Unleash the Action: 10 Must-Watch Martial Arts Shows on Netflix Right Now!

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If you’re fed up with the limited duration of action in movies at the theater, here’s something exciting for those who appreciate violence: Netflix offers an extensive collection of martial arts TV series, keeping you entertained for hours with countless fight scenes! Although these shows are often praised critically, it’s likely that you’re more interested in shouting “Ouch!” repeatedly. So, grab your popcorn and enjoy the action-packed sequences filled with punches, kicks, and other gun-free excitement!

Netflix may have overlooked the “do not attempt” warning, so remember that caution is key when watching. Many actions depicted on screen could entice you to imitate a Bruce Lee stance or confront those with negative intentions, but exercise caution. Such activities are not suitable for everyone. Only individuals who have received proper training should attempt these feats.

Here are all the best small-screen martial arts shows on Netflix.

10
‘Wu Assassins’ (2019)

Experiencing Iko Uwais’ exceptional performance in “The Raid” left me in awe. Now, imagine the spectacle if he were endowed with superpowers! In the series “Wu Assassins,” Kai Jin (Uwais), a chef in bustling modern-day San Francisco’s Chinatown, crosses paths with a mystical entity that bestows upon him the prowess of a thousand monks. This newly acquired power places upon him an important mission: to retrieve the supernatural abilities of five formidable criminals whose nefarious plans threaten global harmony.

Taking the Heat Out of the Kitchen

As a passionate film aficionado, I’ve always found that realism in the martial arts genre can sometimes feel constraining. However, this gritty, supernaturally themed series offers a captivating escape from the ordinary. The charismatic Iko Uwais once again showcases why he is one of the world’s most underestimated action stars, gracefully carrying the show on his shoulders. He’s ably assisted by an array of gifted actors, such as Lee Jun Li from Quantico, Lewis Tan known for Deadpool and Wolverine, and Tommy Flanagan of Sons of Anarchy. Despite the series only having one season, fear not! The sequel film, A Fistful of Vengeance, is equally enthralling.

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9
‘The Brothers Sun’ (2024)

As a movie reviewer, I found myself engrossed by the gripping storyline of “The Brothers Sun.” Charles Sun, portrayed brilliantly by Justin Chien, doesn’t flee when his father, a formidable figure in the Taiwanese triad, is gunned down. Instead, he embarks on a journey to Los Angeles with a singular purpose: to safeguard his mother, Eileen (played by the remarkable Michelle Yeoh), who has chosen to distance herself from their empire, and his naive younger brother, Bruce (Sam Song Li). Unbeknownst to Bruce, he is part of a criminal dynasty.

A Family That Fights Together, Stays Together

Finding a high-quality martial arts series starring an A-list actor is uncommon; let Netflix bring one our way. Michelle Yeoh’s expertise in action scenes, demonstrated in numerous films, makes her an excellent lead. The supporting cast, such as Joon Lee portraying a drug dealer, adds depth to the overall narrative of family bonds. Keep an eye out for the stunning opening fight scene set inside an apartment – it’s the kind of creative idea that even the writers of John Wick might envy.

8
‘House of Ninjas’ (2024)

The story of House of Ninjas presents us with the Tawara family, who are the last descendants of a ninja clan in their lineage but have given up their warrior ways due to a heartbreaking past incident and now manage a sake brewery instead. However, when the Fuma clan devises a plot that jeopardizes Japan’s future, the Tawaras are compelled to return to their fighting roots.

Standing Up Against Evil

In this instance, Dave Boyle’s debut TV show is an impressive achievement for him and all involved. Here, he yet again offers an engaging, suspenseful narrative that is original, motivating, and occasionally surreal. The fight sequences are flawless, and the cinematographer’s distinct style of capturing Japanese landscapes effectively conveys the inherent risks. A visit to the House of Ninjas will leave you yearning to sign up for a Ninjutsu course.

7
‘The Legend of Bruce Lee’ (2008)

The Legend of Bruce Lee presents a biographical narrative of the most renowned martial arts film legend ever. Featuring Danny Chan portraying Lee, the series delves into his past as a defiant teenager, exploring his battles with injuries and shedding light on how he developed Jeet Kune Do.

Comprehensive and Satisfying

In addition to its engrossing screenplay, stunning costume design, and authentic Asian backdrops, the performances at the heart of the series truly stand out. The chemistry between Chan and Michelle Lang (portraying Lee’s lover, Linda Lee Cadwell) is nothing short of radiant. Notable contributions from martial arts veterans like Michael Jai White and Mark Dacascos further enrich the entire production. The narrative itself is skillfully crafted, striking a balance between emotional depth and iconic moments that will leave a lasting impact.

6
‘Baki’ (2018)

In the storyline, we follow Baki Hanma, a promising young martial artist who aspires to surpass his father’s abilities. Simultaneously, five convicts from death row manage to break free and join an underworld fighting competition. Unsurprisingly, Baki also signs up for this tournament, facing numerous challenges along the way.

No Holds Barred

This production primarily focuses on intense combat sequences, interspersed with captivating character development. The protagonist is a relatable figure, neither overly dramatic nor comical, but competent and well-rounded. For martial arts enthusiasts who prefer to observe from the comfort of their armchairs, this show offers unrelenting, insightful coverage of the individual fights, making it an engaging choice even for those who typically don’t find animated productions particularly appealing.

5
‘Into the Badlands’ (2015 – 2019)

In a future characterized by dystopia, society has shunned firearms and instead relies on hand-to-hand combat and crossbows as primary means of warfare. The series Into the Badlands unfolds within this setting. Our protagonist, Sunny (Daniel Wu), is a skilled warrior who remains fiercely devoted to his ruling baron. However, his allegiance is put to the test when he encounters a mysterious boy, endowed with an unusual energy that can be channeled into a formidable weapon.

Martial Arts as the Only Option

Alfred Gough, known for creating “Smallville”, is at the helm and takes the action to thrilling heights in this captivating series. As the title suggests, this isn’t just a deserted wasteland; it’s truly a lawless territory. The characters clash (often without reason), as if they’ve harbored grudges for years. Moreover, most of the actors pour their heart and soul into their roles, making each character endearing to new audiences.

4
‘Word of Honor’ (2021)

The Wuxia series titled “Word of Honor” revolves around Zhang Zhehan’s character, Zhou Zishu, who was once the head of an elite assassin team but stepped down due to remorse over his past deeds. Later, he encounters Gong Jun’s character, Wen Kexing, who is seeking revenge against a notorious criminal mastermind. As their relationship deepens, Zhou Zishu finds himself increasingly drawn into Wen Kexing’s quest for vengeance.

Jumping Back to the Old Life

From a passionate cinephile’s perspective, each episode in this series takes a unique spin. Some lean more towards character development and intricate dialogues, bypassing the need for excessive violence. Yet, others delve deeper into the violent aspects. Regardless of the direction, it all resonates profoundly, owing to its clever, subtly impactful script and commendable performances. The tranquil exchanges between Zishu and Kexing are brimming with thought-provoking dialogues, and after these scenes, fresh twists keep unfolding. Simply unforgettable!

3
‘Tekken Bloodline’ (2022)

It’s a relief that Tekken: Bloodline belongs to the group of quality video game adaptations, unlike many others. In this series, we follow Jin Kazama who seeks guidance from his tough-as-nails grandfather after his mother tragically falls victim to the fearsome ancient demon called Ogre. As his abilities grow, it’s time for action!

Time to Play

This six-episode series, bursting with delightful insanity, showcases an extraordinary blend of animation and storytelling. Yoshikazu Miyao, the mastermind behind its direction, skillfully employs the games as a visual and stylistic foundation, making the entire tale visually appealing. Additionally, Kazama, reminiscent of characters from Brucesploitation films, transforms from a shy child to a relentless fighter seeking vengeance. Despite being utterly absurd… it’s simply brilliant.

2
‘Warrior’ (2019 – 2023)

The show isn’t titled “Warrior” based on Hannibal Barca, but rather it revolves around Ah Sahm (Andrew Koji), an accomplished martial artist, who arrives in America amidst the Tong Wars to search for his lost sister. Unfortunately, upon arrival, he is bought by one of the criminal underworld factions. However, given his combat skills, he should be able to cope with this new situation.

Mayhem in the 1870s

Title character Jonathan Tropper’s creation, Banshee, leaves little room for doubt about its content. This series, endorsed by Bruce Lee’s daughter, is inspired by a concept that the martial arts icon had conceived prior to his demise. Not surprisingly, they cast an actor who embodies him in essence and fighting technique. The visuals are equally captivating, reminiscent of Peaky Blinders, but fear not; there’s no excessive smoke here.

1
‘Cobra Kai’ (2018 – 2025)

Cobra Kai continues the storyline from The Karate Kid films by Robert Mark Kamen. The series focuses on the intense competition between two former participants of the 1984 All Valley Karate Championship.

Cooler than the Movies

Without a doubt, one of the top action series of the 21st century, “Cobra Kai” excels by blending action and comedy. It doesn’t get bogged down with excessive seriousness. The show leans more towards sports rather than violence, yet the action it offers surpasses what’s typically seen in bigger-budget productions. The creators of this successful series also recognize that striking moments are crucial, and they deliver them abundantly. One scene that truly stands out is a 10-minute long high school fight, which unfolds during the Season 2 finale.

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2025-03-29 21:02