3 Must-Watch Animated Movies that Feature Martial Arts

Martial Art films have gone from being niche to becoming one of the most popular genres of movies. The credit goes to Bruce Lee for introducing it to international audiences. People love to watch action-packed films where fight sequences and intricate fight choreography are the highlights.

Despite the intense battles being a main feature however, martial art focused movies aren’t all grim-dark. In fact, most modern movies involving Karate, Kung Fu, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Kick Boxing, Muay Thai, etc. are made with a comedic touch. The best examples come from animated movies. Interesting characters, situational comedy, and hilarious fight scenes make these movies complete package.

Today’s post is dedicated to 3 must-watch films that not only are entertaining but also showcase some great combat skills.

Kung Fu Panda (2008)

The Kung Fu Panda franchise consists of three films, Kung Fu Panda, King Fu Panda 2, Kung Fu Panda 3 and an animated series. The plot of all three films is set in ancient China where humanoid animals live. The story of the first movie revolves around an obese giant panda named Po Ping who is prophesied to be the Dragon Warrior. Along the way, he needs to learn from and join the Furious Five (each representing a style of kung fu) to defeat a dangerous enemy. The film features some excellent animation work and incredible fight scenes. The journey of a clumsy, overweight panda to become the greatest kung fu master is worth watching.

Big Hero 6 (2014)

Big Hero 6 is a 3D computer-animated superhero comedy film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios. It’s about a 14-year-old robotics prodigy named Hiro Hamada and a healthcare robot named Baymax. In the movie, Hiro equips the robot with armour containing a battle chip that enables the robot to do karate. The plot revolves around how Hiro and karate-equipped Baymax fight against a masked villain to protect the city. Baymax’s karate movies will steal your heart with their cuteness. It’s a double thumbs-up film for all martial arts lovers.

A Bug’s Life (1998)

Inspired by the classic Kurosawa film, The Seven Samurai, A Bug’s Life tells the story of an ant recruiting what he thinks is an elite group of warriors to protect his colony from greedy grasshoppers. The truth however, is that the ‘elite warriors’ are actually silly and inept circus performers. What follows is a story full of misunderstandings, adventure and a lot of physical comedy.

The powerful influence of the martial arts genre on mainstream animated movies hasn’t stopped with these entries. The latest addition we’re looking forward to is The Lego Ninjago movie scheduled to be released later this year.

So, grab some popcorn and enjoy these entertaining movies while relaxing on your couch. Perhaps you’ll get motivated to join mixed martial arts classes too!

Have fun!