Once Upon a Time in China (1991)
Kernel Score: 78% · 474 ratings · Rated R
Genres: Action, Drama
Released: 1991-08-15
Runtime: 133 minutes
Where to watch Once Upon a Time in China
- Stream: The Criterion Channel, HBO Max, WeTV
- Free with ads: Shout! Factory TV
- Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
In late 19th-century Canton, legendary hero Wong Fei-Hung battles foreign forces' (English, French and American) plundering of China. When Aunt Yee returns from America totally westernised, Wong assumes the role of protector. This proves difficult when his martial arts school and local militia become involved in fierce battles with foreign and local governments. As violence escalates, even Aunt Yee has to question her new western ideals, but is it possible to fight guns with Kung Fu?
Once Upon a Time in China parents' guide: ages 15+
Parents need to know that Once Upon a Time in China is an R-rated martial arts film depicting colonial-era battles.
- Violence & scariness: Strong — Extensive martial arts combat and battles against foreign and local forces.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Movies like Once Upon a Time in China
If you liked Once Upon a Time in China, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- Ip Man 4: The Finale (2019) — 80%
- Ip Man 3 (2015) — 78%
- Fearless (2006) — 86%
- Once Upon a Time in China II (1992) — 80%
- Fist of Legend (1994) — 86%
- The Forbidden City (2025) — 75%
- Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000) — 85%
- Ip Man 2 (2010) — 83%
Director
Cast
- Jet Li as Wong Fei Hung
- Yuen Biao as Leung Foon
- Jacky Cheung Hok-Yau as Buck Teeth So
- Rosamund Kwan Chi-Lam as 13th Aunt
- Kent Cheng Jak-Si as Porky Wing
- Yuen Gam-Fai as Ling Wan Kai
- Yen Shi-Kwan as Iron Robe Yim Chun Tung
- Lau Shun as Naval Commander Lau
- Wu Ma as Grand Uncle Chueng
- Yau Gin-Gwok as Shaho Gang Leader
Once Upon a Time in China FAQ
Is Once Upon a Time in China good?
Once Upon a Time in China has a 78% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 474 audience ratings.
Where can I watch Once Upon a Time in China?
In the US you can stream Once Upon a Time in China on The Criterion Channel, HBO Max and WeTV, watch it free with ads on Shout! Factory TV and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.
Is Once Upon a Time in China OK for kids?
Once Upon a Time in China is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 15+. Parents need to know that Once Upon a Time in China is an R-rated martial arts film depicting colonial-era battles.
What movies are like Once Upon a Time in China?
If you liked Once Upon a Time in China, try Ip Man 4: The Finale, Ip Man 3, Fearless and Once Upon a Time in China II.