Plot Summary
Formosa depicts the landscapes, architecture, customs, culture, agriculture, natural scenery, Indigenous peoples, and colonial traces of Taiwan during the period of Japanese rule. It also reflects how the world at that time perceived and imagined Taiwan. This film is the earliest known surviving motion picture shot in and about Taiwan. This introductory documentary was donated as a duplicate print by the Netherlands Filmmuseum (now Eye Filmmuseum) in 1991. According to the museum’s records, the nitrate print dates to approximately 1922. However, based on the research of scholar Lee Daw-ming, the film may have been shot as early as 1917 by Herford T. Cowling. The exact date when the original positive film was produced and its subsequent whereabouts remain unknown. Formosa is preserved and presented by the Taiwan Film & Audiovisual Institute in 2025.
Our Take
Expert, independent review by the HollyFlixHD Editorial Team
Analyzing cinematography, narrative pacing, and lead performances for Formosa. Writing review...
Director & Crew
Herford T. Cowling
Director
Where to Watch Formosa Online
You can currently stream Formosa online or watch it in HD via the link below.
Find Formosa StreamingFrequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch Formosa online?
Formosa (1922) is available to stream on various platforms. You can also watch it online via our Watch Online button.
What is the TMDB rating of Formosa?
It has a TMDB rating of 5.0/10 based on 1 votes.
Who directed Formosa?
Formosa was directed by Herford T. Cowling and released in 1922.
How long is Formosa?
Formosa has a runtime of 0 hours and 7 minutes.
Movie Details
- Release Date
- 1922-07-01
- Status
- Released