Chinese action movies have long been famous for their thrilling kung fu stories, to name one. Apart from kung fu movies, the country also offers a wide range of quality movies from various genres.
Not just action, there are many other exciting movies with themes ranging from horror to romance. They are known for their thrilling action and amazing fight sequences. Chinese action movies not only provide entertainment, but also reflect a rich culture.
The skill of the actors in action has made these Chinese action movies very popular. This article will take you through the world of Chinese action movies. Each action is not just a physical spectacle, but also a story rich in meaning and beauty.
Then, what are the best action movies from China? Let’s take a look at the information below!
Best Chinese Action Movies, From Gangster to Crime
1. The Battle at Lake Changjin II (2022)
The movie The Battle at Lake Changjin, tells the story of a battle between Chinese soldiers who provided support to Korea. They mobilized troops to fight aggression from the United States.
The conflict took place at Changjin Lake in 1950. Many Chinese soldiers lost their lives due to not getting food for three days and lack of ammunition. In addition, they also had to face extremely cold and snowy weather conditions during the battle.
However, under challenging circumstances, the defending forces were able to fight off the American army quite formidably. So, did the Chinese troops finally defeat the American army?
2. Hero (2002)
Hero, the extraordinary work of director Zhang Yimou, is a visually stunning story of courage, sacrifice and love. This Chinese action movie, features Jet Li in the role of Nameless.
He is a warrior who shares his story of defeating three notorious assassins with Emperor Qin. The lead actor is Chen Daoming. Each part of the Nameless story is featured with a diverse color palette.
In addition, the movie is also full of symbolic meaning, with captivating cinematography. Hero is not just an action movie. Rather, it is a work of art that combines movement and beautiful, mesmerizing choreography.
3. Gatao: The Last Stray (2021)
This movie tells the story of a female photographer named Xiao Qi. She has a beautiful face and receives an offer to take photos at an event that brings together gang leaders.
However, she arrived late and was immediately scolded by Lin Yu Qing. Instead of feeling anxious and remorseful, Xiao Qi felt angry at being judged too harshly. Then, she immediately asked Qing to help her to complete the task well.
When Qing was frustrated with his job and also getting teased by his friends, he asked one of his friends for help. However, his friend refused the request, which led to their fight.
The camera stored in the bag fell and shattered. Qing, immediately felt panicked because the camera belonged to Xiao Qi. However, Xiao Qi showed no anger. Instead, she looked sad and silent after seeing the incident.
4. Master Z: The Ipman Legacy (2019)
Master Z: The Ipman Legacy, tells the story of Cheung Tin-chi (Max Zhang). Tin-chi, is a prizefighter who is still depressed because of the defeat he suffered from Ip Man in the past.
In a period of depression, Tin-chi found a way to make ends meet by working as a mercenary. Eventually, he decided to leave martial arts for good. Afterward, Tin-chi chose to open a grocery store in his home.
One day, while Tin-chi was on his way to deliver an order, he quickened his pace to get home. She was eager to celebrate her son Cheung Fung’s (Henry Zhang) birthday. She also promised to take him to Petrus, the famous steakhouse in Hong Kong.
On his way, he meets a drug addict named Nana (Chrissie Chau) and Julia (Liu Yan). Both are on the run from a drug dealer named Taso Sai Kit (Kevin Cheng).
With his defensive instincts still in place, Tin-chi takes action to protect Nana and Julia from Sai Kit’s followers. Without any difficulty, Tin-chi manages to defeat all of Sai Kit’s followers using only his bare hands.
5. Project Gutenberg (2018)
One of the Chinese action movies that you should watch is Project Gutenberg. This movie offers a storyline rich in tension and many unexpected moments. The story follows Lee Man (Aaron Kwok).
Lee Man, is a man who is extremely talented in the art of replicating. Although he is usually able to overcome various situations with his ingenuity and ability to replicate. This time, his existence began to falter due to an unexpected threat.
Slowly, Lee Man finds himself increasingly mired in threatening circumstances. Last but not least, the tension in the story increases when Inspector Ho (Catharine Chau), begins to doubt Lee Man.
6. Chasing The Dragon (2017)
The incredible partnership between Andy Lau and Donnie Yen in this movie has definitely caught the attention of many viewers. This Chinese action movie tells the story of the drug trade in Hong Kong in the 1960s. Making it a must-see.
The movie’s story focuses on the journey of a drug boss, who Donnie Yen plays as Limpy Ho. He has the support of an ace detective in Andy Lau as Lee Rock. They embark on an extraordinary journey through the challenging world of crime.
However, it did not lead them to a better life. Threats and risks still lurk, as if to remind them that peace is just an illusion that haunts them in the enveloping darkness.
7. SPL II: A Time for Consequences (2015)
The movie SPL II: A Time for Consequences, is the follow-up to the thrilling and energizing martial arts battle. This movie, presents a more profound and heartfelt story than the previous one.
SPL II: A Time for Consequences stars Tony Jaa and Wu Jing. The story is about a police officer from Hong Kong who is trapped in a Thai prison. In this story, there is also a prison officer who has a connection to the policeman’s fate.
This Chinese-language action movie not only features dazzling fights and incredible visuals. But it also has a rich storyline with themes of loyalty, revenge, and redemption.
SPL II: A Time for Consequences, is a movie that combines elements of deep drama with impressive action. This makes it an action masterpiece that not only entertains, but also touches the hearts of its audience.
8. Man of Tai Chi (2013)
Man of Tai Chi, is the best Chinese action movie that highlights the skills of Indonesian actor, Iko Uwais. The story begins with the character Sun Jing Shi (Karen Mok). Sun Jing Shi, is a smart investigator who investigates the Security System Alliance (SSA).
Sun, soon reveals shocking information that the SSA is involved in illegal fighting activities that disturb society. Donaka, meanwhile, has complete control over SSA’s operations.
Donaka, chose to take the bold step of engaging Tiger Chen in a series of dangerous fights. In the end, bringing him face to face with Sun.
9. Legend of The Fist: Return of Chen Zhen (2010)
Chen Zhen, the iconic character that Bruce Lee previously portrayed in Fist Of Fury in 1972. Now brought to life by Donnie Yen, a well-known and respected actor in the Mandarin film industry.
This story follows the journey of Chen Zhen. He returns to Shanghai with the sincere intention of avenging the tragic murder of his teacher and his shooter in the past.
In a suspenseful story, Chen Zhen, who always wears a mysterious mask when he performs his actions. He is also forced to deal with a charming spy, Shu Qi.
10. Rumble in the Bronx (1995)
The best Chinese action movie Rumble in the Bronx, is a movie that showcases the incredible skills of martial arts star Jackie Chan. This movie, tells a story of action and comedy that is full of surprises. In addition, this Chinese action movie tells the story of Ma Hon Keung (Jackie Chan).
Ma Hon Keung, is a Hong Kong cop who comes to New York and comes into conflict with local gangs. Known for its thrilling action and quirky physical comedy, this film showcases Jackie Chan’s talent for combining elements of humor with combat.
Rumble in the Bronx is not just about exciting fight and chase action. But it also offers moments of warmth and fun. Jackie Chan’s ability to perform dangerous stunts live.
Without the help of stunt doubles, it adds an authentic feel and deep tension to every fight scene. The film offers an ideal combination of action, humor, and drama. Making it one of the most famous martial arts movies of the 90s.
So, those are the ten best Chinese action movie recommendations of all time. Each movie, featuring a variety of stars that are very extraordinary.
