The Best Kung Fu Movies Of The 1980s
The best ‘80s kung fu movies, and other martial arts movies, embody the rugged individualism and spirit of the decade; a time when the most exciting films involved non-stop action and intense fight scenes. Many of these films are about one man taking a solo journey to defy the odds and defeat his enemies - and let’s not forget, getting the girl while he’s at it.
What are the top ‘80s kung fu and other martial arts movies? Jackie Chan's films dominated the silver screen in the 1980s and 1990s. In ‘85 he wrote, directed, and starred in Police Story, a film Chan would later say was his personal favorite. The film spawned several sequels, and kept Jackie Chan in the public eye throughout the ‘80s. For '80s martial arts stars, this decade was all about the hero's journey. Be it the underdog hero from the Karate Kid or the unstoppable powerhouse, Chuck Norris, audiences were treated to countless acts of individual bravery. You'll also find great kickboxing movies on this list as well.
If you’re familiar with ‘80s kung fu and other martial arts movies, you may know the work of legendary director Sammo Hung, a pioneer of the Hong Kong New Wave movement. Many of his classic films are featured on this list.
Vote up the best '80s kung fu and other martial arts films and vote down any that you think other fans should skip.
- Jean-Claude Van Damme, Donald Gibb, Leah Ayres
- Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita, Elisabeth Shue
- Jean-Claude Van Damme, Dennis Alexio, Dennis Chan
- Kurt Russell, Kim Cattrall, Dennis Dun
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: John Carpenter
Watch for Free with Amazon Prime Free TrialKurt Russell plays hard-boiled truck driver Jack Burton, who gets caught in a bizarre conflict within, and underneath, San Francisco's Chinatown. An ancient Chinese prince and Chinatown crime lord ...more - James Earl Jones, Eric Roberts, Louise Fletcher
- Released: 1989
- Directed by: Robert Radler, Bob Radler
Best of the Best is a 1989 American martial arts film directed by Bob Radler, and produced by Phillip Rhee, who also co-stars in the film. The film also starring Eric Roberts, James Earl Jones and ...more - Taimak, Vanity, Christopher Murney