8 - Fist of Legend
I have never been asked 'which martial arts film has the best choreography?' but if I ever was, my answer would be immediate. Fist of Legend. A remake of Bruce Lee's excellent Fist of Fury (AKA. The Chinese Connection), Fist of Legend stars Jet Li and features the most stunning fight choreography ever captured on film. You guessed it, this is the work of Yuen Wo Ping! What makes Fist of Legend stand out is the relatively grounded action. Director Gordon Chan had the sets designed with low ceilings with the specific intention that it would stop Yuen Wo Ping from being able to use the big wire rigs that are his forte. As a result the fights are almost entirely comprised of realistic (by which I mean, not superhuman) martial arts and they are all the better for it. Every fight is amazing as well, from the opening brawl against a group of Karate fighters where Jet Li breaks legs, arms and even dislocates jaws to the final 10 minute brawl with the ever impressive Billy Chow. The film itself is so so, but if you want to experience the most inventive, technical and stunning fight choreography that Hong Kong has to offer, then look no further.
Best bit: Jet Li vs a school of Karate fighters and their sensei.