MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
Though their heyday is gone, these iconic films continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many, and this collection of films pays tribute to the very best from the 90s, a golden era for Hong Kong movies. While
21st-Century Chinese movies have attempted to revive the genre or cater to those who still appreciate it, they haven’t quite captured the level of obsession that the 90s classics did. So, it’s time to revisit the best Hong Kong Action movies that serve as a remainder of the genre’s glorious past.
The Heroic Trio is a fun and captivating film that truly stands out in the realm of Hong Kong action cinema.Starring Michelle Yeoh, Anita Mui, and Maggie Cheung, it follows as these super heroines fight to stop a villain known as the “Evil Master,” who kidnaps newborns, intending to use their life essences to gain immortality. While this film may not make sense to everyone, it is considered a cult classic in Hong Kong cinema due to its unique blend of martial arts, superhero themes and strong women characters.
The film also features impressive action sequences, imaginative storytelling, and strong performances from the leading actresses. It will be easily embraced by those who will appreciate its comic-book style of entertainment and love the combination of superhero stories with Hong Kong cinema flair.
Raymond Lee’s classic wuxia film,New Dragon Gate Inn, is the modern retelling of the1967 classic, Dragon Gate Inn. Set in the Ming Dynasty, it tells the story of a power-drunk eunuch, who rules his desert region with an iron hand as if he were emperor. His plan involves eliminating a rebel organization plotting to overthrow him. However, when a group of travelers converges at Dragon Gate Inn, they become entangled in a deadly power struggle between the eunuch and the rebels.
What ensues is a harrowing series of swordfights, where only the most skilled fighters can survive. Throughout the film, viewers are transported to a magical place teeming with captivating characters. With its great choreography, set design, gory action-packed sequences and enjoyable performances from its stellar cast, this is often hailed as one of the greatest martial arts movie ever crafted.
Police Story 3, or Super Copin some regions, is the third film in the Police Story film series, with Jackie Chan reprising his role as Chan Ka-Kui. In this film, Chan’s character now works in Hong Kong as a police officer, and he is assigned with infiltrating a drug cartel that operates in multiple countries. To succeed in this mission, he forms an alliance with a tough and skilled Jessica Yang (Michelle Yeoh).
While this may not be as groundbreaking as the first film released in 1985, it is nonetheless brimming with daring stunts, Chan’s trademark humor, and acrobatic fighting styles as he battles with the drug lord’s henchmen. The on-screen chemistry between Yeoh and Chan is also a standout aspect appreciated by the audience. With Yeuh Wah portraying the terrifying martial arts villain , this film delivers an overall fast-paced action adventure.
Also known asFong Sai Kyuk, The Legend centers around the eponymous character played by Jet Li. He is a talented martial artist known for his unwavering sense of justice. This local hero’s life undergoes a drastic change when he becomes embroiled in a conflict with the ruling Quing Government, led by an oppressive Governor General. In keeping to the tradition of martial arts film, this one unfolds through a series of exhilarating martial arts sequences and action-packed confrontations.
Beyond this, there’s historical drama, hilarious scenes, and even romance to make this truly busy and yet entertaining. Li delivers an exceptional performance, earning praises for his embodiment of a true hero. Yet he is not the only who shines here; others such as Josephine Siao, Sung Young Chen, and Michelle Reis deliver equally impressive performances in their respective roles.
A Hero Never Dies explores the blurred line between villainy and heroism as it follows the story of two professional hit men, Jack and Martin, who operate within rival Triad criminal organizations in Hong Kong.
After finding themselves in crossfire, they decide to retire; however, their former bosses refuse to let them go. There’s so much to admire about this film, from its complex characters to its exploration of friendship and loyalty.It has intense action scenes and bears the distinctive mark of Johnnie To’s directing style. This stylish and entertaining action film will undoubtedly evoke memories of great films like A Better Tomorrow and Hardboiled. While it may be criticized for its over-dramatic elements, for many enthusiasts of Hong Kong action films, it is one of the greatest gangster films ever made.
Set in a remote desert region, the wuxia film, Ashes of Time , follows the story of a disillusioned swordsman, Ough Feng, who is scarred by lost love. He operates as a middleman who offers services to people seeking hired skilled swordsmen or assassins.
Throughout the film, different characters come to seek his services, while the film focuses on issues of love, regret, and the passage of time. Due to its non-linear structure and dream-like atmosphere, this film may be a bit challenging to follow.
It is a highly stylized martial arts where energetic actions take a backseat while its poetic storyline about wounded heart and loneliness takes center stage. This cinematic experience would be most appreciated by fans of philosophical films that are mesmerizing to watch. It is a slow and reflective film that sticks with many long after viewing.
Directed by the iconic Tusi Hark, Once Upon a Time in China tells the story of the legendary Chinese Martial artist and folk hero, Wong Fei Hung. Here, Jet Li embodies a skilled Chinese healer deeply loved and respected in his community. His town, Foshan, is in turmoil, and it is up to him and his disciples to fight against those who humiliate their people and undermine their cultural values and identity.
Wong Fei Hung must also fight to protect his Aunt Lee. From bamboo ladder acrobatics, fiery duels, and chaotic brawls in the market street, this film features an array of hard-hitting stunts that vividly demonstrates the cast’s Kung Fu prowess.Once Upon a Time in Chinaisn’t just known for its impressive action, but also holds immense historical and cultural significance for its people. The film’s success led to several sequels and Li’s rise to stardom.
Another intense and gritty storytelling from the brilliant mind of Woo, Bullet in the Head follows three friends driven by their pursuit of quick riches. Their illegal endeavors lead them to Vietnam, where they hope to make fortune. However, they find themselves embroiled in the chaos of war. As they strive to escape this war-torn country, their friendship is put to an ultimate test. Highly revered by fans of Woo’s works, this film is considered a classic thanks to its powerful storyline and gripping action sequences.
It is well worth the time of those who appreciate action films with substance, one that prioritizes character development and infuses a touch of melodrama alongside its adrenaline pumping moments. Its backdrop of war and violence makes it all the more heart-wrenching as it presents a tale of friendship and war.
In Ringo Lam’s intense revenge flick, Full Contact , Chow Yun Fat plays a skilled hitman who agrees to join forces with his friend Judge in order to help him settle his gambling debt. They plan a heist, but complications arise when his friend betrays him. Now, he must exact revenge on this friend who double-crossed him and his followers. This stands as a significant milestone in Chow Yun Fat’s career, bringing him to the attention of foreign audiences as it showcased his charisma and skill as an action star.
Populated with anti-heroes, villains and victims, the movie is full of surprises and presents a truly violent and intense film that leaves viewers breathless and glued to their seats all through. While directed by Lam, it boasts stylishness reminiscent of Woo’s signature gritty and explosive action sequences.
The Longest Nite stands as one of Patrick Yau’s finest films, featuring stellar performances from Lau Ching-wan and Tony Leung. It follows a cop trying to maintain peace while keeping his head above water when he becomes embroiled in a messy feud between two drug lords. However, things get messier when a man named Tony steps into the picture; he begins to follow Sam all around, and there’s hardly any explanation as to who he is.This is one of those films with so much going on that it is often hard to make sense of the story. But what it lacks in plot, it compensates with its visceral action scenes and top-notch acting. Some viewers have attributed the film’s brilliance to that of Martin Scorsese’s iconic mobster flicks
There is no discussing Jackie Chan’s best films and the classics of Hong Kong cinema without adding Drunken Master 2 to the list. Directed by Lau Kar-leung, this serves as a sequel to the 1978Drunken Master, which started the story of Wong Feihung. Here, Chan’s character is torn between obeying his father’s wishes or protecting a valuable ancient artifact from a gang of ruthless smugglers. Chan plays the incredible and agile drunken master, despite being almost 40 years old at the time of filming.
The film is brimming with humor, featuring an abundance of action sequences including the drunken boxing and breathtaking stunts. Moreover, it also imparts lessons on the importance of responsibility, discipline, and honor. The plot may be somewhat thin, but it delivers jaw-dropping entertainment that will prove irresistible to any fan of martial arts cinema.
Fallen Angels, written and directed by Wong Kar-wai, features intertwined stories that explore the loneliness and existential crises of characters as they navigate the gritty streets of Hong Kong. It follows the stories of a hitman tired of his job, a woman in love with a hitman, a mute seeking attention through unconventional means, and other side stories that intersect and form meaning at the end.
While this may not be the typical Hong Kong action film, it features stylized and unconventional action sequences that are visually arresting and hard to forget. Wong Kar-wai’s direction and Christopher Doyle and Andrew Lau’s cinematography help to capture the moody and atmospheric vibe of Hong Kong at night.Fallen Angelsis a film that has depth to some, but feels disjointed or confusing to others due to its unconventional structure.
Chungking Express is without doubt one of the best Hong Kong films ever made. It is often celebrated for its artistic and cinematic qualities, which transcend traditional genre boundaries. The film is renowned for its unique storytelling and its profound impact on viewers. Comprising two separate yet interconnected stories, it revolves around love and chance set against the backdrop of the bustling Chungking Mansions in Hong Kong.
These tales feature two cops who are both lonely and heartbroken and somehow form connections with mysterious women who have great impact in their lives. While the plot may seem simple, Wong Kar-wai employs an unconventional narrative structure and fragmented stories to create a dreamlike atmosphere throughout. The film’s emotional depth and surreal qualities are further accentuated by the strong performances and somber soundtrack.
Hard Boiled set the standards for gunplay and cinematic intensity within its genre, solidifying its status as a classic and influential film. Recognized for its groundbreaking action sequences, intricate storyline and Woo’s directorial style, this movie stars Chow Yun-fat and Tony Leung in the lead roles. These talented actors play tough police officers who join forces to dismantle a criminal organization led by Johnny Wong (Anthony Wong). The film combines intense action sequences with character-driven storyline to make this one of Woo’s most iconic creations.
Hard Boiledis an extremely violent film, with its camera skillfully capturing every heightened, stylish, and audacious action moment as it darts around. It feels rather fast and real, with cars exploding, motorcycles blowing up in the air, realistic fight scenes, and a plethora of awesome sequences that continue to blow minds even till date………See More
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