5 Must-Watch 90s Fighting Movies That Pull No Punches and Go All Out

We all love a good action movie, jam packed with chases, often comedy (or dramedy), and with some expertly choreographed fights. But what about fighting movies? Those which feature more combat scenes? These are from the 90s which means we didn’t have much CGI yet, little green screen use, and real stunt players were involved. (Many actors performed their own!) Well, you’re in luck – we have a bunch we like. Whether it’s martial arts, street fighting, or a hearty combination of the two, let’s check out a few intense flicks. 

5 Fighting Movies Which Captivate 

We based our choices off three things: the creativity of the fight, the combat choreography, and the originality of the film’s plot lines. We have selected a few which we think are top contender status. 

“Back in Action” – 1994

Billy Blanks and Roddy Piper team up to save character Billy’s sister from the mobster life she has walked into. (Dating a mob guy will do that.) Blanks and Piper play well off each other and once they team up to take down the bad guys, All bets are off with plenty of battles! 

“Back in Action’s” fight scenes will keep viewers happy. Blank’s presence alone will keep fans interested. He acted and was the inventor of Tae-Bo, which is a blend of Tae Kwon Do and boxing. Piper was known for his days with the WWF (now the WWE) and his wrestling commentary. He most famously appeared in “They Live” as Nada and in “Jungleground.” 

“Hard to Kill” – 1990

Martial artist and actor Steven Seagal absolutely has to be on this list. Known for his string of “three-word titled” movies in the 90s, Seagal not only dominated the action genre, he made himself a name as an actor and a martial artist. He trained in both karate and aikido. 

In “Hard to Kill” Seagal plays Detective Mason Storm, who wakes up after a seven-year long coma. He avenges himself and his family – all while kicking the life out of the bad guys. A satisfying watch, this fighting movie has some outstanding action scenes and features Seagal’s then real-life wife, Kelly LeBrock.  

“Lionheart” – 1990

Out of Belgium comes good things: beer, waffles, dogs, and Jean-Claude Van Damme. Van Damme was another actor who was involved with fighting movies. He’s an adept martial artist, specializing in kickboxing. Prior to appearing in movies like “Timecop,” “Double Impact,” and “Lionheart,” Van Damme worked at a bar owned by the late Chuck Norris.

In “Lionheart” Van Damme plays Lyons, who was a former French soldier. He financially helps out his brother’s family by participating in illegal underground street fights. Those who love action, fast-paced combat scenes, and innovative street fighting techniques will definitely enjoy the flick. 

“Rapid Fire” – 1992 

The late Brandon Lee, best known for his portrayal of Eric in “The Crow,” plays Jake Lo in this fighting movie. Here he is unavoidably caught between two feuding drug gangs. Ultimately Jake teams up with Chicago cop, Mace Ryan, portrayed by the late actor Powers Booth. The two fight the vicious drug cartels and corrupt cops. 

Although “Rapid Fire” is not the most creative in the way of the plot, the fight scenes are beyond excellent, showcasing Lee’s ability. It’s very unfortunate that we lost him at such a young age. The next year on the set of “The Crow” he was accidentally killed from an incorrectly loaded prop gun.

“Sworn to Justice” – 1996

You didn’t think we’d forget about women-led fighting movies, did you? The name Cynthia Rothrock should ring a bell. As one of the pioneering women to star lead in Hong Kong fighting movies, she has earned herself a place as one of the top female martial artists in film.

In movie “Sworn to Justice” Rothrock plays Janna, a therapist who is a professional by day and an avenging vigilante by night. Using her extensive martial arts background and her acting chops, Rothrock shines in this movie. She continues to act today and runs a martial arts school in Southern California.  

Why We Love Fighting Movies

Admittedly, we all like a good flick about getting revenge, putting the bad guys (or gals) away, plus throwing a few punches. These five aforementioned movies are packed with action, have solid fight scenes, and each has a martial artist star worthy of your attention. Get a bucket of popcorn, your favorite beverage, and tune in to one of these fighting movies today.