If you loved the classic wuxia film 'Come Drink with Me' (1966) and are craving more martial arts adventures with strong heroes, intricate plots, and breathtaking action, you're in the right place. This article highlights 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same spirit of honor, revenge, and swordplay. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the genre, these recommendations will keep you entertained.

The Assassin (1967)
Description: A tale of revenge and honor, this film showcases the moral dilemmas faced by its protagonist, a common theme in martial arts cinema. The film's atmospheric tension and focus on personal justice align well with the wuxia genre.
Fact: The film was one of the early examples of the 'lone assassin' trope in Hong Kong cinema. It was also notable for its use of shadowy, noir-like visuals in a martial arts setting.


The Sword of Swords (1968)
Description: A story of honor and revenge, this film features a legendary weapon and the moral weight it carries. The film's exploration of the consequences of violence and its stunning swordplay are central to its narrative.
Fact: The sword used in the film became one of the most iconic props in martial arts cinema. The movie was also praised for its philosophical undertones, rare for action films at the time.


The Chinese Boxer (1970)
Description: A foundational film in the martial arts genre, it emphasizes national pride and the triumph of Chinese martial arts over foreign threats. The film's patriotic themes and intense fight scenes are characteristic of the era.
Fact: This was one of the first films to explicitly portray Chinese martial arts as superior to other fighting styles. It helped establish the 'kung fu vs. foreign martial arts' subgenre.


The Duel (1971)
Description: This film revolves around a climactic showdown between two skilled fighters, a staple of martial arts cinema. The tension and build-up to the final duel are expertly crafted, emphasizing the importance of skill and strategy.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use a 'tournament' style narrative, which later became a common plot device in martial arts movies. It also featured some of the most realistic fight choreography of its time.


The Lady Hermit (1971)
Description: This film features a strong female lead who defies traditional gender roles, a rarity in early martial arts cinema. The film's focus on female empowerment and its dynamic fight scenes make it a standout.
Fact: The movie was one of the first to feature a female martial arts hero as the central character. It was also notable for its use of acrobatic fight choreography, which became a hallmark of the genre.


The Shadow Whip (1971)
Description: A tale of hidden identities and secret techniques, this film's mysterious atmosphere and intricate plot twists are hallmarks of classic wuxia. The film's use of a unique weapon adds to its distinctive style.
Fact: The whip used in the film was a rarely seen weapon in martial arts movies at the time. The movie's climax features one of the most elaborate whip fights ever filmed.


The Heroic Ones (1970)
Description: This film features a blend of historical drama and martial arts, with a strong emphasis on loyalty, honor, and betrayal. The large-scale battles and intricate political plots are reminiscent of classic wuxia storytelling.
Fact: The movie is based on a historical Chinese novel and features some of the most elaborate battle scenes of its time. It was one of the first films to combine historical epic elements with martial arts action.


The Flying Guillotine (1975)
Description: Known for its unique and deadly weapon, this film combines elements of horror with martial arts, creating a tense and thrilling experience. The film's inventive action sequences and dark tone are hallmarks of the genre.
Fact: The flying guillotine weapon was entirely fictional but became iconic in martial arts films. The movie's success led to a wave of similar 'weapon-centric' martial arts films in the 1970s.


The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (1978)
Description: A martial arts classic that emphasizes rigorous training and mastery of skills, much like the disciplined and stylized combat seen in wuxia films. The film's focus on personal growth through adversity and its intricate fight choreography make it a standout.
Fact: The film is often credited with popularizing the 'training sequence' trope in martial arts cinema. It was so influential that it spawned several sequels and a hip-hop group named after it.


The Invincible Fist (1969)
Description: This film focuses on a lone warrior seeking justice, a common narrative in martial arts cinema. The protagonist's unwavering determination and the film's gritty action sequences are key elements of its appeal.
Fact: The movie was notable for its use of minimal dialogue, relying heavily on visual storytelling and action. It was also one of the first to feature a 'silent but deadly' protagonist.
