The 2000s were a golden era for martial arts cinema, offering a blend of breathtaking fights and compelling storytelling. This decade saw the rise of new martial arts superstars and the continuation of legends, each bringing their unique style to the silver screen.
Martial arts movies with amazing stunts and big fights have really impressed people.
They’ve taken us on journeys through ancient China, modern-day Hong Kong, and beyond, showcasing the artistry behind martial arts.
They are not just about the fights; they’re about honor, discipline, and the human spirit overcoming adversity.
So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the top 10 martial arts movies of the 2000s that have kicked their way into film history and our hearts.
10. The Protector (2005)
| Director | Prachya Pinkaew |
| Writers | Napalee, Piyaros Thongdee, Joe Wannapin |
| Casts | Tony Jaa, Nathan Jones, Phetthai Vongkumlao |
| Release Date | August 11, 2005 |
| IMDb | IMDb |
The Protector is a Thai martial arts film whose initial name is Tom-Yum-Goong.
However, according to the country, it has several other names: Warrior King in the UK, The Protector in the US, Thai Dragon in Spain, Revenge of the Warrior in Germany, and Honor of the Dragon in Russia.
It is an action-packed movie featuring a young fighter, Kham (Tony Jaa), from Thailand, whose mission is to recover his stolen elephants, taken by a criminal gang to Sydney, Australia.
The stolen elephants are in the hands of Vietnamese gangster Johnny (Johnny Tri Nguyen), whose plan is to sell them for millions of dollars.
With the help of a Thai-born Australian detective, Mark (Petchtai Wongkamlao), he battles against the gang.
The film showcases thrilling combat scenes as Kham fights to protect the majestic creatures that symbolize peace but are ready for war if needed.
The Protector is a thrilling ride that blends spectacular martial arts with a heartfelt story.
It is perfect for those who love jaw-dropping stunts with a touch of emotional depth and cultural richness.
9. Brotherhood of the Wolf (2001)
| Director | Christophe Gans |
| Writer | Christophe Gans, Stephane Cabel |
| Casts | Samuel Le Bihan, Vincent Cassel, Monica Bellucci |
| Release Date | January 31, 2001 |
| IMDb | IMDb |
Brotherhood of the Wolf is set in 18th-century France, where a mysterious beast terrorizes the Gévaudan region.
King Gregoire de Fronsac (Samuel Le Bihan) sends Chevalier de Fronsac and his Iroquois companion Mani to investigate.
The shocking twist reveals that the beast is not a creature of legend but a trained wolf, armored and controlled by the Brotherhood, a secret group using fear to maintain power.
The plot thickens with a noblewoman, Marrianne de Morangias’s (Emilie Dequenne) involvement and the revelation of dark secrets afterwards.
In the movie, a king and his friend Mani (Mark Dacascos) go on an adventure. They fight a scary creature and discover why it has been attacking.
This movie offers a unique blend of mystery and martial arts set against a lush historical backdrop.
This film is a gem that delivers excitement and a plot that will leave you pleasantly surprised. It’s a must-watch for its cool action scenes and interesting story.
8. Kung Fu Panda (2008)
| Directors | John Stevenson, Mark Osborne |
| Writers | Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger |
| Casts | Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie |
| Release Date | June 6, 2008 |
| IMDb | IMDb |
Kung Fu Panda is an animated adventure about Po (Jack Black), a clumsy panda who dreams of becoming a kung-fu master.
Po’s life changes when he’s unexpectedly chosen as the Dragon Warrior, destined to defeat the fearsome Tai Lung.
Despite his self-doubt and the skepticism of the Furious Five, Po embarks on a journey of self-discovery and training under Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman).
With determination and a unique approach to Kung Fu, Po proves that true heroism comes from within.
Kung Fu Panda is a heartwarming saga that teaches us to believe in ourselves.
Its humor, action, and memorable characters make it a delightful journey for all ages and remind us that anyone can be a hero.
7. The Karate Kid (2010)
| Director | Harald Zwart |
| Writer | Christopher Murphery |
| Casts | Jackie Chan, Jaden Smith, Taraji P. Henson |
| Release Date | June 11, 2010 |
| IMDb | IMDb |
The Karate Kid is an American martial arts drama film. It is the fifth in The Karate Kid franchise and serves as a standalone sequel to The Next Karate Kid of 1994.
The Karate Kid is about a 12-year-old boy named Dre Parker (Jaden Smith) who moves to China with his mom, Sherry Parker (Taraji P. Henson).
While exploring places, he faces trouble and clashes with a bully named Cheng (Zhenwei Wang).
However, Dre’s luck changes when he meets Mr. Han (Jackie Chan), a maintenance man who’s actually a Kung Fu master.
Mr. Han shows Dre how to do Kung Fu and teaches him valuable lessons about life.
With newfound skills and confidence, Dre faces Cheng and competes in a Kung Fu tournament, proving his ability.
This movie is a blend of action and life lessons, showcasing the power of perseverance and friendship.
With thrilling martial arts and a touching mentor-student bond, this film inspires and entertains, making it a must-watch for all ages.
6. Hero (2002)
| Director | Zhang Yimou |
| Writers | Feng Li, Bin Wang, Zhang Yimou |
| Casts | Jet Li, Tony Leung, Maggie Cheung |
| Release Date | October 24, 2002 |
| IMDb | IMDb |
Hero is a Chinese martial arts film set in ancient China about a warrior named Nameless who claims to have defeated three assassins who threatened the king.
Invited to the palace, Nameless (Jet Li) recounts his battles with the assassins, revealing a complex web of strategy, honor, and sacrifice.
As the king (Chen Daoming) listens, he understands that there are many ways to see a story.
He finds the truth is as complex as the detailed work of painting the word ‘Sword’ with a calligraphy brush.
Hero is a stunning film that combines beautiful scenes with a complex story mixed with fights, past events, and deep thoughts.
It allows us to consider important ideas, such as giving up something for others and doing what’s best for everyone.
5. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
| Director | Ang Lee |
| Writer | Wang Hui-Ling, James Schamus, Tsai Kuo-jung |
| Casts | Chow Yun-fat, Zhang Ziyi, Chang Chen |
| Release Date | 8 December 2000 |
| IMDb | IMDb |
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a Wuxia martial arts action-adventure movie that became the first foreign language film to earn over $100 million in the United States.
In the movie, a skilled warrior named Li Mu Bai decides to give up his powerful sword, the Green Destiny.
He asks his friend, Yu Shu Lien, to deliver it to a safe place, but it gets stolen by a mysterious thief.
The chase to recover the sword leads them to discover that the thief is Jen, a governor’s daughter who dreams of freedom and adventure.
As they try to guide Jen, they face her dark mentor, Jade Fox, and confront their feelings for each other, all while engaging in breathtaking martial arts battles.
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon grabs your attention with amazing fight scenes, deep emotions, and breathtaking views.
It tells a classic tale about seeking love and freedom. A true cinematic gem!
4. Kung Fu Hustle (2004)
| Director | Stephen Chow |
| Writers | Stephen Chow, Huo Xin, Chan Man-Keung |
| Casts | Stephen Chow, Danny Chan, Yuen Wah |
| Release Date | December 23, 2004 |
| IMDb | IMDb |
Kung Fu Hustle is a martial arts action comedy set in the 1940s, where a wannabe gangster’s dream leads him to a slum with hidden Kung Fu masters.
Kung Fu Hustle is about Sing, who wants to join the Axe Gang, a big-time gang in 1940s China.
He tries to prove himself by causing trouble in a poor neighborhood called Pigsty Alley, but his efforts backfire when he discovers that the residents are actually secret Kung Fu experts.
These hidden masters fight the gang to protect their home, and Sing has to choose between his dream of being a gangster and doing the right thing.
Kung Fu Hustle offers a hilarious and heartfelt ride, blending spectacular Kung Fu, quirky characters, and a touch of romance. It’s a fun-filled journey with a surprising depth.
3. Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior (2003)
| Director | Prachya Pinkaew |
| Writer | Suphachai Sittiaumponpan |
| Casts | Tony Jaa, Petchtai Wongkamalao, Pumwaree Yodkamol |
| Release Date | January 21, 2003 |
| IMDb | IMDb |
Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior is an exciting movie that highlights the powerful fighting style of Muay Thai, set in the beautiful country of Thailand.
In “Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior,” a small Thai village is in trouble when the head of their sacred Buddha statue, Ong-Bak, is stolen.
Ting, a villager skilled in Muay Thai, volunteers to go to Bangkok to get it back and discovers that a drug dealer stole the head to sell it to a crime boss.
Ting teams up with his cousin, Humlae, and his friend, Muay Lek, to retrieve the head.
They face many challenges and fights along the way, but Ting’s amazing Muay Thai skills help them defeat the bad guys and save the day.
It’s a must-watch for its nonstop action, stunning Muay Thai moves, and heroic story that’s both inspiring and entertaining. It’s pure adrenaline-pumping fun!
2. Ip Man (2008)
| Director | Wilson Yip |
| Writer | Edmond Wong, Chan Tai-lee |
| Casts | Donnie Yen, Simon Yam |
| Release Date | December 18, 2008 |
| IMDb | IMDb |
Ip Man is a gripping film about a revered martial artist who must navigate life challenges during the Japanese invasion of China.
This movie is about a man named Ip who is the best at Wing Chun, a type of martial arts.
Ip Man is forced out of his home and has to work hard to take care of his family. Even though times are tough, he doesn’t teach martial arts for money.
When the Japanese army forces Chinese people to fight for food, Ip Man stands up to defend his friends.
He faces many challenges but shows that his skills and spirit can’t be beaten.
Ip Man is a powerful film that shows the strength of the human spirit through spectacular martial arts.
It’s a story of courage, resilience, and dedication that inspires.
1. Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
| Director | Quentin Tarantino |
| Writer | Quentin Tarantino |
| Casts | Uma Thurman, Lucy Liu, Vivica A. Fox |
| Release Date | October 10, 2003 |
| IMDb | IMDb |
Kill Bill Volume 1 is a tale of vengeance where a former assassin, known as The Bride, awakens from a coma and seeks retribution against her betrayers.
This movie is about an assassin, The Bride, who wakes up from a coma and realizes her former team tried to kill her on her wedding day.
She sets out on a revenge mission against her old crew, the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad, and their leader, Bill.
Her journey is filled with intense battles as she crosses off names on her list, using her martial arts skills to get closer to Bill.
Each fight brings her one step closer to confronting Bill and finding peace.
Kill Bill is a roller-coaster of action, with a fierce heroine on a quest for justice. It’s a stylish, bold, and unforgettable cinematic experience.
| Movies Name | Box Office Collection |
|---|---|
| The Protector | 27 Million USD |
| Brotherhood of the Wolf | 70.8 Million USD |
| Kung Fu Panda | 631.7 Million USD |
| The Karate Kid | 359.1 Million USD |
| Hero | 177.4 Million USD |
| Crouching Tiger, Hidden Drag | 214 Million USD |
| Kung Fu Hustle | 104.9 Million USD |
| Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior | 20.11 Million USD |
| Ip Man | 22.11 Million USD |
| Kill Bill | 180.9 Million USD |
