Martial arts movies have a special place in the hearts of action fans. They combine jaw-dropping choreography with stories of perseverance and triumph, creating a cinematic experience that's both thrilling and awe-inspiring. Since the turn of the millennium, the genre has seen a renaissance, with filmmakers pushing the boundaries of what's possible on screen. Here are the best martial arts films released since 2000, ranked.
6. Kung Fu Hustle (2004)
Stephen Chow's Kung Fu Hustle is a wild, hilarious ride that blends martial arts with slapstick comedy in a way that's never been matched. The film is a loving parody of the genre, yet it also delivers some of the most inventive and visually stunning fight sequences ever put to film. Chow's direction is confident, and the film's Looney Tunes-inspired physics make for a constant barrage of over-the-top action. It's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates martial arts with a side of laughter.
5. Hero (2002)
Jet Li stars in Zhang Yimou's visually breathtaking Hero, a period piece set in ancient China that's as much a work of art as it is an action film. The movie's use of color to tell its story is nothing short of genius, and the fight scenes are balletic and poetic. With a stellar cast including Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung, Hero is a masterpiece that transcends the genre. It's a film that demands to be seen on the biggest screen possible.
4. The Raid 2 (2014)
Gareth Evans' The Raid 2 takes everything that made the first film a classic and amplifies it. This sequel is a sprawling crime epic that doesn't skimp on the action. Iko Uwais returns as Rama, and the fight choreography is nothing short of spectacular. The film's 2.5-hour runtime flies by, thanks to Evans' masterful direction and the relentless pace. It's a martial arts movie that's as ambitious as it is brutal, and it's a must-see for any fan of the genre.
3. Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003)
Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill: Vol. 1 is a love letter to martial arts cinema, filled with homages to classic films and a killer soundtrack. Uma Thurman stars as The Bride, a former assassin on a quest for revenge. The film's action sequences are iconic, from the showdown at the House of Blue Leaves to the anime-inspired backstory. It's a stylish, ultraviolent masterpiece that's as entertaining as it is influential.
2. Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior (2003)
Tony Jaa burst onto the scene with Ong-Bak, a film that showcased his incredible Muay Thai skills and brought a new level of realism to martial arts movies. The stunts are jaw-dropping, with Jaa performing his own death-defying feats. The plot is simple—a villager must retrieve a stolen Buddha head—but the action is anything but. Ong-Bak is a raw, adrenaline-fueled ride that redefined what martial arts films could be.
1. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
Ang Lee's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is not just one of the best martial arts movies of the 21st century; it's one of the greatest films ever made. The movie blends breathtaking wire-fu action with a deeply emotional story about love, honor, and sacrifice. The fight scenes are elegant and poetic, and the performances from Chow Yun-fat, Michelle Yeoh, and Zhang Ziyi are unforgettable. It's a film that transcends the genre and appeals to audiences of all kinds.
These films represent the best of what martial arts cinema has to offer. Whether you're in the mood for comedy, drama, or pure adrenaline, there's something here for you. And if you're looking for more action-packed recommendations, check out our list of the most nerve-shredding thrillers since 2010 or our ranking of movies that truly get video games.
