In the Realm of the Senses
Tatsuya Fuji, Eiko Matsuda, Aoi Nakajima
A fictionalized retelling of the story of Sada Abe, whose affair with her master quickly turned obsessive and sadomasochistic.
Why you'll love it
While Japanese, this notorious NC-17 film shares the raw, unflinching approach to sexuality and passion that characterizes bold Asian erotic cinema.
Only God Forgives
Ryan Gosling, Kristin Scott Thomas, Vithaya Pansringarm
Julian, a drug-smuggler thriving in Bangkok's criminal underworld, sees his life get even more complicated when his mother compels him to find and kill whoever is responsible for his brother's recent death.
Why you'll love it
Set in Bangkok, this stylish neo-noir thriller features intense sensuality and erotic tension woven through its dark narrative of revenge and moral complexity.
Passion
Rachel McAdams, Noomi Rapace, Karoline Herfurth
The rivalry between the manipulative boss of an advertising agency and her talented protégée escalates from stealing credit to public humiliation to murder.
Why you'll love it
Though French-set, this Brian de Palma erotic thriller shares the intense sensuality and psychological complexity found in provocative Thai cinema.