14 Best Iko Uwais Movies Ranked 2023 (Surprise Inclusions!)

Are you wondering what the best Iko Uwais movies are?

In this article, we’ll list the 14 best Iko Uwais movies and provide information on the plot, the martial arts used, and some of the best scenes you can look forward to.

Best Iko Uwais Movies

When you think of modern martial arts cinema, Iko Uwais stands out with his performances and his mastery of Pencak Silat.

Through these 14 movies, we see Uwais evolve from a budding martial artist to a global icon. Each movie, rich in action and emotion, adds to his growing legacy as one of the best martial arts actors.

Without further ado, here are the 14 best Uko Uwais movies since his acting career began in 2009.

1. The Raid: Redemption (2011)

>IMDB Rating: 7.6

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 87%

In Jakarta’s gritty slums, an old apartment becomes a hideout for dangerous criminals. When Rama (Iko Uwais) and his SWAT team storm the place, they’re caught in a lethal trap. 

Iko Uwais delivers intense fights that keep viewers gripped with his Pencak Silat skills and brilliant acting.

A standout scene is the hallway brawl, where Rama takes on a horde of enemies in a relentless, pulse-pounding sequence. The choreography is tight, the strikes are brutal, and Uwais’s precision and skill shine through.

This film is more than just an action movie; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the lengths one will go to protect their comrades. A must-watch for martial arts enthusiasts and action junkies alike.

2. The Raid 2 (2014)

>IMDB Rating: 7.9

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 82%

The Raid 2 delves deeper into the treacherous maze of Jakarta’s criminal underworld. As Rama goes undercover, he finds himself entangled in a web of deceit and betrayal. Portrayed with intense depth by Iko Uwais, Rama grapples with the thin line between friend and foe.

As the narrative unfolds, we witness Rama’s evolution – not just as a formidable fighter, but also as a strategist navigating the murky waters of gang politics.

An exceptional scene is the prison yard mud fight, where Rama battles multiple adversaries in a muddy, rain-soaked arena – it’s unlike any scene you’ve seen before.

The choreography is intricate, and the setting adds a layer of complexity, making it one of the most memorable fight scenes in modern cinema.

With a gripping storyline and jaw-dropping action sequences, this film solidifies Iko Uwais’s status as a martial arts legend.

3. The Night Comes For Us (2018)

>IMDB Rating: 6.9

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 91%

In the grimy underbelly of Southeast Asia’s criminal world, a former triad enforcer, Ito (Joe Taslim), goes rogue, triggering a violent battle with his former comrades and the deadly assassin Arian, played by the formidable Iko Uwais.

This film is a departure from the traditional martial arts genre, blending elements of gore and horror. Uwais’s character, Arian, is a force to be reckoned with, showcasing a darker, more ruthless side of Pencak Silat.

One of the film’s highlights is the duel between Ito and Arian, a brutal and bloody confrontation that pushes both fighters to their limits. Uwais’ movements are swift and deadly, each strike executed with lethal precision.

This film is a brutal ballet of violence and redemption, with Iko Uwais delivering a performance cementing his place among the greats of martial arts cinema. 

It’s not for the faint-hearted but is an essential watch for those who appreciate the darker side of action cinema.

4. Headshot (2016)

>IMDB Rating: 6.3

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 74%

Amnesia can be a curse, but for Ishmael (Iko Uwais), it’s a ticket to a brutal journey of discovery. After a mysterious accident, he’s nursed back to health by a young doctor, only to find his past catching up in the form of deadly assassins. 

Uwais, renowned for his Pencak Silat skills, delivers a performance that’s both emotionally charged and physically demanding.

The beachside brawl is a testament to Uwais’s unparalleled combat prowess. As waves crash, each move he makes is a blend of art and war, leaving viewers both thrilled and horrified. 

Beyond the fights, Headshot delves deep into themes of identity and redemption, making it more than just a martial arts flick and easily one of Iko Uwais’ best movies.

5. Merantau (2009)

>IMDB Rating: 6.7

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 62%

Before the world knew him for The Raid, Iko Uwais starred in Merantau, a movie about a young Silat practitioner named Yuda. 

Leaving his rural home for Jakarta as part of his coming-of-age Merantau journey, Yuda finds the city’s underbelly is darker than he imagined. 

Uwais’s introduction to the global audience is nothing short of spectacular, with his Silat techniques shining in every confrontation.

A scene in a confined elevator stands out, where Yuda, surrounded, turns the tight space into an advantage and displays the adaptability of Pencak Silat. 

The film isn’t just punches and kicks; it’s a heartfelt story about tradition, family, and finding one’s place in the world – a must-see.

6. Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015)

>IMDB Rating: 7.8

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 93%

In Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens, the galaxy is once again on the brink of turmoil. The dark side is resurging, and the race to find the missing Luke Skywalker becomes a quest of paramount importance.

New heroes rise, old legends return, and amidst this cosmic drama, Iko Uwais makes an unexpected entrance. Not as a martial arts maestro, but as Razoo Qin-Fee, a member of the formidable Kanjiklub gang.

When the iconic Millennium Falcon is boarded, audiences are treated to a tension-filled standoff between the legendary Han Solo, the ever-faithful Chewbacca, and Uwais’s character.

While this encounter doesn’t fully showcase the depth of Uwais’s Pencak Silat skills, it offers a tantalizing glimpse of his versatility as an actor.

For fans of both the martial arts genre and the epic space saga, this crossover is a cinematic treat not to be missed.

7. Wu Assassins (2019)

>IMDB Rating: 6.4

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 83%

Set against the vibrant backdrop of San Francisco’s Chinatown, this film is a thrilling blend of mysticism and martial arts. 

Iko Uwais plays Kai Jin, a young chef who discovers he’s the last in a line of ‘Wu Assassins,’ chosen to protect the world from ancient powers. 

Uwais’s Pencak Silat skills are on full display, but with a supernatural twist, as he battles foes wielding elemental powers.

A standout sequence involves a heart-pounding chase through narrow alleyways, where Kai masterfully uses his environment and Silat techniques to fend off multiple attackers. 

But this film isn’t just about the fights. It’s a tale of destiny, family, and the internal struggle of a reluctant hero. Dive into this series for a unique blend of martial arts and mythology.

8. Man of Tai Chi (2013)

>IMDB Rating: 6

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 71%

In Man of Tai Chi, Keanu Reeves takes the directorial helm to craft a tale that delves deep into the heart of martial arts.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of modern Beijing, the film follows the journey of a young Tai Chi practitioner, Tiger Chen, as he grapples with the seductive allure of an underground fight club. This clandestine world promises wealth and glory but at the potential cost of his soul.

Iko Uwais makes a memorable appearance, bringing his signature intensity to a film that explores the duality of man. 

While Uwais’s screen time might be limited, his impact is undeniable, especially in a duel that pits his aggressive Silat against the fluid movements of Tai Chi.

The choreography in their face-off is a visual treat, a dance of contrasting styles that showcases the beauty and power of martial arts. 

This film is a meditation on the balance between power and peace, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate depth with their action.

9. Triple Threat (2019)

>IMDB Rating: 5.6

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 67%

When you bring together martial arts giants like Tony Jaa, Tiger Chen, Scott Adkins, and Iko Uwais, you’re guaranteed explosive action. 

Triple Threat is an adrenaline-packed ride, with Uwais playing a key role in a team of mercenaries out to stop a group of terrorists.

His Pencak Silat techniques are front and center, but it’s the interactions and team-ups with other martial arts styles that make this film a fan favorite.

One unforgettable scene sees Uwais teaming up with Jaa in a tag-team battle, a symphony of kicks, punches, and acrobatics that mustn’t be missed.

This film is a roller-coaster of emotions, punctuated by some of the best fight sequences in recent memory.

10. Beyond Skyline (2017)

>IMDB Rating: 5.3

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 67%

In a world under siege by an alien invasion, this film offers a unique blend of sci-fi and martial arts. 

As the extraterrestrial threat seeks to harvest humanity, Mark, a tough-as-nails detective, finds an unlikely ally in Sua, played by the martial arts maestro Iko Uwais. 

The streets of Jakarta become a battleground, where Uwais’s Pencak Silat techniques are humanity’s best defense against the otherworldly foes.

A standout scene is a rooftop confrontation where Sua uses Silat to take on both human and alien adversaries, showcasing Uwais’s ability to blend traditional martial arts with futuristic action.

This film is a thrilling ride, intertwining the desperation of an alien apocalypse with the raw power of hand-to-hand combat. It’s a testament to Uwais’s versatility, proving he can shine even amidst intergalactic chaos.

11. Mile 22 (2018)

>IMDB Rating: 6.1

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 23%

In Mile 22, the stakes are sky-high as an elite tactical unit, led by James Silva (Mark Wahlberg), is tasked with a mission that’s as dangerous as it is vital. The objective: transport Li Noor, portrayed by Iko Uwais, from the heart of a bustling city to an airstrip 22 miles away.

But Noor isn’t just any asset; he holds a piece of intelligence that could have catastrophic global implications.

Li Noor isn’t just a passive player in this deadly game. He’s a force to be reckoned with, possessing both the knowledge everyone wants and the combat skills to defend it.

A particularly intense scene unfolds in an isolated medical clinic, where Noor, handcuffed to a bed, must fend off multiple attackers. Uwais’s Silat techniques shine, turning a dire situation into a masterclass of martial arts.

Mile 22 isn’t just about the journey; it’s about trust, betrayal, and the lengths one will go to complete the mission. Uwais’s performance adds depth and intensity to this high-octane thriller.

12. Stuber (2019)

>IMDB Rating: 6.2

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 42%

Comedy meets action in Stuber, When Stu, a mild-mannered Uber driver, picks up Vic, a grizzled detective hot on the trail of a dangerous killer, he gets more than he bargained for.

Their unlikely pairing leads to a series of misadventures, blending high-octane action with gut-busting humor.

Iko Uwais plays the antagonist, Oka Tedjo, bringing his signature martial arts flair to a film filled with laughs. While the movie is a comedic romp, Uwais ensures the action is no joke. 

One memorable scene takes place in a sporting goods store, where Tedjo’s Silat skills are on full display, using everything from tennis rackets to bicycles as improvised weapons. 

It’s a delightful blend of humor and combat, showcasing Uwais’s ability to adapt his martial prowess to any genre.

13. Snake Eyes (2021)

>IMDB Rating: 5.4

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 35%

In the realm of iconic action figures, Snake Eyes stands tall, and the 2021 film adaptation brings this G.I. Joe character to life in a whirlwind of vengeance, honor, and martial arts. 

At the heart of this tale is a lone fighter’s journey to avenge his father’s death, leading him to the ancient Arashikage clan. Iko Uwais, as the Hard Master, plays a pivotal role in training and mentoring Snake Eyes in the ways of the ninja.

Uwais’s mastery in Pencak Silat is evident, especially in a scene where he trains Snake Eyes amidst a serene Japanese setting, juxtaposing tranquility with intense combat. 

The film beautifully marries modern action with traditional martial arts, making it a visual treat.

14. Expendables 4 (2023)

>IMDB Rating: (To be updated)

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: (To be updated)

While details about Expendables 4 remain under wraps, the anticipation is palpable, especially with the inclusion of martial arts sensation Iko Uwais. 

Having caught a glimpse of the Expendables 4 trailer, there’s a palpable sense of excitement in the air. The addition of Iko Uwais, with his unique Pencak Silat flair, has certainly piqued my interest. 

The sequences teased in the trailer hint at a blend of raw action and intricate martial arts, a combination that has always resonated with fans.

The plot’s details are still under wraps, but from what we’ve seen so far, it feels like the film has a fresh vibe to it. This film will be out on September 22, 2023.

While it’s too early to make any grand predictions, with a star-studded cast, Expendables 4 is highly likely to be one of Iko Uwais’ best movies of all time.