Top Kung-Fu Films of All Time: Completing & Solving Classics

Select Language:

Martial arts, especially kung-fu, is one of the most popular subgenres in action movies. With its exciting, fast-paced fight scenes that involve fists, swords, and various weapons, it’s no surprise kung-fu films have stayed popular over the years.

Thanks to legendary figures like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, kung-fu has made a strong impression on entertainment. While most classic kung-fu movies were produced in China or Hong Kong, films from Western countries and Southeast Asia have also made important contributions.

Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
One of Quentin Tarantino’s most famous films, Kill Bill: Volume 1 has become a classic in filmmaking. The movie mixes anime and martial arts, featuring memorable characters like The Bride, Gogo Yubari, and O-Ren Ishii, along with sleek fight scenes and swordplay.
The story follows The Bride, a former assassin who tries to leave her violent past behind. After awakening from a coma and learning she’s no longer pregnant, she sets out on a quest to kill her former colleagues — a revenge story told in a unique and stylish way.

House of Flying Daggers (2004)
Set at the end of the Tang dynasty, this film combines drama and romance with stunning martial arts choreography. It’s a visual feast, with beautiful scenery, costumes, and compelling characters.
The story is a tragic love tale involving Mei, who is part of a rebel group fighting against the corrupt Tang government. She falls in love with Jin, an undercover cop, which upsets her fiancé Leo, also a police officer secretly working for the rebels. Their complex love triangle unfolds as government forces close in.

The Raid (2011)
Filmed in Indonesia, The Raid is known for its intense fight scenes and realistic combat. Unlike some movies that lean on stylized visuals, it depicts brutal fights with gritty camera work.
The story centers on Rama and his police team who infiltrate a high-rise building controlled by a crime lord. Surrounded by enemies, Rama fights to survive as he clears the building floor by floor. This film is perfect for fans of hard-hitting martial arts action from around the world.

Police Story (1985)
Starring Jackie Chan, Police Story is one of his most iconic movies. It launched a successful series with its action-packed scenes and impressive stunts.
Set in Hong Kong, the film follows Sergeant Kan-Kui as he tries to catch a crime boss named Chu Tao. Along the way, Kan-Kui faces major challenges, gets framed for murder, and fights to clear his name while delivering the bad guy.

Fist of Legend (1994)
This film stars Jackie Chan and is a remake of Bruce Lee’s Fist of Fury. It honors the original with similar fight sequences and a strong story.
What makes Fist of Legend stand out are its realistic, well-choreographed fights, which have influenced many movies since — including the famous fight scenes in The Matrix. Chan’s performance and the film’s dynamic characters have made it a martial arts classic.

Once Upon a Time in China (1991)
Jet Li stars in this epic film about Wong Fei Hung, a legendary martial artist and healer. During China’s declining Qing dynasty, Wong fights against foreign invaders and internal enemies to protect his country.
Though the plot has its slow moments, the film is renowned for its expertly choreographed fight scenes and historical context. It helped shape many future kung-fu movies with its inspiring storytelling and action.

Kung Fu Hustle (2004)
A hilarious kung-fu comedy, Kung Fu Hustle blends humor, visual effects, and memorable martial arts.
It follows Sing, a small-time crook eager to join an evil gang. His antics cause trouble, but he eventually transforms into a skilled fighter and respected community member. The film’s mix of comedy and action makes it a standout hit.

The Way of the Dragon (1972)
This was Bruce Lee’s last film released during his lifetime and remains a timeless classic. It combines kung-fu with humor, famous for Bruce Lee’s charismatic performance and the legendary fight against Chuck Norris.
The story is about Tang Lung, a martial arts master sent to Rome to defend a restaurant from a gang. His incredible fights helped set a high standard for kung-fu movies that followed, inspiring many future films.

Ip Man (2008)
This film launched a wave of top-tier martial arts movies. Featuring Donnie Yen as Wing Chun master Ip Man, it tells the story of a hero who fought to protect his people during Japan’s invasion of China.
Yen’s portrayal of Ip Man showcases impressive martial arts, especially the fast, fluid, and powerful Wing Chun style. The film has become one of the best kung-fu movies ever made.

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
Winner of numerous awards, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is widely regarded as a milestone in kung-fu cinema. Known for its breathtaking action sequences and star-studded cast — including Zhang Ziyi and Michelle Yeoh — it’s a captivating film that explores themes of desire, love, ambition, and sacrifice.
The plot follows Jen Yu, a noblewoman who falls in love with a bandit, while the legendary swordsman Mu Bai and Shu Lien chase after a stolen weapon, the Green Destiny. The movie’s blend of romance and martial arts has made it a beloved classic.