If you’re a fan of martial arts fantasy films like The Last Dragon, you’re in for a treat! Below is a list of 16 movies that capture the same spirit, blending martial arts with fantastical elements. Explore more about The Last Dragon here.
1. Big Trouble in Little China
This 1986 classic stars Kurt Russell as a truck driver who gets caught up in a mystical battle in San Francisco’s Chinatown. Directed by John Carpenter, the film combines martial arts, comedy, and supernatural elements to create a unique adventure.
2. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
Directed by Ang Lee, this 2000 film is a visually stunning epic featuring Chow Yun-fat and Michelle Yeoh. The story revolves around a stolen sword and the quest to retrieve it, filled with breathtaking martial arts choreography.
3. Enter the Dragon
Starring Bruce Lee, this 1973 film is a cornerstone of martial arts cinema. The plot follows Lee as he infiltrates a martial arts tournament to gather evidence against a crime lord.
4. The Karate Kid
This 1984 film features Ralph Macchio as a young boy learning karate from Mr. Miyagi, played by Pat Morita. The movie combines coming-of-age themes with martial arts training and competition.
5. Kung Fu Hustle
Directed by and starring Stephen Chow, this 2004 film is a comedic take on the martial arts genre. The story involves a hapless gangster who aspires to join a notorious gang, only to find himself in the middle of a battle between kung fu masters.
6. Hero
This 2002 film, directed by Zhang Yimou, stars Jet Li as an assassin in ancient China. The movie is known for its stunning visuals and intricate fight scenes, exploring themes of honor and sacrifice.
7. Mortal Kombat
Released in 1995, this film is based on the popular video game series. It stars Robin Shou and Linden Ashby as fighters who must save Earth from an evil sorcerer through a martial arts tournament.
8. Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior
This 2003 film stars Tony Jaa as a young martial artist on a quest to recover a stolen Buddha statue. Known for its incredible stunts and fight scenes, the movie brought international fame to Jaa.
9. The Matrix
Released in 1999, this sci-fi action film stars Keanu Reeves as Neo, a hacker who discovers the truth about reality. Directed by the Wachowskis, the film features groundbreaking special effects and martial arts choreography.
10. House of Flying Daggers
Directed by Zhang Yimou, this 2004 film stars Zhang Ziyi and Takeshi Kaneshiro. Set in ancient China, the story involves a love triangle amidst a rebellion, with stunning visuals and intricate fight scenes.
11. Ip Man
This 2008 film stars Donnie Yen as Ip Man, the legendary martial artist who taught Bruce Lee. The movie focuses on his life during the Japanese occupation of China and features impressive fight choreography.
12. The Forbidden Kingdom
Starring Jet Li and Jackie Chan, this 2008 film follows a teenager who is transported to ancient China. There, he must fulfill a prophecy by returning a powerful staff to its rightful owner.
13. Blade
This 1998 film stars Wesley Snipes as Blade, a half-vampire, half-human warrior. The movie blends martial arts with supernatural elements as Blade battles vampires to save humanity.
14. The Man with the Iron Fists
Directed by and starring RZA, this 2012 film is set in 19th-century China. The story follows a blacksmith who makes weapons for a small village and becomes its defender against a rogue clan.
15. Shaolin Soccer
Another Stephen Chow film, this 2001 comedy combines martial arts with soccer. The story revolves around a former monk who assembles a team of kung fu experts to play in a soccer tournament.
16. The Legend of Drunken Master
Starring Jackie Chan, this 1994 film is a sequel to the original Drunken Master. The movie showcases Chan’s incredible martial arts skills as he uses the unique “drunken boxing” style to fight corrupt officials.
