Thirty-Nine on Netflix.
All of Us Are Dead (2022)
All of Us Are Dead is a coming-of-age zombie apocalypse horror series based on a Webtoon comic called “Now at Our School.” The story revolves around students working together to escape their high school, where a zombie virus outbreak started. My roommate and I binged this 12-episode South Korean series in two nights because the narrative is that compelling and the cast is amazing. The series features female relationships, highlighting motherhood, sisterhood, and female friendships.
Stream All of Us Are Dead on Netflix.
Imperfect (2019)
Directed by Ernest Prakasa and based on the novel Imperfect: A Journey to Self-Acceptance by his wife Meira Anastasia, who was deeply involved in the screenplay, Imperfect: Karier, Cinta & Timbangan (Imperfect: Career, Love & Scales) is an Indonesian film that tackles the themes of beauty standards, body image issues, and women in the workplace. Although Imperfect may come off as predictable and clichéd in some respects, it gets its message across and successfully celebrates women and insecurities.
Violet Evergarden (2018)
Last but not least, Violet Evergarden is one of, if not the, most beautiful animated series I have ever watched. From the riveting storytelling to the stunning visuals and the brilliant characters, this Kyoto Animation anime is timeless and heartfelt. The portrayal of the Auto Memory Dolls in Violet Evergarden not only celebrates women’s social advancement but also reflects the preciousness of female relationships. This emotional rollercoaster of a series flawlessly tackles themes such as human emotions and connections, and I would recommend it to anyone, regardless of age or background.