Singapore’s film industry often stays in the shadows of Hollywood and Bollywood, but the country has produced cinematic gems that deserve more attention. While blockbuster hits grab the spotlight, underrated Singapore movies showcase the nation’s culture, identity, and stories in the most authentic way. If you love discovering hidden gems in cinema, this guide by Filmi Galaxy will introduce you to some of the best local films Singapore has created and show you exactly where to watch Singapore movies online.

Why Singaporean Cinema is Worth Exploring

Singapore may be a small country, but its creative energy runs deep. Filmmakers often experiment with bold storytelling, blending heritage, modern struggles, and heartfelt drama. Some of these films have even become award winning Singapore movies at international festivals, yet many people still miss them. That’s where this list comes in — a guide to the famous Singapore films you should watch but may not have heard of yet.

1. Ilo Ilo (2013) – A Heartfelt Family Drama

Directed by Anthony Chen, Ilo Ilo remains one of the most critically acclaimed films from Singapore. It tells the touching story of a Filipino domestic worker who becomes part of a struggling Singaporean family during the 1997 financial crisis. The emotional depth, realistic characters, and subtle storytelling make it one of the best Singapore indie films to watch in 2025, even though it was released more than a decade ago.

• Why underrated? Despite winning the prestigious Camera d’Or at Cannes, many Singaporeans themselves have yet to watch it.
• Where to watch? It is often available on international Singapore films streaming platforms and occasionally featured in the Singapore Netflix movies list.

2. Apprentice (2016) – A Bold Prison Drama

Apprentice, directed by Boo Junfeng, explores the dark world of Singapore’s prison system. The film follows a young correctional officer who struggles with his new role under a senior executioner. The subject matter is intense, yet the storytelling is profound and layered.

• Why underrated? It received rave reviews internationally but didn’t get the same attention locally.
• Where to watch? You can find it on select Singapore films streaming platforms, often under indie and Asian cinema sections.

3. 881 (2007) – A Colourful Musical About Getai

Unlike heavy dramas, 881 is vibrant, musical, and deeply rooted in Singaporean tradition. The film portrays two sisters who perform at Getai (a traditional stage performance during the Hungry Ghost Festival). It’s filled with music, emotion, and a unique slice of culture rarely seen in mainstream films.

• Why underrated? While it achieved cult status in Singapore, many international audiences and even some locals missed it.
• Where to watch? Search for it on local streaming apps that specialize in local Singapore movies you probably missed.

4. A Land Imagined (2018) – A Neo-Noir Mystery

Winner of the Golden Leopard at the Locarno Film Festival, A Land Imagined is a gripping mystery directed by Yeo Siew Hua. It dives into the lives of migrant workers and their struggles, mixed with a surreal noir atmosphere.

• Why underrated? Despite being an award winning Singapore movie, its niche style kept it from gaining mainstream attention.
• Where to watch? This is one of the underrated Singaporean movies on Netflix, making it easily accessible to global viewers.

Also read: Top 5 Best Underrated Bollywood Movies You Must Watch

5. Shirkers (2018) – A Documentary Like No Other

Shirkers is a documentary by Sandi Tan that reveals the fascinating story of her lost teenage film project in 1992. It’s personal, emotional, and offers an intimate look at Singapore’s indie film scene.

• Why underrated? While widely praised abroad, many local audiences have overlooked it.
• Where to watch? Available on Netflix, and a must-watch if you want a unique entry from the Singapore Netflix movies list.

6. Sandcastle (2010) – Stories of Youth and Memory

Directed by Boo Junfeng, Sandcastle explores themes of identity, memory, and political history through the lens of a young man coming of age. It captures both the personal and political struggles of Singapore’s past.

• Why underrated? Its subtle storytelling style appeals more to film festival audiences than mainstream viewers.
• Where to watch? Look for it on regional Singapore films streaming platforms or film archives.

Where to Watch Singapore Movies Online

One of the biggest challenges for cinema lovers is access. Luckily, more platforms now showcase Singaporean films to global and local audiences. Here are some options if you’re looking for where to watch Singapore movies online:

1. Netflix – Offers a growing Singapore Netflix movies list, including titles like Shirkers and A Land Imagined.
2. MeWatch – A popular local platform that streams best local films Singapore regularly.
3. Viddsee – A hub for short films, perfect for exploring local Singapore movies you probably missed.
4. Amazon Prime Video – Features a mix of international and underrated Singaporean movies.
5. Film Festivals Online – Platforms like Singapore International Film Festival often release digital screenings.

Why You Should Watch These Films

These films may not appear on box-office charts, but they tell stories that matter. They reveal cultural nuances, social challenges, and heartfelt experiences unique to Singapore. By watching these underrated Singaporean movies, you support local filmmakers and preserve the storytelling tradition that continues to grow stronger.

Many of these films are also famous Singapore films you should watch if you want to understand the soul of the country. From the struggles of migrant workers to the joy of getai performances, every film paints a different aspect of Singapore’s identity.

The world of Singapore cinema is much richer than most people realise. While commercial films dominate the spotlight, there’s a treasure trove of underrated Singaporean movies waiting for discovery. Whether you’re browsing the Singapore Netflix movies list or diving into indie platforms, these films deserve your attention.

Next time you’re planning a movie night, skip the Hollywood blockbuster and give one of these local Singapore movies you probably missed a chance at. You’ll walk away with a new perspective and a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling in Singapore.

Also read: Best Johnny Depp Movies on Netflix You Should Watch in 2025