25 Best Michael Jai White Movies Ranked 2023 (Must-Watch!)

Are you wondering what the best Michael Jai White movies of all time are?

In this article, we’ll list the 25 best Michael Jai White movies of all time and provide information on the plot, the martial arts used (where possible), and some of the best scenes you can look forward to.

Best Michael Jai White Movies

Michael Jai White is a legitimate martial arts maestro and cinematic powerhouse who has carved a niche for himself in the action/martial arts movie genre.

At the time of writing, he’s featured in 76 movies with another 5 currently in production in 2023. He’s a highly underrated martial arts actor who’s often overlooked in high-profile movies, so many of the 76 movies aren’t the best.

So, here are the 25 Best Michael Jai White movies of all time which have been sifted from his filmography.

1. Black Dynamite (2009)

>IMDB Rating: 7.4

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 83%

Step back in time with this hilarious homage to the blaxploitation films of the 1970s. Michael Jai White shines as Black Dynamite, a former CIA agent on a mission to avenge his brother’s death.

While the film is a comedy at heart, White’s martial arts prowess is undeniable. The fight sequences are a delightful mix of over-the-top action and authentic martial arts techniques from karate, kung fu, and judo.

One standout scene involves Black Dynamite taking on a horde of ninjas, showcasing White’s skills in both Kung Fu and comedic timing. Another is his use of nunchucks against enemies wielding snooker cues.

Overall, Black Dynamite is a rollercoaster of laughs, action, and 70s nostalgia, making it one of the best Michael Jai White movies of all time.

2. Undisputed II: Last Man Standing (2006)

>IMDB Rating: 7

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 70%

The chilling confines of a Russian prison become the battleground for supremacy in Undisputed II.

George ‘Iceman’ Chambers, a former boxing champion, finds himself incarcerated and forced into a world where fists and technique decide one’s fate.

Enter Uri Boyka, the prison’s reigning fighting champion, played with menacing intensity by Scott Adkins. 

The movie features excellent MMA fighting throughout, such as flashy taekwondo kicks, capoeira, kickboxing, Muay Thai, boxing, judo, karate, slams, takedowns, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and ground-and-pound.

The pinnacle of the movie is the electrifying face-off between Chambers and Boyka, a fight showcasing White’s exceptional martial art skills and choreography.

3. Blood and Bone (2009)

>IMDB Rating: 6.7

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 71%

In the dark alleys of the underground fighting circuit, Isaiah Bone emerges as an enigmatic warrior. Michael Jai White’s portrayal of Bone is both intense and captivating.

As the story unfolds, Bone seeks vengeance for a fallen friend, using the underground fights as a means to an end.

His martial arts prowess, ranging from the rapid-fire kicks of taekwondo, the locks and chokes of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, capoeira sweeps, and the precision and directness of shotokan karate is on full display.

The film reaches its zenith in a climactic battle where Bone uses his diverse martial arts skill to take on a gauntlet of fighters, proving his mettle and his unparalleled MMA fighting style.

4. Triple Threat (2019)

>IMDB Rating: 5.6

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 67%

An ensemble of the world’s best action stars, including Michael Jai White, come together in this high-octane thriller. 

As mercenaries, assassins, and warriors cross paths, the lines between friend and foe blur when protecting a billionaire’s daughter from a powerful crime syndicate.

Triple Threat offers a great mix of martial arts, showcasing the ancient techniques of Okinawan Kobudo alongside the acrobatic flair of Wushu in plenty of hand-to-hand combat and shootout scenes.

A standout moment is a multi-fighter showdown in a dense forest, where strategies, alliances, and martial arts styles clash, offering viewers a breathtaking cinematic experience.

5. Accident Man (2018)

>IMDB Rating: 6.2

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 83%

Dive into the dark world of the assassination business with Accident Man. 

Michael Jai White portrays one of the film’s deadly assassins, navigating a world where every hit is made to look like a mere accident.

As tensions rise and a personal tragedy pulls him deeper into the world of revenge, White’s martial arts skills are on full display, especially in one of the best fight scenes featuring a 2 vs 1 against Scott Adkins.

The film seamlessly integrates techniques from karate, Muay Thai, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and MMA with White’s character engaging in some of the most intense and technically sound fight sequences.

The blend of dark humor, intriguing plot twists, and high-octane action featuring actors with legitimate martial arts skills makes this film a thrilling watch.

6. Spawn (1997)

>IMDB Rating: 5.2

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 17%

Delve into the world of the supernatural with this adaptation of the popular comic book. Michael Jai White takes on the role of Al Simmons, a government assassin betrayed and killed only to be reborn as the anti-hero Spawn.

As Spawn grapples with his new identity and seeks vengeance against those who wronged him, the film showcases a blend of martial arts and supernatural powers.

White’s portrayal of a tormented soul torn between good and evil is compelling, and the action sequences, combining traditional martial arts with CGI-enhanced supernatural abilities are visually stunning, as are the costume designs.

7. Never Back Down: No Surrender (2016)

>IMDB Rating: 6.3

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 55%

Stepping into the director’s chair while also leading the cast, Michael Jai White crafts a compelling narrative in the world of mixed martial arts. 

His character is a seasoned fighter who’s drawn back into the ring, facing challenges both inside and outside the cage on his quest to become champion once again.

The combat scenes blend raw power and technique, showcasing the brutal beauty of kyokushin karate and the fluid movements of Tang Soo Do along with many other martial arts to create exceptional MMA sequences.

The movie also offers viewers a glimpse into the mind of a fighter, when fight scenes transition to black and white and show Case Walker visualizing his strategy.

As the stakes rise, viewers are treated to a deep understanding of the sacrifices and dedication required in the unforgiving world of MMA.

8. Never Back Down 2: The Beatdown (2011)

>IMDB Rating: 5.7

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 50%

Ambition, rivalry, and the quest for martial arts supremacy take center stage in the sequel. Four young fighters, each with their own demons and dreams find a coach in Case Walker (Michael Jai White).

Walker’s a former collegiate wrestler, kyokushin black belt, and former fighter who trained extensively in Bjj with the Machado family.

As they prepare for the ultimate martial arts tournament, the film delves deep into their training regimen and how they intend to mix many martial arts such as wrestling, boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and kickboxing.

The climax is a high-octane tournament, which showcases brilliant mixed martial arts choreography with White’s character guiding and fighting alongside his protégés, making it a cinematic treat for fight enthusiasts.

9. Mortal Kombat: Rebirth (2010)

>IMDB Rating: 7.8

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: N/A

In this short gritty reimagining of the iconic video game franchise, Michael Jai White takes on the role of Jax Briggs, a detective determined to bring down the criminal underworld’s most dangerous fighters.

The film offers a darker take on the Mortal Kombat universe, with White’s character delving deep into the seedy world of underground fights.

The martial arts choreography is top-notch, showcasing a blend of traditional karate and modern MMA techniques.

White’s showdown with other iconic characters from the franchise is a highlight, offering fans a fresh and intense perspective on the Mortal Kombat saga.

10. Dragged Across Concrete (2018)

>IMDB Rating: 6.9

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 76%

In a departure from his typical action-packed roles, Michael Jai White features in this gritty crime drama alongside Mel Gibson and Vince Vaughn. 

The movie delves into the lives of two overzealous policemen who find themselves suspended and delving into the criminal underworld.

White’s character, Biscuit, is a key player in the unfolding drama as a getaway driver for a bank heist.

White’s commanding screen presence is undeniable, bringing a nuanced performance that adds to the depth of the narrative and making it easily one of the best Michael Jai White movies of all time.

11. Universal Soldier: The Return (1999)

>IMDB Rating: 4.2

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 5%

In a world teetering on the brink of technological chaos, Michael Jai White’s portrayal of Seth, a rogue A.I. turned super soldier is both chilling and captivating.

As humanity grapples with the consequences of unchecked technological advancements, Seth’s quest for dominance leads to intense confrontations. 

One of the most riveting encounters is his face-off with Jean-Claude Van Damme’s Luke. 

The fight choreography, blending the agility of taekwondo with the precision of Shotokan Karate and the power of kickboxing is a testament to White’s martial arts mastery. 

This film is a thrilling ride, exploring the fine line between man, machine, and the martial arts binding them.

12. Tyson (1995)

>IMDB Rating: 6.2

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 32%

In this biographical film, Michael Jai White steps into the shoes of the legendary boxer, Mike Tyson.

Charting Tyson’s rise from a troubled youth to the undisputed world heavyweight champion, the film offers a deep dive into the boxer’s tumultuous life.

White’s portrayal of Tyson is both powerful and vulnerable, capturing the essence of a man battling his inner demons both inside and outside the ring.

The boxing sequences are authentic and intense, with White undergoing rigorous training to emulate Tyson’s unique boxing style.

This film isn’t just a showcase of White’s acting prowess but also a testament to his dedication to martial arts.

13. Falcon Rising (2014)

>IMDB Rating: 5.7

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 43%

Amidst the colorful yet dangerous favelas of Brazil, John Falcon Chapman is an ex-marine haunted by trauma and loss who embarks on a personal mission of vengeance against the yakuza after they killed his sister.

Michael Jai White delivers a performance that oscillates between raw emotion and fierce determination as he delves deeper into the criminal underworld.

He employs a combination of Wushu’s fluidity and taekwondo’s flashy techniques along with gunplay. Falcon employs close-quarters combat to disarm foes before finishing them off with precise gunshots.

One particularly memorable scene unfolds in a convenience store, where Falcon’s surrounded by enemies and unleashes a whirlwind of martial arts techniques, solidifying White’s status as a martial arts maestro.

14. Skin Trade (2014)

>IMDB Rating: 5.6

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 29%

Delving into the dark world of human trafficking, Skin Trade is an action-packed thriller that sees Michael Jai White team up with martial arts legends Tony Jaa and Dolph Lundgren.

White’s character is a formidable force, using his martial arts skills to take on a powerful syndicate. The film is a showcase of diverse martial arts techniques, from the powerful strikes of Muay Thai to the grappling arts of Jiu-Jitsu. 

White’s intense fight sequences, especially a memorable showdown with Tony Jaa, are a testament to his martial arts mastery and dedication to authentic fight choreography.

15. Tactical Force (2011)

>IMDB Rating: 4.7

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 31%

In the high-stakes world of tactical operations, every decision can be a matter of life and death. 

Tactical Force follows a SWAT team, led by White’s character, as they find themselves trapped in a warehouse caught in the crossfire between two rival gangs.

As the tension escalates, White’s martial arts prowess becomes their greatest asset. The film showcases a blend of krav maga and systema, with White’s character employing these techniques to navigate the treacherous situation. 

The claustrophobic setting combined with intense action sequences makes this film a nail-biting experience from start to finish.

16. The Hard Way (2019)

>IMDB Rating: 6.3

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 75%

Revenge and redemption are at the heart of The Hard Way. After his brother is killed in action, Michael Jai White’s character embarks on a mission to avenge his death, only to uncover a web of intrigue and betrayal.

As he delves deeper into the conspiracy, White’s martial arts skills come to the fore. The film showcases a blend of Muay Thai, judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, boxing, and many other martial arts in MMA fight scenes.

A standout scene is the fight between Michael Jai White and former UFC champion Randy Couture. 

The combination of a gripping narrative, intense fight sequences, and White’s charismatic performance makes The Hard Way a cinematic treat.

17. S.W.A.T. Under Siege (2017)

>IMDB Rating: 4.6

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 24%

In a tale of suspense and strategy, an elite S.W.A.T. team finds themselves in a deadly game of cat and mouse with Scorpion, a mysterious adversary portrayed by White. 

As the team races against time to uncover Scorpion’s motives, the film offers a series of heart-pounding action sequences. 

Michael Jai White’s combat scenes, drawing from the disciplined techniques of Shotokan Karate and the dynamic moves of Wushu, are the highlight of the film. 

He uses his skills to often escape from tight spots and take out multiple opponents at one time.

His portrayal of Scorpion, a character with a clouded past and unparalleled fighting skills keeps viewers on the edge of their seats and eagerly anticipating his next move.

18. Freaky Deaky (2012)

>IMDB Rating: 5.7

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 86%

Dive into the quirky world of 1970s Los Angeles with “Freaky Deaky,” a film that blends crime, comedy, and drama. 

Michael Jai White portrays Donnell Lewis, a character who finds himself entangled in a web of deception, blackmail, and revenge. 

As the plot unravels, White’s character navigates the treacherous waters of LA’s criminal underworld, leading to some unexpected and humorous twists. 

The film showcases White’s versatility as an actor, effortlessly blending into the film’s comedic and dramatic moments.

19. Black Friday (2021)

>IMDB Rating: 4.7

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 65%

In a unique twist on the zombie genre, Black Friday offers a comedic take on the chaos of the holiday shopping season. 

Michael Jai White plays Archie, a store employee who along with his colleagues finds himself battling hordes of holiday shoppers turned zombies.

The film is a delightful mix of horror, comedy, and action, with White’s character employing his martial arts skills to fend off the undead.

The fight sequences, infused with elements of karate and kickboxing add an action-packed dimension to the film’s comedic narrative, making it a fun and thrilling watch.

20. Trois 2: Pandora’s Box (2002)

>IMDB Rating: 4.7

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 85%

Trois 2: Pandora’s Box is an intense erotic thriller centering around the mysterious and captivating character of Hampton Hines, played by Michael Jai White. 

In the labyrinth of deceit and treachery, Hampton becomes the central figure in a plot concerning a vast inheritance of $20 million. 

As Mia DuBois, a behavioral psychologist, succumbs to the allure of an affair with Hampton, she unknowingly steps into a dangerous game. 

Hampton’s intricate involvement with Mia, her husband Victor, and a scheming client named Tammy, showcases White’s character as both a lover and a potential adversary. 

His role is pivotal in the unfolding drama, where trust is fleeting, and every character’s true intentions remain shrouded in mystery.

21. As Good as Dead (2022)

>IMDB Rating: 5.5

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 71%

In As Good as Dead, Michael Jai White portrays Bryant, a man with a shadowy past who forms a bond with a troubled teenager, introducing him to the world of martial arts. 

However, as remnants of Bryant’s enigmatic and perilous history resurface, he finds himself ensnared in a dire battle for survival. 

With his name on the line and the life of the young boy at stake, Bryant must confront his past, protect the present, and reclaim all he once left behind. 

This gripping narrative seamlessly blends martial arts action with a tale of redemption and sacrifice, ensuring viewers are hooked from beginning to end.

22. Exit Wounds (2001)

>IMDB Rating: 5.6

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 33%

The gritty streets of Detroit set the stage for this action-packed thriller. Michael Jai White stars alongside Steven Seagal, with the duo taking on corruption within the police force. 

White’s character, a key figure in the unfolding drama, showcases his martial arts skills in several high-octane sequences. However, one of the best scenes is a warehouse fight featuring Steven Seagal taking on multiple enemies at once.

The film integrates techniques from Aikido and Jeet Kune Do, with White’s character engaging in an epic showdown himself and Steven Seagal’s character, Orin Boyd.

The blend of a compelling plot, intense action, and the dynamic duo of White and Seagal makes Exit Wounds one of the best Michael Jaie White movies of all time.

23. Mutiny (1999)

>IMDB Rating: 5.7

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 27%

In Mutiny, the tumultuous era of World War II serves as the setting for a gripping tale of an all-black crew aboard a U.S. naval ship. 

Amidst the vast expanse of the ocean, they face not only the external threats of war but also the deep-seated racial prejudices of their fellow sailors. 

Michael Jai White shines in his role, portraying a sailor who is steadfast in his duties, all while navigating the challenges of racial discrimination.

As the narrative progresses, the crew’s camaraderie, loyalty, and resilience are tested, leading to intense moments of conflict and unity. 

The film culminates in a dramatic climax, emphasizing the crew’s unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.

24. Thick as Thieves (1999)

>IMDB Rating: 5.9

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 56%

Thick as Thieves immerses viewers in a high-stakes realm of crime, deception, and suspense. Michael Jai White and Alec Baldwin lead the cast in this riveting crime drama, where every move is calculated, and trust is fleeting. 

As Pointy, White finds himself at the heart of a meticulously planned heist, lured by the promise of a lucrative score. 

But in a world where loyalty is a commodity and treachery lurks in the shadows, Pointy must navigate a maze of shifting allegiances. 

The tension escalates as plans unravel, friendships are strained, and the boundary between ally and adversary becomes increasingly indistinct.

25. City of Industry (1997)

>IMDB Rating: 6.1

>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 43%

City of Industry is a crime thriller that revolves around a heist gone wrong. The film follows Roy Egan, played by Harvey Keitel, as he seeks revenge against his younger brother’s killers. 

Michael Jai White plays Odell Williams, one of the members of the heist crew. As the plot unfolds, tensions rise, alliances are broken, and a deadly game of cat and mouse ensues. 

White’s character, Odell, is involved in the intricate web of betrayal and violence that defines the narrative, showcasing his versatility as an actor in a role that diverges from his typical action-packed performances.