The Best Sammo Hung Martial Arts Movies

Key Takeaways

Sammo Hung’s
Millionaires Express
mixes Western-style martial arts with comedy, appealing to fans despite mixed reviews.
Pedicab Driver
showcases iconic fight scenes and combines traditional Kung Fu with street fighting, pleasing fans with realism.
The Magnificent Butcher
impresses with intense, well-choreographed fight sequences and a blend of humor and martial arts techniques.

As a lifelong fan of martial arts cinema and someone who has spent countless hours studying the works of legendary figures like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, I must say that Sammo Hung’s contributions to the genre are nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to seamlessly blend action, humor, and storytelling in his films is truly unparalleled.

The best Sammo Hung martial arts movies prove why he’s a legend and dominates the genre. Known for choreographing the fight sequences in the IP Man series, Sammo shows that he isn’t just a martial artist—he’s a director, actor, and choreographer who marked Hong Kong cinema. Some of his notable works are The Magnificent Butcher, in which he stars, and Wheels on Meals, where he directs, showing that Sammo’s versatility is unmatched.

Sammo Hung consistently impresses his audience with his expertise in genres such as action, drama, and comedy. Are these the greatest Sammo Hung martial arts movies? Indeed, some undoubtedly fall into this category, but for those who may have differing opinions, a fresh look might alter their perspective.

8 Millionaires Express

Starring Martial Artists Yuen Biao And Cynthia Rothrock

Running time: 1h 48m
Director: Sammo Kam-Bo Hung

In the action-comedy filmmasterpiece titled “Millionaires Express“, directed and starring Sammo Hung, notable martial artists Cynthia Rothrock and Biao Yuen join him. Set in 1986, this movie revolves around a train heist and artfully blends Western martial arts such as Kung Fu with a generous dose of humor. Some audiences consider “Millionaires Express” to be one of the funniest martial arts movies starring Sammo Hung, while others view it as disorganized, earning a rating of 6.9/10 on IMDb.

Despite the mixed reviews, Millionaires Express is a must-watch for martial arts fans. The film offers a blend of intense fight sequences and hilarious comedy, with Cynthia Rothrock’s powerful kicks and Yuen Biao’s impressive athletic stunts making it well worth the watch.

7 Pedicab Driver

Nominated For Best Action Choreography

Running time: 1h 35m
Director: Sammo Kam-Bo Hung

In the film titled “Pedicab Driver“, Sammo Hung showcases memorable martial arts scenes, such as the climactic battle that is expertly staged. This scene blends classic Kung Fu with street combat. Additionally, viewers are treated to breathtaking pole fighting sequences between Sammo and Lau Kar-Leung, filmed from ideal camera perspectives.

Enthusiasts highly commended the authenticity of the fight scenes, leading to a 7.4/10 rating on IMDb. Fans believe this project showcases one of Sammo Hung’s finest performances, blending swift martial arts sequences, thrilling action, and his signature humor.

6 Warriors Two

One Of The Earliest Sammo Hung Movies

Running time: 1h 36m
Director: Sammo Kam-Bo Hung

Back in 1978, I found myself immersed in the world of martial arts with Sammo Hung at the helm, both as director and leading man, in the movie titled “Warriors Two”. This film showcases the intricate Wing Chun combat style through authentic blows and carefully designed fight sequences. As a fellow martial arts enthusiast, I have to admit that it takes some time for this film to gather momentum. However, once it gets going, the cinematic experience it provides is truly rewarding.

This story revolves around a banker who learns Wing Chun martial arts from an experienced master. His journey forms the heart of the film, with a significant emphasis on martial arts practice and combat scenes, expertly crafted by director Sammo Hung. Initially, it may seem slow-paced, but many viewers believe it ranks among the greatest martial arts films. It’s a must-see for fans of classic Hong Kong cinema.

5 Painted Faces

The Best Cinematography Award Winner

Running time: 1h 52m
Director: Alex Law

In my perspective as an ardent fan, “Painted Faces” was masterfully directed by the talented Alex Law, with Sammo Hung gracing the screen alongside Ching-Ying Lam and Pei-Pei Cheng. This exhilarating action-drama is loosely based on the real-life experiences of Sammo Hung, Jackie Chan, and Yuen Biao, as they endured rigorous training under a demanding mentor at the Peking Opera School. By delving into this film, we’ll uncover not only their hardships, triumphs, but also the profound friendships forged over time.

In this film, it garnered 11 awards and was nominated for an additional 8. Furthermore, due to Sammo Hung’s outstanding portrayal – as he played a character based on himself in the movie – he was awarded Best Actor at the Asia-Pacific Film Festival.

4 My Lucky Stars

The Best Trio In Martial Arts Movies Gets Together

Running time: 1h 39m
Director: Sammo Kam-Bo Hung

In the film titled “Lucky Stars“, the trio consisting of Sammo Hung, Jackie Chan, and Yuen Biao collaborate once more, sparking much anticipation among action-comedy enthusiasts. The narrative revolves around two police officers – portrayed by Jackie Chan and Yuen Biao – who are hot on the trail of a Japanese criminal. However, when one is captured, the remaining officer gathers a team, under the leadership of Sammo Hung, to save their comrade.

The highlights of the film are the energetic and fast action scenes and the fight choreography, which makes it a stand out among the Lucky Stars series.

3 The Magnificent Butcher

An Easy Favorite Sammo Hung Movie Co-Starring Biao Yuen

Running time: 1h 48m
Director: Woo-Ping Yuen

Without a doubt, the film “The Magnificent Butcher” should be part of any top list for Sammo Hung’s martial arts movies. Directed by Woo-Ping Yuen, this movie boasts thrilling and skillfully designed fight scenes that highlight Sammo Hung’s signature Kung Fu style. Fans adore the unique mix of humor, emotion, and martial arts prowess found in Sammo Hung’s films, and “The Magnificent Butcher” truly excels in each aspect.

The characters created by Sammo Hung are consistently engaging, relatable, and bursting with character. What truly sets this film apart is its clever incorporation of everyday items as weapons, making for an intriguing viewing experience. If you’re a martial arts enthusiast who hasn’t yet seen this movie, I strongly recommend giving it a try.

2 The Prodigal Son

Best Action Choreography Winner

Running time: 1h 44m
Director: Sammo Kam-Bo Hung

Under the direction of Sammo Hung, the film titled “The Prodigal Son” delves into themes such as discipline, humility, and personal development. Yuen Biao portrays a character who is convinced of his Kung Fu expertise. However, this conviction is challenged when he meets a genuine martial arts master.

The movie has been generally praised, with some viewers commending its character growth, authenticity in fight sequences, and cinematography, even going so far as to call it one of the greatest Wing Chun films ever made. On IMDb, it has garnered a 7.3/10 rating.

1 Wheels On Meals

Starring Jackie Chan, Biao Yuen, And Sammo Kam-Bo Hung

Running time: 1h 48m
Director: Sammo Kam-Bo Hung

Wheels On Meals is the key to Sammo Hung’s reputation as an unmatched director, actor, and choreographer who consistently combines action, storytelling, and humor flawlessly. This movie showcases the exceptional camaraderie among the top martial arts trio—Sammo Hung, Jackie Chan, and Yuen Biao.

In the film, Sammo Hung takes on the role of an unorthodox yet entertaining private investigator. The movie is filled with unexpected action scenes that were so impressive, they earned him a nomination for Outstanding Action Choreography at the Hong Kong Film Awards in 1985.

2024-11-28 10:34