Are you wondering what the best Tony Jaa movies are?
In this article, we’ll list the 15 best Tony Jaa movies and provide information on the plot, the martial arts used (where possible), and some of the best scenes you can look forward to.
Contents
- 15 Best Tony Jaa Movies
- 1. Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior (2003)
- 2. The Protector (2005)
- 3. Ong-Bak 2: The Beginning (2008)
- 4. SPL II: A Time for Consequences (2015)
- 5. Triple Threat (2019)
- 6. Ong-Bak 3 (2010)
- 7. The Protector 2 (2013)
- 8. SPL: Kill Zone (2005)
- 9. Furious 7 (2015)
- 10. Skin Trade (2014)
- 11. Paradox (2017)
- 12. Master Z: Ip Man Legacy (2018)
- 13. The Bodyguard (2004)
- 14. The Bodyguard 2 (2007)
- 15. Monster Hunter (2020)
15 Best Tony Jaa Movies
Known for his breathtaking martial arts skills and electrifying performances, Tony Jaa has taken the world of cinema by storm, captivating audiences with his gravity-defying moves and unparalleled dedication to his craft.
As of 2023, Tony Jaa has been in 25 movies. Ranked starting with the best, here are the 15 best Tony Jaa movies of all time.
1. Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior (2003)
>IMDB Rating: 7.1
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 85%
The serene village life is disrupted when a sacred statue’s head is stolen, propelling Tony Jaa’s character, Ting, into a whirlwind adventure. Ting, a young and passionate martial artist, ventures into the bustling city, only to find himself entangled with the city’s dark underworld.
As he embarks on this quest, Jaa showcases authentic Muay Thai techniques, a martial art known for its devastating strikes and clinch fighting.
One particularly mesmerizing scene unfolds in a dimly lit underground fight club, where Ting’s raw talent and dedication to his craft are on full display, leaving the audience in awe.
The film is not just about the action; it’s a journey of honor, tradition, and the lengths one would go to protect their heritage.
This film is a masterclass in martial arts cinema, making it an essential watch for those who appreciate the beauty and discipline of combat arts.
2. The Protector (2005)
>IMDB Rating: 7
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 53%
This film takes the audience on a whirlwind journey from the tranquil jungles of Thailand to the bustling streets of Sydney.
Kham’s quest to rescue his stolen elephant takes him to Australia, where he confronts an international syndicate involved in the illegal wildlife trade.
The film’s action sequences are a blend of Muay Thai and other martial arts, creating a dance of destruction that is both thrilling and artistic.
The legendary single-shot hallway scene, where Jaa takes on multiple adversaries without a single cut, is a testament to his skill and dedication to the craft.
3. Ong-Bak 2: The Beginning (2008)
>IMDB Rating: 6.2
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 49%
A young Thai boxer delves into the profound inner meanings of martial arts. The film, set in ancient Thailand, showcases intense fight sequences and the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery.
As he navigates through challenges, he learns not only about combat but also about himself and his place in the world. The film’s narrative revolves around betrayal, revenge, and the quest for power.
The choreography is poetic, blending various martial arts styles seamlessly, making it a visual treat for fans. The film’s climax, set on a rain-soaked battlefield, is a cinematic masterpiece.
4. SPL II: A Time for Consequences (2015)
>IMDB Rating: 6.7
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 100%
Kit (Wu Jing), a drug addict, and a prison security guard named Tony Jaa find themselves ensnared in a sinister black market organ theft organization. They face numerous challenges and adversaries.
The film intricately weaves a plot of suspense, betrayal, and action. Jaa’s Muay Thai techniques are fully displayed, with each fight scene choreographed to perfection.
The prison brawl and the final showdown are particularly awe-inspiring, making this a must-watch for any martial arts enthusiast.
5. Triple Threat (2019)
>IMDB Rating: 5.6
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 67%
As a billionaire’s daughter sets her sights on dismantling a powerful crime syndicate, she becomes the prime target for a deadly group of professional assassins.
Amidst this chaos, Tony Jaa, renowned for his mastery of Muay Thai, steps in as a key member of a team of mercenaries determined to protect her.
One standout scene involves a high-octane chase through a bustling market, showcasing Jaa’s agility and combat prowess.
Jaa’s raw talent shines in several heart-pounding fight sequences, where he seamlessly blends Muay Thai with other martial arts, creating a dance of destruction that is both thrilling and artistic.
6. Ong-Bak 3 (2010)
>IMDB Rating: 4.9
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 50%
In “Ong-Bak 3”, Tony Jaa returns as Prince Tien, a fierce warrior from the 1440s. Continuing from “Ong-Bak 2”, Tien struggles to avenge his parents’ death at the hands of a ruthless new ruler.
However, just when all hope seems lost, Tien is miraculously rescued, setting him on a renewed path of redemption. Jaa’s portrayal of Tien is both powerful and vulnerable, and his mastery of Muay Thai shines throughout the film.
One particularly riveting scene unfolds on a rain-soaked battlefield, where Tien’s combat prowess is on full display, blending raw power with poetic choreography.
The film also explores themes of destiny, karma, and the cyclical nature of life and death. The final confrontation between Tien and his adversaries is a masterclass in martial arts choreography.
7. The Protector 2 (2013)
>IMDB Rating: 5.2
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 17%
Tony Jaa stars as Kham, a warrior wrongfully accused of a prominent elephant camp owner’s murder. On the run from vengeful relatives and the police, Kham’s situation takes a twist when he allies with an undercover Interpol agent in Thailand.
The film dazzles with Jaa’s Muay Thai expertise, especially in a gripping rooftop chase in Bangkok.
Tony Jaa’s triumphant return is nothing short of spectacular. The film is a celebration of martial arts, with Jaa’s iconic Muay Thai moves taking center stage.
The storyline is gripping, with Jaa’s character navigating a world of danger and intrigue. From intense street fights to adrenaline-pumping chase sequences, this film is a testament to Jaa’s unparalleled skills and his unwavering dedication to the craft.
8. SPL: Kill Zone (2005)
>IMDB Rating: 6.9
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 80%
In SPL: Kill Zone, Tony Jaa stands out as a top enforcer for a formidable crime boss. As a veteran inspector and his team aim to bring down this criminal mastermind, tensions rise with the introduction of a new officer.
Amidst these challenges, Jaa’s character takes center stage, defending the crime lord’s empire with unmatched martial arts prowess.
The film’s intricate plot is accentuated by visceral fight scenes, showcasing Jaa’s mastery of martial arts.
The raw emotion combined with power-packed Muay Thai sequences makes this a cinematic masterpiece for action enthusiasts.
9. Furious 7 (2015)
>IMDB Rating: 7.1
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 81%
In “Furious 7”, the adrenaline-pumping world of the Fast & Furious franchise takes an exhilarating turn with the introduction of Tony Jaa’s character, Kiet.
As a formidable henchman, Kiet brings a fresh layer of intensity to the high-octane chases and explosive action sequences that the series is renowned for.
One particularly memorable confrontation unfolds between Kiet and Paul Walker’s character, Brian O’Conner, in a multi-level building, where the raw power of Muay Thai meets the precision of street fighting.
The choreography is both thrilling and artistic, making every punch, kick, and leap resonate with authenticity. For action aficionados and martial arts enthusiasts alike, this installment is an unmissable cinematic treat.
10. Skin Trade (2014)
>IMDB Rating: 5.6
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 29%
Tony Jaa stars as a Thai detective who teams up with NYC detective Nick, seeking revenge after a Serbian gangster’s brutal act.
United by purpose, they embark on a mission to dismantle a nefarious human trafficking network, with Jaa’s martial arts skills taking center stage in their quest for justice.
Jaa’s signature Muay Thai moves shine, especially in a heart-stopping showdown with Michael Jai White in a dimly lit alley.
Beyond the action, the film delves into the sinister world of human trafficking, making it both a thrilling and thought-provoking watch.
11. Paradox (2017)
>IMDB Rating: 6.5
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 50%
Tony Jaa delivers a riveting performance as an upright Thai police officer. When a determined Hong Kong cop’s 16-year-old daughter mysteriously vanishes in Pattaya, he ventures into Thailand, only to confront a maze of deceit and crime.
Jaa’s martial arts prowess is on full display, with breathtaking sequences that blend Muay Thai and traditional combat styles.
One standout scene involves a high-octane rooftop chase, showcasing Jaa’s agility and unmatched combat skills.
“Paradox” is more than just an action film; it’s a journey into the heart of Thailand’s dark corners, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate intricate plots, authentic martial arts, and edge-of-the-seat suspense.
12. Master Z: Ip Man Legacy (2018)
>IMDB Rating: 6.5
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 89%
After Cheung Tin Chi, still reeling from his defeat by Ip Man, attempts to lead a quiet life, he inadvertently crosses paths with a formidable foreigner, portrayed by Jaa.
This chance encounter ignites a series of electrifying confrontations, with Jaa’s character showcasing a mesmerizing blend of Muay Thai and traditional martial arts.
One particularly enthralling scene unfolds in a neon-lit street, where the raw power and precision of Jaa’s fighting style come to the fore.
The film seamlessly marries story and action, offering viewers a deep dive into the world of martial arts, its traditions, and its modern interpretations.
13. The Bodyguard (2004)
>IMDB Rating: 5.7
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 49%
Tony Jaa plays a loyal bodyguard wrongly blamed for his client’s father’s death. As the client’s son becomes a target of assassins eager to prevent him from inheriting the family business.
One standout scene involves a breathtaking duel in a rain-soaked marketplace, where Jaa’s agility and combat prowess are on full display.
Jaa’s character dives into action, using his martial arts skills to protect the heir and unravel the conspiracy behind the threats.
14. The Bodyguard 2 (2007)
>IMDB Rating: 5.3
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 22%
Tony Jaa brilliantly portrays the top agent of Vieng, a nation nestled close to Thailand’s borders. Entrusted with a mission of paramount importance, he is tasked with tracking down two elusive arms dealers whose activities pose a grave threat to his homeland.
As he gets closer to uncovering the truth, Jaa’s character faces a series of challenges, blending humor with his iconic martial arts sequences, all set against a backdrop of suspense and unexpected twists.
The film beautifully captures the essence of duty, suspense, and the lengths one will go to ensure the safety of their nation.
15. Monster Hunter (2020)
>IMDB Rating: 5.2
>Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 44%
Tony Jaa stars as the enigmatic Hunter from another realm. When Milla Jovovich’s character, Lt. Artemis, and her team land in a world of deadly monsters, they team up with Jaa, navigating this dangerous and wondrous land together.
Jaa’s character showcases his unparalleled martial arts prowess, blending traditional techniques with the high-octane combat required to battle gargantuan beasts.
One of the standout scenes involves a breathtaking duel between Jaa and Jovovich, a dance of blades and agility that is both thrilling and artistic.
The film masterfully intertwines the raw essence of martial arts with epic monster battles, making it a cinematic feast for action and martial arts enthusiasts.
