Best 25 Kung Fu Movies with Epic Fight Scenes

Kung fu films have long been celebrated for their electrifying fight sequences, larger-than-life characters, and unforgettable stories of honor, revenge, and redemption.

Originating from Chinese cinema, the genre gained global fame in the 1970s, producing legendary stars like Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li.

From traditional tales of Shaolin monks to modern action-packed blockbusters, these films have left an indelible mark on cinema history.

Here’s a ranking of the 25 best kung fu movies of all time, showcasing both classics and contemporary masterpieces that have defined the genre.

25. Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

Why It’s Here: While not a traditional kung fu movie, this genre-bending masterpiece starring Michelle Yeoh delivers some of the most unique fight scenes in recent memory.

The film follows Evelyn Wang, a laundromat owner, on a chaotic journey across multiple dimensions as she attempts to save reality itself. Though martial arts isn’t the film’s central focus, it plays a pivotal role in showcasing Evelyn’s transformation from a struggling mother to an unstoppable force.

Notable Highlights: Michelle Yeoh’s stellar performance earned her an Oscar, and the film’s choreography, which uses everyday objects like fanny packs as weapons, is both inventive and entertaining. It’s a testament to the versatility of martial arts in storytelling.

Fans of action-packed storytelling will love the multiverse chaos and intense combat scenes in ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once.’ If you’re up for more thrilling adventures, check out our list of the best time travel movies!

24. Triple Threat (2019)

Why It’s Here: Triple Threat brings together some of the biggest stars in modern martial arts cinema, including Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, and Tiger Hu Chen. The film tells the story of a group of elite fighters hired to protect a billionaire’s daughter from a group of dangerous mercenaries.

While the plot is simple, the film shines through its action-packed sequences and the undeniable charisma of its cast.

Notable Highlights: The sheer volume of talent makes every fight scene a spectacle. However, the film occasionally struggles to give each actor enough screen time to showcase their abilities, leaving some moments feeling rushed. Despite this, it’s a thrilling watch for fans of contemporary martial arts.

23. Fearless (2006)

Why It’s Here: Jet Li stars as Huo Yuanjia, a legendary martial artist who defended China’s honor during a turbulent period in its history. While the film takes creative liberties with historical facts, it delivers a deeply emotional story about redemption, legacy, and the power of martial arts as a unifying force.

Notable Highlights: The fight sequences are meticulously choreographed, blending grace with intensity. Jet Li’s commanding performance is complemented by Ronny Yu’s focused direction, creating a film that’s as moving as it is action-packed. The final fight, where Huo faces off against an international roster of opponents, is especially memorable.

22. The Shaolin Temple (1982)

Why It’s Here: Jet Li’s debut film, The Shaolin Temple, is a cultural milestone. The movie not only launched Li’s career but also reignited global interest in the Shaolin Temple and its legendary martial arts. The story follows a young monk seeking to avenge his father’s death, training in the temple and mastering various forms of kung fu.

Notable Highlights: The film’s authenticity is unmatched, featuring traditional Shaolin techniques and weaponry. Its mix of action, comedy, and romance ensures it remains a timeless classic that paved the way for countless kung fu films.

21. Fist of Fury (1972)

Why It’s Here: This Bruce Lee classic tells the story of Chen Zhen, a fictional martial artist avenging the death of his mentor, Huo Yuanjia. The film blends raw intensity with a powerful anti-colonial message, making it one of Lee’s most iconic roles.

Notable Highlights: Lee’s fight scenes are electrifying, with his use of nunchaku and dynamic choreography showcasing his unparalleled skill. The film’s influence can be seen in later portrayals of Chen Zhen by stars like Jet Li and Donnie Yen, cementing its legacy.

20. Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior (2003)

Why It’s Here: Tony Jaa burst onto the scene with Ong-Bak, introducing audiences to the art of Muay Thai. The film’s simple story—Jaa’s character seeks to recover a stolen Buddha statue—serves as a backdrop for some of the most breathtaking fight sequences ever filmed.

Notable Highlights: Jaa’s athleticism and dedication to performing his own stunts shine throughout the movie. From bone-crunching elbow strikes to gravity-defying leaps, Ong-Bak is a masterclass in action choreography.

19. Project A (1983)

Why It’s Here: Jackie Chan delivers a blend of comedy, action, and pirate-themed adventure in Project A. Playing Dragon Ma, a marine policeman, Chan takes on corrupt officials and ruthless pirates, performing some of his most daring stunts along the way.

Notable Highlights: The film’s standout moment is Chan’s infamous clock tower fall, a stunt performed without safety nets. The camaraderie between Chan, Sammo Hung, and Yuen Biao adds an extra layer of charm to this action-packed classic.

18. Supercop – Police Story 3 (1992)

Why It’s Here: Michelle Yeoh steals the spotlight in this third installment of the Police Story series. Teaming up with Jackie Chan, Yeoh delivers one jaw-dropping stunt after another, including a now-legendary motorcycle landing atop a moving train.

Notable Highlights: Yeoh’s performance rejuvenated her career, solidifying her place as one of the greatest action stars of all time. The film’s balance of humor, drama, and thrilling action sequences make it a standout entry in the series.

17. Knockabout (1979)

Why It’s Here: This revenge tale combines heartfelt character dynamics with creative fight choreography. Yipao, played by Yuen Biao, seeks justice for his brother’s murder, training under an unlikely mentor to face off against their corrupt former teacher.

Notable Highlights: The relationship between Yipao and his mentor brings emotional depth to the story, while the film’s climactic battles showcase some of the most inventive choreography of the genre.

16. Crippled Avengers (1978)

Why It’s Here: A story of resilience and revenge, Crippled Avengers follows four men who overcome disabilities inflicted by a cruel tyrant, banding together to bring justice.

Notable Highlights: The film’s emotional weight is matched by its stunning action sequences, with the chemistry of the Venom Mob actors elevating every scene. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of classic kung fu cinema.

15. The Legend of the Drunken Master (1994)

Why It’s Here: Jackie Chan returns as Wong Fei-hung in this sequel to Drunken Master. With a bigger budget and more elaborate stunts, the film delivers some of Chan’s most thrilling action.

Notable Highlights: The climactic fight between Chan and Ken Lo took months to film, resulting in one of the most exhilarating sequences in kung fu history. Chan’s mix of comedy and martial arts is on full display.

14. The Grandmaster (2013)

Why It’s Here: Directed by Wong Kar-wai, The Grandmaster is a visually stunning depiction of the life of Ip Man, Bruce Lee’s legendary mentor. The film goes beyond just showcasing martial arts, presenting kung fu as an art form and a way of life. Wong’s signature cinematic style brings a poetic touch to the genre.

Notable Highlights: The film’s balletic fight scenes, particularly the snowy train station battle featuring Zhang Ziyi, are mesmerizing. Tony Leung’s nuanced performance as Ip Man adds emotional depth to this masterpiece, making it much more than just an action film.

13. Five Deadly Venoms (1978)

Why It’s Here: Five Deadly Venoms is a cult classic that introduced a unique premise where each martial artist embodies a venomous animal’s fighting style. The film combines a whodunit mystery with mind-blowing action, creating a memorable experience that has stood the test of time.

Notable Highlights: Each venom—the Snake, Scorpion, Toad, Lizard, and Centipede—has a distinctive fighting technique, which makes every duel fresh and captivating. The elaborate choreography and gripping storyline cement its place as a classic.

12. Police Story (1985)

Why It’s Here: Jackie Chan’s Police Story is widely regarded as one of the greatest action films ever made. It set a new standard for the genre with its death-defying stunts, innovative fight choreography, and perfect balance of humor and drama.

Notable Highlights: The mall fight sequence, where Chan smashes through glass displays and slides down a pole covered in electric lights, remains one of the most iconic moments in action cinema. Chan’s ability to combine slapstick humor with intense action makes Police Story a timeless masterpiece.

11. Iron Monkey (1993)

Why It’s Here: Directed by legendary choreographer Yuen Woo-ping, Iron Monkey blends traditional kung fu with Robin Hood-like storytelling. The film tells the tale of a vigilante doctor who steals from the corrupt to help the poor, all while delivering jaw-dropping action sequences.

Notable Highlights: The rooftop fight scene, where the protagonists battle with burning poles, is a perfect example of Yuen’s genius. Donnie Yen’s performance as Wong Kei-ying adds gravitas to the story, while the film’s lighthearted tone keeps it fun.

10. The Raid: Redemption (2011)

Why It’s Here: The Raid: Redemption is an adrenaline-pumping action spectacle from Indonesia. The film follows a SWAT team trapped in a high-rise building filled with dangerous criminals, delivering non-stop action from start to finish.

Notable Highlights: Iko Uwais’ portrayal of Rama is captivating, showcasing raw physicality and unparalleled martial arts skills. The hallway fights and the intense final showdown are among the most innovative and brutal fight scenes ever filmed.

9. Flash Point (2007)

Why It’s Here: Starring Donnie Yen, Flash Point is a modern kung fu film that expertly incorporates mixed martial arts into its choreography. The story follows Detective Ma Jun as he takes on a ruthless gang, blending gritty realism with explosive action.

Notable Highlights: The climactic fight between Donnie Yen and Collin Chou is a masterclass in martial arts realism, with no wirework or CGI. The film’s unique blend of traditional kung fu and modern MMA techniques makes it a standout entry in the genre.

8. Once Upon a Time in China (1991)

Why It’s Here: Jet Li stars as Wong Fei-hung, a legendary martial artist defending China’s traditions against foreign influences during the late 19th century. The film’s historical backdrop and intricate fight scenes make it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Notable Highlights: The ladder fight sequence is one of the most creative and visually stunning moments in kung fu cinema. Jet Li’s commanding presence and Tsui Hark’s masterful direction elevate this film into a genre-defining classic.

7. Ip Man (2008)

Why It’s Here: Donnie Yen’s portrayal of Ip Man, the legendary Wing Chun master, is nothing short of iconic. This semi-biographical film highlights Ip Man’s journey during the Japanese occupation of China, blending heartfelt storytelling with incredible fight sequences.

Notable Highlights: The scene where Ip Man takes on ten Japanese soldiers is both emotionally charged and a stunning display of martial arts prowess. The film’s success sparked a franchise that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

6. The Way of the Dragon (1972)

Why It’s Here: Bruce Lee’s directorial debut pits his character, Tang Lung, against a gang of criminals in Rome. The film is best remembered for its iconic showdown between Lee and Chuck Norris at the Colosseum, one of the most famous martial arts duels in cinema history.

Notable Highlights: Lee’s charisma and martial arts philosophy shine throughout the film. The blend of humor, action, and cultural commentary makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

5. Hero (2002)

Why It’s Here: Directed by Zhang Yimou, Hero is a visually stunning masterpiece that elevates wuxia to an art form. The film follows Nameless (Jet Li) as he recounts his encounters with three assassins in a bid to earn an audience with the King of Qin.

Notable Highlights: The film’s vibrant color palette, poetic storytelling, and elegant fight choreography make it a cinematic triumph. The water fight scene between Jet Li and Donnie Yen is particularly breathtaking.

4. Kung Fu Hustle (2005)

Why It’s Here: Stephen Chow’s Kung Fu Hustle is a genre-defying blend of kung fu action and slapstick comedy. The film follows Sing, a wannabe gangster who unwittingly becomes a kung fu master while battling the infamous Axe Gang.

Notable Highlights: The film’s cartoonish fight scenes, hilarious characters, and heartfelt story make it an instant classic. Yuen Qiu’s portrayal of the cigarette-wielding Landlady is unforgettable.

3. The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (1978)

Why It’s Here: Often considered the quintessential Shaolin kung fu film, this movie follows a young man’s journey from novice to master as he trains in the Shaolin Temple to fight against oppression.

Notable Highlights: The iconic training montage, where the protagonist masters 35 chambers of kung fu, is both inspiring and entertaining. Gordon Liu’s performance as San Te is legendary.

2. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)

Why It’s Here: Ang Lee’s wuxia masterpiece brought kung fu films to the mainstream with its sweeping visuals and heartfelt story. The tale of a stolen sword and the intertwined fates of its seekers captivated global audiences.

Notable Highlights: The bamboo forest fight scene is a visual marvel, while the film’s emotional depth and philosophical undertones set it apart. Michelle Yeoh and Zhang Ziyi deliver outstanding performances.

1. Enter the Dragon (1973)

Why It’s Here: The quintessential kung fu film, Enter the Dragon made Bruce Lee an international icon. The film’s mix of martial arts, espionage, and philosophy set the standard for the genre and continues to inspire filmmakers to this day.

Notable Highlights: The mirrored room fight, Lee’s nunchaku skills, and his timeless wisdom make this film a masterpiece. From Lalo Schifrin’s score to the stunning choreography, Enter the Dragon is the undisputed king of kung fu cinema.