Unrealistic Martial Arts in Movies: Why Some Films Make It Look Ridiculous

The realm of martial arts films is vast and varied, capturing the essence of combat and altruism. However, there are certain movies that, in retrospect, make martial arts look ridiculous. These films often aim for spectacle and spectacle alone, sometimes at the expense of realism, which can be entertaining yet misleading for those seeking authentic martial arts instruction.

Steven Seagal's Over-the-Top Martial Arts Films

Any self-respecting martial artist can easily point to one of Steven Seagal's films as exemplars of martial arts done wrong. While in the moment, Seagal's overzealous machismo went largely unchallenged. His series of movies, often rehashes of the same themes, continued his trend of making martial arts look like a laughingstock. In his film Hard to Kill, a slim-looking Seagal tackles multiple armed assailants, remaining unscathed. He even assists the bad guy by getting into a vulnerable position, only to emerge victorious. This scene, while highly entertaining, is not ideal for self-defense scenarios.

The “Ip Man” Series: When Martial Arts Goes Overboard

The Ip Man movies, while offering a genuine insight into the life of Wing Chun master Ip Man, also fall into the trap of over-the-top action. The movies in this series have been accused of making martial arts look ridiculous. The reality is far from the choreographed and exaggerated fist fights. However, it's worth noting that the films are still widely regarded as classics and cultural treasures, enjoying a global audience.

The Unrealistic Leap in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, directed by Ang Lee, is often celebrated for its stunning visuals and martial arts sequences. However, there are moments when the martial arts in the film stretch the suspension of disbelief to the limit. The fighters perform aerial acrobatics while battling, leaping and soaring over the rooftops. This style of martial arts, while visually spectacular, is a stark departure from the earthbound reality of most martial arts forms. It's a reminder that while action and spectacle are crucial in cinema, there is a fine line between making something entertaining and making it realistic.

Conclusion

While martial arts films serve their purpose in entertainment and cultural export, some of them, with their exaggerated and unrealistic portrayals, make martial arts look ridiculous. Films like Steven Seagal's series, the Ip Man movies, and even the iconic Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon push the boundaries of what is reasonable and practical. Nevertheless, these movies remain popular and are often celebrated for their creativity and cultural significance, even if they aren’t always instructional in the traditional sense.

Understandably, the line between entertainment and realism can be blurred. As viewers, it's important to enjoy these films for the spectacle and narrative they bring, keeping in mind the differences between on-screen action and real-world martial arts practice.