10 Best Martial Arts Ensemble Movies, Ranked
When it comes to action-packed cinematography, nothing gets the adrenaline pumping quite like a martial arts ensemble movie. These films not only showcase astonishing feats of athleticism and skill but also bring together a collection of actors who breathe life into some of the most iconic fights put to screen. Here’s our ranking of the 10 best martial arts ensemble movies of all time.
10. “The Forbidden Kingdom” (2008)
Bringing together Jackie Chan and Jet Li, this film offers a fantasy adventure that includes a mixture of different martial arts styles, with a nod to Chinese mythology.
9. “Shaolin Soccer” (2001)
This comedy by Stephen Chow integrates martial arts into the world of soccer, creating an unforgettable and uniquely stylized viewing experience with an ensemble that can both kick ass and score goals.
8. “IP Man” Series (2008-2019)
While Donnie Yen shines as Ip Man, the films he’s starred in feature numerous talented martial artists, combining historical drama with spectacular wing chun fighting sequences.
7. “The Raid: Redemption” (2011)
A breakthrough in Indonesian cinema, this high-octane film features Iko Uwais leading a SWAT team through a building overrun by criminals, showcasing pencaksilat in tightly choreographed fight scenes.
6. “Hero” (2002)
Jet Li stands at the center of an impressive cast in this visually arresting wuxia film. The rich storytelling and breathtaking choreography make it a cinematic gem.
5. “13 Assassins” (2010)
Takashi Miike’s samurai epic is both brutal and beautiful, featuring an extensive cast that delivers edge-of-your-seat swordplay from beginning to end.
4. “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” (2000)
Ang Lee’s masterpiece deftly combines romance with martial arts. The star-studded cast defies gravity in some of the most elegant fight scenes ever filmed.
3. “Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior” (2003)
Introducing Tony Jaa’s incredible athleticism to a wider audience, “Ong-Bak” put Muay Thai on the global map with its no-stunts-barred approach to action.
2. “Enter the Dragon” (1973)
Bruce Lee’s final film is perhaps his most iconic, featuring not only his remarkable skill but also great performances by John Saxon and Jim Kelly. It set the standard for all martial arts ensemble movies to come.
1. “The Grandmaster” (2013)
Director Wong Kar-wai offers a stylistic tribute to Wing Chun grandmaster Ip Man. With an all-star cast including Tony Leung and Zhang Ziyi, the film is a blend of stunning visuals and masterful kung fu choreography, earning its place at number one on our list for its artistry and narrative depth intertwined with spellbinding martial arts sequences.
These films transcend simple beat-em-up narratives to offer gripping stories where every punch, kick, and block tells its own story – making them unforgettable experiences for martial arts aficionados and cinema lovers alike.