This collection showcases the most iconic and influential fighting movies ever made. From martial arts masterpieces to gritty boxing dramas, these films have not only defined the genre but have also left an indelible mark on cinema, inspiring generations of filmmakers and fans alike. Each film is selected for its unique contribution to the art of fight choreography, storytelling, and character development, making this list a must-watch for any enthusiast of action cinema.

Enter the Dragon (1973)
Description: This film is often credited with bringing martial arts cinema to a global audience, featuring Bruce Lee in his last completed film. It's a blend of action, espionage, and martial arts, set in a tournament on a private island.
Fact: Bruce Lee improvised many of his fight scenes, and the film was the first martial arts film to be produced by a major Hollywood studio.


Rocky (1976)
Description: This film not only revitalized the boxing genre but also became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing the underdog story of Rocky Balboa.
Fact: Sylvester Stallone wrote the screenplay in just three days and refused to sell it unless he could star in the film.


Raging Bull (1980)
Description: Martin Scorsese's biographical drama about boxer Jake LaMotta, known for its intense boxing sequences and Robert De Niro's transformative performance.
Fact: De Niro gained 60 pounds for the role to portray LaMotta's later years.


The Karate Kid (1984)
Description: An inspirational story about a teenager learning karate to defend himself, this film has become synonymous with martial arts training and mentorship.
Fact: The famous "wax on, wax off" scene was improvised by Pat Morita.


The Matrix (1999)
Description: While known for its groundbreaking special effects, 'The Matrix' also features some of the most influential fight choreography in cinema, particularly the "bullet time" sequences.
Fact: The film's fight scenes were choreographed by Yuen Woo-ping, who also worked on 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon'.


Warrior (2011)
Description: This modern-day tale of two estranged brothers competing in a mixed martial arts tournament combines family drama with intense fight sequences.
Fact: The film's fight choreography was overseen by former UFC fighter and coach, Greg Jackson.


The Raid: Redemption (2011)
Description: An Indonesian action film with continuous, brutal fight scenes, showcasing the Pencak Silat martial art in a high-rise building siege.
Fact: The film was shot in chronological order to maintain the intensity and continuity of the action.


Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
Description: Quentin Tarantino's homage to martial arts films, with Uma Thurman's character seeking revenge through a series of intense and stylized fight scenes.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be one movie but was split into two volumes due to its length.


Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior (2003)
Description: Tony Jaa's debut film showcases the raw power of Muay Thai with minimal use of CGI, relying on his real-life martial arts skills.
Fact: Tony Jaa performed all his stunts without a stunt double, including a scene where he jumps over a moving tuk-tuk.


Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
Description: Ang Lee's film blends martial arts with a poetic narrative, featuring gravity-defying fight scenes that have become iconic in the genre.
Fact: The film was the first foreign-language film to surpass $100 million at the US box office.
