Asia’s sports scene is a wild, pulsating beast, blending raw athleticism with deep-rooted traditions and fierce rivalries. If you’re itching to dive into this electrifying world, we’ve got you covered with a list of five groundbreaking documentaries from the past year that unpack the heart and soul of sports culture in Asia. From personal triumphs to cultural phenomena, these films are your ticket to understanding why sports in Asia are more than just a game—they’re a way of life.

Taiwan’s Iron Man of Asia

Kicking off our list is Taiwan’s Iron Man of Asia, a powerful doc that chronicles the journey of C.K. Yang, Taiwan’s legendary decathlete dubbed the “Iron Man of Asia.” Directed by Frank Chen, the film dives into Yang’s Olympic legacy, alongside fellow decathlete Rafer Johnson, and offers a window into how Taiwan celebrates its sporting heroes. It’s a cultural deep dive into resilience and national pride that’ll leave you inspired. Watch the full 45-minute doc above.

Aim High

Put together by the team at Xinhua over two and a half years, Aim High takes you inside the world of Chinese youth excelling in emerging Olympic sports like breakdancing, climbing, and skateboarding at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This documentary captures the energy and innovation of a new generation redefining China’s sports identity.

On Your Mark

OK, so… this one isn’t technically a documentary, but it feels almost like one (just incredibly well written). It’s a film by Malaysian-Chinese director Zhou Qingyuan that offers a heartfelt drama about a father and son bonding through marathon running. Set in Chongqing, it blends a disease-of-the-week narrative with themes of perseverance and familial reconciliation. Definitely a must-watch.

LEESANITY

LEESANITY, directed by AMAZN HQ, spotlights the cultural roots of Asian athletes breaking barriers worldwide. This doc explores how heritage fuels their drive, offering a fresh perspective on identity in sports. It’s a vibrant celebration of Asia’s global athletic influence. Watch the full documentary above.

The Yani Tseng Story

While not actually released yet, The Yani Tseng Story is set to showcase a heartfelt telling of the Taiwanese LPGA star’s career highs and mental health struggles. The film, directed by Frank Chen, will cover Tseng’s comeback story while reflecting broader challenges faced by Asian athletes. 

Cover image via GlobalVoices.