ENTERTAINMENT

Unforgettable Martial Arts Movies You Should Watch

Hong KongSun Aug 03 2025

Martial arts movies are not just about intense action and gore. They offer a wide range of experiences, from thrilling adventures to emotionally charged stories. For those new to the genre, starting with the classics can be a great way to explore its depth and variety.

Must-Watch Martial Arts Films

Ip Man (2008)

  • Starring: Donnie Yen
  • Highlight: Impressive fight sequences
  • Note: Loosely based on the real-life Ip Man, who trained Bruce Lee in Wing Chun.

Fist of Legend (1994)

  • Starring: Jet Li
  • Highlight: Rapid-fire fighting style
  • Note: A remake of a classic film, showcasing Li's emotionally charged fights.

Bloodsport (1988)

  • Starring: Jean-Claude Van Damme
  • Highlight: Agile fighting style
  • Note: Despite questions about the story's credibility, Van Damme's performance is memorable.

Enter the Dragon (1973)

  • Starring: Bruce Lee
  • Highlight: Lightning-fast reflexes and powerful blows
  • Note: One of the most famous martial arts movies of all time.

Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003)

  • Starring: Quentin Tarantino (Director)
  • Highlight: Gorgeously filmed fight scenes
  • Note: Considered some of the best fight scenes of the 21st century.

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)

  • Starring: Ang Lee (Director)
  • Highlight: Gorgeous cinematography and emotionally gratifying arcs
  • Note: A wuxia film with detailed lore and magical elements.

The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (1978)

  • Starring: Lau Kar-leung
  • Highlight: Imaginative approach to martial arts training
  • Note: Inspired some of the best training montages in cinema history.

Drunken Master (1978)

  • Starring: Jackie Chan
  • Highlight: Iconic fighting style
  • Note: Chan's influence on cinema is undeniable.

The Karate Kid (1984)

  • Starring: Pat Morita
  • Highlight: Mr. Miyagi, one of the most beloved movie characters
  • Note: A feel-good movie about a kid learning karate to beat bullies.

Shaolin Soccer (2001)

  • Starring: Stephen Chow
  • Highlight: Exaggerated stunts and expressions
  • Note: A comedic martial arts movie about Shaolin monks winning a football tournament.
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questions

    How does the article's assertion that martial arts movies are 'hardcore action movies' align with the diverse range of films listed, such as the comedic 'Shaolin Soccer'?
    In what ways might the article's claim that martial arts movies 'can feel like thrill-seeking rides without much substance' be challenged by films like 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon', which is praised for its expansive storytelling and characterization?
    How does the article's suggestion that martial arts movies are primarily for action enthusiasts overlook the appeal of films like 'The Karate Kid', which has a strong emotional and coming-of-age narrative?

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