Martial arts movieshave a way of delivering some of the most inspiring stories in cinema.

For anybody who loves animals,The Protectoris a must-watch.

At its core,The Protectoris about loyalty and determination.

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What makes it stand out is how Kham never gives up, no matter how hard things get.

Robert Clouse directed the film, which co-starred John Saxon, Jim Kelly, and Ahna Capri.

The 1973 title spotlights justice as its core theme, with Lee being the key inspirational element.

Donnie Yen, Bruce Lee, and Michelle Yeoh

Lees ability to stay in control, both physically and mentally, reflects the true essence of martial arts.

Plus, just watching Lee in action is enough to leave anyone in awe.

Another title starring Tony Jaa,Ong-Bakfollows Ting, a young man from a quiet village in Thailand.

Ong Bank, Ip Man, and Only the Strong

Notably,Jaa pulled some crazy stunts inOng-Bak, cementing his status as a martial arts legend.

The movie blends romance, drama, and a touch of whimsy while highlighting themes of acceptance and self-discovery.

Unlike most of its kind,Chocolateis a martial arts movie featuring a female lead.

Imagery from The Karate Kid, Enter the Dragon, and Ip Man

Custom image by Yeider Chacon

The film portrays his discovery by Hollywood and his rapid ascent to stardom as a charismatic action hero.

Set during the Tang Dynasty, the film stars Zhang Ziyi, Takeshi Kaneshiro, and Andy Lau.

Their inner conflicts are what make them excruciatingly relatable, helping the plot resonate on a deeper level.

The Protector (2005) - Poster - Tony JAA

When the beloved elephants he was sworn to protect are stolen, a fierce Thai warrior named Kham travels to Australia. Kham confronts an underworld empire on his vengeful journey and uses his formidable martial arts skills to recover the animals and deal out justice.

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragonis a beautiful mix of action, emotion, and philosophy.

Unfortunately, Daniel becomes the target of a gang of Cobra Kai dojo students.

At first glance,The Karate Kidmay seem like a typical underdog story with some cool karate moves.

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Mr. Miyagis words are more relevant than ever, proving just how timeless this masterpiece really is.

It follows Ip Man (Donnie Yen) as he faces tough personal challenges while fighting for justice.

Ip Man uses his skills for a righteous cause, prioritizing discipline and respect above all.

enter the dragon poster

Enter the Dragon is a popular martial artist movie starring Bruce Lee. The 1973 film focuses on a Shaolin martial artist who infiltrates an opium lord’s fortress by pretending to be interested in a fighting tournament. Robert Clouse directed the film, which co-starred John Saxon, Jim Kelly, and Ahna Capri.

Headshot Of Bruce Lee

Headshot Of John Saxon

Ong Bak_ The Thai Warrior (2003) - Poster - Tony JAA

Ong Bak: The Thai Warrior follows a young martial artist from a rural Thai village as he embarks on a perilous journey to retrieve the stolen head of their sacred Buddha statue, facing dangerous adversaries and showcasing remarkable Muay Thai skills.

Chocolate - Poster

Chocolate is a film that explores the complexities of love and cultural clash set in a small French village. When a woman and her daughter open a chocolate shop, they face resistance from the conservative townspeople but gradually win them over with their delightful confections. The movie blends romance, drama, and a touch of whimsy while highlighting themes of acceptance and self-discovery.

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Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story is a biographical film depicting Bruce Lee’s journey from martial arts training in childhood to establishing a kung-fu school in the United States. The film portrays his discovery by Hollywood and his rapid ascent to stardom as a charismatic action hero.

Headshot Of Jason Scott Lee

Headshot Of Lauren Holly

Headshot Of Robert Wagner

House Of Flying Daggers (2004) - Poster

House of Flying Daggers is a 2004 martial arts romance film directed by Zhang Yimou. Set during the Tang Dynasty, the film stars Zhang Ziyi, Takeshi Kaneshiro, and Andy Lau. The story follows a skilled dancer who becomes embroiled in a rebellion against the government, and the two officers sent to capture her. Known for its vivid cinematography and elaborate fight choreography, the film explores themes of love, loyalty, and deception.

Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon Movie Poster

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a martial arts film directed by Ang Lee. Released in 2000, the story revolves around warriors Li Mu Bai and Yu Shu Lien, played by Chow Yun-Fat and Michelle Yeoh, as they pursue a stolen sword and encounter a mysterious young aristocrat. The film is renowned for its lush visuals and choreographed fight scenes, blending romance and adventure against a historical Chinese backdrop.

Headshot Of Chow Yun-Fat

Headshot Of Michelle Yeoh In The Gold House Hosts 2024 Inaugural Gold Gala at The Music Center.

The Karate Kid Poster

Released in 1984, The Karate Kid follows the story of Daniel LaRusso on his unexpected journey to becoming a Karate expert under the tutelage of a martial arts master. Recently relocated from New Jersey to Los Angeles, Daniel and his mother are trying to adapt to their new home. Unfortunately, Daniel becomes the target of a gang of Cobra Kai dojo students. When his handyman, Mr. Miyagi, saves him with expert Karate skills, Daniel convinces him to teach him his Karate to defend himself, and put his bullies in their place.

Headshot Of Ralph Macchio

Ip Man 2008 Film Poster

Directed by Wilson Yip, Ip Man is a biographical martial arts film starring Donnie Yen as Ip Man, the legendary Wing Chun grandmaster and mentor to Bruce Lee. Set during the Second Sino-Japanese War, the film depicts Ip Man’s efforts to protect his community and preserve his martial arts traditions despite the atrocities of war.

Headshot Of Donnie Yen

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The 36th Chamber of Shaolin follows Lui, a young man who escapes a Manchu attack and seeks martial arts training to avenge his fallen comrades. Set against the backdrop of anti-Ching resistance, Lui’s journey leads him to the Shaolin Monastery, where he undergoes rigorous training.

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