If you’re like me during this lockdown, there are times when you think to yourself “Boy, I really wish I could stop thinking for a little while.” Martial Arts movies are perfect for those occasions; just simple, uncomplicated plots stuffed full of action and choreography. Here are some of my favorites.
- Drunken Master- Jackie Chan fights better when he’s plastered is the best story pitch in the history of cinema and you will never convince me otherwise.
- IP Man- A biographical film about the Wing Chun master who trained Bruce Lee. It’s awesome.
- Hero- The story is unnecessarily complicated but who cares, the artistry and choreography is as breathtaking as any you’ll find (with the exception perhaps of my next recommendation.) A must watch for any martial arts fan.
- Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon- The most beautiful martial arts film ever made and the pinnacle of the genre. This is an epic and a masterpiece of film making.
- Once Upon a Time in China- The first film in a franchise. Jet Li is a folk hero in 19th century China dealing with a rapidly changing landscape, including the proliferation of firearms. The old dishonorable men with guns versus a virtuous man with nothing but his fists trope. An epic tale worthy of your time.
- The Way of The Dragon- Bruce Lee doesn’t just star in this one, he directs it. And he kicks Chuck Norris’ ass, which is very satisfying to watch.
- Police Story- Jackie Chan in his prime doing insane stunts. The first in a franchise, all of which are really solid and feature extraordinary action set pieces. The plots tend to be a bit cliché but who cares, focus on the action.
- Fists of Fury– Another Bruce Lee film because why not. Oh, and a super young Jackie Chan pops up in this one as well.
- Five Fingers of Death– This is not a great work of cinema. It’s not even really a great movie. But it is one of those “so bad it’s fun” kind of films. And the fight scenes are definitely worth a look. This is one of those movies you put on late at night and veg out to. A cult classic.
- Heroes of the East- This movie is awesome because it shows off a bunch of different martial arts styles including some styles from Japan which is rare in these types of films. If you like martial arts films you’ll love this one.