Okay, so that is an epic record – The Prime 125+ Martial Arts Film Stars of All Time.
It took an enormous quantity of effort and time to compile this record, and there are nonetheless extra individuals on the market, so go away a remark along with your inclusion so we will hold this updated. However I believed you might discover this convenient as a useful resource to seek out extra motion stars to observe.
So I received’t beat across the bush, right here they’re!
Bruce Lee
Indisputably, this man is understood to most because the King of Kung Fu and is usually regarded the best martial artist of final century (argue and debate in feedback please! haha).
Bruce Lee took martial arts movie requirements to a complete new stage within the early 70’s along with his movies The Massive Boss, Fist of Fury, Means of the Dragon and Enter the Dragon (Recreation of Dying – sorta kinda). When he immediately handed he left the remainder of the world wanting extra and the martial arts film business struggling to atone for his stage of technical high quality and onscreen presence.
With out Bruce, the movie business can be a very totally different animal as we speak. He made a hell of a dent.
Take a look at the Definitive Bruce Lee film record – motion pictures all Bruce Lee followers should see
Jackie Chan
Jackie Chan is definitely the successor to Bruce Lee and has been the one man to essentially dominate the martial arts movie style in such a means since Bruce’s passing (since many others have stepped into the limelight).
He caught our consideration with two early movies, Snake within the Eagles Shadow and Drunken Grasp, along with his slapstick fashion of bodily comedy and unimaginable stuntwork. He’s been hailed the best stuntman of all time and is a hell of a man to observe in any motion or combat movie!
Extra data? Take a look at Jackie Chan’s Prime motion pictures.
Jet Li
Jet Li was maybe essentially the most recognizable martial arts film star within the 90’s (second solely to Jackie Chan).
However he carved out a following for his distinctive fashion of martial arts motion. Whereas he had just a few early movies do effectively, As soon as Upon a Time in China’s film franchise actually boosted his profession earlier than he starred in Deadly Weapon 4 and caught the eye of English talking audiences.
Jet Li is a big standout and one of many absolute biggest stars in martial arts movies.
See Jet Li’s Prime Martial Arts Movies
Donnie Yen
Donnie Yen has a few of the most action-packed and adrenaline pumping martial arts movies ever made.
He’s the present king of the Hong Kong motion film scene and has a number of surges in recognition all through his profession, beginning along with his position because the villain in As soon as Upon a Time In China 2, gaining much more recognition with Iron Monkey, and once more with SPL: Killzone, topping it off with the Ip Man motion pictures.
Donnie is without doubt one of the most expert film makers within the style and in case you’re not acquainted with him – you should get acquainted!
Watch the entire movies on this record: Donnie Yen’s Prime Films.
Tony Jaa
Tony Jaa sprung onto the scene with Ong Bak within the early 2000’s.
When wire work took over the cinema, individuals in search of actual, human stunts lastly received their want with this movie. With Jaa’s experience in Muay Thai, Acrobatics and different varied arts, he turned one of many greatest martial arts film stars in historical past in a short time. He then upped the ante with The Protector and solidified that place.
He’s had a powerful profession since then, you’ll be able to try his greatest movies right here for reference.
Jean Claude Van Damme
Jean Claude Van Damme is a very talked-about participant within the historical past of American Martial Arts movies.
He performed an imposing villain in ‘No Retreat, No Give up’ after which made a huge impact with ‘Bloodsport’. He adopted up with a string of profitable movies and has the entire traits of an motion star – potential, the physique and even an accent (ya know – Arnie, even Sly sorta…)
Take a look at Van Damme’s prime movies!
Chuck Norris
Chuck Norris is without doubt one of the biggest public figures at the moment in martial arts – not simply movie.
He kicked off his movie profession combating Bruce Lee in Means of the Dragon, earlier than kick-starting his personal profession and making a slew of movies. He’s most likely most well-known for Walker Texas Ranger and the limitless provide of Chuck Norris jokes all around the web.
He’s the hardest man alive! He additionally has a tonne of black belts and high-level martial arts credentials. Chuck Norris is as genuine as they arrive!
Michael Jai White
Michael Jai White is one other genuine martial artist who holds a slew of black belts, however he’s additionally a powerful star as his measurement and acrobatic potential are a powerful mixture.
Jai White was Spawn, he then turned well-liked as Chambers in Undisputed 2 and continued to create memorable characters from Bone (Blood and Bone) all the way in which Black Dynamite.
Jai White has some glorious motion motion pictures behind him, try his prime movies right here.
Scott Adkins
Adkins made his mark on the display screen with the beforehand talked about Michal Jai White within the movie Undisputed 2 – taking part in the Russian jail fighter Boyka.
Since then Scott Adkins’ following has exploded and he is called one of many absolute best martial artists working in movie as we speak. With an in depth background, spectacular physique and unimaginable acrobatics Adkins has the formulation tight and completely balanced.
You really want to verify Adkins out, listed here are his prime movies.
Sammo Hung
Sammo Hung isn’t only a martial arts actor, he’s additionally a giant title behind the scenes and can be one in all Kung Fu movies’ prime names.
He began out in supporting roles, you’ll be able to see him in Hapkido and Enter the Dragon earlier than moving into main roles alongside Jackie Chan and Yuen Biao fairly continuously. Regardless of his measurement, Sammo’s skills are unbelievable and he nonetheless creates some implausible combat scenes to at the present time.
Sammo is unquestionably a stand out to not be ignored!
Yuen Biao
Yuen Biao is maybe essentially the most underrated star in kung fu / martial arts movie historical past – regardless of being one of many prime bodily performers of all time.
He doubled for Bruce Lee earlier than and after the Bruceploitation period and made a reputation for himself for his acrobatic skills – that are unmatched. He’s starred in lots of classics alongside Jackie Chan and Sammo Hung (as talked about above) and is somebody value investigating additional in case you’re unfamiliar with him.
I extremely suggest trying out Yuen Biao’s prime movies – a few of which he was the lead in are ‘The Prodigal Son’ and ‘Knockabout’.
Iko Uwais
Iko Uwais burst onto the scene with Merantau earlier than taking part in the lead within the undeniably epic and intense motion movie The Raid.
He’s starting in Indonesian Martial Arts movies set a complete new normal for motion movies and lots of launched since (all around the world) have been striving to catch up. Largely due to Gareth Evans, the movie he’s in have been vastly profitable however his ability and on-screen presence are what make him a stand out on prime of that.
In order for you depth and savage realism mixed with high-level silat motion, then you should try Iko Uwais’ prime movies.
Michelle Yeoh
Michelle Yeoh is taken into account by many to be the highest feminine martial arts star ever to grace cinema.
She got here from the late finish of the Kung Fu golden period and has the bodily ability and traditional movies behind her to match. She made loads of noise with Dynamite Warriors and ultimately turned a Bond Lady throughout from Pierce Brosnan in Tomorrow By no means Dies.
She’s Kung Fu royalty, so try Michelle Yeoh’s movies!
Wesley Snipes
Wesley Snipes is as a lot a mainstream motion star as he’s a martial arts film star.
His complete martial arts background has lead him into some very cool movies, with one of the notable being The Blade trilogy, the place Snipes received to point out off his martial arts chops in one of many early and bloodiest comedian guide motion pictures ever launched.
Snipes additionally has an ideal ‘powerful man’ charisma and his movies are effectively value a watch!
Cynthia Rothrock
Cynthia Rothrock is without doubt one of the most certified martial artists to step into movie.
She began out in Hong Kong Motion movies like ‘Sure, Madam!’ alongside Michelle Yeoh earlier than shifting into American movies. She has since been lively and nonetheless reveals off her abilities as we speak!
Rothrock is unquestionably one of many pioneers of the martial arts style, particularly within the English talking world.
Mark Dacascos
Mark Dacascos is one other extremely expert martial artist who is consistently remembered for his unimaginable efficiency in 1997’s Drive.
Dacascos has been in a lot of prime motion and martial arts movies, however his few key roles (such because the lead in Drive or Solely the Sturdy) have stored his standing fairly excessive within the style.
In order for you extra Dacascos, try his prime movies!
Dolph Lundgren
Dolph Lundgren is a Karate champion and actor who additionally sits atop of the world’s nice motion stars.
He’s had a lot of iconic roles together with being the villain in Rocky IV and Common Soldier, but in addition took the lead in movies like Showdown in Little Tokyo, Purple Scorpion and extra not too long ago Pores and skin Commerce and the Expendables.
Dolph is a giant title within the movie business, I extremely suggest trying out his movies.
Jason Statham
Jason Statham is an enormous star and was the highest title in motion movies for a few years.
He confirmed us his unimaginable onscreen charisma and martial arts skills in The Transporter, earlier than shifting onto different huge hits like Crank and the Expendables Trilogy. Statham has labored alongside the easiest within the movie and the martial arts style particularly and can’t be ignored.
Need to see extra of Statham? Take a look at his Prime 20+ movies!
Sonny Chiba
Sonny Chiba is one in all Japan’s most recognizable martial arts stars.
He began his success off within the 70’s with The Avenue Fighter movies earlier than making a slew of motion movies that includes his distinctive model of kick-ass martial arts choreography.
Chiba can be a really expert, excessive rating martial artist with intensive expertise in a lot of kinds. he has popped up through the years in a lot of initiatives, amongst them the Tarantino movie Kill Invoice.
A enjoyable truth: apparently he was going to work with Bruce Lee in a movie however Bruce’s premature demise prevented that venture from shifting ahead.
Toshiro Mifune
Toshiro Mifune is one other of Japan’s prime names in martial arts movies.
Mifune is maybe recognized greatest for the numerous Samurai Movies he acted in through the years, working with Akira Kurosawa in Seven Samurai and starring such movies as Yojimbo and even taking part in the notorious Musashi.
His profession is among the many earliest on this and his display screen presence is superb to match.
Cheng Pei Pei
Cheng Pei Pei stepped up within the 60’s as one in all Shaw Brothers most bankable stars after the large success of ‘Come Drink with Me’.
Pei Pei has since been in a lot of profitable kung fu movies and likewise appeared within the traditional ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’ passing on the torch to Zhang Ziyi for one more era of Kung Fu followers.
Gordon Liu
Gordon Liu is one other Shaw Brothers nice is most well-known for his iconic position in ‘The thirty sixth Chamber of Shaolin’.
His profession was at its peak all through the 80’s however he too, like Sonny Chiba, made an look the Tarantino movie Kill Invoice as the long-lasting Pei Mei.
Gordon Liu is one in all Kung Fu’s most iconic actors from the golden age of the style.
Bolo Yeung
Bolo is understood largely for his position within the presumably essentially the most iconic Martial Arts movie of all time – Enter the Dragon.
Bolo often finally ends up taking part in the villain (additionally taking part in the villain within the traditional Bloodsport) in his movies and is understood for his strong muscular construct. It’s no shock actually, he was a profitable bodybuilder in spite of everything, incomes the title of Mr. Hong Kong and held it for 10 years!
Bolo Yeung is kind of a well-liked actor and is immediately recognizable in any movie he acts in!
Brandon Lee
Brandon Lee was a charismatic martial arts star who starred in a small variety of movies earlier than his unintended demise in 1993 ( after being shot by a bullet in a prop gun that was purported to be a clean).
Lee began in some Hong Kong movies that had been okay, however his two greatest martial arts roles are Showdown in Little Tokyo and Fast Hearth. His most iconic work outdoors of Martial Arts is the motion movie The Crow – the movie he died making.
He was additionally purported to play Luke Cage within the Mortal Kombat movie in 1994.
Most individuals are conscious, Brandon Lee is the son of the legendary Bruce Lee. Though he always fought to flee his father’s shadow, he, sadly, died earlier than he really might. He had the expertise and distinctive charisma to make it on his personal and had he not died most are assured he can be a really bankable star in as we speak’s movie business.
Phillip Rhee
Phillip Rhee is The Better of the Finest!
Okay, that’s an exaggeration. Phillip Rhee is understood greatest for his position within the movie ‘the very best of the very best’, a traditional American martial arts movie.
Rhee has since made a lot of sequels and a well-liked and really acquainted face in American Martial Arts movies.
Yanin Jeeja
Thailand had Tony Jaa, the brand new wave of human-driven martial arts motion however shortly after one other actress made a reputation for her jaw-dropping performances – Yanin Jeeja.
Yanin Jeeja shocked individuals along with her efficiency in Chocolate and has since been popping up in movies each from Thailand and America. She is without doubt one of the most spectacular feminine martial artists to ever grace movie.
Don’t skip previous her!
Don ‘The Dragon’ Wilson
Don ‘The Dragon’ Wilson is taken into account one in all kickboxing’s all-time biggest champions.
Don has been in a lot of martial arts movies together with the ‘Bloodfist’ movie franchise which is one in all most well-known roles.
Don ‘the Dragon’ Wilson is without doubt one of the few martial arts actors who has a strong combat file to again him up – which is why he’s top-of-the-line!
Stephen Chow
Stephen Chow is the King of Kung Fu Comedy!
Whereas Chow made a lot of movies within the 90’s, his most iconic movies are Shaolin Soccer and the hilarious Kung Fu Hustle. He has introduced a superb, visible fashion to his Hong Kong comedies and creates must-see parodies that any martial arts fan can admire.
Vincent Zhao
Vincent Zhao is one in all Hong Kong’s fashionable kung fu actors who can be one of the recognizable.
To me, one in all his most iconic roles is the movie True Legend, reverse Andy On, telling the story of drunken boxing creator Beggar Sue.
He has been in a lot of movies over the many years, together with the ‘As soon as Upon a Time in China’ movie sequence with Jet Li.
Gina Carano
Gina Carano is a former MMA champion who made the swap to motion movies and is now one of many style’s prime feminine martial artists.
She’s a star with genuine abilities and he or she’s been in some superior movies together with Haywire and the sixth Quick and Livid movie.
Her recognition appears to be rising steadily so she’s an actor to regulate.
Johnny Tri Nguyen
Johnny Tri Nguyen is a type of actors who has popped up in supporting roles all through many martial arts movies, together with the Tony Jaa traditional The Protector.
He has some extraordinarily spectacular abilities and it reveals in all of his movies. If you wish to see him shine in a number one position, try The Insurgent.
Mike Chat
Mike Chat has been a strong a part of the motion movie business for years, often being a stuntman who has turn into very recognizable.
he’s greatest often known as ‘The Blue Ranger’ in Energy Rangers Lightspeed rescue however you’ll see him pop up elsewhere every so often, unexpectedly.
Jeff Imada
Jeff Imada is one other of America’s prime supporting martial artists who additionally backs his performances up with an in depth background in martial arts.
He’s additionally a prime stunt coordinator and nonetheless works in motion movies to at the present time.
Tim Man
Tim Man is at the moment changing into extra recognizable in each movie he seems in.
He has had a few run ins with Scott Adkins on movies like Ninja and Accident Man however his abilities as a performer and choreographer are a few of the greatest you’ll ever see.
Maintain a watch out for Tim Man!
Hwang Jang-Lee
This Japanese born Korean martial arts star is maybe greatest often known as ‘Thunderleg’ from Drunken Grasp.
He’s a Taekwondo & Tang Soo Do ninth Diploma Black belt! Which is fairly rattling severe, I can see why he performed a kicking dominant villain in Drunken Grasp. He has since appeared in quite a few Kung Fu movies and is one other favourite for followers to observe within the style.
Lateef Crowder
He first popped up in The Protector, combating Tony Jaa along with his excellent and visually magnetic Capoeira fashion. Lateef Crowder is without doubt one of the most underrated stars on the market!
He has performed villains and supporting roles in lots of different movies akin to Tekken, Undisputed 3, Falcon Rising and different movies. He has such a singular edge in what he presents on display screen. In case you ever need to watch a visually dynamic combat scene try any movie with Lateef Crowder.
Collin Chou
Collin Chow is one other one of many most important Hong Kong motion stars who brings glorious performances to his movies.
He’s starred in Flash Level, Forbidden Kingdom and was even Seraph in The Matrix Reloaded. He has good charisma and bodily skills and is without doubt one of the most recognizable within the martial arts movies style.
Ernie Reyes Jr
This man has been behind the scenes in lots of movies!
Ernie Reyes Jr has been noticed showcasing his artwork in movies like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2: The Secret of the Ooze and a very cool combat scene in The Rundown towards the Rock. He’s recognized largely as a stunt double, additionally performing stunts for Donatello within the first TMNT movie in 1990.
Sho Kosugi
Sho Kosugi will all the time be recognized to most as a film Ninja!
Why? His most notable roles have been in fan-favorite movies like Revenge of the Ninja, Ninja 3: Domination, Enter the Ninja and the more moderen Ninja Murderer. What number of occasions did I say “Ninja”? You get the thought, this man is the king of NInjas 🙂
Kane Kosugi
Kane Kosugi is the son of Sho Kosugi and has appeared in lots of roles throughout his profession.
He has reached extra recognition in recent times, particularly after a surprising efficiency throughout from Scott Adkins in Ninja: Shadow of a Tear. His potential to ship glorious combat scenes may be very obvious in that movie however he had just a few hits and misses in his profession.
Richard Norton
Richard Norton is one in all Australia’s most well-known martial artists with an insanely excessive rating background in a number of arts, together with being a ninth diploma ‘Soke’ in Zen Do Kai, fifth diploma Black Belt in BJJ, and a heap of different credentials (see extra right here).
He’s been in a tonne of movies throughout from guys like Chuck Norris, Jackie Chan, Cynthia Rothrock and extra. He’s a superb performer who has been displaying up in movies for over 40 years!
Zhang Ziyi
Zhang Ziyi turned often known as a prime martial arts performer after the discharge of Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon.
Since then she has turn into one of the bankable stars within the style, often displaying up in very excessive finances movies and showcasing her skills in each appearing and choreography. She has additionally appeared in movies akin to Home of Flying Daggers, Rush Hour 2, The Grandmaster and Hero.
Jimmy Wang Yu
This star, who has 2 completely working arms, is understood for taking part in many roles as The One Armed Swordsman and One Armed Boxer.
Yep, he really has 2 arms.
Jimmy Wang Yu was the largest star in Hong Kong earlier than Bruce Lee arrived. His profession was a robust one regardless of the actual fact he was often known as a complete douchebag to his co-workers and had a little bit of an angle.
Both means, Wang Yu is a pioneer of early Kung Fu movies and is in some true classics. In order for you fun, try The Grasp of the Flying Guillotines.
Yasuaki Kurata
Yasuaki Kurata is a man who has a film profession spanning many many years!
He began out within the 1960’s appearing within the TV sequence Marude Dameo and constructing from there. He’s a well-recognized face who pops up in well-liked movies like Heroes of the East and throughout from Jet Li in Fist of Legend.
In case you’ve seen loads of Asian motion movies, likelihood is his face is one you acknowledge.
Lau Kar Leung
Not simply an actor however a gifted choreographer, Lau Kar Leung established himself as a legend of the style throughout his lifetime.
He has starred in movies akin to Heroes of the East, Legend of Drunken Grasp, and different timeless classics. He handed away again in 2013 and his affect remains to be being felt as we speak.
David Carradine
David Carradine, recognized greatest as Kane in Kung Fu, went on to star in lots of American martial arts movies.
Initially he had no formal martial arts coaching however turned a devoted scholar throughout his profession, displaying up in lots of fashionable movies like Kill Invoice. He too handed in recent times and is a well-recognized face within the style.
Lo Meng
Lo Meng was one of many ‘Venoms’ and a star within the movie ‘The 5 Lethal Venoms’ – the place the title of he and his fellow ‘Venom’ stars received their title.
He’s a Shaw Brothers actor with a lot of movies behind him and he’s recognized for his masculine construct and charisma. He’s additionally a terrific performer with some prime martial arts combat scenes below his belt.
Phillip Kwok
Phillip Kwok is one other most important member of the Venoms, recognized for his many roles in Shaw Brothers Kung Fu Movies.
Like the opposite Venoms, he’s a gifted actor & performer with a robust filmography.
Alexander Fu Sheng
Fu Sheng is one other well-liked Shaw Brothers actor from the golden period. He has been in such movies as Kung Fu Invaders, The Avenging Eagle, Shaolin Temple, 5 Shaolin Masters and Ten Tigers from Kwangtung.
One fascinating factor outdoors of his profession although is that he occupied Bruce Lee’s residence after Bruce died – which was supposedly cursed and introduced unhealthy luck to whoever lived in it. Contemplating that Fu Sheng died of a horrible automobile accident 10 years after Bruce’s demise, many take into account this curse to be true!
Chen Kuan Tai
We’re persevering with on with a slew of Shaw Brothers acquainted faces!
This 1969 Kung Fu Champion made his title with Boxer of Shangtung and a lot of different movies within the 1970’s. He’s one other very acquainted face within the Kung Fu film world.
Hiroyuki Sanada
Hiroyuki Sanada is one other a type of guys you occur to see popping up all through motion and martial arts movies.
He has carried out work in Hong Kong, Japan and even within the USA in movies like The Final Samurai with Tom Cruise. He appears to persistently get roles in is one other business common.
Jason Scott Lee
Jason Scott Lee stepped into Martial Arts and motion movie roles by taking part in one of the influential figures in all of martial arts – Bruce Lee in Dragon The Bruce Lee Story.
Since then he performed a lot of roles in movie and infrequently showcased his martial arts potential after he turned an teacher in Bruce Lee’s artwork of Jeet Kune Do. He’s received the physique, bodily expertise and glorious appearing skills that make him a giant title.
Robin Shou
Robin Shou is maybe greatest recognized for taking part in Liu Kang in Mortal Kombat and showing many different American motion movies since.
He has additionally performed roles in Hong Kong movies, akin to Tiger Cage II with Donnie Yen. Shou is one other one of many prime martial arts actors on the market and was fairly well-liked within the late 90’s and early 2000’s, usually taking part in supporting roles in American movies.
Ray Park
Ray Park was accountable for one of many few issues individuals cherished about Star Wars, Episode 1 The Phantom Menace – he performed Darth Maul, the martial arts expert Sith Lord with the double-edged lightsaber.
He has since been one of many USA’s prime Martial Arts actors and has been in TV reveals, small movies and even bigger scale movies, together with X-Males, taking part in Toad.
He has not too long ago stepped again into the footwear of Maul so he’s a man to maintain a watch out for!
Darren Shahlavi
Darren Shahlavi is a man with a menacing and imposing presence in his movies, often taking part in a foul man.
He was Tornado in Ip Man 2, Kano within the Mortal Kombat net sequence and fought towards Wu Jing in Tai Chi Grasp. Since his sudden demise in 2015, he has left a void in martial arts movies.
Steven Seagal
The Aikido grasp and controversial motion star Steven Seagal is definitely, one of the recognizable names and faces in all of motion movies.
Beginning out with Above the Legislation and peaking at movies like Beneath Siege, Seagal’s profession has stepped down to an enormous line up of Direct to DVD movies that hold him busy all through annually.
Many hate him, many love him. Take a look at his prime movies and resolve for your self!
Jim Kelly
Jim Kelly had a quick profession in martial arts movies taking part in Blackbelt Jones and lots of others – however it began in one of many genres all-time biggest movies – Enter the Dragon, throughout from Bruce Lee.
Jim Kelly had an angle, charisma and conventional Karate fashion that translated very successfully to the display screen and he has been missed since his passing in recent times.
Maggie Q
Maggie Q is one other star who has been in Hong Kong and American movies displaying off her Martial Arts prowess.
Regardless of popping up repeatedly in motion movies she can be well-known for her main position within the TV motion sequence Nikita. She is without doubt one of the greatest feminine martial arts actors round!
Tony Leung
Tony Leung is taken into account one in all Hong Kong’s most profitable actors.
He’s extremely acknowledged within the HK movie business and has proven up in lots of prime kung fu movies akin to as Hero with Jet Li, Purple Cliff, and The Grandmaster.
Possibilities in case you don’t know of him, you’ve seen him in a Hong Kong movie earlier than!
Michael Dudikoff
Michael Dudikoff is the American Ninja himself!
Though he has starred elsewhere his most important movies had been the American Ninja movies which proved to be fairly well-liked amongst martial arts followers.
Shintaro Katsu
Zatoichi is one in all Japan’s (and the world’s) most recognizable martial arts movie franchsies.
By extension, the star of the Zatoichi sequence, Shintaro Katsu, has his face cemented into historical past as the person behind the blind swordsman and is immediately recognizable as one of many style’s traditional actors.
Benny ‘The Jet’ Urquidez
Benny ‘The Jet’ Urquidez is without doubt one of the biggest fighters of all time.
When he stepped into movie and starred throughout from the likes of Jackie Chan in Wheels on Meals and Dragons Eternally, he turned a family title to martial arts and kung fu motion pictures followers the world over too. Together with his historical past as a real-life powerful man, he was simply capable of be fairly convincing on display screen too.
Jon Foo
Jon Foo starred within the Tekken Dwell motion movie after getting whooped down by Tony Jaa in The Protector.
He has since been in lots of movies and is a really acquainted face in motion movies. Maintain a watch out for Jon Foo, he has the potential however hasn’t fairly reached it but.
Cung Le
Cung Le is one other real-life powerful man who has each fought within the UFC and acted moderately convincingly in movies throughout his profession (to this point).
Cung Le performed the lead in Dragon Eyes throughout from Van Damme while additionally showing throughout from Scott Adkins in Savage Canine, Donnie Yen in Bodyguards and Assassins and is seen usually with many well-known and well-liked stars within the style.
Randy Couture
Randy Couture, like Cung Le above, transitioned from the UFC to movie and is a sought-after actor in motion movies.
The distinction? Randy Couture was one of many biggest UFC champions of all time and a Corridor of Famer, having starred in huge motion movies like The Expendables. Couture’s persona and performances on the display screen and within the Octagon have earned him huge recognition within the Martial Arts world.
Ronda Rousey
One other Expendables star who got here from the UFC is the vastly well-liked (and typically unpopular) former Champion Ronda Rousey.
She has gone from Olympic Judo to combating MMA, to appearing after which to WWE. This can be a girl who personifies the phrase ‘powerful’ on- display screen having stepped into varied combating enviornment’s and movies and showcasing what she does greatest.
Extra of her is coming so hold a watch out!
Invoice ‘Superfoot’ Wallace
Invoice Wallace is one other ring combating champion who made his means into motion movies.
He’s been in a lot of martial arts movies and joins the elite stage of world class fighters/martial artists who had been additionally effectively acquired in movie.
Gary Daniels
Gary Daniels is a man who began displaying up in Martial Arts movies 30 years in the past and nonetheless finds main and supporting roles in movie as we speak.
He nonetheless has the talents, has stored in form and carries that very same persona that he’s all the time had actually fairly effectively. A former kickboxer, Gary Daniels reveals no signal of slowing down within the movie business!
James Lew
James Lew is one other huge mover and shaker each in entrance of and behind the digicam of American Martial Arts movies.
He’s one of the revered martial artists within the movie business and is accountable for extra film fights than you’ll ever know!
Matt Mullins
Initially, Matt Mullins was simply an acrobatic child who confirmed up within the XMA documentary years in the past.
Since then he was labored with the very best within the business to seek out his means into motion pictures, taking part in Johnny Cage within the Mortal Kombat net sequence and combating Michael Jai White in Blood and Bone. Mullins has some glorious bodily expertise and nonetheless has years left in his profession.
Dan Inosanto
The previous and prime scholar of Bruce Lee himself, Inosanto, at the moment carrying on the Jeet Kune Do legacy, has additionally appeared in lots of movies. Essentially the most notable being Recreation of Dying combating Bruce Lee himself.
Many confer with him as ‘Guru Dan Inosanto’ as he is without doubt one of the most revered martial artists on the planet.
Keanu Reeves
Wait, what?
Yeah, Keanu Reeves is a martial arts star now! You noticed John Wick, The Matrix, Man of Tai Chi and 47 Ronin, proper?
Properly, Reeves has extra coming and he’s been doing a powerful job as one of many Hollywood’s most profitable actors, transitioning into Martial Arts movies. I can’t wait to see what he comes up with sooner or later!
Chris Casamassa
Chris Casamassa is greatest often known as Scorpion within the live-action Mortal Kombat movie.
He’s additionally a stunt man who has labored within the business for years and has a loyal fan following amongst lots of the different prime martial arts film followers on the market.
Yayan Ruhiyan
Ever seen ‘The Raid’? Keep in mind ‘Mad Canine’?
Yep, he was performed by Yayan Ruhiyan and is well one of the fierce unhealthy guys to ever grace the film display screen. His depth within the movies he has starred in have made him vastly well-liked and one to not overlook.
Go watch the Raid now! I command you!
Yukari Oshima
Yukari Oshima is a Japanese actress and Martial Artist who has been concerned in lots of martial arts movies starting from ‘Riki-Oh: The Story of Ricky’ to ‘Millionaire’s Categorical’, and different movies from Hong Kong.
She was distinguished on the Kung Fu scene from the late 80’s by means of the 90’s and early 2000’s. She has labored with a few of the greatest within the business. She carries that acrobatic depth we like to see in martial arts movies and it has made her a prime title within the style.
Toshishiro Obata
Sensei Obata is without doubt one of the greatest swordsmen on the planet – however many know him for combating inexperienced turtle-like males within the authentic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle movies from the 90’s.
He’s a extremely revered martial artist and straightforward to acknowledge in movies for the reason that well-liked of TMNT.
Andy Lau
Any Lau is one other Hong Kong actor who pops up continuously and infrequently performs main roles in Martial Arts movies.
If you wish to see him play a very good position, try the movie Shaolin.
Kelly Hu
Kelly Hu has been in a lot of Motion movies and infrequently showcases martial arts in her combat scenes.
She is one other very acquainted face however is maybe greatest recognized for The Scorpion King, X-Males 2 and Cradle 2 the Grave.
Jin Zhang
Jin (or Max) Zhang is a man who wants extra main roles!
He performed the rival to Ip Man in Ip Man 3 and likewise an evil jail guard in SPL / Killzone 2. His depth and glorious combat performances have me very all for the place he’s going subsequent, together with many different Kung Fu / martial arts followers!
Zara Phythian
Zara Phythian is a extremely expert martial artist who has been showing in motion movies for a little bit over 10 years.
She is greatest recognized for her work in Physician Unusual has a Zealot and has a loyal following.
Rina Takeda
This younger Japanese actress and Karate Black Belt is constructing a strong basis of movies in her profession. She has starred in ‘Assault on Titan’, ‘Excessive Kick Lady’, and ‘Karate Lady’, amongst different movies and has a promising profession forward.
Will Yun Lee
Identified for his position within the sequence Witchblade, Will Yun Lee is one other fan favourite martial arts star who appears to be popping up in movies like The Wolverine to showcase his skills.
Billy Blanks
Billy Blanks isn’t simply the Taibo man, he’s a severe martial artist with some actually entertaining movies below his belt.
He performs his fights rather well on display screen and performs a really entertaining villain in The King of Kickboxers, throughout from Loren Avedon. He’s been in a lot of different movies akin to TC 2000, Showdown and Powerful & Lethal.
Taimak
Taimak solely has one standout movie below his belt, but it surely’s a hell of a movie!
It’s known as ‘The Final Dragon’ and it’s a cult traditional parody of kung fu movies with Taimak taking part in the lead. This one movie has made him fairly recognizable amongst martial arts film followers.
Lucy Liu
Lucy Liu is about as mainstream as they get on the earth of appearing, however her martial arts abilities are sometimes offered on display screen fairly effectively, displaying off her strikes in movies like Charlie’s Angels and Kill Invoice.
Andy On
Andy On is a Honk Kong motion movie star who has labored with the easiest within the business and delivered really glorious fights in his profession. Donnie Yen as soon as thought of him a doable successor when he retires – which appears to by no means be taking place (thanks, Donnie!).
Takeshi Kaneshiro
Takeshi Kaneshiro has additionally starred in some terrific martial arts movies which can be among the many greatest on the earth.
His filmography contains movies like Home of Flying Daggers and Purple Cliff, and he has confirmed to be an entertaining fighter on display screen by means of these roles.
Bradley James Allan
Bradley James Allan is one other man who has labored with the very best and has a really excessive power really feel to his performances. He usually labored throughout from Jackie Chan and could be seen doing his stuff, combating towards Jackie in Beautiful
Kara Hui
This Shaw Brothers actress is one other of the highest feminine martial arts stars the world has ever seen.
Her face is kind of a well-recognized one within the Shaw Brothers line up and he or she all the time introduced implausible performances to her fights, proving that it’s really a genderless ability. Take a look at ‘My Younger Auntie’ and Donnie Yen’s ‘Dragon’ to see her stuff!
Loren Avedon
Loren Avedon is one other actor who starred in just a few well-liked US Martial arts movies again within the day.
He starred throughout from Billy Blanks in King of Kickboxers and in 2 ‘No Retreat, No Give up’ sequels. Avedon is a talented Taekwondo and Hapiko practitioner.
Keith Cooke
Keith Cooke is one other behind the scenes common who has earned himself a good chunk of recognition.
He performed a cool position within the King of Kickboxers however can be well-known for taking part in Reptile in Mortal Kombat and Sub-Zero in Mortal Kombat Annihilation.
Dan Chupong
This Thai actor has some glorious performances to his title additionally.
Dan Chupong was within the remake of Born to Struggle and Dynamite Warrior, showcasing his bodily skills in entrance of the digicam. So far as Thailand goes, he is without doubt one of the most recognizable faces from their motion movies.
Gene Lebell
Gene Lebell is America’s prime Judo practitioner and one of the reliable powerful guys you’ll ever see on display screen.
He was recognized to provide Bruce Lee a tough time within the day, selecting him up and carrying him round set to stir him up. The 2 had been nice associates although and he taught Lee grappling.
Gene was additionally a stunt man who labored on varied TV reveals and films is without doubt one of the most revered martial artists within the Western world.
Nicholas Tse
Nicolas Tse is one other of Hong Kong’s greatest names and appears to persistently pop up in HK Martial arts movies with the business’s greatest.
In case you’re into fashionable Hong Kong motion movies, you’ve seen Nicholas Tse earlier than! He was additionally one other ‘successor’ to Donnie Yen (in keeping with Donnie) upon his retirement.
Karen Shepard
Karen Shepard is one other extremely expert martial artist who has had distinguished roles in previous martial arts movies in addition to being an in-demand stunt-woman behind the scenes.
Moon Lee
Moon Lee was a very well-liked actress who appeared and fought moderately intensely in Hong Kong motion movies throughout her day. She’s been in such movies as ‘Mr. Vamper’, ‘Preventing Madam’ and ‘Zu Warriors’ amongst others.
Louis Fan
He was the Thug in Ip Man, and Riki Oh in Story of Riki – that’s proper the man you acknowledge is Louis Fan!
He’s an fascinating actor to observe and a very good performer, with a spread that goes from the ridiculous (Riki-Oh) to the intense and hard fighter (in Ip Man).
This man doesn’t fairly get the eye he deserves, however he’s nonetheless one of the recognizable Hong Kong stars round.
David Chiang
Shaw Brothers common David Chiang is one other face followers are very acquainted with.
He’s starred in some well-liked movies akin to ‘The New One-Armed Swordsman’ ‘The Lethal Duo’, ‘Blood Brothers’ and ‘5 Shaolin Masters’. In case you a fan of Shaw Brothers likelihood is you’ve seen this man!
Cynthia Khan
Cynthia Khan is a Taiwanese actress who appeared in a handful of the ‘Within the Line of Responsibility movies and Tiger Cage 2 with Donnie Yen – together with a handful of different martial arts movies.
Like loads of the actors in that period, the sped up combat choreography and depth caught on movie was completely implausible and her fights are an entertaining look ahead to martial arts followers. She is without doubt one of the prime, most recognizable feminine motion stars in martial arts movie historical past.
Ti Lung
Ti Lung is one other Shaw Brothers common who has appeared in a lot of motion pictures.
A few of his most notable movies are Opium and the Kung Fu Grasp, The Avenging Eagle, The Sentimental Swordsman and a few appearances in movies like A Higher Tomorrow 1 & 2, and Legend of Drunken Grasp.
Simon Rhee
Simon Rhee can be greatest recognized for being within the Better of the Finest movies however has additionally been in classics like Showdown in Little Tokyo, Deadly Weapon 4, Kung Pow and Purple Belt.
He’s one other acquainted face that appears to pop up quite a bit in American motion movies for his martial arts experience.
Angela Mao
Angela Mao is without doubt one of the prime Hong Kong martial arts actresses from the 70’s.
She is most noticeable within the Bruce Lee movie ‘Enter the Dragon’ but in addition recognized for the very talked-about ‘Hapkido’ and ‘When Taekwondo Strikes’. Her model of motion can be very genuine and thrilling to observe. Having starred in one of many cinema’s all-time greatest martial arts movies (Enter the Dragon) it’s arduous to disregard her presence within the style!
Bob Wall
Bob Wall is a man who managed to edge his means into martial arts movies after starring alongside Bruce Lee in Means of the Dragon and Enter the Dragon (not Fist of Fury as many declare – that was Bob Baker).
Since then he additionally rode the wave a little bit and is an immediately recognizable star, usually making appearances in fashionable movies like he did in Blood and Bone as O’Hara. He’s about as severe a martial artist as they arrive, coaching with Chuck Norris and incomes 8 black belts in his time (some as excessive as eighth and ninth dan and a BJJ black belt amongst them).
Dianna Lee Inosanto
Daughter of Dan Inosanto, Dianna Lee Inosanto has gone on to have a profitable profession herself in martial arts coaching and movies.
She is greatest recognized for her position in The Sensei – a superb movie which makes use of the martial arts formulation to sort out the difficulty of AIDS and homosexuality. She can be a really effectively educated martial artist with who actually is aware of her stuff.
Ji Han Jae
Ji Han Jae is understood largely for 2 movies – Fist of Fury with Bruce Lee and Hapkido alongside Angela Mao.
He is without doubt one of the all-time greatest Hapkido practitioners and is at the moment a Grandmaster within the artwork. He’s a man who I want we noticed extra of in martial arts movie as he’s effectively revered within the style.
Joe Taslim
Star of The Raid movies and different Indonesian movies alongside Iko Uwais, Joe Taslim has turn into a well known actor within the martial arts movie area additionally.
He made is means into one of many Quick and Livid movies and was capable of showcase his abilities to a bigger viewers since then and didn’t disappoint. In Indonesia, he is without doubt one of the greatest actors within the business as we speak.
Ken Lo
Ken Lo simply retains popping up in Hong Kong motion movies and for good cause – he’s good at what he does!
He has been in numerous Jackie Chan movies from the 80’s onwards and appeared throughout from Donnie Yen a lot of occasions and doesn’t appear to be slowing down in any respect. He has starred in an enormous variety of the world’s prime martial arts movies. Likelihood is you’ve seen Ken Lo earlier than!
Nathan Jones
Nathan Jones did the circuit for some time, utilizing his 6’11” top and massively constructed body to be a very visible villain in loads of movies.
He made an affect initially of Troy however since went on to combat Jet Li in Fearless, Michael Jai White in By no means Again Down: No Give up, Tony Jaa in The Protector and others. This man is large, imply trying and arduous to overlook – he’s been in a few of the all-time greats and actually added to the flavour of these movies.
Bren Foster
A extremely educated Australian martial artist, Bren Foster is a recognizable face who reveals a lot promise to raise his martial arts standing additional in coming years.
He performed the lead in Power of Execution and showcased simply how spectacular he can actually be in that movie whereas displaying up in different motion movies additionally. This man simply wants just a few extra roles to actually shine although, as he has the potential for rather more.
Mark Zaror
Mark Zaror is most well-known for combating Scott Adkins (aka Boyka) within the third Undisputed movie.
He has since turn into a extremely profitable star in Chile (his residence nation) and likewise has a lot of English talking motion movies to his title additionally. This man has an enormous fanbase is without doubt one of the modern-day greats. Undoubtedly, don’t overlook Marko Zaror’s movies!
David Bradley
David Bradley is greatest recognized for his half within the American Ninja movies.
He has additionally starred in different martial arts movies and backs up his performances along with his coaching in Shotokan Karate, Kempo, Tai Chi and Aikido.
Cyril Raffaelli
Cyril Raffaelli has labored with the very best within the enterprise, starring within the District B13 movies and can be recognizable for an superior combat scene with Jet Li in Kiss of the Dragon.
He backs up his combat scenes along with his Wushu and Shotokan Karate background.
Fumio Demura
Fumio Demura was the stuntman behind Mr. Miyagi within the Karate Child. However he’s also referred to as one of the genuine conventional martial artists to seem in movie, having earned the rank of ninth diploma Black Belt in Itosu-Kai karate.
You’ll see him pop up every so often in martial arts movies as he’s a legend of the martial arts in Hollywood.
Meiko Kaji
Meiko Kaji is none apart from the cult favourite character Woman Snowblood in, um, Woman Snowblood.
She additionally appeared in classics akin to Blind Lady’s Curse and the sequel to Woman Snowblood. Meiko Kaji is a fan favourite for the movies she has starred in.
Shih Szu
Shih Szu is a Hong Kong Actress who appeared in a handful of traditional movies throughout her profession.
Most notably, she starred throughout from Cheng Pei Pei ‘The Woman Hermit’. She is one other of Hong Kong’s Golden Period actresses and had a wholesome profession lasting till the late 80’s.
Cecep Rahman
On the finish of The Raid 2: Berandal, there’s an epic combat sequence between Iko Uwais and a villain who’s one other Silat practitioner. The combat goes for some time however has a persistently spectacular depth which is one for absolutely the ages.
The villain was performed by Cecep Rahman!
It was one of many best possible combat scenes you’ll ever see on movie! He has turn into immediately recognizable after his involvement within the Raid sequel and earned spots in just a few different motion pictures, together with John Wick 3!
Jeffery Meek
Jeffery Meek is understood to martial arts followers for his roles in Raven and Mortal Kombat Conquest.
One other historically educated martial artist, Meek brings this expertise to his performances in his combat scenes.
Lee Byung Hun
Lee Byung Hun is a South Korean singer and mannequin. Oh yeah, and he stars in martial arts motion pictures and Hollywood motion pictures showcasing his martial arts. He’s one of many prime guys to return from South Korea.
Joey Ansah
Joey Ansah is a stuntman and martial artist who is understood for working with a few of the greatest guys on the earth together with Scott Adkins in Inexperienced Avenue 3. He additionally performed Akuma in Avenue Fighter: Assassins Fist and had a pleasant combat scene in The Bourne Ultimatum.
This man may be very a lot underrated so hold a watch out for him.
Jerry Trimble
Jerry Trimble is greatest often known as the villain to face Jet Li in The Grasp from 1992, however he has gone on to star in lots of different motion movies in his time and is a very talked-about actor amongst followers.
Chuck Jefferys
Chuck isn’t simply an actor and stuntman, however a sought-after combat choreographer who has labored throughout from a few of the greatest names within the business. This man is just not essentially the most recognizable in comparison with others on this record however he has undoubtedly made an affect.
Jeff Speakman
Jeff Speakman is a really extremely educated martial artist who has appeared in a lot of movies.
The movie that earned Jeff a spot on this record although, is Good Weapon from 1991. It’s a extremely well-liked American Martial Arts movie which has secured itself as a traditional of the style. Jeff is entrance and middle on this one!
Chow Yun Fats
Chow Yun Fats has been in limitless Martial Arts movies in his time and a few of the greatest in historical past, together with the wildly profitable ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’.
He’s received extra charisma than martial arts coaching however he nonetheless manages to drag off very convincing and entertaining combat scenes in his movies.
Bought extra so as to add?
That’s the factor with articles like this, they’re by no means really completed.
In case you suppose I missed somebody, go away a remark beneath and I’ll add them sooner or later. I hope you discovered this fascinating and as all the time thanks for studying!
