Michelle Yeoh: 10 Greatest Movies RANKED

We Ranked the Top 10 Michelle Yeoh Movies So You Don’t Have To

Superstar, icon and as of March 2023, recipient of the award for Best Actress at the Oscars.

It’s safe to say Michelle Yeoh is a pretty big deal.

As one of the most talented and versatile actresses on the silver screen, Michelle Yeoh has a career that spans over three decades and includes a wide variety of roles in different genres. She’s graced our screens as a geisha, a martial arts master and even a Bond girl.

In this article, we will take a look at Michelle Yeoh’s top ten movies, showcasing her exceptional range as an actress and her mastery of different roles and styles that make each movie a must-see for any fan of cinema.

Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Yeoh’s work or discovering her talent for the first time, this article will be a comprehensive guide to some of the best movies in her career.

Michelle Yeoh Movies #10 Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021) 

Michelle Yeoh Movies #9 Reign of Assassins (2010)

Michelle Yeoh Movies #8 Master Z: Ip Man Legacy (2018)

Michelle Yeoh Movies #7 Tomorrow Never Dies (1997) 

Michelle Yeoh Movies #6 Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)

Michelle Yeoh Movies #5 Police Story 3: Super Cop (1992)

Michelle Yeoh Movies #4 The Lady (2011) 

Michelle Yeoh Movies #3 Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

Michelle Yeoh Movies #2 Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022)

Michelle Yeoh Movies #1 Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000) 

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#10 Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021) 

“Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” offers something for everyone: action, humor, drama, and heart. It’s a must-see for fans of superhero and martial arts films.

The movie features breathtaking visuals and action sequences, with stunning martial arts choreography that showcases the beauty and power of Chinese culture. From the vibrant colors of the mystical land of Ta Lo to the high-flying battles on the streets of San Francisco, every frame of the movie is a visual feast.

Michelle Yeoh plays the character of Jiang Nan in the 2021 Marvel megahit.

Jiang Nan is a wise and powerful guardian of a hidden village called Ta Lo, which serves as a refuge for mythical creatures. She is a mentor to Shang-Chi and helps him discover his true potential as a warrior and hero.

Yeoh’s portrayal of Jiang Nan has been praised by critics and audiences alike for her grace, strength, and emotional depth. Her character brings a sense of wisdom and groundedness to the film’s fantastical elements, and her fight scenes are some of the most memorable in the movie.

Yeoh’s performance in “Shang-Chi” is a testament to her talent as an actress and her ability to bring nuance and depth to complex characters.

#9 Reign of Assassins (2010)

In the 2010 Chinese martial arts film “Reign of Assassins” Yeoh plays the role of Zeng Jing, a skilled assassin who is tired of the violent life she leads and decides to retire and start a new life.

However, her past catches up with her when she is pursued by a group of assassins who are after a powerful Buddhist relic she possesses. Zeng Jing must use all her skills to protect the relic and her new life while facing her former colleagues and her own inner demons.

Yeoh’s performance in “Reign of Assassins” has been praised for her impressive action sequences and her ability to convey the inner turmoil of her character. She transforms Zeng Jing into a relatable and sympathetic character despite her violent past.

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Overall, Yeoh’s portrayal of Zeng Jing in “Reign of Assassins” is a prime example of her versatility as an actress and her skill in martial arts. The film remains a fan favorite in the martial arts genre, and Yeoh’s performance is a major reason why.

#8 Master Z: Ip Man Legacy (2018)

In the film “Master Z: Ip Man Legacy” Michelle Yeoh plays the role of Sister Ng, a skilled martial artist and businesswoman who runs a noodle shop in Hong Kong.

Sister Ng becomes involved in the conflict between the main character, Cheung Tin Chi (played by Max Zhang), and a ruthless drug lord, Kit (played by Kevin Cheng).

As the story unfolds, Sister Ng becomes a mentor to Cheung Tin Chi and helps him confront his past and find a way to live a peaceful life.

The film was well-received by critics and Yeoh was praised for her ability to convey both the strength and compassion of her character. She brought a sense of elegance and poise to the role, making Sister Ng both memorable and dynamic. Her fight scenes were also highly praised for their technical skill and artistry.

Put simply, Michelle Yeoh added depth and complexity to the film’s storyline and showcased her talent as both an actress and a martial artist.

#7 Tomorrow Never Dies (1997) 

Michelle Yeoh’s appearance in “Tomorrow Never Dies” was a breakout role for her in Hollywood, and- ever the trailblazer-  she became the first Asian actress to play a Bond girl. Her performance helped to pave the way for greater diversity and representation in the franchise.

In the film, she plays the role of Wai Lin, a Chinese spy who partners with James Bond (played by Pierce Brosnan) to investigate a media mogul’s plan to provoke a war between China and the United Kingdom.

Michelle Yeoh truly transformed Wai Lin into a formidable partner for Bond, bringing with her a sense of intelligence and resourcefulness to the role and in true Michelle Yeoh style – impressive action scenes!

Her chemistry with Brosnan was also praised for its warmth and humor, adding a sense of fun to the action-packed film.

#6 Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)

“Memoirs of a Geisha” is a cinematic masterpiece that is definitely worth watching, not least for its beautiful cinematography, compelling story and insights into the intricate and fascinating world of geishas, as well as the culture and traditions of Japan during the pre-World War II era.

Michelle Yeoh’s performance in “Memoirs of a Geisha” is a tour de force, showcasing her immense talent and versatility as an actress.

As Mameha, a veteran geisha who takes a young girl under her wing, Yeoh imbues her character with a sense of elegance and grace that is both captivating and deeply moving.

Throughout the film, she brings a quiet strength and resilience to Mameha that is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. Her chemistry with Zhang Ziyi’s character, Chiyo, is palpable, and the mentor-mentee relationship between the two actresses is a highlight of the movie.

What sets Yeoh’s performance apart, however, is her commitment to authenticity and her attention to detail. Her dedication to mastering the nuances of Japanese culture is evident in every scene she appears in.

Overall, Yeoh’s performance makes Mameha one of the most memorable characters in the film.

#5 Police Story 3: Super Cop (1992)

In the 1992 action-comedy hit Super Cop, Michelle Yeoh plays Inspector Jessica Yang, a skilled police officer who partners with Jackie Chan‘s character, a Hong Kong detective named Kevin Chan.

Inspector Yang is a tough, skilled police officer, but Yeoh also conveys a sense of vulnerability and emotion that adds a layer of complexity to her character.

As usual, Yeoh puts her impressive martial arts skills on full display throughout the film. Her fight scenes are some of the most memorable in the movie, and her athleticism and precision are a testament to her talent as a martial artist.

Additionally, Michelle Yeoh and Jackie Chan make for a compelling duo on screen. Their partnership is a highlight of the film, and Yeoh’s performance helps to elevate the movie beyond a typical action flick.

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#4 The Lady (2011) 

Michelle Yeoh’s performance in “The Lady” is nothing short of remarkable.

In the 2011 biographical film, directed by Luc Besson, Yeoh portrays Aung San Suu Kyi, the Burmese politician and Nobel Peace Prize laureate who became an international icon for her nonviolent struggle against military rule in Myanmar.

“The Lady” captures the true story of this remarkable woman’s fight for democracy and freedom.

As the lead, Yeoh showcases her immense talent as an actress. She brings a sense of strength and dignity to her portrayal of Suu Kyi, capturing both her unwavering commitment to her cause and the personal sacrifices she made for her beliefs. Equally, she brings a relatable sense of humanity to the character. 

Throughout the film, Yeoh captures the complexities of Suu Kyi’s life and the political situation in Myanmar. Her portrayal of Suu Kyi makes this film a must-see for anyone interested in political biopics.

“The Lady” will inspire and move you with its powerful message of hope and resilience. It’s a story that reminds us of the importance of fighting for our beliefs and the power of the human spirit to overcome even the most daunting challenges.

#3 Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

If you are looking for a rom-com that is equal parts hilarious and heartwarming, “Crazy Rich Asians” is a film that you won’t want to miss.

Based on the bestselling novel by Kevin Kwan, the 2018 film tells the story of Rachel Chu, a young Asian-American woman who travels to Singapore with her boyfriend, only to discover that he comes from one of the wealthiest families in the country.

In the film, Michelle Yeoh plays Eleanor Young, the matriarch of one of the family. Her performance in this film is widely considered to be one of her best.

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Yeoh captures Eleanor’s sense of tradition and duty, as well as her love for her family, while also conveying a sense of coldness and distance that is both chilling and poignant – think Miranda from “The Devil Wears Prada”!

What sets Yeoh’s performance apart, however, is her ability to bring humanity and vulnerability to this formidable character. As the film progresses, we see Eleanor struggle with the tension between tradition and modernity and east and west, as well as the challenges of being a mother and wife. 

Perhaps her most memorable scene is when she confronts her son’s girlfriend Rachel (played by Constance Wu) on the family’s grand staircase. In just a few short lines, Yeoh establishes her character’s fearsome reputation and gives us CHILLS.

So, if you want to experience a delightful romantic comedy that celebrates Asian culture (particularly the vibrancy of Singaporean culture) and the importance of staying true to oneself, then you should definitely watch “Crazy Rich Asians.”

#2 Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022)

This list wouldn’t be complete without Michelle Yeoh’s Oscar-winning performance!

If you are looking for a unique and captivating film that blends science fiction, action, and comedy in a fresh and innovative way, then “Everything Everywhere All At Once” is the movie for you.

What makes “Everything Everywhere All At Once” so compelling is its ability to balance humor and heart with mind-bending action sequences and complex storytelling. The film is both an epic sci-fi adventure and a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the power of the human spirit.

In the 2022 film Michelle Yeoh plays the character of Gwendolyn, a cosmic being who helps the protagonist, played by Jamie Lee Curtis, navigate through different dimensions and realities. 

From her first to her last scene, Yeoh captures both the emotional and action-packed moments with equal skill. Her comedic timing is spot-on, and she brings a lightness to the character that is both refreshing and unexpected.

Her performance is one of the highlights of an already impressive film, and it cements her status as one of the most versatile and skilled actresses working today.

“Everything Everywhere All At Once” is a film that offers something for everyone and provides us with a fresh and exciting take on the sci-fi genre. It’s a thrilling watch with a great cast, an intriguing plot, exciting action, hilarious humor, and stunning visuals. So, if you want to experience a truly unique and unforgettable cinematic journey, this is the film to watch.

#1 Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000) 

“Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” tells a compelling story of love, honor, and redemption, set against the backdrop of ancient China.

The characters are complex and engaging, with each one having their own motivations, secrets, and struggles. The movie weaves together different storylines, creating a tapestry of intrigue and edge-of-your-seat action.

The film’s fight scenes are some of the most beautifully choreographed and executed in cinema history, featuring gravity-defying stunts, acrobatics, and weapon mastery that will leave you in awe.

Michelle Yeoh’s performance in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” is widely regarded as one of the greatest martial arts performances in film history.

In the movie, Michelle Yeoh plays Yu Shu Lien, a skilled warrior who is tasked with recovering a stolen sword, and who must also confront her own feelings for her longtime friend and fellow warrior, Li Mu Bai.

Yeoh’s performance is a masterclass in martial arts choreography, with her graceful and precise movements making her character’s fighting style both beautiful and deadly. She portrays Yu Shu Lien as a strong and independent woman who is fiercely loyal to her friends and her code of honor.

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She imbues every movement with meaning, conveying the inner turmoil of her character as she confronts her feelings for Li Mu Bai and navigates the dangerous world of martial arts intrigue.

“Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” is a movie that will transport you to a different world and leave you equally inspired and entertained. Whether you’re a fan of martial arts films or just looking for an exceptional cinematic experience, this movie is a must-see.

Let us know in the comments whether or not you agree with our rankings! Which Michelle Yeoh movie is your number 1?

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