Top 10 Must-Watch Bruce Lee Movies for Every Martial Arts Fan

Bruce Lee changed the way martial arts were portrayed on screen. His films combined raw power, speed, and philosophy, creating a legacy that still inspires fans worldwide. For anyone interested in martial arts or classic action cinema, watching Bruce Lee’s movies is essential. This list highlights ten of his most influential films, each showcasing his unique style and charisma.

Bruce Lee executing a high kick in a classic martial arts stance

1. The Big Boss (1971)

Bruce Lee’s first major film introduced him as a powerful martial artist on screen. The story follows a young man who moves to Thailand and discovers a drug trafficking ring. The film’s intense fight scenes and Lee’s magnetic presence made it a huge success. It set the tone for his career and showed his ability to blend action with drama.

2. Fist of Fury (1972)

Also known as The Chinese Connection, this film features Bruce Lee as a martial artist seeking justice for his master’s death. The movie is famous for its fight choreography and emotional depth. Lee’s performance highlights his skill and determination, making it a must-watch for fans.

3. Way of the Dragon (1972)

Bruce Lee wrote, directed, and starred in this film. It tells the story of a man who travels to Rome to help a family defend their restaurant from gangsters. The movie is best known for the epic fight between Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris in the Colosseum. This scene remains one of the most iconic martial arts battles in cinema history.

The Colosseum in Rome, where Bruce Lee fought Chuck Norris in Way of the Dragon

4. Enter the Dragon (1973)

This film is Bruce Lee’s international breakthrough and one of the most famous martial arts movies ever made. It combines espionage, martial arts tournaments, and personal revenge. Lee’s charisma and fighting skills shine throughout, making it a classic that introduced many Western audiences to kung fu cinema.

5. Game of Death (1978)

Although Bruce Lee passed away before completing this film, Game of Death features some of his most memorable fight scenes. The story follows a martial artist climbing a pagoda, facing different opponents on each level. The yellow jumpsuit Lee wears here has become a symbol of his legacy.

6. The Green Hornet (TV Series, 1966)

While not a movie, this TV series deserves mention. Bruce Lee played Kato, the Green Hornet’s sidekick. His fast-paced fighting style and stunts caught viewers’ attention and helped build his reputation before his film career took off.

7. The Way of the Dragon (Uncut Version)

This version offers additional fight scenes and character moments not seen in the original release. It provides a deeper look at Bruce Lee’s vision and martial arts philosophy, making it valuable for fans who want more than just action.

8. Bruce Lee: The Man and the Legend (1973)

This documentary-style film combines footage from Bruce Lee’s life and career with dramatized scenes. It offers insight into his training, philosophy, and the impact he had on martial arts and cinema.

Bruce Lee’s yellow jumpsuit from Game of Death, symbol of his martial arts legacy

9. Bruce Lee’s Deadly Kung Fu (1976)

This film features archival footage of Bruce Lee’s training and fight scenes from his earlier works. It serves as a tribute to his skills and influence, offering fans a chance to see his techniques in detail.

10. The Orphan (1960)

One of Bruce Lee’s earliest films, The Orphan shows his beginnings as a child actor. While it doesn’t focus on martial arts, it provides context for his development and early exposure to the film industry.

Joseph Fanning is an orange belt in karate. He runs a video gaming, and AI website.