40 Must-See Martial Arts Films
40 titles
- 1
Red CliffMovie · 2008 · 145m · Adventure, Drama, HistoryIn 208 A.D., as the Han Dynasty was crumbling, the clever Prime Minister Cao persuaded Emperor Han that war with the kingdoms of Xu in the west and East Wu in the south was the only path to uniting China. This sparked a massive military campaign. Facing certain defeat, Xu and East Wu formed an unexpected alliance.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 2
A Better Tomorrow IIMovie · 1987 · 103m · Action, Crime, ThrillerIn a close-knit town, a driven restaurant owner is pulled into a dangerous quest for revenge after a friend's daughter is murdered. Grieving and determined, he joins forces with an unconventional pair: a police officer battling personal struggles, and his ex-convict brother trying to leave his past behind.
The trio navigates the criminal underworld, facing challenges and betrayals that test their bonds. This story of friendship, revenge, and redemption examines trust, sacrifice, and the lengths people will go to protect loved ones, amidst growing tension and danger. As secrets are revealed and allegiances change, they discover that achieving justice is more complicated than they imagined.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1 - 3
Bullet in the HeadMovie · 1990 · 130m · Action, Crime, ThrillerDuring the chaotic war years in Saigon, three friends from Hong Kong's slums get caught in a dangerous situation after accidentally killing a powerful gang leader. They must now flee from both the police and the ruthless underworld seeking revenge. Forced into increasingly risky circumstances, the trio's friendship is tested as they confront the harsh realities they left behind. The film explores themes of guilt, betrayal, survival, and loyalty, depicting a powerful story of resilience in the face of uncertainty.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.6 - 4
Hard BoiledMovie · 1992 · 126m · Action, Thriller, CrimeA determined police officer undertakes a dangerous mission after his partner is seriously injured during a shootout with gun smugglers. Driven to dismantle the criminal organization, he teams up with a resourceful undercover cop who is posing as a hitman within the gang.
As they investigate the world of illegal arms and organized crime, the two officers face constant danger and betrayal. They use unorthodox tactics, sometimes bending the rules, to achieve justice.
The story explores loyalty, trust, and sacrifice against a backdrop of police work and crime. The film combines intense action with character development, creating a gripping and suspenseful experience.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 5
Kill Bill: Vol. 2Movie · 2004 · 136m · Action, Crime, ThrillerA woman relentlessly pursues the assassins who attacked her and threatened her unborn child. Systematically, she eliminates those connected to the killers, working her way through a list of targets. Her final objective is to confront and kill Bill.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9 - 6
Project AMovie · 1983 · 105m · Action, Adventure, ComedyIn late 19th-century Hong Kong, where the British control the land and pirates dominate the seas, Coast Guard officer Dragon Ma fights to protect his unit's authority. As tensions rise between the British and the pirates, Dragon Ma works tirelessly to ensure the safety of Hong Kong's people, both on shore and at sea, against a dangerous underworld.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 7
Crouching Tiger, Hidden DragonMovie · 2000 · 120m · Adventure, Drama, ActionTwo warriors hunting a stolen sword and a dangerous escapee find themselves guided to the daughter of a headstrong, athletic teenage nobleman who is facing a pivotal moment in her life.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4 - 8
Bhavesh Joshi SuperheroMovie · 2018 · 155m · Action, DramaA young man who champions justice discovers he has a greater purpose, leading to a transformation that elevates him from ordinary to a superhero.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 9
Kill Bill: Vol. 1Movie · 2003 · 111m · Action, CrimeAn assassin is shot by her employer, Bill, and other members of their group. However, she survives the attack and begins planning her revenge.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.0 - 10
Red Cliff IIMovie · 2009 · 141m · Action, Adventure, DramaThe battle of Red Cliff rages on, and the alliance between Xu and East Wu is weakening. Facing Cao Cao's overwhelming army, can these kingdoms hold out?IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 11
BuyBustMovie · 2018 · 127m · Action, Drama, ThrillerA highly trained special forces team is deployed to eliminate a drug operation, but they become trapped within the compound after a calculated setup and betrayal.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.0 - 12
Sword of the StrangerMovie · 2007 · 103m · Action, Animation, HistoryA young boy named Kotaro and his dog are hunted across China by deadly assassins. They encounter No Name, a mysterious stranger who becomes involved in their pursuit. The trio develops a connection after No Name saves the dog from a poisoning attempt. However, the assassins locate Kotaro, forcing No Name to confront his history to prevent a devastating outcome.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6 - 13
Raging FireMovie · 2021 · 125m · Action, Crime, ThrillerDetective Cheung Sung-bong is a highly respected officer with a proven track record in handling dangerous cases. His past catches up with him when a former protégé reappears, driven by a desire for revenge.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.0 - 14
Ip ManMovie · 2008 · 106m · Drama, Action, HistoryThis semi-biographical film tells the story of Yip Man, the martial arts grandmaster who popularized Wing Chun. Set in Foshan during the 1930s and 1940s, amidst the Second Sino-Japanese War, the film follows Ip Man's life. Directed by Wilson Yip and starring Donnie Yen, with fight choreography by Sammo Hung.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8 - 15
Fist of the North StarMovie · 1986 · 110m · Animation, Action, Science FictionAfter a devastating nuclear war, the Earth is a ruined landscape where people struggle to survive. A powerful, oppressive regime controls the remaining population. Kenshiro emerges as a hero, determined to overthrow this tyranny and bring order back to the world. With incredible skill in martial arts and an unshakeable spirit, he fights against those who would harm others, facing the brutal realities of a dying planet. This action-packed story is about power, oppression, and hope in the face of overwhelming hardship.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 16
The Sword of DoomMovie · 1966 · 122m · Action, DramaDuring the final years of the Japanese Shogunate, Ryunosuke is a highly skilled swordsman who expertly maneuvers the complex political scene. He kills without hesitation, driven by habit rather than morality. This detached existence begins to unravel him, threatening his sanity and forcing him to confront the impact of his violence. The story examines morality, power, and the personal price of survival in a world defined by conflict.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.7 - 17
WarriorMovie · 2011 · 140m · Drama, ActionA young man returns to his childhood home and begins training with his father, a former boxer, for an upcoming mixed martial arts tournament. This decision forces him into a direct confrontation with his estranged older brother.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.8 - 18
The Tale of ZatoichiMovie · 1962 · 96m · Adventure, Action, DramaDuring a time of conflict between rival groups for control of a village, Zatoichi, a blind masseur with a hidden talent for swordsmanship and gambling, finds himself drawn into the struggle. When he learns a yakuza gang has taken over the village, Zatoichi feels compelled to act as tensions rise between the yakuza and a smaller gang from a nearby town. Determined to protect the innocent caught in the violence, he uses his skills to navigate the dangerous situation and fight back against the powerful criminal organization.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 19
Lady SnowbloodMovie · 1973 · 97m · Action, Crime, DramaYuki's life is defined by a thirst for vengeance. Her family was nearly destroyed when she was born, as a brutal criminal group subjected her mother to horrific abuse. After surviving the kidnapping and a prison sentence, her mother spends her life planning revenge, even using her pregnancy to execute her scheme. Yuki grows up without love, surrounded by violence and the desire for retribution. The film examines loss, survival, and the complicated nature of revenge in a harsh world.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 20
The 36th Chamber of ShaolinMovie · 1978 · 116m · Action, AdventureSet in late 19th-century China, the film follows a group of revolutionaries fighting against the oppressive Ch'ing Dynasty. Led by the capable Ho Kuang-han, they secretly establish a base in Canton disguised as schoolteachers. Their hiding place is attacked by Manchu forces, and Lui narrowly escapes.
This traumatic event drives Lui to master martial arts and seek revenge. His journey through hardship explores themes of patriotism, resilience, and self-discovery. Against a backdrop of political turmoil and cultural conflict, the story unfolds with intensity, offering a captivating cinematic experience.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 21
Rurouni Kenshin: The BeginningMovie · 2021 · 138m · Action, Adventure, DramaKenshin was once Battosai, a notorious assassin. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Tomoe Yukishiro, a kind-hearted young woman grappling with deep sorrow.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.6 - 22
Fist of FuryMovie · 1972 · 108m · Drama, Action, ThrillerIn Shanghai, Chen Chen's life changes when his teacher is murdered in their university. Driven by duty and grief, Chen investigates the crime and discovers a dangerous secret: a Japanese school is involved in drug smuggling.
Seeking justice for his teacher, Chen faces enemies from China and Japan, including a deadly Russian assassin. The story explores loyalty, revenge, and international tensions amidst a changing Shanghai. Chen must confront both external threats and his own personal struggles to find justice and honor his mentor's memory.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 23
Cliff WalkersMovie · 2021 · 120m · Thriller, Crime, HistoryIn 1930s Manchukuo, a puppet state, four Communist agents return to China for a clandestine mission. Betrayed by an informant, the team discovers they are now facing danger from every direction.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.7 - 24
Sword of the BeastMovie · 1965 · 85m · Action, DramaSword of the Beast follows Gennosuke, a talented but minor samurai, whose life unravels when he's wrongly accused of involvement in a plot that leads to a minister's assassination. His former allies betray him, shattering his honor, and he flees to the wilderness, living like a wild animal.
There, he meets a group secretly mining gold for the shogun, finding a path to survival and perhaps redemption. With help from another swordsman, Gennosuke gets a chance to clear his name and regain his honor in a feudal Japan marked by betrayal and struggle. The film powerfully explores themes of honor and survival within this historical setting.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 25
The Night Comes for UsMovie · 2018 · 121m · Action, Crime, ThrillerA highly skilled assassin for a powerful Triad is forced to go on the run after he spares a girl's life during a violent attack. He becomes the target of a relentless wave of killers seeking revenge.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.9 - 26
Ninja ScrollMovie · 1993 · 94m · Fantasy, Adventure, AnimationSet in feudal Japan, this action film follows Jubei, a masterless ninja who works as a mercenary. His freedom leads him on many adventures, but his life is threatened when a plot to control the country unfolds. The story shows the complex power struggles of the time, as Jubei's loyalty is challenged by political intrigue. He must use his skills to survive and uphold his reputation as the best ninja.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8 - 27
The Raid 2Movie · 2014 · 150m · Action, Crime, ThrillerFollowing a harrowing escape from a building overrun by dangerous criminals, SWAT officer Rama goes undercover. He joins a powerful Indonesian crime syndicate to safeguard his family and expose corruption within his own unit.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 28
Vengeance Is Mine, All Others Pay CashMovie · 2021 · 114mAjo Kawir is a fearless fighter, unafraid of anything, including death. His intense need to fight stems from a hidden vulnerability: he is impotent. After a brutal encounter with a strong female fighter named Iteung, Ajo is badly injured but unexpectedly falls deeply in love. Will Ajo find happiness and inner peace with Iteung, and finally resolve his personal struggles?IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 29
HeroMovie · 2002 · 99m · Drama, Adventure, ActionIn ancient China's Warring States period, a district official journeys to the court of Qin Shi Huang, asserting he eliminated the three individuals who previously tried to assassinate the king.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 30
The KillerMovie · 1989 · 110m · Action, Crime, DramaJeffrey is a highly skilled mob assassin who views his work as a sacred obligation. His latest assignment has devastating consequences when the nightclub singer Jennie loses her sight due to accidental damage. Haunted by this unintended outcome, Jeffrey decides to retire and uses his final job to fund the surgery that could restore Jennie's vision. However, his last mission takes an unexpected turn when he is betrayed by his colleagues. Determined to seek justice, Jeffrey reluctantly partners with a renegade cop to expose those responsible. This crime drama follows their dangerous journey through a world of lies and violence as they confront questions of morality, loyalty, and redemption.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6 - 31
Seven SamuraiMovie · 1954 · 207m · Action, DramaA samurai, struggling financially, accepts a village’s plea for protection. The village is threatened by bandits, so the samurai assembles six companions to train the villagers in self-defense. In return, the villagers supply the soldiers with food.IMDb 8.6TMDB 8.5 - 32
Operation CondorMovie · 1991 · 107m · Action, Adventure, Crime"Asian Hawk," a skilled treasure hunter from Hong Kong, takes on a special assignment from a Spanish baron: find Nazi gold hidden in the Sahara Desert from World War II.
With his team, Jackie embarks on this exciting quest, using his skills and determination to overcome the harsh desert. As they journey deeper, they face not only the dangers of the landscape but also the historical and ethical questions surrounding their search.
This action-packed story highlights human strength as Jackie races against time and rivals to find the buried treasure, testing his abilities and resolve in one of the world's most challenging environments.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 33
Enter the DragonMovie · 1973 · 102m · ActionA skilled martial artist is recruited into a dangerous world of crime and espionage when offered a chance to participate in a tournament hosted by a secretive crime lord. He accepts, hoping to infiltrate the underworld and gain intelligence. The tournament pits him against formidable opponents, forcing him to use his skills while concealing his true purpose. He must navigate intense battles and gather information, testing his loyalty and challenging his understanding of justice.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 34
The Way of the DragonMovie · 1972 · 100m · Action, CrimeIn Rome, martial arts expert Tang Lung arrives to help his Italian relatives with their restaurant. He soon learns they're being threatened by a powerful syndicate that wants their property. Determined to protect his family, Tang Lung becomes a formidable fighter. The syndicate leader, seeing him as a threat, hires skilled fighters from Japan and Europe to defeat him. The result is an action-packed series of fights, as Tang Lung uses his exceptional skills to overcome his enemies and save the restaurant from the syndicate's plans.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.4 - 35
Barbarian InvasionMovie · 2022 · 106mMoon Lee, a renowned actress who retired to focus on her family after winning numerous awards, is eager to rediscover herself. She enthusiastically accepts a new project with her longtime director, Roger Woo, who offers her the lead role in a martial arts film requiring extensive stunts. Initially hesitant, Moon entrusts her son to Roger's assistant and dedicates herself to rigorous training. However, as she gains confidence, Roger reveals a condition for the film’s production: her ex-husband, Julliard, must be cast as the male lead.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.4 - 36
Once Upon a Time in ChinaMovie · 1991 · 133m · Action, DramaSet in 19th-century Canton, this action film follows Wong Fei-Hung, a legendary martial artist, as he defends China from foreign invaders who are exploiting its resources. The story depicts intense battles and strategic fighting as Wong Fei-Hung confronts these adversaries during a time of colonial expansion and cultural upheaval. The film portrays not only impressive martial arts but also explores themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and the strength of the Chinese people during this important historical period.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 37
A Touch of ZenMovie · 1970 · 180m · Action, Adventure, FantasyKu Shen Chai, a gifted artist in his early thirties, lives a quiet life with his mother in their comfortable home. His peaceful routine is disrupted by the sudden arrival of Yang Hui-ching, a mysterious princess fleeing her homeland. This unexpected guest draws Ku into a world of protectors, including an elusive monk who guides him toward courage. Together, the unlikely trio develops deep bonds, learning the importance of loyalty, friendship, and inner strength as they journey together.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.6 - 38
FearlessMovie · 2006 · 103m · Drama, ActionHaunted by personal tragedy, martial arts expert Huo Yuanjia returns to Tianjin. He is challenged to fight four foreign soldiers, a contest meant to defend China's honor.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 39
Kung Fu HustleMovie · 2004 · 99m · Action, Comedy, CrimeShanghai, 1940s. The ruthless Axe Gang holds the city in fear. Two small-time criminals, Sing and Bone, try to join them but end up making powerful enemies. Luckily, they discover unexpected allies in the form of kung fu masters and hidden strengths. Now, they must confront the entire Axe Gang.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 40
Lone Wolf and Cub: Sword of VengeanceMovie · 1972 · 84m · Drama, Action, AdventureThe first film in the Lone Wolf and Cub series, adapted from Kazuo Koike's acclaimed manga, tells the origin story of Ogami Itto and his son Daigoro. Itto, a respected Shogunate executioner, is wrongly accused of betrayal by the powerful Yagyu clan.
Driven by a relentless desire for revenge, Itto and Daigoro journey through feudal Japan. They navigate dangerous political landscapes, fighting for survival and loyalty while facing overwhelming odds. The film explores themes of fatherly devotion, loss, and unbreakable strength.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4
