Are you ready for an adrenaline-packed martial arts movie marathon on Netflix? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of the most thrilling martial arts films available, guaranteed to keep you entertained. Get ready to be wowed by an array of styles, from kung fu to karate to tai chi. These movies showcase the incredible skills of martial arts experts like Donnie Yen, delivering intense action, mind-blowing fight scenes, and awe-inspiring training sequences. If you were blown away by IP Man, get ready to uncover other hidden gems on Netflix. Let this ultimate guide lead you to the most worthwhile movies that will leave you craving for more.
Netflix boasts an impressive collection of fighting films that will have you at the edge of your seat. Which of these martial arts masterpieces do you think deserve the title of the ultimate champion? Join the conversation and share your favorites to help fellow fans discover their next thrilling watch. And don’t forget to stay tuned, as new and exciting kung fu and fighting movies are constantly being added to the mix. Get ready to unleash your inner warrior and embark on an unforgettable cinematic journey!
1. Ip Man
Ip Man, a martial arts biopic, tells the story of the skilled Wing Chun grandmaster, Ip Man, portrayed by Donnie Yen. Taking place in 1930s Foshan, China, the film explores the tumultuous period of the Sino-Japanese War. Ip Man’s abilities as a fighter are challenged as he fights for dignity and freedom amidst the chaos and invasion. Directed by Wilson Yip, this action-packed drama was honored with the Best Film award at the prestigious Hong Kong Film Awards. Ip Man is renowned for its captivating storyline and impressive fight sequences, solidifying its place as a standout in the historical martial arts genre.
Released: 2008
Directed by: Wilson Yip
Actors: Donnie Yen, Simon Yam, Louis Fan
2. Ip Man 2
In this film based on a true story, the protagonist Ip Man, a Wing Chun martial arts master played by Donnie Yen, and his family are relocating from Foshan, China, to Hong Kong. Ip’s dream is to establish a school where he can pass on his fighting techniques to the next generation. However, he encounters opposition from a Hung Ga master named Hong Zhen Nan, who happens to have asthma. The plot thickens as Ip becomes entangled in a dangerous web of corruption and faces a pivotal encounter with a ruthless boxer known as the Twister, portrayed by Darren Shahlavi.
Released: 2010
Directed by: Wilson Yip
Actors: Donnie Yen Ji-Dan, Lynn Xiong, Simon Yam
3. Five Element Ninjas
Five Element Ninjas, a kung fu film from 1982, was directed by Chang Cheh and produced by Shaw Brothers. When it made its way to North America, it was released under the title Chinese Super Ninjas.
Released: 1982
Directed by: Chang Cheh
Actors: Michael Chan, Lo Mang, Ke Chu
4. The Five Venoms
A master on his deathbed sends his final student to visit five former pupils. Each of these students has mastered a unique style of kung fu.
Released: 1978
Directed by: Cheh Chang
Actors: Philip Kwok, Chien Sun, Sheng Chiang
5. The Night Comes for Us
Ito, a member of a gang, gets caught up in a dangerous and brutal rebellion happening within his Triad crime group.
Released: 2018
Directed by: Timo Tjahjanto
Actors: Joe Taslim, Iko Uwais, Julie Estelle
6. Kung Fu Hustle
In Kung Fu Hustle, we follow the story of Sing, a small-time crook who dreams of joining the notorious Axe Gang. Set in 1940s Shanghai, a city plagued by chaos and corruption, the gang’s influence is felt everywhere. However, Sing’s life takes an unexpected turn when he stumbles upon Pigsty Alley, a rundown neighborhood inhabited by a group of peculiar residents who are more than meets the eye.
As Sing’s actions unwittingly set off a chain of events, a horde of kung fu masters enter the scene, creating a hilarious blend of action, fantasy, and supernatural elements. The film’s innovative choreography and stunning visual effects have earned it numerous awards, showcasing Stephen Chow’s distinct directorial style.
Released: 2004
Directed by: Stephen Chow
Actors: Stephen Chow, Yuen Wah, Yuen Qiu
7. Disciples of the 36th Chamber
Disciples Of The 36th Chamber, released in 1985, is a martial arts film comedy from Shaw Brothers Studio in Hong Kong. It was written, directed, and choreographed by Lau Kar-leung. This movie is part of a loose trilogy that started with The 36th Chamber of Shaolin and was followed by Return to the 36th Chamber.
In Disciples, the story revolves around Hsiao Ho, who plays the legendary martial artist Fong Sai-Yuk. Another familiar face in the 36th Chamber series is Gordon Liu, who reprises his role as the monk San Te from The 36th Chamber of Shaolin.
Released: 1985
Directed by: Lau Kar-leung
Actors: Chia Hui Liu, Lau Kar-leung, Hsiao Ho
8. Martial Arts of Shaolin
Martial Arts of Shaolin, also known as Shaolin Temple 3, is a 1986 Hong Kong martial arts film. What makes it special is that it marks the only time film director Lau Kar-Leung and actor Jet Li worked together. If you’re a fan of their work, this film is definitely worth checking out. You can even find it on Region 1 DVD, thanks to The Weinstein Company, who released it under their Dragon Dynasty label.
Released: 1986
Directed by: Lau Kar-leung
Actors: Jet Li, Hung Yan-yan, Yu Chenghui
9. The Grandmaster
This is the tale of a martial arts master named Tony Leung Chiu Wai. He was known for teaching the Wing Chun style of kung fu to the legendary Bruce Lee.
Released: 2013
Directed by: Kar-Wai Wong
Actors: Tony Leung Chiu Wai, Zhang Ziyi, Chen Chang
10. Ip Man 4 The Finale
Ip Man 4: The Finale, released in 2019, is a gripping biographical martial arts film from Hong Kong. It is skillfully directed by Wilson Yip. The story follows Ip Man, portrayed by the talented Donnie Yen, as he embarks on a journey to San Francisco, United States. His arrival coincides with the recent opening of a Wing Chun school by his student, Bruce Lee, played by Danny Chan, which has caused quite a stir within the local martial arts community.”
“In this action-packed film, we witness the tension and conflicts that arise as Ip Man and his student challenge the established norms and traditions of the martial arts world. The clash between the old and the new, the East and the West, creates an exhilarating backdrop for the unfolding story.”
“As Ip Man delves deeper into the martial arts scene in San Francisco, we are taken on a thrilling ride, witnessing his incredible skills and unwavering dedication to the Wing Chun discipline. The film showcases some breathtaking fight sequences that will leave audiences in awe.”
“Through the lens of Wilson Yip’s direction, the film offers a captivating glimpse into the life of Ip Man and his enduring legacy. It explores themes of resilience, mentorship, and the power of martial arts as a means of self-expression and self-discovery.”
“Ip Man 4: The Finale is a must-watch for martial arts enthusiasts and fans of the Ip Man series. It serves as a fitting conclusion to the beloved franchise, leaving viewers inspired and amazed by the incredible talent and indomitable spirit of Ip Man, Bruce Lee, and the entire Wing Chun community.
Released: 2019
Directed by: Wilson Yip
Actors: Scott Adkins, Donnie Yen, Kwok-Kwan Chan
11. Ninja Assassin
Raizo, also known as Rain, was raised to be a lethal killing machine since he was a child. He belongs to a covert organization of assassins called the Ozunu. However, when his friend is brutally murdered by the Ozunu, Raizo manages to break free from their clutches and disappears into the shadows.
On the other hand, Mika Coretti, an agent from Europol, stumbles upon a series of murders that seem to be connected to the Ozunu. As she follows the money trail, Mika realizes that this secretive group is behind the killings.
In a twist of fate, Raizo comes to Mika’s rescue, saving her from his former comrades. Recognizing the common enemy, Raizo and Mika decide to team up and bring down the Ozunu once and for all. Together, they embark on a mission to dismantle the organization and put an end to their reign of terror.
Released: 2009
Directed by: James McTeigue
Actors: Jeong Ji-hoon, Naomie Harris, Ben Miles