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Countless incredible martial arts movies have heroes based on real historical figures. As the stories of notable martial artists were intrinsically linked with real history, long-standing myths, and iconic folk legends, it’s no surprise that many real-life people find their way into action-packed martial arts movies. One notable example was Donnie Yen’s portrayal of Yip Man in the Ip Man franchise, but there have been several more acclaimed instances of this across the length and breadth of martial arts cinema.
Some of the greatest martial arts movies ever made use real people as the basis for their stories. Classics of 1970s kung fu cinema have taken the iconic stories of Shaolin monks and blessed audiences with incredible, often heavily altered, representations of real stories. This historical context can add extra depth to martial movies, as the social and political circumstances of the eras they represent become even more resonant through the use of real people with fascinating legacies.
10 Frank Dux
Bloodsport (1989)
Custom Image by Stephanie Maulding Newt Arnold’s martial arts movie Bloodsport felt like the stuff of pure fiction, although viewers may be shocked to learn that Frank Dux, the fighter played by Jean Claude Van Damme, was a real person. Bloodsport told the story of Dux, a United States Army Captain and ninjutsu practitioner, participating in an illegal full-contact martial arts tournament named Kumite in Hong Kong. With intense fight sequences that took bloody battles to their absolute extreme, the fact that Bloodsport claimed to have its origins in truth made it all the more shocking.
The story goes that Bloodsport co-writer Sheldon Lettich knew the real Dux and had listened to many of his outrageous stories, many of which he says later proved to be false (via Asian Movie Pulse.) However, these stories sparked Lettich’s imagination enough to write the movie’s script. Bloodsport became a hit at the box office, kickstarted Van Damme’s career, and has maintained a cult following. The Bloodsport series continued with sequels focusing on other fictional characters, and the real Frank Dux even told his version of his life story in the 1996 memoir The Secret Man.
Jean-Claude Van Damme stars in the martial arts movie Bloodsport as a fictional version of the real-life Frank Dux, a U.S. Army officer who participated in a secret underground martial arts tournament in Hong Kong. Directed by Newt Arnold, the 1988 action film helped establish Van Damme as a Hollywood star.
Director Newt Arnold
Release Date February 26, 1988
Studio(s) Warner Bros. Pictures
Distributor(s) Warner Bros. Pictures
Writers Sheldon Lettich
Cast Jean Claude Van Damme , Leah Ayres , Forest Whitaker , Donald Gibb , Roy Chiao
Runtime 92minutes
Budget $1.5 million
9 Zhang Sanfeng
Tai Chi Master (1993)
Jet Li portrayed the real man Zhang Sanfeng in Tai Chi Master, a legendary Chinese Taoist believed to have invented tai chi. Zhang’s life has become intrinsically linked with myth, as although he was believed to have existed, it’s also said that he achieved immortality (via Pure Insight) in his pursuit of martial arts and spiritual greatness. Tai Chi Master explored Zhang’s life growing up in a Shaolin Temple and participation in an ongoing conflict with the government.
While Tai Chi Master likely fictionalized much of Zhang’s story, it was the thrilling onscreen pairing of Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh that made this depiction truly worthwhile. With a mix of martial arts and comedy, Tai Chi Master showcased the legacy of its protagonist while also carving out an intensely entertaining Wuxia movie. As a mythic figure with endless portrayal potential, Tai Chi Master was just one version of the legendary life of Zhang Sanfeng.
Two friends grow up together in the Shaolin Temple and become great fighters. However, they end up running away from the temple because of their unruly attitudes. Having to live outside the temple, the two friends adapt to the new reality, the financial problems and the tyranny of the exploitative government.
Director Yuen Woo-ping
Release Date November 18, 1993
Studio(s) Eastern Production
Distributor(s) Golden Harvest , Gala Film Distribution
Writers Kim Yip
Runtime 96 Minutes
8 San Te
The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (1978)
The 36th Chamber of Shaolin was a defining film by Shaw Brothers Productions that starred Gordon Liu as a highly fictionalized version of the real monk San Te. Liu’s acclaimed performance showcased this legendary Shaolin martial arts disciple who trained under the general Chi Shan. As one of the most acclaimed kung fu movies of all time, The 36th Chamber of Shaolin was the start of a trilogy that continued to tell stories based around the Shaolin temple in Return to the 36th Chamber and Disciples of the 36th Chamber.
San Te lived in the early 18th century, and although his true history remains mysterious, his martial arts skills were impactful enough that he’s remained an important figure in Shaolin history. While The 36th Chamber of Shaolin was the most famous depiction of San Te’s story, he’s also appeared in countless other kung fu films. Another memorable San Te appearance was in Sammo Hung’s directorial debut, The Iron Fisted Monk.
The 36th Chamber of Shaolin follows Lui, a young man who escapes a Manchu attack and seeks martial arts training to avenge his fallen comrades. Set against the backdrop of anti-Ching resistance, Lui's journey leads him to the Shaolin Monastery, where he undergoes rigorous training.
Director Lau Kar-leung
Release Date February 2, 1978
Writers Ni Kuang
Cast Gordon Liu Chia-hui , Lo Lieh , John Cheung Ng-Long , Wilson Tong , Wa Lun , Hon Kwok-Choi , Lau Kar-Wing , Wai Wang , Chen Szu-Chia , Wong Ching-Ho , Woo Wang-Daat , Lee Hoi-Sang , Keung Hon , Hao Li-Jen , Shum Lo , Lui Tat , Chan Shen , Chiang Nan , Aai Dung-Gwa , Yuen Siu-Tien , Wang Han-Chen , Peter Chan Lung , Henry Yu Yang , Ng Hong-Sang , Norman Chui Siu-Keung
Character(s) Liu Yu-de / Monk San Ta , General Tien Ta , Lord Cheng , Lord Tang San-yao , Liu Yu-de's Classmate , Lin Zhen , General Yin , Teacher Ho , Yien Pin, Teacher Ho's Assistant , Liu Yu-de's Father , Shaolin Abbot , Shaolin Justice Officer , Abbot in Charge of Cleanliness , Abbot in Charge of Top Chamber , Abbot in Charge of Dining Hall , Abbot in Charge of Arm Chamber , Abbot in Charge of Wrist Chamber , Abbot in Charge of Eye Chamber , Abbot in Charge of Head Chamber , Abbot in Charge of Boxing Chamber , Abbot in Charge of Leg Chamber , Abbot in Charge of Staff Chamber / Soldier , Hung Hsi-kuan, San Ta's Student , Tung Qian-jin, San Ta's Student , Lu Ah-cai, San Ta's Student
Runtime 115 minutes
7 Zhao Zilong
Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon (2008)
Zhao Zilong was a military general during the late Eastern Han Dynasty and early Three Kingdoms period of China who was involved in major battles during the 220s AD. As a prominent figure in Chinese and Japanese popular culture, Zhao has been depicted in many movies, most notably by Andy Lau in Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon. This version of Zhao’s story was partially based on the 14th-century Chinese classical novel of the same and tied together the historical records, general perceptions, and legendary status of his life.
Lau captured the essence of General Zhao with his portrayal of the impact of the Northern Expeditions. However, the real historical record of Zhao Zilong, also known as Zhao Yun, remains unclear. Much of his legacy has been influenced by the vast assortment of art, literature, and fictional retellings that have been shared over the past several centuries.
6 Bruce Lee
Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story (1993)
While it is practically certain that any martial arts movie lover will be well aware that Bruce Lee was a real person, since his death in 1973, his legacy has grown so great that he is a martial arts movie hero in his own right. From biopic portrayals in films like Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story to even showing up in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Lee has become a true movie legend whose iconic persona will live on in martial arts cinema for generations to come.
While Lee’s movies like The Big Boss, Fist of Fury, and Enter the Dragon are undisputed classics, actors have also portrayed Lee in modern films like the Ip Man series and the Chinese TV show The Legend of Bruce Lee. With an impact that far exceeded his five leading roles in feature-length Hong Kong martial arts films, it’s astounding that Lee’s legacy today has become as enshrined with myth that he's as notable as any other historical figures or Shaolin monk across martial arts cinema.
Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story is a biographical film depicting Bruce Lee's journey from martial arts training in childhood to establishing a kung-fu school in the United States. The film portrays his discovery by Hollywood and his rapid ascent to stardom as a charismatic action hero.
Director Rob Cohen
Release Date May 7, 1993
Writers Edward Khmara
Cast Jason Scott Lee , Lauren Holly , Robert Wagner , Michael Learned , Nancy Kwan , Lim Kay Tong , Ric Young , Wang Luoyong , Sterling Macer Jr. , Sven-Ole Thorsen , Ong Soo Han , Eric Bruskotter , Aki Aleong , Chao Li Chi , Sam Hau , Iain M. Parker , Michelle Tennant , Clyde Kusatsu , Alicia Tao , Go Shut-Fung , Chan Tat-Kwong , John Lacy , Harry Stanback , Michael Cudlitz , Forry Smith
Character(s) Bruce Lee , Linda Lee , Bill Krieger , Vivian Emery , Gussie Yang , Philip Tan , Bruce's Father , Yip Man , Jerome Sprout , The Demon , Luke Sun , Joe Henderson , Principal Elder , Elder , Young Bruce , Brandon Lee , Shannon Lee , History Teacher , April Chun , Chef , Nunnemacher , Benny Sayles , Tad Overton , Green Hornet
Runtime 119 minutes
5 Wong Kei-ying
Iron Monkey (1993)
While the story of the Chinese folk hero Wong Kei-Ying has often been overshadowed by the looming legacy of his far more frequently depicted son Wong Fei-hung, there have been occasional movies that focus primarily on the older Wong. One prime example of this was Iron Monkey, starring Donnie Yen, which told a fictionalized story of the father and son's encounter with the masked martial artist known as Iron Monkey. This unique take on well-known historical characters was made for thrilling viewing and even achieved wide release in the United States, a rare feat for a Hong Kong martial arts movie.
The real Wong Kei-ying was an important Hung Ga martial arts practitioner and helped open the doors for his son’s astounding legacy. With portrayals in many movies such as the Shaw Brothers Challenge of the Masters and in the Jackie Chan movie Drunken Master, the importance of the father's influence on the son has not been underrated in Hong Kong cinema.
Iron Monkey is a Hong Kong martial arts film set in a corrupt Chinese village, where a masked bandit known as Iron Monkey robs the rich to aid the poor. The story unfolds as a traveling physician is coerced by the local governor into capturing the elusive bandit.
Director Yuen Woo-ping
Release Date September 3, 1993
Writers Elsa Tang Bik-Yin , Tsui Hark
Character(s) Wong Kei-ying , Dr. Yang / Iron Monkey , Miss Orchid / Miss Ho , Wong Fei-hung , Wonder Palm Monk Hin Hung , Governor Cheng Pak Fong , Master Fox , Monk Hin Hung's Disciple , One of the Bad Monks , Governor's Favourite Mistress , Governor's Advisor , Fat rich patient , Chief of Thieves' Gang , Member of thieves' Gang , Constable , Member of thieves' Gang / Constable , Uncredited
Runtime 90 Mins
4 Huo Yuanjia
Fearless (2006)
Huo Yuanjia was a member of the Chin Woo Athletic Association martial arts school in Shanghai and a heroic figure in the fight for Chinese sovereignty during the early 20th century. As a representation of the dignity of the Chinese people in the face of foreign aggression, it’s no surprise that Huo’s story has been featured several times in various film and television productions. While Huo acted as a mentor for Bruce Lee’s character in Fist of Fury, he’s also been the protagonist in many more productions.
The most famous version of Huo’s life story was in Fearless, the kung fu hit starring Jet Li. This story of Chinese pride and nationalism saw Huo stand up for the Chinese people while their culture was being attacked by Western imperialists and told the final years of the Qing dynasty before the birth of the Republic of China. As a defining figure in modern Chinese history, Li’s portrayal of Huo was both acclaimed and criticized as Yuanji’s descendants filed a lawsuit against the movie (via Variety) for perceived historical inaccuracies.
This biopic chronicles the life of Chinese martial arts legend Huo Yuanjia, who rises from personal tragedy and the despair of defeat to inspire his nation. Battling foreign challengers to restore pride, Huo becomes a symbol of Chinese resilience and spirit.
Director Ronny Yu
Release Date January 26, 2006
Writers Chi-long To , Chris Chow
Cast Jet Li , Sun Li , Dong Yong
Runtime 103 minutes
3 Ma Yongzhen
Boxer from Shantung (1972)
Boxer from Shantung was a martial arts film about Ma Yongzhen, a Hui Chinese martial artist who lived during the late Qing dynasty. By taking the real-life circumstances of this well-known fighter, Boxer from Shantung was able to represent the challenges of everyday people as Ma Yongzhen sought fortune in Shanghai and quickly became embroiled in a world of corruption and gang warfare. With plenty of adversaries at hand, Ma Yongzhen was forced to use his fighting skills to protect himself from this newfound cutthroat existence.
As a successful combination of kung fu gangster genres, this depiction of Ma Yongzhen’s story showed how real people’s histories could be used to tell an epic rags-to-riches tale set during the early 20th century. In many ways, Boxer from Shantung was like an Eastern equivalent to Scarface, as the aspirational goals of its character soon turned sour as crime and corruption took hold. As a Shaw Brothers classic, Boxer from Shantung was the most powerful depiction of Ma Yongzhen’s story ever told.
2 Wong Fei-hung
Drunken Master (1978)
Wong Fei-hung was a Chinese martial artist and folk hero whose life story has become the stuff of Chinese legend and whose legacy served as the basis for countless movies. Actors who have portrayed Wong include Gordon Liu, Jackie Chan, Kwan Tak-hing, Jet Li, Vincent Zhao, and Sammo Hung. Chan’s breakout role in Drunken Master from 1978 was famously based on the legend of Wong Fei-hung, as his expertise in Hung Ga martial arts was paired with Chan’s unique slapstick comedy style of martial arts moviemaking.
Over 100 films and television series featuring Wong have been produced, such as Challenge of the Masters with Gordon Liu and Last Hero in China starring Jet Li. Hong Kong actor Kwan Tak-hing starred as Wong in over 70 films and became so associated with the real man that he gained the nickname, Master Wong. As a truly legendary figure, the Wong Fei-hung Memorial Hall was even built in Foshan in 2000 to honor his legacy.
Drunken Master is a martial arts film featuring Jackie Chan as a mischievous young man who is sent to train under a rigorously unorthodox old beggar. Released in 1978, it follows his journey to mastering the Drunken Fist fighting style amidst comedic and action-packed encounters.
Director Yuen Woo-ping
Release Date October 5, 1978
Studio(s) Golden Harvest Company , Seasonal Film Corporation
Distributor(s) New World Pictures
Writers Siao Lung , Ng See-yuen
Character(s) Wong Fei-hung , Beggar So , Yim Tit-sam , Wong Kei-ying , Fei-Hung's Aunt , Professor Kai-Hsien , Da Kuai-Dai , Ying's Student , Chen Kuo-Wei , Li Wan-Hao , Jerry Li , Iron Head Rat , King of Sticks Hsu Ching Tien , Gorilla , Hung's cousin , Master Chao , Restaurant boss's son , Buck-Toothed Waiter , Waiter , Man with Bucket of Greens
Runtime 110 Minutes
1 Yip Man
Ip Man (2008)
Donnie Yen’s portrayal of the Wing Chun grandmaster Ip Man, also known as Yip Man, throughout the Ip Man franchise has turned the character into a modern martial arts movie legend. However, Ip Man was also a real person who trained in the art of Wing Chun from a young age and, after becoming a master, took on students, the most famous of whom was none other than Bruce Lee. Ip Man’s real-life struggles during the Second Sino-Japanese War were explored in the first movie, while later entries fleshed out his life in teaching Hong Kong and personal challenges.
While the epic villain fights seen across the Ip Man franchise may have taken some liberties with the truth, by all accounts, the real Ip was a master of martial arts, as seen by the timeless cinematic skill of his most famous student. Yip has also been portrayed in other movies such as Bruce Lee: The Man, The Myth, or Wong Kar-wai's The Grandmaster, starring Tony Leung. While Yen has been most commonly associated with playing Ip, his legacy was far more wide-reaching than just the Ip Man franchise.
Directed by Wilson Yip, Ip Man is a biographical martial arts film starring Donnie Yen as Ip Man, the legendary Wing Chun grandmaster and mentor to Bruce Lee. Set during the Second Sino-Japanese War, the film depicts Ip Man's efforts to protect his community and preserve his martial arts traditions despite the atrocities of war.
Director Wilson Yip
Release Date December 12, 2008
Writers Edmond Wong
Runtime 106 Minutes
Sources: Asian Movie Pulse, Pure Insight, Variety
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