If you loved the gripping action and intricate political intrigue of Brotherhood of Blades (2014), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that deliver the same blend of intense swordplay, deep character drama, and historical depth. Whether you're a fan of wuxia epics or historical thrillers, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
Description: A masterpiece of martial arts cinema that combines breathtaking action sequences with a poignant story of love, honor, and betrayal.
Fact: First foreign-language film to surpass $100 million at the U.S. box office. The bamboo forest fight scene took weeks to film and required precise wirework.


Hero (2002)
Description: Epic tale of sacrifice and loyalty, featuring stunning visuals and a narrative that unfolds through multiple perspectives.
Fact: Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The film's color-coded storytelling was inspired by traditional Chinese art.


House of Flying Daggers (2004)
Description: A romantic wuxia film with elaborate fight choreography and a tragic love story set against a backdrop of rebellion.
Fact: The echo game scene, where the protagonist dances while hitting drums, was achieved without CGI. The film's autumn foliage was enhanced with painted leaves for visual effect.


Red Cliff (2008)
Description: Historical war epic with grand battle sequences and intricate strategies, highlighting themes of brotherhood and leadership.
Fact: One of the most expensive Asian films ever made. The battle scenes involved thousands of extras and meticulous planning to recreate ancient warfare tactics.


Curse of the Golden Flower (2006)
Description: A lavish period drama filled with palace intrigue, familial betrayal, and stunning visuals, set in the Tang Dynasty.
Fact: Features over 10,000 chrysanthemum flowers in its climactic scene. The costumes were designed to reflect the opulence and strict hierarchy of the imperial court.


The Warlords (2007)
Description: A gritty war drama that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of power, set during the Taiping Rebellion.
Fact: Based on the assassination of Ma Xinyi, a historical event. The battle scenes were filmed in harsh winter conditions to add realism.


Reign of Assassins (2010)
Description: A blend of action and romance, featuring a retired assassin drawn back into her former life, with dynamic fight choreography.
Fact: The film's script was co-written by John Woo. The lead actress trained for months to perform her own stunts and swordplay.


The Grandmaster (2013)
Description: A biographical martial arts film that delves into the philosophy of kung fu, with meticulously choreographed fight scenes.
Fact: The rain fight scene took over a month to shoot. The film's release was delayed multiple times to perfect its editing and pacing.


The Assassin (2015)
Description: A visually stunning wuxia film that blends martial arts with deep political intrigue, focusing on the moral dilemmas of its protagonist.
Fact: Won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival for Hou Hsiao-Hsien. The film's cinematography is noted for its use of long takes and natural lighting.


Shadow (2018)
Description: A visually striking tale of deception and power struggles, with a monochromatic color palette and intricate fight sequences.
Fact: The entire film was shot in shades of black, white, and gray to mimic traditional Chinese ink paintings. The umbrella weapons were custom-designed for the film.
