Best Fight Scenes of Recent Time and All Time

Best Fight Scenes of Recent Time and All Time
There is something about a fight scene that really gets the blood pumping. Maybe it is just the visceral nature in us all or we just appreciate and admire the skills that are demonstrated. Regardless of the reason, a well done fight scene is something to be appreciated. Unfortunately there has been a recent trend in blockbusters lately that have brought down the quality of action. Whether it is too much use of shakycam or too much CGI, the quality has suffered.

Nevertheless, certain movies still remember how to shoot a proper fight scene. The following list will be divided into two portions. The first list will deal with fight scenes from recent time while the second list will tackle fight scenes from different time periods. The choices made will not be limited to films from the United States and everything mentioned is based on personal preference in no particular order. While it should be obvious, be aware of potential spoilers ahead.

You have been warned. (http://levynewsnetwork.files.wordpress.com)

Best Fight Scenes of Recent Time:

1.  Rurouni Kenshin (2012)- One vs. Many
• When it comes to a live-action adaptation of a comic book or cartoon, the results are usually disastrous. This adaptation of the popular Japanese comic, however, proves itself to be an exception. While all the fights in the film are enjoyable, it is the first fight that helps set the tone of the movie. The main character, Kenshin, fighting against a gang demonstrates efficiency, grace, and ferocity in his fighting. Any fan of the comic will be filled with glee while casual movie goers will find an entertaining film.
2.  Skyfall (2012)- Train Fight
• To have a list and not include James Bond would be a crime. The Bond film series have a standard of action and the most recent iteration of the franchise lives up to that reputation. Here Bond is fighting a bad guy for a hard-drive that will be relevant later in the film. The choreography is not pretty, but it does not need to be. The danger of fighting on top of a train without using green screen only adds to the excitement. 
3.  Ninja: Shadow of a Tear (2013)- Final Fight Scene
•  The following scene will spoil the ending of the film. Unless you are martial arts movie junkie, chances you may not be familiar with this film. Despite the lack of a theatrical release, Ninja: Shadow of a Tear displays great fighting that seems to be lacking in Hollywood. What separates this film from others in the category is the abilities of the actors in the film. Every flip kick or fall is most likely performed by the actors. Scenes are played out in longer segments as opposed to rapid editing.

Best Fight Scenes of All Time

1. The Matrix (1999)-Neo vs. Agent Smith
•  Despite its lackluster sequels and all the parodies that came out soon after,  The Matrix changed the game in Hollywood. This was one of the first moments in which a Western film company used Eastern action sentiments so prominently. What also makes this a good fight is that instead of just stopping the story, the fight scene continues it. We see Neo's physical struggle to live up to his destiny. 
2. Way of the Dragon (1974)- Bruce Lee vs. Chuck Norris




•  If current audiences watches this fight scene, they may be put off by what appears to be an outdated style. While it may look silly to some now, this fight was revolutionary for its time and is a classic. Many fights during this period either looked too dance-like or too slow. This Bruce Lee fight cranked up the speed and the power of the fighters. Plus it brought Chuck Norris into the limelight.
3. Wheels on Meals (1984)- Jackie Chan vs. Benny "the Jet" Urquidez
• Considered by many to be one of the best fight scenes ever filmed. The choreography is top-notch and the speed is incredible. Jackie Chan tends to fight numerous opponents or fighters who out class him significantly. This is one of those fights in which he is toe-to-toe with his opponent. His opponent, Benny "the Jet" is a real life kickboxing champion and his skills shine in this scene. If you look closely at one point, Benny is able to blow out the candles with the speed of his kick; no trick photography. 

 Hopefully all these clips got your heart racing, or at the very least gave you some enjoyment. All films can be found on DVD or online, so if you want to see the full thing, go right ahead. Nuke up of some popcorn and enjoy.