Sci-fi martial arts movies have carved out a unique niche in cinema by fusing futuristic worlds with amazing fight choreography. As they take the high-tech settings of sci-fi and mix them with the raw power of martial arts, something entirely new comes to life. It’s clear that sci-fi martial arts movies are reinventing the genre by pushing the limits of what action scenes can be, all while offering a fresh take on both realms.
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For newcomers to this exciting world, diving into classic martial arts movies is a great way to grasp the core elements of the distinctive style. Once the science fiction elements are added in, the fight scenes evolve into visually stunning spectacles, whether it’s a fighter wielding an ancient sword or bending the laws of physics. From The Matrix to Everything Everywhere All At Once, these titles are sci-fi and martial arts in perfect sync.
You are watching: 10 Best Sci-Fi Martial Arts Movies Of All Time
10
The Guyver (1991)
Directed by Screaming Mad George and Steve Wang
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The Guyver
PG-13
Action Sci-Fi
The Guyver follows college student Sean Barker who discovers the alien device known as ‘The Guyver’ after the murder of Dr. Tetsu Segawa, a researcher for the enigmatic Chronos Corporation. As FBI agent Max Reed investigates, Sean becomes entangled in a conflict involving the corporation’s dark secrets.
Release Date
March 18, 1991
Runtime
88 minutes
Cast
Jack Armstrong
, Mark Hamill
, Greg Joung Paik
, Jimmie Walker
, Peter Spellos
, Michael Berryman
, Spice Williams-Crosby
, Johnnie Saiko
, Vivian Wu
, Deborah Gorman
, Danny Gibson
, Willard E. Pugh
, David Gale
, ‘Evil’ Ted Smith
, Doug Simpson
, Jeffrey Combs
, Linnea Quigley
, Michael Deak
Director
Screaming Mad George
, Steve Wang
Main Genre
Sci-Fi
Writers
Joe Woo Jr.
, Jon Purdy
, Yoshiki Takaya
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The Guyver is a sci-fi martial arts cult classic, and for good reason. Notably, although it might not be at the top of everyone’s list of the greatest movies, it’s still an influential title that masterfully blends martial arts with a hefty dose of sci-fi. The story is loosely based on Yoshiki Takaya’s manga series of the same name. It follows Sean (Jack Armstrong), who fuses himself with a bio-armor called “the Guyver,” causing mayhem once he activates it.
For some reason, the movie’s DVD artwork features Mark Hamill as the character who merges with the Guyver. However, despite Hamill being the most recognizable name in the cast, it’s actually Jack Armstrong who plays the role.
First and foremost, the movie features plenty of martial arts action, mixing traditional hand-to-hand combat and sci-fi-enhanced moves. While the choreography isn’t as polished as some of its peers’, it’s fast, intense, and packed with that gritty ’90s action that makes it a guilty pleasure for fans. Despite its flaws, The Guyver is a blast for what it is, which is fun, campy, and over the top.
9
Mortal Kombat (2021)
Directed by Simon McQuoid
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9/10
Mortal Kombat
R
ActionFantasyAdventure
In this 2021 adaptation of the classic video game franchise, Mortal Kombat follows MMA fighter Cole Young, who finds himself targeted by Outworld’s Emperor Shang Tsung, who has sent his best warrior, Sub-Zero, an otherworldly Cryomancer, to hunt him down. Learning of his heritage, he finds himself joining the likes of special forces members Sonya Blade, Jackson “Jax” Briggs, and others as they discover they may be Earth’s last line of defense from a hellish invasion from another realm.
Release Date
April 23, 2021
Runtime
110 minutes
Cast
Jessica McNamee
, Matilda Kimber
, Mehcad Brooks
, Lewis Tan
, Sisi Stringer
, Joe Taslim
, Daniel Nelson
, Hiroyuki Sanada
, Chin Han
, Max Huang
, Laura Brent
, Tadanobu Asano
, Elissa Cadwell
, Ludi Lin
, Josh Lawson
Director
Simon McQuoid
Main Genre
Action
Writers
Dave Callaham
, Greg Russo
Studio(s)
Atomic Monster Productions
, Broken Road Productions
, New Line Cinema
Distributor(s)
Warner Bros. Pictures
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When it comes to video game adaptations, Mortal Kombat was highly anticipated for its iconic fight scenes. The franchise is famous for its brutal battles, and it’s safe to say that the 2001 movie lived up to the legacy of its iconic predecessors. However, while Mortal Kombat reviews have praised the bloody action, its story was deemed lackluster.
| Title | Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|---|---|---|
| Mortal Kombat (2021) | 55% | 85% |
Still, Mortal Kombat shines in its fight choreography and thus deserves a place in the sci-fi martial arts hall of fame. Whether it’s Scorpion vs. Sub-Zero or its many other savage brawls, the movie stayed true to the blood-soaked nature of the video games, delivering over-the-top violence and intense combat, all with the iconic characters we love. Its unique blend of martial arts and sci-fi elements makes it a defining entry in the ever-developing genre, even if it doesn’t have the depth of some other titles in the exclusive club.
8
TimeCop (1994)
Directed by Peter Hyams
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8.5/10
Timecop
R
Sci-Fi
Timecop is a science fiction action film featuring an officer from a time travel regulatory security agency. He faces a treacherous pursuit by a corrupt politician with connections to his past, amidst a backdrop of temporal manipulation and intrigue.
Release Date
September 16, 1994
Runtime
99 minutes
Cast
Jean-Claude Van Damme
, Mia Sara
, Ron Silver
, Bruce McGill
, Gloria Reuben
, Scott Bellis
, Jason Schombing
, Scott Lawrence
, Kenneth Welsh
, Brent Woolsey
, Brad Loree
, Shane Kelly
, Richard Faraci
, Steven Lambert
, Kevin McNulty
, J.J. Makaro
, Yves Cameron
, David Jacox
, Jacob Rupp
, Sean O’Byrne
, Gabrielle Rose
, Malcolm Stewart
Director
Peter Hyams
Studio(s)
Warner Bros. Pictures
Distributor(s)
Universal Pictures
, Warner Bros. Pictures
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Directed by Peter Hyams, TimeCop is one of those classic ’90s sci-fi action films that blends time travel, martial arts, and a bit of mystery. It’s also Jean-Claude Van Damme’s highest-grossing movie of all time, featuring the Muscles from Brussels at his very best. As the lead, Van Damme is in top form with his signature martial arts moves, with his performance standing out as one of the movie’s highlights.
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Set in a future where time travel is a reality, TimeCop follows Max Walker, a police officer who regulates the process and prevents its misuse. While investigating a crime, he uncovers a conspiracy that ties directly to his own past. Upon its release, critics appreciated TimeCop’s entertaining mix of genres, which continues to ring true to this day. The sci-fi elements, though not groundbreaking, were a fun and meaningful addition to the creative combat sequences, making it a major hit in the realm.
7
Equilibrium (2002)
Directed by Kurt Wimmer
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Equilibrium
R
ActionDramaSci-Fi
Equilibrium is a science fiction film directed by Kurt Wimmer, starring Christian Bale as John Preston in a dystopian future where emotions are suppressed through mandatory medication. In his role as a top-ranking government enforcer, Preston begins to question the regime he serves. The film explores themes of emotion, control, and resistance in a society that forbids human feeling.
Release Date
December 6, 2002
Runtime
107 Minutes
Cast
Christian Bale
, Sean Bean
, Emily Watson
, Taye Diggs
, Dominic Purcell
, Christian Kahrmann
, John Keogh
, Sean Pertwee
Director
Kurt Wimmer
Main Genre
Sci-Fi
Writers
Kurt Wimmer
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Surprisingly, Equilibrium did not make waves at the box office when it was released. However, in retrospect, it feels as if the dystopian sci-fi thriller set the stage for John Wick, particularly when it comes to their signature combat styles. While gun-kata wasn’t exactly groundbreaking at the time, Equilibrium made it feel fresh.
Starring Christian Bale, the setting is classic dystopia, but Equilibrium brings something new to the table. Instead of the typical post-apocalyptic chaos, you get a sterile, controlled society where feelings are illegal and everything is in perfect order. Overall, the movie is fast, stylish, and was unlike anything else at the time of its release. However, some might argue that using guns isn’t truly considered a martial art, and they’d have a point. Equilibrium is more like a blend of martial arts and bullet ballet, which is impressive in its own right.
6
The One (2001)
Directed by James Wong
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The One
Sci-Fi
The One is a science fiction action film directed by James Wong. Released in 2001, it stars Jet Li as Gabriel Yulaw, a rogue Multiverse agent who travels between parallel universes to become the strongest and most powerful by eliminating alternate versions of himself. The film also features performances by Carla Gugino and Delroy Lindo, who aid in the relentless pursuit to stop Yulaw’s destructive path.
Release Date
November 2, 2001
Runtime
87 Minutes
Cast
Jet Li
, Carla Gugino
, Delroy Lindo
Director
James Wong
Combining martial arts with mind-bending multiverse theory is evidently the recipe for a masterclass in stylish action, which The One arguably is. The 2001 sci-fi movie features Jet Li as nine different characters, which was quite an innovative concept for its time. The premise of the movie is also as wild as it sounds — in a future where parallel universes exist, a mysterious force is hunting down alternate versions of Gabriel Yulaw (played by Li).
[The One is] just cool enough to keep audiences entertained with impressive kicks, yet not so serious that it demands deep thinking.
Still, despite not being a cinematic masterpiece, The One doesn’t actually try to be anything other than an action-packed thrill ride, and it succeeds in delivering just that. It’s just cool enough to keep audiences entertained with impressive kicks, yet not so serious that it demands deep thinking. For fans of sci-fi, action, and martial arts, it remains a must-watch, if only for Li’s stunning moves.
5
Zu: Warriors From The Magic Mountain (1983)
Directed by Tsui Hark
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Directed by Tsui Hark, one of Hong Kong’s most renowned filmmakers, Zu: Warriors From the Magic Mountain is a wild adventure that pushes the boundaries of martial arts cinema. Think kung fu, magic, and flying warriors, all wrapped in a beautifully bizarre narrative. Set in ancient China’s mystical Zu Mountain, the plot centers on a group of warriors who are on a mission to stop an evil force that threatens to upset the balance of the universe.
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Even though it’s rarely talked about in the movie industry, Zu’s mix of magical elements, epic battles, and groundbreaking special effects helped pave the way for future martial arts films and fantasy epics. At the same time, the movie doesn’t take itself too seriously, and yet, it offers visually striking action that still holds up as a prime example of early sci-fi martial arts cinema.
4
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990)
Directed by Steve Barron
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990)
PG
ActionAdventure
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990) follows four mutant turtles trained in ninjitsu who emerge from the sewers to fight crime in New York City. The film features Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael as they battle the nefarious Shredder and his Foot Clan. Judith Hoag stars as reporter April O’Neil, and Elias Koteas appears as vigilante Casey Jones. This adaptation brought the beloved comic book and cartoon series to live-action cinema.
Release Date
March 30, 1990
Runtime
93 Minutes
Cast
Brian Tochi
, Josh Pais
, Corey Feldman
, Robbie Rist
, Kevin Clash
, David McCharen
, Michael McConnohie
, James Saito
, judith hoag
, Elias Koteas
Director
Steve Barron
Main Genre
Action
Writers
Todd W. Langen
, Bobby Herbeck
Studio(s)
Golden Harvest Entertainment Company
, Limelight Productions
, 888 Productions
Distributor(s)
New Line Cinema
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles might’ve originated as a comic book, but the group grew into something way bigger once they reached the big screen. The 1990 live-action version continues to be wildly fun and unexpectedly spunky, and is still one of the most iconic martial arts flicks to ever blend sci-fi with ninja action.
Notably, TMNT mixes its over-the-top premise with some serious fight choreography, making it not only a high-octane adventure but also a title that fans of martial arts can’t get enough of. It does all this with a sci-fi twist (we’re talking about mutants here), which is pure ’90s gold. In short, TMNT is more than a kids’ movie or a mere comic book adaptation. It’s a thrilling mix of martial arts, sci-fi, and teenage angst that resonates with fans of all ages and stands as one of the coolest movies of its time.
3
Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022)
Directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert
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19
8.7/10
Everything Everywhere All at Once
R
AdventureComedyAction
In Everything Everywhere All at Once, a middle-aged laundromat owner (Michelle Yeoh) is distracted from her financial and family issues by a multiversal crisis. With just her husband (Ke Huy Quan) to support her through the confusion, she must contend with her overbearing traditional father (James Hong), a pencil-pushing auditor (Jamie Lee Curtis), and her emotionally-distant daughter (Stephanie Hsu).
Release Date
March 25, 2022
Runtime
132 minutes
Cast
Jenny Slate
, Ke Huy Quan
, Stephanie Hsu
, Harry Shum Jr.
, Jamie Lee Curtis
, James Hong
, Michelle Yeoh
Director
Daniel Kwan
, Daniel Scheinert
Writers
Daniel Scheinert
, Daniel Kwan
Sometimes a movie comes along that feels completely unique, and Everything Everywhere All at Once is exactly that. The thing is, it doesn’t just dabble in martial arts and sci-fi, but it smashes them together in a way that’s brilliantly chaotic, unexpectedly heartfelt, and full of kinetic, mind-blowing action. It’s the perfect choice for anyone who loves a good fight scene with a multiversal twist, or just a great movie in general.
|
Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|---|---|---|
|
Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022) |
94% |
79% |
The action here goes beyond punches and kicks, featuring inventive choreography with everyday objects as weapons. From fanny pack battles to absurd props, each fight is as surreal as it is thrilling. The movie won several Oscars, while Michelle Yeoh delivered some of her best fight scenes in a career-defining role. With no doubt about it, Everything Everywhere All at Once is a visual feat, a groundbreaking cinematic experience, and a true modern masterpiece.
2
Big Trouble In Little China (1986)
Directed by John Carpenter
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8.6/10
Big Trouble in Little China
PG-13
ActionAdventureComedyFantasy
Big Trouble in Little China is a 1986 action comedy directed by John Carpenter. Kurt Russell stars as Jack Burton, a truck driver who attempts to rescue his friend Wang Chi’s fiancée from the clutches of an evil sorcerer named David Lo Pan.
Release Date
May 30, 1986
Runtime
99 minutes
Cast
Kurt Russell
, Kim Cattrall
, Dennis Dun
, James Hong
, Victor Wong
, Kate Burton
Director
John Carpenter
Writers
Gary Goldman
, David Z. Weinstein
, W.D. Richter
Studio(s)
20th Century
Distributor(s)
20th Century
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Not only is Big Trouble in Little China one of the best fantasy martial arts movies of the 1980s, but it blazed the trail for contemporary titles of the genre. Its fearless combination of martial arts, sci-fi, and humor proved that one could mix all of those in unpredictable ways and still create something iconic.
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Starring Kurt Russell as Jack Burton, a trucker with more confidence than competence, the movie delivers an epic battle of good versus evil. With ancient magic, lightning-wielding villains, and creepy subterranean monsters, Big Trouble dives headfirst into the sci-fi realm. The entire film feels like a magical kung fu fever dream where nothing makes perfect sense, but everything is ridiculously fun, which is probably why we keep coming back to it. In a genre filled with serious warriors and clear-cut plots, Big Trouble carved itself a permanent spot in pop culture history.
1
The Matrix (1999)
Directed by Lana and Lilly Wachowski
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30
9.4/10
The Matrix
R
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
The Matrix, directed by the Wachowskis, stars Keanu Reeves as Neo, a hacker who discovers that reality is a simulated construct controlled by intelligent machines. Laurence Fishburne and Carrie-Anne Moss co-star as Morpheus and Trinity, who help Neo navigate and ultimately challenge the artificial world. The film blends action, philosophy, and groundbreaking visual effects, establishing itself as a pivotal entry in the science fiction genre.
Release Date
March 31, 1999
Runtime
136 minutes
Cast
Keanu Reeves
, Laurence Fishburne
, Carrie-Anne Moss
, Hugo Weaving
, Gloria Foster
, Joe Pantoliano
Director
Lana Wachowski
, Lilly Wachowski
Main Genre
Action
Writers
Lilly Wachowski
, Lana Wachowski
Expand
The Matrix is unquestionably the best cyberpunk martial arts movie of all time. Directed by the Wachowski sisters, it’s famous not just for its reality-shifting concept, but also for blending martial arts and sci-fi in a way that would influence an entire generation of filmmakers. While it built on the popularity of titles that pioneered gun-fu, such as The Killer and Hard Boiled, The Matrix brought it to Hollywood with a bang.
However, it’s important to note that the sci-fi elements in The Matrix go beyond simply providing a cool backdrop for martial arts fights. Instead, they drive the story forward and add layers of meaning as the film progresses. The combination of mind-bending technology and top-tier martial arts choreography was revolutionary for 1999, and the way it was executed still sets The Matrix apart from any other title in the sci-fi genre.
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Category: Entertainment