Netflix is bringing another international gem to its platform this November. Left Handed Girl, a critically acclaimed Taiwanese film that made waves at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, streams exclusively on November 28, 2025. This heartwarming drama explores family bonds, resilience, and the immigrant experience through the eyes of a single mother and her two daughters.
Left Handed Girl Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | November 28, 2025 |
| Director | Shih Ching Tsou |
| Co-Writer | Sean Baker |
| Runtime | 104 minutes |
| Awards | Prix du Rail d’Or, Gan Foundation Award (Cannes 2025) |
| Genre | Drama |
| Language | Taiwanese |
What Makes This Film Special?
Left Handed Girl earned prestigious accolades at Cannes Film Festival in May 2025, winning both the Prix du Rail d’Or and the Gan Foundation Award. The film represents a collaboration between Taiwanese director Shih Ching Tsou and renowned filmmaker Sean Baker, who co-wrote and produced the project.
The authenticity of this family drama stems from its intimate portrayal of everyday struggles faced by those seeking better opportunities in a new city. It’s reminiscent of other powerful Netflix international offerings featured on streaming platforms.
The Story: A Family’s Journey to Taipei
The plot follows a single mother and her two daughters as they relocate to Taipei to open a night market stall, with each character navigating the challenges of adapting to their new environment while striving to maintain family unity.
This simple yet profound premise captures universal themes of adaptation, sacrifice, and the lengths parents go to provide for their children. The night market setting provides a vibrant backdrop that showcases Taiwanese culture and urban life.
Meet the Cast
Janel Tsai leads as Shu Fen, the determined single mother. She previously starred in Netflix’s Taiwanese series Til Death Do Us Part and has held leading roles in films like Life for Sale and You Have to Kill Me.
Ma Shih Yuan, making her acting debut, plays daughter I Ann, while nine-year-old Nina Yeh portrays I Jing. Nina already boasts an impressive resume for her age, appearing in multiple Taiwanese dramas.
The supporting ensemble includes Brando Huang, Blaire Chang, Akio Chen, and Hsia Teng Hung, adding depth to this compelling narrative.
Why You Should Watch
For fans of international cinema and streaming content, Left Handed Girl offers an authentic window into Taiwanese life. The film’s Cannes recognition places it alongside cinema’s finest achievements, yet its story remains accessible and deeply human.
The 104-minute runtime makes it perfect for an evening watch, and the worldwide exclusive release on Netflix means everyone can experience this award-winning film simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Left Handed Girl based on a true story?
While the film isn’t explicitly based on one specific true story, it draws from authentic experiences of families navigating economic challenges and urban migration in Taiwan. Director Shih Ching Tsou crafted a narrative that reflects real struggles faced by many single parents seeking opportunities in major cities.
Q: Will Left Handed Girl have English subtitles on Netflix?
Yes, as a Netflix Original exclusive worldwide release, the film will include multiple subtitle options including English, along with various dubbed audio tracks to ensure accessibility for global audiences.
