Michelle Yeoh: 10 Best Movies, Ranked According To Letterboxd

While most viewers know Michelle Yeoh for her memorable roles in films like Memoirs of a Geisha and Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings, the internationally-acclaimed actor has a plethora of incredible performances in both recent Hollywood blockbusters and Hong Kong action films from the 90s.

During the early years of her career, Yeoh was known for her award-winning roles in martial arts films, and it was common knowledge among fans back then that she does her own stunts. Audiences who want to see more of the talented actor’s work can thank fans on Letterboxd – a social media platform for film buffs – as they’ve rated the best movies in Yeoh’s impressive career.

10 Memoirs Of A Geisha (2005) – 3.5

Available to stream on Netflix.

From the beautiful costumes in the period drama to its riveting story, there’s more than one reason to revisit Memoirs of a Geisha. Based on Arthur Golden’s 1997 novel of the same name, the period drama follows the story of Chiyo Sakamoto (Ziyi Zhang) as she trains to become a geisha after being sold by her family.

Yeoh plays the role of Mameha, a successful geisha who acts motherly towards the protagonist. She represents the outdated beliefs about what geishas should be and how women, in general, should act. It’s satisfying to watch her transform along with the times in the film.

9 Yes, Madam! (1985) – 3.5

With its straightforward plot, wacky action sequences, and cheesy villain, Yes, Madam! can transport viewers back to the golden era of Hong Kong action films. The nostalgia-inducing movie revolves around Inspector Ng (Yeoh) and Inspector Carrie Morris’ (Cynthia Rothrock) attempts at tracking down two petty thieves who have stolen something far more valuable than they know.

Yeoh shows off her jaw-dropping martial arts skills during the fast-paced fight scenes, where she hilariously beats up any foolish criminal who gets in her way. It’s an underrated performance by the actor, who was best known for these types of flicks during the early stages of her career.

8 Fearless (2006) – 3.5

Available to rent on Apple TV+.

Starring the legendary Jet Li, Fearless depicts the life story of (and is loosely inspired by the actual person) Huo Yuanjia. The martial arts fighter is renowned in China for the way he inspired countless people thanks to his highly-publicized duels with foreign nationals. He overcomes his personal tragedy to become the greatest fighter the country has ever known, leaving his mark on the practice and art of wushu.

In the movie, Yeoh admittedly takes a minor but important role. She only appears in the director’s cut during the introduction and right before the movie ends. The actor plays the role of Ms. Yang, who convinces the International Olympic Committee to consider wushu an Olympic sport.

7 Tai-Chi Master (1993) – 3.5

Tai-Chi Master is a classic martial arts movie that is centered on the rivalry between Zhang Junbao (Jet Li) and Tienbo (Chin Siu Ho). The two fighters were once close childhood friends, but have found themselves on opposing sides of a civil war with no choice but to battle each other.

Siu-lin (Yeoh) finds herself in the middle of their fight, taking Junbao’s more noble side and helping him deal with the hurt caused by his former friend. Yeoh is able to showcase a bit of her fighting ability in the movie, particularly during the scene where she confronts her traitorous husband.

6 Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017) – 3.5

Available to stream on Disney+.

The gang goes on another grand adventure in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, with Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) finally learning about the identity and history of his father. They realize soon enough that they’ve bitten off more than they can chew, and a wild battle out in the cosmos ensues.

Yeoh doesn’t actually appear until the mid-credits scene, but comic fans know how significant her minor role in the film really is. Portraying Aleta Ogord in her debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, she’s shown leading her own group of Ravagers. Fans will have to wait and see what she does next in the popular franchise.

5 Sunshine (2007) – 3.6

Available to rent on Apple TV+.

Set in 2057, Sunshine tells a riveting story of a group of astronauts who serve as humanity’s last hope. The physicist Robert Capa (Cillian Murphy), engineer James Mace (Chris Evans), pilot Cassie (Rose Byrne), and other members of the crew risk their lives to venture into space and reignite the dying sun.

Corazon (Yeoh) is the ship’s biologist, who’s in charge of taking care of their “oxygen garden.” She encounters her own stressful situations on the spacecraft once the heat from the sun complicates the garden and, in turn, the crew’s oxygen reserves. Her role as a competent, calm, and rational scientist is a memorable one for fans who may also recognize another familiar face in the sci-fi movie, the navigator Trey (Benedict Wong).

4 Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings (2021) – 3.7

Available to stream on Disney+.

With Xu Shang-Chi’s (Simu Liu) flawless action sequences, Katy’s (Awkwafina) witty lines, and cameos from characters like Wong (Benedict Wong), it’s easy to see why Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings has become a fan favorite. The Marvel film follows the titular protagonist’s encounter with the mysterious Ten Rings organization, which forces him to confront his own messy past.

Yeoh plays the role of Ying Nan, Shang-Chi’s aunt and a guardian of the mystical Ta Lo. Action scenes with her are a treat to watch, as there are clear references to her older films like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. It’s not clear if Yeoh will continue to take on this role in the MCU instead of her earlier appearance as the Ravager Aleta.

3 Royal Warriors (1986) – 3.7

Fans looking for a blast from the past of martial arts cinema should look no further than Royal Warriors. The wacky film revolves around the experiences of Michelle Yip (Yeoh), an officer for the Hong Kong police who foils a hijacking attempt on a plane. The story gets complicated when she becomes a target of the criminal’s family.

With its cheesy sound effects, over-the-top action sequences, and an added romcom element, it’s certainly not a film for everyone. Those who do enjoy the wild aspects of movies from that era will likely find themselves falling in love with this film, in large part thanks to Yeoh’s perfectly choreographed moves and depiction of her character’s cool personality.

2 Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000) – 3.9

Available to rent on Apple TV+.

Often considered one of the most influential wuxia films ever made, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon tells the story of two warriors who are both looking for an enigmatic and powerful sword. The mystical “Green Sword” is valued by skilled warriors like Master Li (Chow Yun-fat), who relies on Shu Lien (Yeoh) for its safekeeping.

The movie is known for one of the best fight scenes in the history of cinema, which features Yeoh’s character, Shu Lien, who goes against Jen Yu (Zhang Ziyi). The thrilling moment is just one of many in the classic film.

1 Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022) – 4.6

Yeoh plays the role of Evelyn Wang in her highest-rated film on Letterboxd yet, Everything Everywhere All at Once. The recently released sci-fi action comedy movie depicts Evelyn’s wild journey after her life is forever changed when she discovers the existence of several versions of her across infinite universes.

The movie is the perfect mix of exhilarating action sequences and tear-jerking moments, as Evelyn struggles to see herself as the powerful badass she really is, all while juggling problems with her family. It’s already considered among the best action films of the year and is one of Yeoh’s most iconic performances in her career.

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