10 Awesome Kung Fu Movies Available To Stream On Netflix

If you’re in the mood for some classic kung fu action, Netflix has a solid lineup — though depending on your region, you might need a VPN to access these gems. With the right setup, you’ll be ready to dive into a world of flying kicks, fierce rivalries, and legendary heroes, including a certain folk hero you might have heard of (yes, Wong Fei-hung, we're looking at you). From intense dramas to lighthearted martial arts comedies, here are 10 must-watch kung fu classics on Netflix that every fan should check out.

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1. Once Upon a Time in China (1991)

In this epic, Jet Li stars as the revered folk hero Wong Fei-hung, a martial artist and physician defending China from foreign influence during the Qing Dynasty. The movie revitalized Jet Li’s career, cementing him as an international martial arts superstar, and is known for its stunning choreography and historical depth, bringing a cinematic blend of culture and action.

2. Drunken Master (1978)

Jackie Chan plays Wong Fei-hung as a young, rebellious martial artist learning the “drunken fist” style, a unique kung fu technique with unpredictable moves. The quirky fighting style was choreographed by legendary action director Yuen Woo-ping, who later worked on The Matrix and showcases Chan’s comedic timing alongside his martial arts prowess.

3. True Legend (2010)

A modern take on classic kung fu, True Legend follows the story of Su Can, the supposed creator of drunken boxing. The film offers impressive action scenes and memorable visuals, with a mythic approach to martial arts storytelling.

4. Ip Man (2008)

Based on the life of Bruce Lee’s mentor, Ip Man follows the Wing Chun master as he protects his town during the Japanese occupation. The film’s realistic fight scenes and Donnie Yen’s commanding performance make it a modern classic.

5. The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (1978)

In this Shaw Brothers classic, Gordon Liu stars as a young man who trains in the Shaolin Temple to avenge his family. Known for its rigorous training sequences, this movie captures the spirit of traditional Shaolin kung fu. A cool piece of trivia is that the film’s depiction of the “36th Chamber” training has inspired multiple pop culture references, including Wu-Tang Clan’s album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers).

6. Last Hero in China (1993)

A comedic take on the Wong Fei-hung story, Last Hero in China blends Jet Li’s martial arts skill with humor and unconventional action sequences. It’s a lighter approach to a classic story but still filled with impressive fights.

7. Hero (2002)

Set in ancient China, this visually stunning epic follows a nameless warrior recounting his quest to assassinate a powerful king. The film’s artistry, colors, and Jet Li’s skillful combat make it unforgettable. Hero became one of the highest-grossing foreign-language films in the U.S. and was even nominated for an Academy Award.

8. Ip Man 2 (2010)

In this sequel, Ip Man relocates to Hong Kong, where he faces off against rival martial artists while trying to establish a Wing Chun school. The intense fight scenes, particularly the clash with a British boxer, add to the film’s appeal.

9. Fearless (2006)

Based on the life of Huo Yuanjia, a martial arts champion who helped to revive Chinese pride through his skills, Fearless follows a redemptive journey of humility and self-discovery. The fight scenes blend technical precision with emotional depth. This was Jet Li’s last martial arts film focused solely on wushu, as he expressed a desire to shift his focus to other types of roles.

10. Kung Fu Hustle (2004)

And finally. This weird, genre-bending homage to kung fu cinema, Kung Fu Hustle blends slapstick comedy with masterful fight choreography. The movie’s surreal style and humor make it one of the most entertaining modern martial arts films.

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Each of these films showcases the best of martial arts cinema, from iconic heroes and legendary fights to historical inspiration. If you’re a kung fu fan, these titles will keep you entertained and may even inspire you to dive deeper into the genre. Grab your VPN, pick your favorite, and get ready for a kick-filled Netflix marathon!

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