Taiwan’s film industry has produced some incredible movies over the years, captivating audiences both at home and abroad. As we look back at the most popular Taiwanese films up to 2025, we see a mix of heartwarming stories, thrilling adventures, and cultural gems that have left a lasting impact. Let’s explore the 10 most-watched Taiwanese movies of all time, based on their box office success and cultural significance.
1. Cape No. 7 (2008)
At the top of our list is the beloved “Cape No. 7,” a romantic comedy-drama that took Taiwan by storm. This movie tells the story of a failed musician who becomes a postman in a small coastal town. He discovers a packet of undelivered love letters from 60 years ago and sets out to find their intended recipient.
“Cape No. 7” was a massive hit, earning over 530 million New Taiwan dollars at the box office. It touched the hearts of viewers with its blend of romance, humor, and exploration of Taiwan’s history. The film’s success helped revive the Taiwanese film industry and paved the way for more local productions.
2. Seediq Bale Part I: Sun Flag (2011)
Next on our list is the epic historical drama “Seediq Bale Part I: Sun Flag.” This movie tells the true story of the Wushe Incident, a rebellion by the Seediq indigenous people against Japanese colonial rule in 1930.
With stunning visuals and powerful performances, “Seediq Bale” brought an important part of Taiwan’s history to life. It was a big hit, making 472 million New Taiwan dollars at the box office. The film’s success showed that Taiwanese audiences were eager to see their own stories on the big screen.
3. David Loman (2013)
Coming in third is the comedy “David Loman.” This movie follows the misadventures of a young man who pretends to be a gangster to impress a girl. His lie spirals out of control, leading to hilarious situations.
“David Loman” was a surprise hit, earning 430 million New Taiwan dollars. Its success proved that Taiwanese audiences love a good laugh. The movie’s popularity led to a sequel a few years later.
4. You Are the Apple of My Eye (2011)
Fourth on our list is the romantic coming-of-age story “You Are the Apple of My Eye.” Based on a popular novel, this movie follows the ups and downs of first love between two high school students.
The film struck a chord with viewers, bringing in 425 million New Taiwan dollars at the box office. Its honest portrayal of young love and nostalgia for school days resonated with audiences of all ages.
5. Our Times (2015)
Rounding out the top five is another romantic comedy, “Our Times.” Set in the 1990s, this movie tells the story of a plain high school girl who forms an unlikely friendship with the school’s troublemaker to win the heart of her crush.
“Our Times” was a massive hit, earning 410 million New Taiwan dollars. Its blend of humor, romance, and 90s nostalgia made it a favorite among viewers. The movie’s success also helped launch the careers of its young stars.
6. Kano (2014)
In sixth place is the sports drama “Kano.” This movie tells the true story of a multiethnic high school baseball team from Taiwan that made it to the finals of a Japanese tournament in 1931, during Taiwan’s colonial period.
“Kano” was praised for its inspiring story and beautiful cinematography. It earned 340 million New Taiwan dollars at the box office. The film’s success showed that sports movies could be a hit with Taiwanese audiences.
7. Seediq Bale Part II: Rainbow Bridge (2011)
The second part of the “Seediq Bale” epic takes the seventh spot on our list. Continuing the story of the Wushe Incident, this movie focuses on the aftermath of the rebellion and its impact on the Seediq people.
Like its predecessor, “Rainbow Bridge” was a box office success, earning 318 million New Taiwan dollars. Together, the two parts of “Seediq Bale” form one of the most ambitious and successful film projects in Taiwanese cinema history.
8. Din Tao: Leader of the Parade (2012)
In eighth place is “Din Tao: Leader of the Parade,” a drama about traditional Taiwanese folk arts. The movie follows a young man who returns to his hometown and reluctantly takes over his family’s Din Tao troupe, a traditional drumming and dancing group.
“Din Tao” was a surprise hit, earning 317 million New Taiwan dollars. Its success showed that there was a strong audience interest in movies about Taiwanese culture and traditions.
9. Zone Pro Site (2013)
Coming in ninth is the comedy “Zone Pro Site.” This movie is all about “ban-doh,” the traditional Taiwanese outdoor banquets. It follows a young woman who enters a cooking contest to save her family’s catering business.
“Zone Pro Site” was a delightful mix of comedy and food culture, earning 310 million New Taiwan dollars at the box office. Its success highlighted the growing trend of food-themed movies in Taiwanese cinema.
10. Lust, Caution (2007)
Rounding out our top 10 is the critically acclaimed drama “Lust, Caution,” directed by the famous Ang Lee. Set during World War II, this movie tells a story of espionage, romance, and betrayal in Japanese-occupied Shanghai.
While not as commercially successful as some others on this list, “Lust, Caution” still earned 280 million New Taiwan dollars at the box office. Its inclusion in the top 10 shows the enduring popularity of Ang Lee’s work in his home country.
Bottom Line
The 10 most watched Taiwanese movies of all time showcase the richness and diversity of Taiwan’s cinema. From romantic comedies to historical epics, these films have captivated audiences with their compelling stories and high production values.
These movies have not only entertained millions of viewers but have also played a crucial role in revitalizing Taiwan’s film industry. They’ve helped preserve and promote Taiwanese culture, both at home and abroad. As we look to the future, we can expect to see even more exciting and innovative films coming out of Taiwan, building on the success of these beloved classics.