20 Best Jet Li Movies: The Fierce and Fluid Artistry of a Martial Arts Legend

Jet Li is a renowned martial artist and actor who has starred in numerous action movies throughout his career.

He is known for his impressive martial arts skills and his ability to perform complex fight scenes with precision and grace.

Some of his best movies include classics like “Once Upon a Time in China,” “Fist of Legend,” and “Hero,” as well as newer films like “Fearless” and “The Expendables” franchise.

Best Jet Li Movies

Each of these movies showcases Jet Li’s incredible talent and range as an actor and martial artist, making them a must-see for fans of action cinema.

1. Fearless (2006)

“Fearless” is a 2006 martial arts film directed by Ronny Yu and starring Jet Li. The movie is based on the life of Huo Yuanjia, a legendary martial artist who founded the Chin Woo Athletic Association in Shanghai.

In the movie, Jet Li plays Huo Yuanjia, a proud and arrogant martial artist who learns important lessons about humility, honor, and sacrifice as he battles foreign fighters in a series of brutal fights.

The movie is notable for its impressive fight scenes, which are choreographed in a way that emphasizes the characters’ emotions and motivations.

“Fearless” received critical acclaim for its performances, storytelling, and action sequences. It was also a commercial success, becoming the highest-grossing Chinese-language movie of its time.

The movie is widely regarded as one of Jet Li’s best and is a must-watch for fans of martial arts cinema.

2. Hero (2002)

“Hero” is a 2002 wuxia film directed by Zhang Yimou and starring Jet Li, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Maggie Cheung, Zhang Ziyi, and Donnie Yen.

The film tells the story of a nameless warrior (played by Jet Li) who is tasked with assassinating the ruler of a rival kingdom, but instead tells the story of how he defeated three legendary assassins who had previously attempted to kill the king.

The movie is notable for its stunning visuals, including vibrant colors and breathtaking landscapes, as well as its innovative storytelling style.

Each version of the story told by the protagonist is depicted in a different color scheme, which highlights the differences in the character’s perspectives.

“Hero” was a commercial and critical success, both in China and internationally. It won numerous awards, including the Best Foreign Language Film at the 2003 Academy Awards.

The film is widely regarded as a masterpiece of the wuxia genre and is considered one of Jet Li’s best performances.

3. Fist of Legend (1994)

“Fist of Legend” is a 1994 martial arts film directed by Gordon Chan and starring Jet Li.

The movie is a remake of the Bruce Lee classic “Fist of Fury” and tells the story of Chen Zhen, a Chinese student who returns to Shanghai during the Japanese occupation of China and fights against oppression and discrimination.

The film features some of Jet Li’s most iconic fight scenes, including a memorable showdown with a Japanese martial arts master.

The movie is also notable for its themes of patriotism and anti-colonialism, which reflect the struggles of the Chinese people during the turbulent period of Japanese occupation.

“Fist of Legend” was a commercial and critical success, and is considered one of Jet Li’s best movies.

It is praised for its excellent fight choreography, strong performances, and engaging storyline. The film has since become a classic of the martial arts genre and is a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and martial arts cinema.

4. Once Upon a Time in China II (1992)

“Once Upon a Time in China II” is a 1992 martial arts film directed by Tsui Hark and starring Jet Li.

The movie is the second installment in the “Once Upon a Time in China” series, which follows the adventures of the historical figure Wong Fei-hung, a legendary Chinese martial artist and physician.

In the movie, Jet Li reprises his role as Wong Fei-hung, who travels to Canton to help defend against a group of European imperialists who are trying to take over the city.

The movie features some of Jet Li’s most memorable fight scenes, including a battle with a Western boxer.

“Once Upon a Time in China II” was a critical and commercial success, and is widely regarded as one of the best movies in the series.

The film is praised for its well-executed fight scenes, complex characters, and its portrayal of the struggles of the Chinese people during a period of colonialism and imperialism. It is a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and martial arts cinema.

5. Once Upon a Time in China (1991)

“Once Upon a Time in China” is a 1991 martial arts film directed by Tsui Hark and starring Jet Li.

The movie is the first installment in the “Once Upon a Time in China” series, which follows the adventures of the historical figure Wong Fei-hung, a legendary Chinese martial artist and physician.

In the movie, Jet Li plays Wong Fei-hung, who returns to his home in Foshan and finds himself caught up in a conflict between rival martial arts schools and Western colonialists.

The film features some of Jet Li’s most iconic fight scenes, including a final battle with a sadistic British officer.

“Once Upon a Time in China” was a critical and commercial success, and is considered one of the best movies in the wuxia genre.

The film is praised for its intricate fight choreography, engaging storyline, and its portrayal of Chinese national identity and resistance against colonialism. It is a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and martial arts cinema.

6. Unleashed (2005)

“Unleashed” is a 2005 action film directed by Louis Leterrier and starring Jet Li, Morgan Freeman, and Bob Hoskins.

The movie tells the story of Danny (played by Jet Li), a man who has been raised like a dog by his abusive owner Bart (played by Bob Hoskins) and is trained to be a deadly fighter.

When he is rescued by a blind piano tuner named Sam (played by Morgan Freeman), Danny must learn to live as a normal human being and confront his past.

“Unleashed” is notable for its exploration of themes such as freedom, identity, and redemption, as well as its impressive fight scenes choreographed by Yuen Woo-ping.

The movie features a mix of traditional martial arts and gritty street fighting, showcasing Jet Li’s versatility as an action star.

“Unleashed” received positive reviews for its strong performances, emotional depth, and action sequences. It is considered one of Jet Li’s best performances and is a must-watch for fans of the action and drama genres.

7. The Warlords (2007)

“The Warlords” is a 2007 historical action film directed by Peter Chan and starring Jet Li, Andy Lau, and Takeshi Kaneshiro.

The movie is set during the Taiping Rebellion in 19th-century China and tells the story of three blood brothers who become embroiled in a power struggle for control of a city.

In the movie, Jet Li plays General Pang Qingyun, a loyal soldier who becomes a warlord and must navigate his loyalties and desires.

The film features some of Jet Li’s most intense and brutal fight scenes, as well as stunning cinematography and impressive battle sequences.

“The Warlords” received positive reviews for its strong performances, epic scale, and intricate storyline.

The movie is praised for its exploration of themes such as brotherhood, loyalty, and the corrupting influence of power. It is a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and historical action dramas.

8. The Legend (1993)

“The Legend” is a 1993 martial arts film directed by Corey Yuen and starring Jet Li. The movie tells the story of Fong Sai-yuk, a legendary Chinese martial artist who lived during the Qing dynasty and is known for his rebellion against the Manchu government.

In the movie, Jet Li plays Fong Sai-yuk, who becomes embroiled in a conflict between the anti-Qing rebels and the government.

The film features some of Jet Li’s most entertaining fight scenes, as well as humorous moments and a romantic subplot.

“The Legend” received positive reviews for its blend of action, humor, and drama, as well as its engaging storyline and strong performances.

The movie is praised for its portrayal of Chinese history and culture, as well as its exploration of themes such as patriotism and social justice. It is a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and martial arts cinema.

9. The Legend of Fong Sai-Yuk 2 (1993)

“The Legend of Fong Sai-Yuk 2” is a 1993 martial arts film directed by Corey Yuen and starring Jet Li.

The movie is a sequel to “The Legend” and follows the further adventures of Fong Sai-yuk, a legendary Chinese martial artist who lived during the Qing dynasty and is known for his rebellion against the Manchu government.

In the movie, Jet Li reprises his role as Fong Sai-yuk, who becomes embroiled in a plot to overthrow the Qing government and restore the Ming dynasty.

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The film features some of Jet Li’s most impressive fight scenes, as well as humorous moments and a romantic subplot.

“The Legend of Fong Sai-Yuk 2” received positive reviews for its entertaining action, engaging storyline, and strong performances, particularly by Jet Li.

The movie is praised for its portrayal of Chinese history and culture, as well as its exploration of themes such as rebellion and patriotism.

It is a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and martial arts cinema, as well as those who enjoyed the first film in the series.

10. The Defender (1994)

“The Defender” is a 1994 Hong Kong action film directed by Corey Yuen and starring Jet Li.

The movie tells the story of a bodyguard named John Chang (played by Jet Li), who is hired to protect a wealthy businessman’s daughter from a group of assassins.

In the movie, Jet Li showcases his skills as a martial artist and actor, delivering impressive fight scenes and a convincing performance as a bodyguard struggling to keep his charge safe.

The film also features impressive stunt work and choreography, as well as a fast-paced storyline that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

“The Defender” received positive reviews for its strong performances, thrilling action, and tight pacing. The movie is considered a classic of the action genre and is a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and Hong Kong cinema.

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11. Tai Chi Master (1993)

“Tai Chi Master” is a 1993 martial arts film directed by Yuen Woo-ping and starring Jet Li and Chin Siu-ho.

The movie tells the story of two friends, Junbao (played by Jet Li) and Tienbo (played by Chin Siu-ho), who are studying martial arts at a temple in the Qing dynasty.

In the movie, Jet Li plays Junbao, a skilled martial artist who becomes disillusioned with the temple’s teachings and eventually turns against his friend Tienbo.

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The film features some of Jet Li’s most impressive fight scenes, as well as stunning cinematography and choreography by Yuen Woo-ping.

“Tai Chi Master” received positive reviews for its inventive action, strong performances, and compelling storyline.

The movie is praised for its exploration of themes such as loyalty, betrayal, and redemption, as well as its showcase of Tai Chi as a martial art. It is a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and martial arts cinema.

12. Swordsman II (1992)

“Swordsman II” is a 1992 Hong Kong wuxia film directed by Ching Siu-tung and starring Jet Li. The movie is a sequel to the 1990 film “Swordsman” and is based on the novel “The Smiling, Proud Wanderer” by Louis Cha.

In the movie, Jet Li plays Linghu Chong, a skilled swordsman who becomes embroiled in a power struggle between two rival factions.

The film features impressive fight scenes and special effects, as well as a romantic subplot involving Linghu Chong and the female warrior Yingying (played by Brigitte Lin).

“Swordsman II” received positive reviews for its inventive action, stunning visuals, and engaging storyline.

The movie is praised for its portrayal of Chinese culture and history, as well as its exploration of themes such as love, loyalty, and honor. It is a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and wuxia cinema.

13. Shaolin Temple (1982)

“Shaolin Temple” is a 1982 Hong Kong martial arts film directed by Chang Hsin-yen and starring Jet Li.

The movie tells the story of a young boy named Jue Yuan (played by Jet Li), who is orphaned and taken in by the Shaolin Monastery, where he learns the art of kung fu.

In the movie, Jet Li delivers an impressive performance as a young martial artist who is thrust into the world of the Shaolin Monastery, where he must navigate its politics and overcome its challenges to become a skilled fighter.

The film features impressive fight scenes and showcases the traditional Chinese martial art of kung fu.

“Shaolin Temple” received positive reviews for its engaging storyline, strong performances, and impressive action. The movie is considered a classic of the martial arts genre and is a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and kung fu cinema.

14. Martial Arts of Shaolin (1986)

“Martial Arts of Shaolin” is a 1986 Hong Kong martial arts film directed by Lau Kar-leung and starring Jet Li.

The movie tells the story of a young man named Zhi Ming (played by Jet Li), who flees to the Shaolin Temple after his family is killed by bandits.

In the movie, Jet Li showcases his skills as a martial artist, delivering impressive fight scenes and showcasing the traditional Chinese martial art of kung fu.

The film also features a strong supporting cast, including actress Huang Qiuyan and martial arts actor Hu Jianqiang.

“Martial Arts of Shaolin” received positive reviews for its engaging storyline, impressive action, and strong performances. The movie is considered a classic of the martial arts genre and is a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and kung fu cinema

15. Last Hero in China (1993)

“Last Hero in China” is a 1993 Hong Kong martial arts film directed by Wong Jing and starring Jet Li. The movie is loosely based on the life of legendary martial artist Wong Fei-hung, who was also the subject of many of Jet Li’s other films.

In the movie, Jet Li plays Wong Fei-hung, a skilled martial artist who becomes embroiled in a conflict between the Chinese and British governments in late 19th century Hong Kong.

The film features impressive fight scenes and showcases Wong Fei-hung’s famous “shadowless kick.”

“Last Hero in China” received mixed reviews for its loose interpretation of history and over-the-top action sequences. However, the movie is still considered a classic of the martial arts genre and a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and Wong Fei-hung.

16. Once Upon a Time in China III (1992)

“Once Upon a Time in China III” is a 1992 Hong Kong martial arts film directed by Tsui Hark and starring Jet Li.

The movie is the third installment in the “Once Upon a Time in China” series and features Jet Li reprising his role as the legendary martial artist Wong Fei-hung.

In the movie, Wong Fei-hung becomes embroiled in a conflict between a group of Chinese rebels and a powerful Japanese dojo.

The film features impressive fight scenes and showcases Wong Fei-hung’s famous “drunken boxing” style.

“Once Upon a Time in China III” received positive reviews for its impressive action, engaging storyline, and strong performances.

The movie is considered a classic of the martial arts genre and a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and Wong Fei-hung.

17. Once Upon a Time in China and America (1997)

“Once Upon a Time in China and America” is a 1997 Hong Kong martial arts film directed by Sammo Hung and starring Jet Li.

The movie is the sixth and final installment in the “Once Upon a Time in China” series and features Jet Li reprising his role as the legendary martial artist Wong Fei-hung.

In the movie, Wong Fei-hung travels to the Wild West in the United States to visit a relative, only to become embroiled in a conflict between Chinese immigrants and a corrupt American lawman.

The film features impressive fight scenes and showcases Wong Fei-hung’s traditional Chinese martial arts techniques against the backdrop of the American West.

“Once Upon a Time in China and America” received mixed reviews for its departure from the series’ traditional setting in China and for its sometimes uneven pacing. However, the movie is still considered a must-watch for fans of Jet Li and the “Once Upon a Time in China” series.

18. Kiss of the Dragon (2001)

“Kiss of the Dragon” is a 2001 French action thriller film directed by Chris Nahon and starring Jet Li. The movie follows the story of a Chinese intelligence officer named Liu Jian, who travels to Paris to help the French police dismantle a drug trafficking ring.

However, when he is framed for murder, Liu Jian must use his martial arts skills to clear his name and bring the real culprits to justice.

The movie features impressive fight scenes and showcases Jet Li’s mastery of martial arts, including his use of various weapons such as a pair of hook swords. The film also features strong supporting performances from Bridget Fonda and Tchéky Karyo.

“Kiss of the Dragon” received positive reviews for its impressive action, engaging storyline, and strong performances. The movie is considered one of Jet Li’s best films and a must-watch for fans of action cinema.

19.The Expendables 2 (2012)

“The Expendables 2” is a 2012 American ensemble action film directed by Simon West and starring Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, and several other action movie legends.

In the film, the Expendables team reunites for a new mission to retrieve a valuable item from a crashed airplane in Eastern Europe.

Jet Li plays the role of Yin Yang, a skilled martial artist and member of the Expendables team. The movie features impressive action sequences, including a memorable fight scene between Jet Li and Dolph Lundgren’s character.

“The Expendables 2” received mixed reviews from critics, who praised the cast and action sequences but criticized the film’s plot and dialogue.

However, the movie remains a popular choice for fans of action cinema, especially those who enjoy seeing iconic action stars on screen together.

20.The Expendables (2010)

“The Expendables” is a 2010 American ensemble action film directed by Sylvester Stallone and starring Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, and several other action movie legends.

The movie follows a team of mercenaries on a mission to overthrow a South American dictator.

Jet Li plays the role of Yin Yang, a skilled martial artist and member of the Expendables team. The movie features impressive action sequences, including a memorable fight scene between Jet Li and Dolph Lundgren’s character.

“The Expendables” received mixed reviews from critics, who praised the cast and action sequences but criticized the film’s plot and dialogue.

However, the movie became a box office success and spawned two sequels, with Jet Li appearing in the second installment. The film is a must-watch for fans of action cinema and those who enjoy seeing iconic action stars on screen together.

3 Reasons To Watch Jet Li Movies

Impressive Martial Arts Skills: Jet Li is a highly skilled martial artist and has won numerous awards for his performances in various martial arts competitions.

His expertise in Wushu, a Chinese martial arts style, is showcased in many of his movies, where he performs complex fight choreography with speed, precision, and power.

Memorable Characters and Stories: Jet Li has played a wide range of characters in his movies, from historical figures to modern-day heroes, and has been involved in many classic stories of martial arts, honor, and redemption.

His performances are often intense and emotionally charged, making his characters memorable and captivating.

Exciting Action and Visuals: Jet Li’s movies are known for their impressive action sequences, which are often accompanied by stunning visuals and special effects.

Whether he’s battling a group of enemies with his fists or wielding a weapon, Jet Li’s action scenes are exhilarating and often leave audiences on the edge of their seats.

Overall, Jet Li movies offer a unique blend of impressive martial arts skills, memorable characters and stories, and exciting action and visuals, making them a must-watch for fans of action cinema and martial arts enthusiasts.

Best Jet Li Movies – Wrap Up

In conclusion, Jet Li has had an impressive career in the film industry, starring in many classic action and martial arts movies.

From his early days in the “Shaolin Temple” series to his later Hollywood hits like “Fearless” and “Hero,” Jet Li has showcased his incredible martial arts skills, captivating performances, and thrilling action sequences.

Some of Jet Li’s best movies include “Fearless,” “Hero,” “Fist of Legend,” “Once Upon a Time in China,” and “Unleashed.”

These movies feature a range of memorable characters, epic storylines, and breathtaking fight choreography, making them must-watch films for action movie fans and martial arts enthusiasts alike.

Overall, Jet Li’s movies are a testament to his incredible talent and skill as a martial artist and actor.

His movies have entertained and inspired audiences for decades, and his legacy in the film industry will continue to endure for years to come.