Cover The Asian Academy Creative Awards ceremony and gala will take place on December 3 and 4 in Singapore (Photo: Asian Academy Creative Awards)
The Asian Academy Creative Awards ceremony and gala will take place on December 3 and 4 in Singapore (Photo: Asian Academy Creative Awards)
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The prestigious Asian Academy Creative Awards showcase the pinnacle of creativity and innovation. These are the 14 contenders for Best Drama Series to binge leading up to December’s award ceremony
The Asian Academy Creative Awards (AACA) is the most prestigious award for creative excellence in the Asia-Pacific region. Established to honour outstanding achievements in content creation and media production, the awards encompass a wide range of categories across television, film, and streaming platforms.
The awards operate through a vigorous two-round judging process: the National Round, where local judges evaluate entries to select the best from their respective countries, which are crowned National Winners; and the International Round where expert panels from around the world select the Grand Winners.
These winners from 17 nations and territories showcase the pinnacle of creativity and innovation across the region, and will represent their home at the Grand Awards and Gala Final in Singapore on December 3 and 4 this year. They will compete in 41 categories—including Best Drama Series, Best Direction, and Best Original Screenplay to name a few—for the ultimate prize: the revered golden “Goddess of Creativity” statuette.
Leading up to December’s award ceremony, the AACA has revealed its National Winners for Best Drama Series. From gripping thrillers to heartfelt narratives, here are the 14 contenders across Asia-Pacific to add to your watchlist.
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1. Boy Swallows Universe (Australia)
Based on Trent Dalton’s bestselling novel, Boy Swallows Universe is a riveting coming-of-age drama that intertwines family turmoil, crime, and magical realism. Set in the 1980s, the story follows Eli Bell, a young boy navigating the complexities of adolescence and his family’s dark past. The series has dominated the AACAs across six categories.
2. To the Wonder (China)
Visual splendour meets poignant storytelling in To the Wonder, a cinematic series that has earned top accolades for China. Weaving together themes of love, loss, and redemption, each episode is a feast for the senses that blends philosophical musings with a gripping plot.
3. Left to Read (Hong Kong)
Left to Read is a thought-provoking drama that delves into the lives of characters whose fates are intertwined by a mysterious book that changes the course of their lives. With sharp dialogue and an unpredictable narrative, this Hong Kong gem has earned its spot as a top contender in the AACAs.
4. Limboland (Barzakh) (India)
With its blend of realism and heartwarming moments, Limboland offers a binge-worthy exploration of modern life in India. The drama features an ensemble cast that delivers powerful performances, combining the best of Indian storytelling with a universal narrative about identity, family, and societal expectations.
5. Must Get Married (Harus Kahwin) (Indonesia)
Must Get Married is an easy-to-binge series that strikes a balance between lighthearted romance and deeper themes of commitment and relationships. The romantic comedy-drama mixes humour with heartfelt moments as the characters navigate love, expectations, and societal pressure.
6. Antihero (Japan)
This intense drama follows a morally ambiguous character who walks the line between good and evil. With expertly crafted plot twists and action-packed sequences, Antihero keeps viewers hooked from start to finish.
7. The Atypical Family (Korea)
Korea continues to dominate global streaming platforms with compelling narratives, and The Atypical Family is no exception. This family drama challenges traditional norms by exploring relationships, identity, and the generational divide. It’s a slow-burn drama that rewards its viewers with profound revelations.
8. Hermaphrodite (Khunsa): Che Kun Che Nisa (Malaysia)
Malaysia’s Hermaphrodite (Khunsa) : Che Kun Che Nisa offers a boundary-pushing and daring narrative about identity and societal perceptions. This drama explores themes of gender and self-acceptance in a conservative society, with a bold storyline that challenges norms and invites reflection.
9. Deceit (Linlang) (Philippines)
This intense series revolves around secrets, lies, and betrayal, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. With intricate character dynamics and a plot full of unexpected twists, Deceit has quickly become a fan favourite and is perfect for those who love a gripping mystery with high stakes.
10. Phantom Squad (Operandi Gerhana) (Singapore)
Set in the world of elite military operations, Phantom Squad offers an exciting mix of action, drama, and intrigue. With tight pacing and thrilling sequences, the series explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and redemption alongside action-packed drama.
11. The Victims’ Game Season 2 (Taiwan)
The Victims’ Game returns with a highly anticipated second season, following a forensic investigator who uncovers shocking truths in his pursuit of justice. Combining psychological depth with procedural intrigue, this series is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally gripping.
12. Tale of Mobarok (Bangladesh)
Tale of Mobarok tells the story of a young man caught between personal desires and societal obligations. With stunning cinematography and a deeply emotional storyline, the series explores the tension between tradition and modernity, offering viewers a thought-provoking drama with universal themes.
13. Sparkle Hearts (Myanmar)
Unveiling the behind-the-scenes drama of two famous celebrities, Sparkle Hearts explores the pair’s competitive, jealous, desire-driven world of fame in this exciting series.
14. Dr Climax (Thailand)
Dr Climax is a gripping medical advice drama that offers much more than just hospital-based storylines. Set in the late ’70s—when sex talk is still taboo—the life of a strait-laced doctor is turned upside down when he starts moonlighting as a sex columnist under the pseudonym “Dr Climax”.
For more information on the Asian Academy Creative Awards and this year’s National Winners, visit www.asianacademycreativeawards.com
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