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Best Ang Lee Movies
13th Nov 2025
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Ang Lee stands as one of the most visionary and versatile filmmakers of our time, a true cinematic master whose work effortlessly bridges cultures, genres, and storytelling styles. From poignant dramas like *Sense and Sensibility* to breathtaking martial arts epics such as *Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon*, and groundbreaking romantic narratives, his filmography is a testament to his unparalleled ability to craft deeply human stories that resonate globally. A recipient of multiple Academy Awards, including two for Best Director, Lee has consistently pushed the boundaries of filmmaking, earning him a revered place in modern cinema history. Given such a rich and diverse body of work, choosing a "best" Ang Lee movie is no easy feat, but it's a delightful challenge for any film enthusiast. This poll invites you to celebrate the incredible depth and breadth of his career by casting your vote for the film that stands out most to you. Whether it's a movie that moved you deeply, revolutionized a genre, or simply became an unforgettable cinematic experience, we want to hear your voice. Dive into his acclaimed filmography and help us crown the "Best Ang Lee Movie"!
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#16.
Thrilla in Manila
16/16
...
"Thrilla in Manila" isn't a narrative feature film, but Ang Lee's groundbreaking foray into high frame rate (HFR) technology, explored in his later films like "Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk" and "Gemini Man," can be directly traced back to his vision for this 2008 documentary. While the film itself showcases highlights from the iconic 1975 boxing match between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, Lee's involvement stems from his innovative work in digitally remastering and converting the footage into 3D. This process wasn't simply about adding depth; Lee meticulously studied the movements and expressions of the fighters, attempting to bring a visceral sense of realism and immediacy to the brutal sport, anticipating the hyper-realism he would later pursue in his narrative filmmaking. While not a typical entry in his filmography, "Thrilla in Manila" showcases Lee's relentless pursuit of technological innovation and his deep fascination with exploring the limits of cinematic experience. By meticulously manipulating and enhancing historical footage, Lee laid the groundwork for his subsequent explorations of HFR, pushing the boundaries of how we perceive and connect with on-screen action. Including "Thrilla in Manila" acknowledges Lee's experimental spirit and recognizes it as a crucial stepping stone in his artistic development, demonstrating his commitment to pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling beyond conventional narrative structures.
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Life of Pi (2012)
"Life of Pi" (2012) is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film adaptation of Yann Martel's acclaimed novel. It tells the incredible story of Pi, an Indian boy and zookeeper's son, who survives a catastrophic shipwreck. Adrift in a lifeboat on the vast Pacific Ocean, Pi finds himself in the extraordinary company of a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and most remarkably, a ferocious Bengal tiger named Richard Parker. Faced with unimaginable hardship and the constant threat of survival, Pi must use his wit, resourcefulness, and unwavering faith to navigate the perilous journey and forge an unlikely bond with the magnificent beast. This film rightly earns its place amongst Ang Lee's best work for several key reasons. Lee's masterful direction brings Martel's complex narrative to breathtaking life, employing groundbreaking visual effects to create a truly immersive and believable experience of Pi's ordeal. Beyond the spectacle, Lee expertly explores themes of faith, survival, storytelling, and the power of the human spirit. He balances the literal depiction of Pi's struggle with the metaphorical layers of the story, inviting audiences to contemplate the nature of truth and the resilience of the human condition. "Life of Pi" showcases Lee's exceptional ability to blend technical artistry with profound emotional depth, making it a truly unforgettable cinematic achievement.
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Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
"Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" is a breathtaking martial arts epic that seamlessly blends thrilling action sequences with profound emotional depth. Two seasoned warriors, Li Mu Bai and Yu Shu Lien, find themselves embroiled in a quest to recover the legendary Green Destiny sword, stolen by a masked thief. Their investigation leads them to Jen Yu, an impetuous and exceptionally talented young woman from a noble family, poised on the cusp of adulthood and torn between societal expectations and her own yearning for freedom. As the trio's paths intertwine, a complex web of love, betrayal, and longing unfolds against the stunning backdrop of ancient China, culminating in a visually stunning and emotionally resonant climax. This film earns its place on a "Best of Ang Lee" list for its groundbreaking achievement in bringing wuxia cinema to a global audience. Lee masterfully balances the exhilarating wire-fu choreography, directed by the legendary Yuen Woo-Ping, with the nuanced character development and thematic exploration of duty, desire, and destiny that are hallmarks of his filmmaking. He captures the beauty and grandeur of the Chinese landscape, while simultaneously delving into the intimate struggles of his characters, creating a cinematic experience that is both visually spectacular and deeply moving. "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" is not just a martial arts film; it's a poignant and unforgettable drama that showcases Ang Lee's unique ability to transcend genres and connect with audiences on a universal level.
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Eat Drink Man Woman (1994)
"Eat Drink Man Woman" (1994) gracefully tells the story of retired master chef Chu, a widower residing in modern Taipei with his three independent, unmarried daughters. Every Sunday, Chu meticulously prepares elaborate, banquet-quality feasts for his family, a ritual that becomes the unspoken language of love and connection in a household struggling with emotional expression. As the film unfolds, each daughter navigates her own complex romantic relationships, challenging societal expectations and ultimately reshaping the family dynamics. The film beautifully interweaves themes of tradition and modernity, familial duty and personal desire, all set against a backdrop of stunning culinary artistry. "Eat Drink Man Woman" is undeniably one of Ang Lee's best films, earning its place through its masterful storytelling and exquisite direction. It showcases Lee's ability to delicately balance humor and pathos, creating deeply relatable characters grappling with universal human experiences. Beyond its engaging narrative, the film is a visual feast, with the elaborate cooking scenes serving as both a sensual pleasure and a powerful metaphor for the unspoken emotions within the family. This film cemented Lee's reputation as a director capable of seamlessly blending cultural specificity with universally resonant themes, a hallmark of his acclaimed filmography.
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Brokeback Mountain (2005)
"Brokeback Mountain" is an Ang Lee film about two modern-day cowboys, Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist, who meet while working a shepherding job in the summer of 1963. Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Wyoming mountains, the two men forge a raw and powerful connection that transcends the boundaries of friendship. Their summer together blossoms into a lifelong, albeit complicated, relationship, forcing them to grapple with societal expectations and the internal conflict of living lives that stand in stark contrast to their true desires. "Brokeback Mountain" is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the suffocating constraints of prejudice. "Brokeback Mountain" earns its place amongst Ang Lee's best films due to its masterful direction, powerful performances, and significant cultural impact. Lee's sensitive and nuanced approach to the subject matter brought a previously marginalized story into the mainstream, sparking crucial conversations about masculinity, sexuality, and societal norms. The film's stunning cinematography, evocative score, and compelling narrative combined to create a deeply moving and unforgettable cinematic experience, solidifying Lee's reputation as a director capable of tackling complex human emotions with profound empathy and artistic vision. Beyond its artistic merits, the film's courage in challenging prevailing attitudes cemented its status as a landmark achievement in LGBTQ+ cinema and a testament to Lee's willingness to push boundaries and tell impactful stories.
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Sense and Sensibility (1995)
"Sense and Sensibility" (1995) beautifully adapts Jane Austen's beloved novel, capturing the nuances of 19th-century English society and the contrasting personalities of sisters Elinor and Marianne Dashwood. After the death of their wealthy father, Mr. Dashwood, the antiquated inheritance laws leave his second wife and daughters in reduced circumstances, forcing them to navigate the complexities of love and marriage with limited financial prospects. Elinor embodies "sense," characterized by her practicality and controlled emotions, while Marianne exemplifies "sensibility," driven by passion and romantic idealism. Their journeys, interwoven with societal expectations and the pursuit of suitable matches, form the heart of this timeless tale of resilience and finding happiness amidst adversity. This film rightly earns its place among Ang Lee's best due to his masterful direction that balances romance, humor, and social commentary. Lee, known for his sensitive portrayals of complex characters and cross-cultural themes, brings a unique perspective to Austen's world. He expertly captures the emotional depth of the characters while maintaining the wit and charm of the source material. The film's stunning visuals, coupled with a stellar cast including Emma Thompson (who also penned the Oscar-winning screenplay), Kate Winslet, and Hugh Grant, contribute to a captivating and emotionally resonant experience, solidifying "Sense and Sensibility" as a landmark adaptation and a testament to Lee's directorial talent.
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The Wedding Banquet (1993)
"The Wedding Banquet" (1993) is a heartwarming and hilarious comedy-drama that explores the complexities of family, tradition, and cultural identity. Gavin, a successful Taiwanese-American man living happily in New York with his American boyfriend, Simon, concocts a plan to appease his traditional parents and help a struggling Chinese artist, Wei-Wei, obtain a green card. Their solution: a marriage of convenience. However, their carefully constructed charade spirals into chaos when Gavin's parents unexpectedly arrive from Taiwan, eager to celebrate their son's "wedding" with a lavish banquet. The film beautifully navigates the tensions between Eastern and Western values, generational expectations, and the search for personal happiness. "The Wedding Banquet" absolutely deserves its place among Ang Lee's best films. It cemented Lee's early reputation as a director capable of blending cultural nuances with relatable human drama. Beyond the film's comedic brilliance, it offers a sensitive and nuanced portrayal of the immigrant experience, the evolving definition of family, and the courage to live authentically. The film's critical acclaim and box office success paved the way for Lee's subsequent Hollywood career and demonstrated his masterful ability to tell universal stories that resonate with audiences across cultures. It's a poignant and deeply affecting film that showcases Lee's signature blend of humor, heart, and cultural insight.
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Lust, Caution (2007)
"Lust, Caution" is a gripping and morally ambiguous espionage thriller set in Japanese-occupied Shanghai during World War II. The film follows Wong Chia Chi, a young actress-turned-secret agent tasked with seducing and assassinating Mr. Yee, a high-ranking official collaborating with the Japanese. As Chia Chi immerses herself in the dangerous game of deception, she finds herself unexpectedly drawn to Yee, blurring the lines between duty and desire. Their intense and complex relationship forms the heart of the film, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and the devastating human cost of war. "Lust, Caution" definitively earns its place among Ang Lee's best works due to its masterful storytelling, stunning visuals, and captivating performances. Lee's meticulous attention to detail recreates the atmosphere of wartime Shanghai with remarkable authenticity, while his nuanced direction allows the audience to grapple with the characters' conflicting emotions and moral dilemmas. The film's explicit scenes, though controversial, serve to amplify the themes of power, vulnerability, and the blurring of identities. Moreover, "Lust, Caution" showcases Lee's daring exploration of complex human relationships, pushing boundaries and solidifying his reputation as a filmmaker unafraid to tackle challenging and thought-provoking narratives.
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The Ice Storm (1997)
In the weekend after Thanksgiving 1973, the Hood family is fracturing. Benjamin Hood navigates a sea of alcohol, attempting to ignore his professional woes. Elena, his wife, seeks solace in self-help books, her patience wearing thin with Benjamin's deceptions. Their son, Paul, home from boarding school, escapes to the city in pursuit of a wealthy and captivating classmate. Meanwhile, their daughter Wendy explores the secrets hidden within her neighbors' homes, innocently uncovering liquor cabinets and lingerie drawers. As an unprecedented ice storm descends upon their Connecticut suburb, the Hood family, along with their neighbors, find themselves grappling with infidelity, alienation, and the shifting social landscape of the era. "The Ice Storm" rightfully earns its place among Ang Lee's best works for its masterful portrayal of suburban malaise and the quiet desperation of a family on the brink. Lee expertly captures the film's themes through nuanced performances, a palpable atmosphere of tension, and a sharp eye for detail. The film's visual language, particularly the stark beauty of the titular ice storm, serves as a potent metaphor for the emotional coldness and disconnection plaguing the characters. Furthermore, "The Ice Storm" demonstrates Lee's versatility as a filmmaker, showcasing his ability to tackle complex interpersonal dynamics and period settings with remarkable sensitivity and skill.
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Pushing Hands (1991)
Ang Lee's directorial debut, "Pushing Hands" (1991), delicately explores the complexities of cultural assimilation and familial relationships. The film centers on Mr. Chu, a widowed Tai Chi master who moves from Beijing to suburban New York to live with his son's family. As Mr. Chu struggles to adapt to Western customs and the fast-paced lifestyle of his American daughter-in-law, strained communication and misunderstandings arise. He finds solace only in teaching Tai Chi, but even this becomes a source of tension as his traditional values clash with the pragmatic world around him, highlighting the challenges of maintaining one's identity in a foreign land. "Pushing Hands" rightfully earns its place among Ang Lee's best works, showcasing his signature talent for nuanced storytelling and his ability to evoke deep emotional resonance. Even in this early film, Lee's masterful direction is evident as he skillfully portrays the subtle yet profound shifts in family dynamics and the universal struggle for connection across cultural divides. The film establishes key themes that would recur throughout Lee's career, such as the clash between tradition and modernity, the exploration of masculinity, and the search for identity, solidifying its importance as a foundation for his future cinematic achievements and marking the arrival of a major directorial talent.
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Taking Woodstock (2009)
"Taking Woodstock" (2009) tells the unexpectedly crucial story of Elliot Tiber and his family's role in facilitating the iconic Woodstock Music and Arts Festival. Burdened with managing his parents' struggling motel, Elliot seizes an opportunity when he learns a nearby town has revoked the permit for a large music festival. Hoping to attract business, he offers his parents' property as a possible venue, unintentionally setting off a chain of events that culminates in half a million people descending upon a neighboring farm in White Lake, New York. Elliot is swept into a whirlwind of peace, music, and counter-culture, forever altering his life and leaving an indelible mark on American history. While "Taking Woodstock" might not be Ang Lee's most lauded or groundbreaking work, it earns a place among his best due to his characteristic sensitivity and depth in exploring human connection within a transformative cultural moment. Lee skillfully avoids caricature, portraying the characters, from Elliot to his closeted mother, with empathy and nuance. The film also showcases Lee's versatility in handling a lighter, more comedic tone compared to his often intensely dramatic works like "Brokeback Mountain" or "The Ice Storm." Yet, beneath the humor, Lee subtly explores themes of identity, societal change, and the search for meaning that are consistent threads throughout his filmography. "Taking Woodstock" might be a more accessible entry point into Lee's filmography, but it's still undeniably stamped with his insightful and humanistic directorial approach.
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Ride with the Devil (1999)
Ang Lee's "Ride with the Devil" (1999) is a powerful and often overlooked Western set against the brutal backdrop of the American Civil War. The film follows four disparate individuals – a staunch loyalist, an immigrant's son, a freed slave, and a young widow – as they navigate the treacherous Missouri/Kansas border, a "no man's land" where conventional rules of war and morality are abandoned. They forge an unlikely bond, redefining bravery and honor as they struggle for survival in a time of immense uncertainty and violence. Lee masterfully crafts a nuanced portrait of loyalty, identity, and the human cost of conflict, offering a starkly realistic and emotionally resonant portrayal of a lesser-known chapter in American history. "Ride with the Devil" earns its place on a list of Ang Lee's best films due to its artistic merit and thematic depth. It showcases Lee's signature ability to explore complex emotional landscapes within visually stunning environments. The film's meticulous attention to historical detail, coupled with its introspective character studies, elevates it beyond a simple war movie. Furthermore, it exhibits Lee's versatility as a director, proving his mastery across genres from period dramas to martial arts epics. "Ride with the Devil" is a challenging but rewarding film that demonstrates Lee's talent for crafting thought-provoking and visually arresting cinema.
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Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk (2016)
"Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk" plunges viewers into the disorienting experience of 19-year-old Billy Lynn, a soldier hailed as a hero after a brutal battle in Iraq. He and his Bravo squad are brought back to the US for a victory tour culminating in a massive Thanksgiving Day halftime show. While the nation celebrates them, Billy is haunted by the visceral horrors he witnessed, brought to life through intense flashbacks. The film starkly contrasts the sanitized, celebratory image of war promoted by the media and public with the gritty realities of combat and the lingering trauma experienced by the soldiers themselves, questioning the very nature of heroism and the cost of war. Ang Lee's innovative and ambitious use of high frame rate technology makes "Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk" a standout in his filmography, even if it was met with mixed critical reception. Lee's meticulous direction and focus on emotional nuance are evident as he delves into Billy's psychological state, amplified by the hyper-real visuals. The film's exploration of themes like identity, trauma, and the disconnect between public perception and private experience resonates deeply with Lee's consistent exploration of complex human relationships and societal pressures, marking it as a thematically rich and visually compelling work worthy of consideration among his best.
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Gemini Man (2019)
While "Gemini Man" (2019) might not be Ang Lee's most universally beloved film, it's a worthy inclusion in any "Best Of" list due to its groundbreaking technical ambition and Lee's unwavering commitment to pushing cinematic boundaries. The film's exploration of human connection, identity, and the consequences of technological advancement are all classic Ang Lee themes, revisited through the lens of a high-octane action thriller. Beyond the engaging philosophical core, "Gemini Man" showcases Lee's masterful eye for visual storytelling and his willingness to experiment with cutting-edge technology to achieve his artistic vision, even if the results are occasionally polarizing. Specifically, the film's high frame rate (HFR) and digitally de-aged Will Smith represent a bold leap forward in visual effects, creating a hyper-realistic experience that demands to be seen to be understood. While the HFR divided audiences, it's undeniable that Lee sought to immerse viewers in a way rarely attempted in mainstream action cinema. The emotional resonance of the story, combined with the innovative visual presentation, cements "Gemini Man" as a daring and technically impressive work that, while perhaps flawed, undeniably bears the distinctive stamp of Ang Lee's unique directorial vision and belongs within the conversation of his best films.
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Hulk (2003)
Ang Lee's "Hulk" (2003) presents a unique and visually arresting take on the classic Marvel superhero. Bruce Banner, a genetics researcher haunted by a tragic past, suffers a catastrophic radiation exposure in his lab. This incident unleashes a dormant power within him, causing him to transform into the Hulk, a towering, rage-fueled green behemoth, whenever he experiences intense anger. Driven by both the military's pursuit and his own inner turmoil, Banner struggles to control his transformations and unravel the mystery behind his condition, all while confronting the legacy of his troubled father. "Hulk" earns its place among Ang Lee's best films not for adhering strictly to comic book tropes, but for its ambitious exploration of complex themes. Lee delves into the psychological trauma underpinning Banner's rage, employing split-screen techniques and visual metaphors that emulate comic book panels to create a truly distinctive cinematic language. Furthermore, the film grapples with themes of repressed emotion, familial dysfunction, and the dangerous potential of unchecked scientific advancement, elevating it beyond a typical superhero action flick and solidifying its status as a thought-provoking and visually stunning work within Lee's diverse filmography.
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Bruce Lee Biopic
A Bruce Lee biopic, directed by Ang Lee, would be a natural fit within the director's illustrious filmography. Lee's masterful ability to blend genres, explore complex themes of identity and masculinity, and craft emotionally resonant character studies perfectly aligns with the potential of a Bruce Lee narrative. We could expect a nuanced portrayal of Lee's struggles against cultural barriers, his relentless pursuit of martial arts mastery, and his revolutionary impact on global cinema and philosophy. Lee's meticulous attention to detail, combined with his sensitivity to the inner lives of his characters, would undoubtedly bring a fresh and deeply human perspective to the legend of Bruce Lee, moving beyond mere action spectacle to delve into the soul of the man behind the myth. Furthermore, an Ang Lee directed Bruce Lee biopic could stand alongside his other critically acclaimed works like "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and "Life of Pi" in its visual artistry and thematic depth. Lee's proven track record in directing martial arts films, infused with his signature philosophical undertones, makes him the ideal candidate to tackle this project. Just as "Crouching Tiger" elevated the wuxia genre to an art form, a Bruce Lee biopic under Lee's guidance could transcend the typical biopic format and offer a powerful meditation on legacy, cultural appropriation, and the embodiment of the martial arts spirit. The combination of compelling storytelling, stunning visuals, and insightful exploration of human nature would solidify its place as a defining work within Ang Lee's filmography.
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Thrilla in Manila
"Thrilla in Manila" isn't a narrative feature film, but Ang Lee's groundbreaking foray into high frame rate (HFR) technology, explored in his later films like "Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk" and "Gemini Man," can be directly traced back to his vision for this 2008 documentary. While the film itself showcases highlights from the iconic 1975 boxing match between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, Lee's involvement stems from his innovative work in digitally remastering and converting the footage into 3D. This process wasn't simply about adding depth; Lee meticulously studied the movements and expressions of the fighters, attempting to bring a visceral sense of realism and immediacy to the brutal sport, anticipating the hyper-realism he would later pursue in his narrative filmmaking. While not a typical entry in his filmography, "Thrilla in Manila" showcases Lee's relentless pursuit of technological innovation and his deep fascination with exploring the limits of cinematic experience. By meticulously manipulating and enhancing historical footage, Lee laid the groundwork for his subsequent explorations of HFR, pushing the boundaries of how we perceive and connect with on-screen action. Including "Thrilla in Manila" acknowledges Lee's experimental spirit and recognizes it as a crucial stepping stone in his artistic development, demonstrating his commitment to pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling beyond conventional narrative structures.
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