When it comes to cult cinema, the martial arts genre has spawned one of the most dedicated fan bases in film history. The genre dominated the Hong Kong scene in the late 60s but really blossomed in the 70s with the rise of the first international martial arts superstar, Bruce Lee.After Lee’s untimely death, another famous martial arts name arrived to pick up the gauntlet and his name was Jackie Chan. Both are very different in their approach, Chan and Lee are often the first names that come to mind when we discuss martial arts films. However, over the years, stars from all over the world have built their careers on high-speed punches and kicks. The following are just a few of the many martial arts superstars that belong in the same conversation as the two greats.
Donnie Yen
Donnie Yen did not become very popular until the release of Ip Man in 2008. It was there that he demonstrated his lightning reflexes and Wing Chun prowess. The film spawned many sequels and spin-offs, starting a resurgence in Yen’s career.In addition to Wing Chun, Yen is an expert in several martial arts, from Muay Thai to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Yen’s great films include the Ip Man franchise, Iron Monkey, and Kill Zone.
Tony Jaa
When the trailer was first released for Ong Bak: Muay Thai Warrior, which preceded its premiere in 2003, action fans were furious. It promised strong action scenes, practical stunts and, of course, the arrival of brand new martial arts superstar Tony Jaa. The film instantly made Jaa a cult hit.Tony Jaa continued to create intense Muay Thai action, even collaborating with other legends of the genre. Needless to say, Ong Bak: Muay Thai Warrior is a must-watch if you haven’t already, but some major additions include The Protector and Triple Threat.
Jet Li
Jet Li is probably best known for his explosion in the Hollywood scene in the early 2000s. Although he often plays a calm and stoic hero, Lee has a warm charisma that shines through every performance. Lee is still in the public eye after appearing in the 2020 movie Mulan and could probably become the third biggest name in the international martial arts fandom after Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee. For a glimpse of his unique star power, check out Fearless, Fist of Legend, and the Once Upon a Time in China trilogy.RELATED:
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Jean Claude Van Damme
Jean-Claude Van Damme joined the ranks of other muscular heroes in the 1980s, distinguishing himself with his martial arts background and incredible acrobatic prowess. After going through a difficult period and sinking into obscurity in the early 2000s, Van Damme eventually made a low-key comeback with Jean-Claude Van Johnson, showcasing his still-competent martial arts skills. Van Damme in his prime can be found no further than Bloodsport Kickboxer and Hard Target.
Scott Adkins
Scott Adkins has gradually built up a loyal fan base over the years. His films are not particularly known for high production values or prestigious filmmaking, but Adkins’ fast and brutal fighting style and dedication to stunt work are often more than enough to make up for it. With a background in several martial arts disciplines, Adkins was a rare Englishman who made a breakthrough on the Hong Kong scene in the early 2000s. For an idea of how he achieved this iconic status, look out for Ninja 2: Shadow of a Tear, Undisputed II: Last Man Standing, and Avengement.
Michael Jai White:
Michael Jai White had his breakthrough as the first African-American superhero on screen in 1997’s Spawn, then went on to pursue a career in underground action. From childhood, he studied several styles of martial arts and continued to improve his skills over the years. White’s strength and formidable presence as a fighter has made him a cult figure in the genre, and he has even spilled over into the Asian martial arts market several times. Some of his best work can be found in Falcon Rising, Undisputed 2 and Blood and Bone.
Sammo Hung
Known for his signature bowl-cut and a heavier physique than most martial arts stars, Sammo Hung is a unique presence and an absolute powerhouse in the genre. He’s often given credit for maintaining the genre’s popularity in the 80s and bolstering the careers of other martial arts icons. Though he’s most famous for providing memorable supporting roles and a keen eye for fight choreography, Hung has proven a worthy leading man as well. Some of his best work can be found in The Prodigal Son, Eastern Condors and Encounters of the Spooky Kind.
Jason Statham
While the early 2000s is often considered a weaker era for action, Jason Statham has been busy making a golden action movie. With his hybrid background as a gymnast and martial artist, Statham is as agile as he is strong.Now in his 55s, Statham is still going strong, having fought his way into the wildly successful Fast & Furious Franchise franchise and earning his own spin-off with The Rock. For more on Statham’s activities, check out The Transporter, The Crank, and The Mechanic.
Michelle Yeoh
Having made a name for herself in a male-dominated industry, Michelle Yeoh has helped pave the way for women not only in martial arts cinema, but the action genre as a whole. She starred alongside Pierce Brosnan’s James Bond and the legendary Jackie Chan himself, proving just as fierce and dynamic as her male counterparts. With recent films like Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Everything Everywhere All at Once, Yeoh has finally received a much-deserved international appreciation. For more of Yeoh’s charisma and acrobatic finesse, seek out The Heroic Trio, Supercop, and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.