The Most Popular Karate Movie, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the movie you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 30, 2024 06:41
In the flurry of flying kicks and disciplined shouts, Karate movies not only entertain but inspire. They are a beloved niche within the martial arts film genre, capturing the essence of Karate's deeply rooted traditions and thrilling combats. Knowing which film stands out helps new enthusiasts decide where to begin their journey into Karate cinema.
By participating in the ranking of top Karate films, viewers contribute to a broader appreciation of the art form and its cinematic representation. Each vote helps to highlight the films that best celebrate the spirit and skill of Karate, ensuring that quality productions receive the recognition they deserve. Engage with the list and see how your preferences compare to those of other martial arts aficionados.
What Is the Most Popular Karate Movie?
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148votesThis classic film starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita has become a cultural touchstone for generations of viewers. It tells the story of a young boy who learns karate from an elderly mentor, and uses his newfound skills to stand up to bullies.The Karate Kid (1984) is a coming-of-age martial arts film that follows the story of a teenager named Daniel LaRusso who moves to a new town and faces bullying from a group of karate students. He seeks the help of a wise and unconventional karate master, Mr. Miyagi, who trains him to stand up against his tormentors and compete in a martial arts tournament.
- Release date: June 22, 1984
- Running time: 126 minutes
- Genre: Drama, Action, Martial Arts
- Starring: Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita, Elisabeth Shue
- Box office: $90.8 million
The Karate Kid (1984) in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Karate Kid movie
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242votes
Enter the Dragon (1973)
Bruce LeeThis Bruce Lee classic is widely regarded as one of the greatest martial arts films ever made. It features Lee as a martial arts expert who is recruited by a government agency to infiltrate a criminal organization.Enter the Dragon is a martial arts action film that was released in 1973. It is widely regarded as one of the most popular and influential Karate movies of all time. The film follows the story of martial artist Lee who is recruited by a British intelligence agency to infiltrate a criminal empire on an island owned by a ruthless warlord. Filled with intense fight scenes and iconic moments, Enter the Dragon showcases the skill and athleticism of its cast.- Release date: August 26, 1973
- Genre: Action, Martial Arts
- Director: Robert Clouse
- Producer: Fred Weintraub, Paul Heller
- Starring: Bruce Lee, John Saxon, Jim Kelly
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311votesThis visually stunning film from director Ang Lee blends martial arts action with a sweeping romantic storyline. It won four Academy Awards and was a major box office success.Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is an internationally acclaimed martial arts epic film released in 2000. It tells the story of Li Mu Bai, a legendary Wudang swordsman, and his pursuit of the stolen Green Destiny sword. The film explores themes of love, honor, and the search for personal freedom amidst the backdrop of ancient China.
- Release Date: 2000
- Director: Ang Lee
- Screenplay: James Schamus, Wang Hui Ling, Tsai Kuo Jung
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama
- Runtime: 120 minutes
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000) in other rankings- Position 4 of 10 in Most beautiful movie ever made
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422votes
Rroame LaOcM · CC BY-SA 4.0Fist of Fury (1972)
Director: Lo WeiAnother classic Bruce Lee film, Fist of Fury tells the story of a martial arts student who seeks revenge for the death of his master. It features some of Lee's most iconic fight scenes.Fist of Fury (1972) is a popular Karate movie that tells the story of Chen Zhen, a martial artist seeking revenge for the death of his master. Set in Shanghai during the Japanese occupation, the film explores themes of honor, patriotism, and resilience in the face of oppression. The movie features exhilarating fight sequences and showcases the legendary martial arts skills of Bruce Lee, the star of the film.- Release year: 1972
- Genre: Action, Drama
- Language: Mandarin
- Country of origin: Hong Kong
- Running time: 106 minutes
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517votes
Kung Fu Hustle (2004)
Stephen ChowThis Hong Kong comedy/action film is a modern classic, blending over-the-top martial arts action with slapstick humor. It was a major box office success in Asia and has gained a cult following around the world.Kung Fu Hustle (2004) is an action-comedy martial arts film set in 1940s Shanghai. It follows the story of Sing, a hapless hustler who aspires to become a ruthless gangster. However, his plans take an unexpected turn when he inadvertently attracts the attention of real gangsters and encounters a group of legendary kung fu masters known as the Axe Gang. Sing must then navigate his way through hilarious and action-packed battles, learning important lessons about friendship and the true meaning of martial arts along the way.- Release Date: 2004
- Genre: Action, Comedy
- Director: Stephen Chow
- Writer: Stephen Chow, Lola Huo, Tsang Kan Cheung
- Starring: Stephen Chow, Yuen Wah, Yuen Qiu
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68votes
Kill Bill Vol. 1 (2003)
Quentin TarantinoQuentin Tarantino's tribute to martial arts cinema is a stylish and violent revenge saga, with Uma Thurman as a former assassin seeking vengeance against her former colleagues. It features some of the most memorable fight scenes in recent cinema history.Kill Bill Vol. 1 (2003) is an American martial arts film directed by Quentin Tarantino. It is part of a two-volume film series and follows the journey of a former assassin, known as the Bride, who seeks revenge on her ex-partner and his team. The movie is known for its stylized violence, homage to various genres of cinema, and strong female protagonist.- Release Date: October 10, 2003
- Running Time: 111 minutes
- Country: United States
- Language: English, Japanese
- Budget: $30 million
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715votesThis early Jackie Chan film features the star in one of his most iconic roles, as a young man who learns the "drunken fist" style of martial arts. It was a major success in Hong Kong and helped establish Chan as a major movie star.Drunken Master (1978) is a popular martial arts film that tells the story of Wong Fei-hung, a young martial artist who learns the unique and highly effective Drunken Boxing style from his mischievous, yet skilled, master. The film showcases Wong's journey to master this unconventional fighting technique while facing various adversaries and overcoming personal challenges.
- Release date: October 5, 1978
- Running time: 111 minutes
- Language: Cantonese
- Country: Hong Kong
- Genre: Action, Comedy
Drunken Master (1978) in other rankings- Position 6 of 10 in Most successful Jackie Chan movie
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82votesThis Jean-Claude Van Damme vehicle tells the story of an American fighter who travels to Hong Kong to compete in a secret martial arts tournament. It features some of Van Damme's most impressive fight scenes and has become a cult classic.Bloodsport (1988) is a classic martial arts film directed by Newt Arnold. The movie follows the true story of Frank Dux, a U.S. Army officer and martial artist who participates in an underground fighting tournament called the Kumite in Hong Kong.
- Genre: Action, Martial Arts
- Release Date: 1988
- Running Time: 92 minutes
- Starring: Jean-Claude Van Damme, Bolo Yeung
- Language: English
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913votes
The Raid: Redemption (2011)
Gareth EvansThis Indonesian action film is a non-stop thrill ride, with a police squad battling their way through a high-rise building filled with criminals. It features some of the most intense and brutal fight scenes in recent memory.The Raid: Redemption is a highly acclaimed Indonesian martial arts film released in 2011. The movie follows a SWAT team as they enter a rundown apartment building in Jakarta to apprehend a crime lord. The building is filled with dangerous criminals who quickly discover the team's presence and start fighting back, leading to intense and brutal hand-to-hand combat scenes throughout the movie.- Release Year: 2011
- Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
- Country: Indonesia
- Language: Indonesian
- Runtime: 101 minutes
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103votes
Ip Man (2008)
Directed by Wilson YipThis biographical film tells the story of the legendary martial arts master who trained Bruce Lee. It stars Donnie Yen in the title role and has become a major success in China and around the world.Ip Man (2008) is a Hong Kong biographical martial arts film, directed by Wilson Yip. The film is loosely based on the life of Ip Man, a grandmaster of the martial art Wing Chun and the teacher of Bruce Lee. It portrays his life during the 1930s in Foshan, China, where he faces numerous challenges and eventually becomes the legendary martial artist we know today. The movie is known for its intense fight scenes, brilliant choreography, and compelling storytelling.- Release date: December 12, 2008
- Running time: 106 minutes
- Language: Cantonese
- Country: Hong Kong
- Genre: Biography, Action, Drama
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Ranking factors for popular movie
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Box Office SuccessThe financial success of the movie in terms of ticket sales during its initial release and subsequent re-releases. This is an important indicator of a movie's popularity.
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Critical AcclaimThe reviews and ratings from film critics and audiences, usually measured in terms of average scores or ratings on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, IMDb, and Metacritic. Positive reviews generally demonstrate that the movie is well-regarded.
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Influence and LegacyThe impact of the movie on the martial arts or action film genre, including its contribution to the popularization of Karate and inspiration for future filmmakers.
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Cultural SignificanceThe movie's role in introducing Karate and martial arts culture to a broader audience, as well as its impact on societal perceptions of these disciplines.
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Cinematic TechniqueThe quality of the movie in terms of storytelling, cinematography, editing, and other filmmaking aspects. A well-made film can create an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression on viewers.
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PerformancesThe reputation and skill of the actors, especially the lead actor or martial artist, and their ability to convincingly portray their Karate skills on screen.
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AuthenticityThe portrayal of Karate techniques and training, as well as the overall atmosphere of the film, should accurately represent the martial art.
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Fight ChoreographyThe quality, creativity, and excitement of the fight scenes, which are often a main attraction for viewers of Karate movies.
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Storyline and Character DevelopmentThe plot and character arcs within the movie should be engaging and impactful, allowing viewers to connect with the story and its characters.
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Popularity over TimeThe film's ability to remain popular in the years following its release, including its appeal to new generations of viewers and continued cultural relevance.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Karate movie. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Film is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1803 views
- 180 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Film once every 24 hours. The rank of each Film is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular karate movie
Karate movies have been a staple of the action film genre for decades. The first Karate movie, The Karate Kid, was released in 1984 and quickly became a classic. Since then, numerous Karate movies have been made, each with its unique take on the martial art. From Bruce Lee's Enter the Dragon to the more recent Ip Man series, Karate movies have continued to capture the imagination of audiences worldwide. In this article, we'll explore the most popular Karate movies of all time and see which one comes out on top according to StrawPoll's community.
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