Sammo Hung has established himself as a pioneering figure in Hong Kong martial arts cinema, especially through his work in films that do not feature his well-known collaborator Jackie Chan. Throughout the 1980s and beyond, Hung’s contributions as both an actor and director significantly influenced the development of the genre, showcasing his unique fighting style and storytelling approach.
By focusing on projects where Hung is the primary star or creative force, this list highlights ten essential Sammo Hung kung fu movies that have left a lasting legacy on martial arts filmmaking and cemented his status as a leading innovator in Hong Kong cinema.
A Surreal Fantasy Battle in Zu Warriors From The Magic Mountain
Released in 1983, Zu Warriors From The Magic Mountain is a standout fantasy martial arts film that blends otherworldly elements with traditional kung fu action. Set against the backdrop of a mystical battle between good and evil, the film stars Hung as one of the valiant warriors combating dark supernatural forces that threaten the world.
The film is remarkable for its inventive combination of classic Hong Kong action choreography and early Western-style special effects, which together create a visually striking and immersive fantasy universe. Although its narrative occasionally leans towards the unusual, the movie’s imaginative fight scenes and magical atmosphere captivate audiences, making it a defining title among 1980s martial arts fantasies.
Millionaires Express: A Chaotic and Comedic Martial Arts Western
Sammo Hung took the helm as director and lead actor in 1986’s Millionaires Express, a film that expertly merges martial arts with the aesthetics and themes of a Western. Featuring a colorful ensemble cast including Yuen Biao, Peter Chan, James Tien, and Lau Kar-wing, the movie skillfully blends humor, action, and quirky characters to deliver a dynamic cinematic experience.
Despite the film’s complex set of interwoven storylines and eccentric figures, Hung’s direction ensures that Millionaires Express maintains a coherent and entertaining flow. Its chaotic energy and lively fight sequences keep viewers engaged throughout this vibrant ode to Hong Kong action cinema.
Kill Zone (SPL): A Modern Martial Arts Thriller Featuring Hung and Donnie Yen
The 2005 movie Kill Zone, originally titled SPL: Sha Po Lang, is a gritty action thriller centered on a violent clash between law enforcement and organized crime. The film’s gripping storyline pits Sammo Hung’s triad boss Wong Po against Donnie Yen and Simon Yam, who play determined police inspectors intent on bringing him to justice.
Balancing intense, meticulously choreographed fight scenes with a dark narrative, Kill Zone revitalized modern Hong Kong action films. Hung’s participation alongside martial arts legend Donnie Yen underscores the film’s authentic combat sequences and layered fighting styles, contributing to its reputation as a standout entry in the SPL series.
Knockabout: Martial Arts and Comedy Blend in a Tale of Two Brothers
In 1979’s Knockabout, which Hung both directed and acted in, the story follows two con-artist brothers, Yipao (Yuen Biao) and Taipao (Bryan Leung), caught in a web of revenge and martial arts tutelage. Hung plays Fat Beggar, a kung fu master who trains Yipao to prepare for confrontation with their enemies.
Though its plot is straightforward, the film excels through its seamless integration of humor and action, with training scenes that are both convincing and engaging. Knockabout displays Hung’s characteristic comedic timing meshed with his exceptional fight choreography, making it a standout film worthy of recognition despite its relatively modest acclaim.
Pedicab Driver: A Story of Courage and Romance with Exceptional Fight Scenes
Pedicab Driver (1989) pairs Sammo Hung with Max Mok as two rickshaw drivers who each fall in love and join forces to rescue their beloved from harsh employment conditions. The film balances romantic storytelling with award-worthy fight sequences that stand out as some of the most inventive in the martial arts genre.
The choreography in Pedicab Driver is precise and innovative, showcasing Hung’s skill in both crafting and executing combat scenes that are visually dynamic. The film features Lau Kar-leung, a legendary martial artist and filmmaker, whose performance adds depth and credibility to the movie’s martial arts legacy.
Encounters of the Spooky Kind: Pioneering Kung Fu Horror Comedy
Combining elements of kung fu, comedy, and horror, 1980’s Encounters of the Spooky Kind is a bizarre yet influential film in Sammo Hung’s oeuvre. The story revolves around Hung’s character, Bold Cheung, who is deceived into spending the night in a haunted temple, leading to encounters with various supernatural entities.
This film popularized the presence of jiangshi—hopping reanimated corpses from Chinese folklore—in Hong Kong cinema, fusing martial arts combat with humorous and eerie scenes. Hung’s involvement as actor, director, and writer helped establish this genre-mixing style as a notable trend within Hong Kong film during this era.
Ip Man 2: Hung as a Ferocious Opponent in a Martial Arts Masterpiece
Ip Man 2 (2010) builds upon the success of its predecessor with heightened action and tension. The movie follows Donnie Yen’s Wing Chun master as he confronts various formidable fighters, including Hung’s character, Hung Chun-nam, who plays an important role despite being a supporting figure.
The film features one of the most memorable fight scenes in recent martial arts history, where Hung and Yen engage in an intricately choreographed duel atop a round table. Their seamless execution underscores the high level of martial arts expertise both actors bring to the screen, making Ip Man 2 a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Warriors Two: Authentic Wing Chun and Sharp Choreography in a Classic
Released in 1978, Warriors Two spotlights the historical Wing Chun master Leung Jan as he teaches kung fu to friends played by Casanova Wong and Sammo Hung. Hung’s involvement extended beyond acting, as he also directed and wrote the film, infusing it with his distinctive creative touch.
The movie stands out for its authentic representation of Wing Chun martial arts and its intelligent fight choreography, which sets it apart from other similar 1970s martial arts films. The detailed combat sequences contribute to the film’s reputation as a classic within the kung fu canon.
The Magnificent Butcher: A Comedy-Infused Martial Arts Classic
Directed by Yuen Woo-ping, The Magnificent Butcher (1979) stars Sammo Hung as Lam Sai-wing, a student of the legendary martial artist Wong Fei-hung. The film follows a familiar revenge plot common to martial arts cinema of the time but distinguishes itself through Hung’s blend of excellent fight choreography and comedic performance.
The film is celebrated for balancing humor with intense martial arts action, delivering a fresh perspective on the genre. Hung’s lead role and the knock-out fight sequences make The Magnificent Butcher an essential movie for appreciating his contributions to martial arts film history.
The Prodigal Son: Hung’s Supporting Role in a Martial Arts Narrative of Growth
Although Sammo Hung plays a smaller part in The Prodigal Son (1981), acting as one of two martial artists who mentor Yuen Biao’s character Leung Chang, his presence is nevertheless significant. The story follows Leung Chang’s journey of realization and skill development as a kung fu practitioner.
The Prodigal Son is notable for its authentic and precise fight choreography, which complements the compelling narrative and character development. This combination results in a memorable martial arts film that further showcases Hung’s talent as part of an outstanding cinematic experience.
Sammo Hung’s kung fu movies without Jackie Chan emphasize his versatility and innovation as a martial artist and filmmaker. Each film on this list has contributed uniquely to Hong Kong cinema, demonstrating Hung’s ability to blend humor, action, and authentic martial arts. These works continue to influence contemporary filmmakers and remain essential viewing for enthusiasts looking to understand the evolution of martial arts movies beyond Chan’s collaborations.
