5 Essential Chuck Norris Movies to Watch

From "Return of the Dragon" to "Lone Wolf McQuade", these are the top-ranked Chuck Norris films to see.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:49pm

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For those unfamiliar with the legendary martial artist and actor Chuck Norris, this article recommends five of his highest-ranked films to watch, as determined by reviews from the Houston Chronicle and Houston Post. The list covers Norris' diverse roles, from a karate master facing off against Bruce Lee to a Texas Ranger taking on drug traffickers and genetically enhanced superhumans.

Why it matters

Chuck Norris has cemented his status as an iconic action star over the decades, with his signature roundhouse kicks and tough-guy persona. These five films showcase the breadth of his acting and stunt work, providing a great introduction to newcomers and a nostalgic trip down memory lane for longtime fans.

The details

The article highlights five of Norris' most acclaimed films, including "Return of the Dragon" (1972) where he faces off against Bruce Lee, "Code of Silence" (1985) where he plays a Chicago cop battling drug traffickers, and "Lone Wolf McQuade" (1983) where he portrays a Texas Ranger taking on gunrunners. Other films mentioned are "Silent Rage" (1982), where Norris battles a genetically enhanced superhuman, and "The Octagon" (1980), in which he fights ninjas.

  • "Return of the Dragon" was released in 1972.
  • "Code of Silence" was released in 1985.
  • "Lone Wolf McQuade" was released in 1983.
  • "Silent Rage" was released in 1982.
  • "The Octagon" was released in 1980.

The players

Chuck Norris

A legendary martial artist and actor known for his tough-guy roles and signature roundhouse kicks.

Bruce Lee

A renowned martial artist and actor who co-starred with Norris in "Return of the Dragon".

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What they’re saying

“[T]he film is, by all standards except one, just unbelievably trashy. But it does have Bruce Lee's last performance and that alone warrants a go see.”

— Eric Gerber, Houston Post Reviewer

“Without Norris, the film would be far less enthralling than an average episode of 'Miami Vice.' With Norris, however, 'Code of Silence' is a good Saturday night movie, the sort of picture best enjoyed in a crowded theater with lots of loudly enthusiastic Norris fans.”

— Joe Leydon, Houston Post Reviewer

“'Lone Wolf' is perfectly OK as non-stop comic book-level action. It's definitely no 'Raiders of the Lost Ark' or 'Dirty Harry,' but it keeps moving and is reasonably well put together. The action scenes — the heart, soul and purpose of this film — are vigorous though unimaginative and there are certainly a bunch of them.”

— Louis B. Parks, Houston Chronicle Reviewer

“'Silent Rage' is Chuck Norris vs. The Thing That Wouldn't Die. It's noteworthy as the first film whose makers attempt to combine the cliches of the '70s martial arts movie, the '50s monster movie and the '80s teenscream movie.”

— Jeff Millar, Houston Chronicle Reviewer

“Norris is not going to replace Steve McQueen in anybody's memory as an action-picture star. He's got the presence of a Hotpoint. But nobody's come to see him act, right? This film attracts people who want to see blood and hyperbolistic images of fist and feet crunching resonantly into bone. If that's all you're going for, that's all you'll get.”

— Jeff Millar, Houston Chronicle Reviewer

The takeaway

These five essential Chuck Norris films showcase the martial arts legend's enduring appeal as an action star, from his early breakout roles to his signature tough-guy performances. While the films may not be high art, they deliver the thrilling fight scenes and over-the-top action that Norris fans have come to expect and love.