8 Zhang Ziyi Movies You Shouldn't Miss Out: From Drama to Action

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Zhang Ziyi is one of the most famous actresses from China and a major star in international cinema. She first became widely known in the late 1990s and quickly gained attention for her powerful acting and elegant screen presence. Many fans enjoy Zhang Ziyi movies because she can move easily between emotional dramas, historical epics, and exciting martial arts adventures. Over the years, she has worked with famous directors and appeared in films that reached audiences around the world.

In this article, we will look at several Zhang Ziyi movies that many fans still talk about today. These films show her skills in action, romance, and drama. If you want to explore her work, this list will help you find some great movies to watch.

Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, FlixFling

The first on our list, we have Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Directed by Ang Lee, this famous martial arts movie tells the story of a stolen legendary sword. Zhang Ziyi plays Jen Yu, a young noblewoman who secretly trains in martial arts. Her character is bold, rebellious, and very skilled. The movie also stars Chow Yun‑fat and Michelle Yeoh. Zhang Ziyi's performance helped introduce her to global audiences.

Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home. The Roku Channel

Next, we have House of Flying Daggers, a visually stunning wuxia film directed by Zhang Yimou. Zhang Ziyi plays Mei, a mysterious dancer who may be connected to a rebel group. Two government officers, played by Takeshi Kaneshiro and Andy Lau, try to uncover the truth. Zhang Ziyi brings both beauty and emotional depth to the role as the story moves toward a dramatic ending.

Where to Watch: Hulu, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, Amazon Video

In this Hollywood production, Zhang Ziyi plays Sayuri, a young girl who is trained to become a geisha in Japan. Memoirs of a Geisha follows her difficult journey from poverty to becoming one of the most admired geishas in Kyoto. The film also stars Ken Watanabe, Michelle Yeoh, and Gong Li. Zhang Ziyi gives a graceful and emotional performance that carries the story.

Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand, Criterion Channel

Directed by Wong Kar‑wai, 2046 is a romantic drama with elements of science fiction. The story follows a writer, played by Tony Leung, who remembers the women in his life while writing a futuristic novel. Zhang Ziyi appears as Bai Ling, a passionate woman who develops a complicated relationship with the writer. Her role shows a more mature and emotional side of her acting.

Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Fandango At Home, Apple TV Store, Kanopy, Hoopla

Hero is another famous martial arts epic directed by Zhang Yimou. The film tells the story of a warrior who meets the King of Qin and explains how he defeated several dangerous assassins. Zhang Ziyi plays Moon, a skilled fighter connected to the characters played by Jet Li, Maggie Cheung, and Tony Leung. Her role includes intense fight scenes and strong emotional moments.

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Criterion Channel, The Roku Channel, Fandango at Home, YouTube, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store

Directed by Wong Kar‑wai, The Grandmaster tells the life story of Ip Man, the legendary martial arts master who later taught Bruce Lee. Tony Leung plays Ip Man, while Zhang Ziyi plays Gong Er, the daughter of another martial arts master. Her character is proud, determined, and deeply loyal to her family. Zhang Ziyi's powerful performance earned praise from critics.

Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home

The Road Home is an early film in Zhang Ziyi's career and helped show her natural acting ability. Directed by Zhang Yimou, the story follows a young woman in a rural village who falls deeply in love with a new school teacher. Zhang Ziyi plays the young version of the mother in the story. Her performance is simple, emotional, and full of quiet charm.

Where to Watch: Plex, Spectrum On Demand, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home

The last on our list of Zhang Ziyi movies is Rush Hour 2, a popular action comedy starring Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker. In this movie, Zhang Ziyi plays Hu Li, a dangerous villain connected to a criminal organization. Even though her role is smaller, she stands out with her intense fight scenes and confident screen presence.