The 11 Best Kung Fu Movies Of All Time Ranked

Shaolin Temple

1982’s Shaolin Temple (starring Jet Li) might look just like any other kung fu movie ever, but the truth is much more fascinating than it seems.

11

Once Upon a Time in China

Set in the late 19th century, Once Upon a Time in China stars Jet Li as Wong Fei-hung: a Cantonese martial arts master and folk hero that’s been the star of multiple kung fu films over the years.

10

 The Big Boss

1971’s The Big Boss features Bruce Lee’s first major role in a feature film, marking a clear before and after for kung fu movies.

9

Drunken Master

One of the very first attempts at mixing elements of physical comedy with kung fu acrobatics, Drunken Master is Jackie Chan at his very best.

8

 Ip Man

Ip Man is the first movie in a series of quasi-biographical films about Ip Man’s life.

7

An exhilarating action flick that puts the brutal aggressiveness of Muay Thai on full display, Ong Bak: Muay Thai Warrior is a relentless tour de force of martial arts cinema.

Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior

6

Kung Fu Hustle

Directed by and starring Stephen Chow, Kung Fu Hustle is one of the finest examples of kung fu comedy done right.

5

Fist of Legend

If you’ve never watched a proper kung fu film before, then 1994’s Fist of Legend could be a great starting point.

4

Enter the Dragon

It’s not easy to find a good kung fu film that also includes some elements of espionage thrillers in its plot.

3

Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon gave audiences all over the world a  renewed appreciation for the stylish action of the wuxia genre.

2