About
John Woo is a highly influential Hong Kong filmmaker, renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the action film genre. He is considered a pioneer of the 'heroic bloodshed' and 'gun fu' subgenres within Hong Kong action cinema. Woo is known for his stylized action sequences, often referred to as 'bullet ballet', characterized by slow motion, chaotic gunfights, and frequent allusions to wuxia, film noir, and Westerns.
Career Timeline
'A Better Tomorrow' Success
Woo directs 'A Better Tomorrow', revolutionizing Hong Kong action cinema and gaining international attention.
'The Killer' Acclaim
Woo directs 'The Killer', achieving further critical acclaim for his stylized action sequences.
'Hard Boiled' Release
Woo directs 'Hard Boiled', solidifying his reputation as a master of the action genre.
Hollywood Debut with 'Hard Target'
Woo makes his Hollywood debut with 'Hard Target', a moderate success but not fully embracing his signature style.
'Face/Off' Blockbuster
Woo directs 'Face/Off', achieving significant commercial success and proving his ability to work in Hollywood.
'Mission: Impossible 2' Success
Woo directs 'Mission: Impossible 2', a major commercial success but critically divisive.
Return to Chinese Cinema
Woo returns to Chinese cinema, directing 'Red Cliff', a large-scale historical epic.
Influence on Action Cinema
Woo's influence on the action genre remains undeniable, and his films continue to inspire filmmakers around the world. He's a celebrated director.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026