Unconventional Romance Meets Kung Fu: Top Movie Picks

Generally, people are drawn to martial arts films for their action sequences. It’s awe-inspiring to see kung fu movies with choreography so intricate that it could earn scores from Olympic judges. However, unlike in the 80s and 90s when stars like Jackie Chan and Jet Li were at their peak of popularity, the genre isn’t as widely appreciated in the U.S. today.

It’s delightful to revisit the traditional works, especially when it comes to martial arts films. What makes these unique is that they often blend elements of romance into the action. In fact, some of these movies contain more romance or humor than actual fight scenes. Here are a few recommendations for those who appreciate both kung fu flicks and romantic storylines, without giving away too many spoilers.

7. Big Trouble In Little China

The Hero Is The Worst But That’s The Point

In simpler terms, “Big Trouble in Little China” is an engaging martial arts film that humorously mimics American action heroes. The protagonist, Jack, shares a similar vocal style to John Wayne and considers himself just as tough as old western cowboys. During his trucking journey, he encounters a Chinese criminal group and unwittingly becomes involved in a kung fu adventure full of ancient mysticism. Accompanied by a genuine fighter named Wang, Jack embarks on a mission to save some endangered girls. What sets the movie apart is this ordinary hero’s ineptitude, often finding himself hiding instead of actively helping during emergencies. A romantic subplot develops between Jack and one of these girls, Gracie, adding an element of romance to the action-packed storyline with spectacular special effects.

6. Ranma 1/2: The Movie 2, Nihao My Concubine

A Movie Full Of Fists And Fan Service

Director: Akira Suzuki
Studio: Studio DEEN
Released: August 1, 1992
Run Time: 63 Minutes

Ranma 1/2″ is a popular anime and manga series centered around the character Ranma, who transforms into a girl after falling into a cursed training pool. Other martial artists in the show experience similar fates, turning into creatures like pigs or pandas when wet. This transformation is the core concept of the series. “Ranma 1/2: The Movie 2, Nihao My Concubine” is the second installment of the film adaptations.

In contrast to the initial film, Ranma 1/2: The Movie 1: Big Trouble in Nekonron, China, packs a larger dose of action. Our protagonist, Ranma, along with others, find themselves stranded on what appears to be an uninhabited island. However, the ladies soon fall into the hands of a nearby cult. The captives then engage in a competition for a grand prize: the prince’s marriage proposal. This film is a concise yet amusing installment in the romantic journey between Ranma and his future spouse, Akane, filled with both fisticuffs and witty remarks about relationships.

5. Kung Pow: Enter The Fist

My Favorite N*SYNC Member Is Harpo

Kung Pow: Enter the Fist is a comical spoof that repurposes numerous old-school martial arts films from the 70s and beyond. The dialogue for all characters has been replaced, turning the tale of an aspiring martial artist into a more absurd story. For instance, his wise master seems to have an unusual fondness for snacks, while his rival carries a goofy name like Betty. This protagonist, fittingly named The Chosen One, even shares a romantic connection with Ling who bears a striking resemblance to Miss Piggy. While it may not be the most seductive martial arts romance movie out there, it certainly provides plenty of laughter.

4. City Hunter

A Silly Manga Adaptation

Director: Wong Jing
Released: January 14, 1993
Run Time: 99 Minutes
Languages: English, Cantonese, Mandarin

1993’s “City Hunter” is an on-screen rendition of a manga that originated in 1985, and it has been reimagined numerous times across live-action films, series, and anime. Among these adaptations includes a Netflix film slated for release in 2024. In this version, Jackie Chan portrays an unconventional detective – a bit of a ladies’ man with a penchant for humor. Unlike typical Jackie Chan action movies, there are fewer martial arts fights but more comedic moments and flirtatious encounters. For those who have always wanted to see Jackie Chan don the outfits of E. Honda or Chun Li from “Street Fighter,” “City Hunter” is a must-watch.

3. Love On Delivery

When Will They Get To The Karate Factory?

Director: Lee Lik-Chi
Released: February 3, 1994
Run Time: 100 Minutes
Languages: Cantonese, Mandarin

If you’re a fan of Stephen Chow’s acting, then “Love on Delivery” is the movie for you! While many might recognize him from films like “Kung Fu Hustle ” or “Shaolin Soccer“, this 90s gem showcases a different side of Chow. Here, he plays Ho Kam-ang, a timid delivery boy who falls for martial arts student Lily. Despite his cowardly nature and lack of excitement in his life, he embarks on a series of martial arts challenges to win Lily’s affection. It’s challenging to describe without revealing too much, but let me tell you it leans more towards a romantic comedy than a traditional martial arts film. However, it does feature some impressive stunts, such as one featuring a popular cartoon cat – I won’t spoil that for you!

2. Love Hurts

Ke Huy Quan Is Back In Action

The newest movie, titled “Love Hurts“, brings Ke Huy Quan back to the big screen. In this flick, he portrays a realtor who is suddenly plunged into his past when assassins are after the woman he loves deeply: Rose. As Marvin, Quan displays some stunning dance sequences and there’s no shortage of humor throughout the film.

The movie seems reminiscent of a contemporary Jackie Chan action flick, except with an excessive number of gruesome death sequences. One particularly striking scene features a Property Brother, though specifics will be kept under wraps to avoid spoilers. Despite the lack of conventional romantic moments between Marvin and Rose, their on-screen chemistry feels genuine, if somewhat immature at times.

1. Shang-Chi And Legend Of The Ten Rings

Marvel’s Opus To 70s Martial Arts

The film titled “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” revolves around two main aspects: heartfelt relationships and exhilarating combat scenes. Following “Avengers: Endgame“, it stands out as one of the top MCU films, featuring a fresh protagonist, Shang-Chi, who finds himself entangled in his father’s criminal organization again. Accompanying him throughout his journey is his loyal friend Katy, who bravely follows despite being unfamiliar with combat. Their dynamic hints at potential romance while their connection sparkles brightly.

Meanwhile, the antagonist, Xu, also happens to be Shang-Chi’s father, grappling with grief over losing his beloved, Ying. This emotional backstory for the villain provides a richer character arc than just another ruthless dictator and offers the audience something to relate to as well.

2025-02-14 10:36