Although stateside they are few and far between, Asian directors from both here and abroad have created many memorable and influential works throughoutthe years. Below are some of the best of the bunch, all of which are available on videocassette and highly recommended.

-- Ju Dou (1991) -- This controversial film from China was heavily objected to by the government there. Director Zhang Yimou fashions a lurid melodrama around a textile factory with a love triangle that soon spirals out of control. One of the most visually stunning films in recent memory, with a brilliant performance by Gong Li as the title character.

-- The Killer (1989) -- As evidenced with the Jean-Claude Van Damme vehicle Hard Target, Hollywood took action maestro John Woo and toned down his violence but not his style. The Killer is Woo's masterpiece -- fast-paced, cleverly plotted and violently poetic. A hired gun tries to redeem himself after seriously wounding a young woman, leading him to one of the most violent climaxes in movie history. Woo's style is so original it's easy to see why such American directors as Quentin Tarantino cite him as a major influence.

-- A Taxing Woman (1987) -- Who would have thought a film about a tax inspector could be as exciting as the latest Mel Gibson action fiasco? A smart, snappy film from Japan about a female tax inspector out to bust a ring of tax evaders while dealing with sexual biases. Directed with flair by Juzo Itami, the film spawned a sequel that also starred the wonderfully reserved Nobuko Miyamoto.

-- Dim Sum (1985) -- Years before he had great success with The Joy Luck Club, director Wayne Wang fashioned a better domestic drama injected with a lot of humor. The film follows the dispute between the 60-ish Mrs. Tam and her unmarried daughter, Geraldine. Wise, insightful and very funny -- a much more rewarding rental than The Joy Luck Club.

-- The Seven Samurai (1954) -- An oldy, but a goody -- or is it a greaty? It's amazing how Akira Kurosawa's classic has held up so well, even after 40 years. Seven outcasts band together to help a village under attack from a vicious band of warriors. Unlike the American remake, The Magnificent Seven, Kurosawa's film is a meditative study as well as an exciting action film. Widely regarded as one of the best films of all time.