If you loved the gritty action and gripping storytelling of Yakuza Princess (2021), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share its intense fight scenes, deep underworld drama, and strong female leads. Whether you're craving more yakuza tales or action-packed thrillers, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Sword of Doom (1966)
Description: A dark and atmospheric samurai film with a morally ambiguous protagonist, known for its brutal violence and psychological depth.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be part of a trilogy. Its ending is famously abrupt and unresolved.


Lady Snowblood (1973)
Description: A revenge-driven story with a strong female lead, featuring stylized violence and a blend of action and drama.
Fact: The film heavily influenced Quentin Tarantino's 'Kill Bill' series. It is based on a manga of the same name.


Oldboy (2003)
Description: A dark and violent tale of revenge, with a complex narrative and striking visuals, blending action with psychological depth.
Fact: The famous hallway fight scene was shot in one continuous take. The film won the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival.


Shinobi: Heart Under Blade (2005)
Description: A romantic action film set in feudal Japan, blending intense fight scenes with a tragic love story.
Fact: The film is based on the novel 'The Kouga Ninja Scrolls.' It features a mix of traditional and modern storytelling techniques.


13 Assassins (2010)
Description: A samurai epic with a focus on honor and revenge, featuring large-scale battle scenes and a morally complex narrative.
Fact: The film is a remake of a 1963 classic. The final battle sequence lasts over 45 minutes.


The Man from Nowhere (2010)
Description: A gritty action thriller with a strong focus on revenge and redemption, featuring intense fight sequences and a protagonist with a dark past.
Fact: The film's knife fight scene is considered one of the most realistic and brutal in Korean cinema. It won several awards, including Best Actor at the Blue Dragon Film Awards.


Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai (2011)
Description: A tragic tale of revenge and honor, with a slow-burning narrative that culminates in a violent and emotional climax.
Fact: The film was the first 3D samurai movie. It premiered at the Cannes Film Festival.


John Wick (2014)
Description: A stylish action film with a focus on revenge, featuring expertly choreographed fight scenes and a protagonist with a mysterious past.
Fact: The film's fight scenes were inspired by Hong Kong action cinema. It revitalized Keanu Reeves' career.


Blade of the Immortal (2017)
Description: A samurai film with a supernatural twist, focusing on themes of revenge and redemption, with visually stunning action sequences.
Fact: The film is based on a long-running manga series. It features over 100 on-screen kills.


The Villainess (2017)
Description: A high-octane action film with a female protagonist seeking vengeance, known for its innovative fight choreography and brutal violence.
Fact: The opening motorcycle chase scene was shot in a single take. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival.
