As an action movie lover, you will certainly not be able to ignore the top 25 best action movies of all time. With big names like: The Matrix, Terminator 2, Die Hard, Mad Max, …
Top 25 best action movies of all time
1. The Dark Knight (2008)
“The Dark Knight” is a superhero film directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Christian Bale as the iconic character of Batman. The film is the second installment in Nolan’s “Dark Knight” trilogy and is considered one of the best superhero movies of all time.
The film follows Batman as he battles against the Joker, played by the late Heath Ledger, who terrorizes Gotham City with his chaotic and unpredictable crimes. The film explores themes of justice, morality, and power, as well as the complex relationship between Batman and the Joker.
The film received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for Ledger’s performance as the Joker, which was posthumously awarded an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The film’s action sequences are well choreographed and intense, while its narrative is dark and thought-provoking.
Overall, “The Dark Knight” is a thrilling and masterful film that combines intense action with thought-provoking themes and excellent performances. It is a must-watch for fans of the superhero genre and film lovers alike.
2. The Matrix (1999)
“The Matrix” is a science fiction action film directed by the Wachowskis and starring Keanu Reeves as Thomas Anderson (also known as Neo), a computer programmer who discovers that the reality he thought he lived in is actually a simulated world created by sentient machines.
The film explores themes of perception, reality, and freedom, as Neo is recruited by a rebellion led by Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) to fight against the machines and awaken humanity from the Matrix. The film features impressive and groundbreaking special effects, particularly in its famous “bullet time” scenes, and has a unique visual style that blends science fiction and Hong Kong action cinema.
“The Matrix” was a commercial and critical success, and its impact on popular culture and science fiction is still felt today. Its innovative action scenes, philosophical themes, and memorable quotes have made it a classic of the genre and a must-watch for fans of science fiction and action films.
3. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
“Raiders of the Lost Ark” is an action-adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones, an archaeologist and adventurer in the 1930s who is tasked with recovering the Ark of the Covenant before it falls into the hands of the Nazis.
The film is known for its iconic scenes, memorable characters, and thrilling action sequences, as Indiana Jones travels to exotic locations and battles against rival treasure hunters and Nazis. The film also features excellent performances, particularly by Ford as the witty and charismatic Indiana Jones, and has a well-written script filled with humor and suspense.
“Raiders of the Lost Ark” was a commercial and critical success and launched the “Indiana Jones” franchise, with several sequels and a television series. It is considered one of the best action-adventure films of all time and a classic of the genre, and its influence can be seen in many subsequent action-adventure films. If you’re a fan of action, adventure, or Harrison Ford, “Raiders of the Lost Ark” is a must-watch.
4. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
“Terminator 2: Judgment Day” is a science fiction action film directed by James Cameron and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator, a cyborg assassin sent back in time to protect John Connor (Edward Furlong), the future leader of the human resistance against Skynet, a sentient AI.
The film is a sequel to “The Terminator” and features impressive special effects and action scenes, including a famous motorcycle chase and a showdown at a steel foundry. The film also explores themes of fate, free will, and the nature of artificial intelligence, as the Terminator, who has been reprogrammed to protect John, must navigate a complex moral dilemma.
“Terminator 2: Judgment Day” was a commercial and critical success and is considered one of the best science fiction action films of all time. Its impact on popular culture and the film industry is still felt today, and its innovative use of CGI and special effects has made it a landmark film in the history of filmmaking. If you’re a fan of science fiction, action, or Arnold Schwarzenegger, “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” is a must-watch.
5. Die Hard (1988)
“Die Hard” is a classic action film directed by John McTiernan and starring Bruce Willis as John McClane, a New York cop who must single-handedly take on a group of terrorists who have taken over a high-rise building in Los Angeles.
The film is known for its thrilling action scenes, memorable quotes, and iconic characters, including the wise-cracking McClane and the villainous Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman). The film also features a well-written script that balances humor and suspense, and a memorable musical score.
“Die Hard” was a commercial and critical success and has been widely imitated and parodied in the decades since its release. It is considered one of the best action films of all time and has spawned several sequels and a franchise. If you’re a fan of action, Bruce Willis, or holiday-themed movies, “Die Hard” is a must-watch.
6. Predator (1987)
“Predator” is a science fiction action film directed by John McTiernan and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as the leader of a special forces unit who are hunted by a technologically advanced alien predator in a Central American jungle.
The film is known for its intense and suspenseful action scenes, as the soldiers must use their training and cunning to outwit the predator and survive. The film also features excellent special effects, particularly for its depiction of the predator, and a memorable musical score.
“Predator” was a commercial and critical success and has since become a classic of the science fiction and action genres. Its impact on popular culture and the film industry is still felt today, and its iconic status has led to several sequels and spin-offs. If you’re a fan of science fiction, action, or Arnold Schwarzenegger, “Predator” is a must-watch.
7. Aliens (1986)
“Aliens” is a science fiction action film directed by James Cameron and the sequel to the classic “Alien.” The film stars Sigourney Weaver as Ripley, the lone survivor of the previous film who returns to the planet where the alien was first discovered.
The film is known for its intense and thrilling action scenes, as Ripley and a team of Marines must battle against a horde of aliens and survive. The film also features excellent special effects, particularly for its depiction of the aliens, and a well-written script that balances humor, suspense, and character development.
“Aliens” was a commercial and critical success and is considered one of the best science fiction action films of all time. Its impact on popular culture and the film industry is still felt today, and its iconic status has led to several sequels and spin-offs. If you’re a fan of science fiction, action, or Sigourney Weaver, “Aliens” is a must-watch.
8. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)
“The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers” is a fantasy action film directed by Peter Jackson and the second installment in the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy. The film is based on the novel of the same name by J.R.R. Tolkien and stars Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins, a hobbit who is entrusted with destroying the One Ring, a powerful and evil artifact created by the dark lord Sauron.
The film is known for its epic and thrilling action scenes, as Frodo and his companions face numerous obstacles and battles on their journey. The film also features excellent special effects, particularly for its depiction of the various creatures and landscapes of Middle-earth, and a well-written script that balances humor, suspense, and character development.
“The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers” was a commercial and critical success and is considered one of the best fantasy films of all time. Its impact on popular culture and the film industry is still felt today, and its iconic status has led to a cult following and numerous adaptations. If you’re a fan of fantasy, action, or epic adventures, “The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers” is a must-watch.
9. The Terminator (1984)
“The Terminator” is a science fiction action film directed by James Cameron and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as the titular character, a cyborg assassin sent back in time to kill Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton), the future mother of the leader of the human resistance against machines.
The film is known for its intense and suspenseful action scenes, as Sarah must be protected by a human soldier (Michael Biehn) sent back in time to stop the terminator. The film also features a well-written script that balances humor, suspense, and character development, and a memorable musical score.
“The Terminator” was a commercial and critical success and has since become a classic of the science fiction and action genres. Its impact on popular culture and the film industry is still felt today, and its iconic status has led to several sequels and spin-offs. If you’re a fan of science fiction, action, or Arnold Schwarzenegger, “The Terminator” is a must-watch.
10. The Raid: Redemption (2011)
“The Raid: Redemption” is an Indonesian action film directed by Gareth Evans and starring Iko Uwais as Rama, a member of an elite tactical police unit who must fight his way through a high-rise building filled with gangsters and criminals.
The film is known for its intense and adrenaline-pumping action scenes, as Rama and his fellow officers must use their combat skills to survive against overwhelming odds. The film features well-choreographed martial arts and action sequences, and a suspenseful storyline that keeps the audience on the edge of their seat.
“The Raid: Redemption” was a commercial and critical success and has since become a cult classic among action fans. Its impact on the action genre and the film industry is still felt today, and its iconic status has led to a sequel and numerous imitators. If you’re a fan of action, martial arts, or non-stop thrills, “The Raid: Redemption” is a must-watch.
11. Saving Private Ryan (1998)
“Saving Private Ryan” is a war film directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Hanks as Captain John Miller, a U.S. Army officer leading a squad of soldiers behind enemy lines during the Normandy landings of World War II. The mission is to retrieve Private James Francis Ryan (Matt Damon), whose three brothers have been killed in action.
The film is known for its realistic and intense battle scenes, as Captain Miller and his squad face danger and loss while navigating their way through enemy territory. The film also features well-developed characters and a powerful and emotional story that explores themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the human cost of war.
“Saving Private Ryan” was a commercial and critical success and is considered one of the best war films of all time. Its impact on the war genre and the film industry is still felt today, and its iconic status has led to numerous honors and awards. If you’re a fan of war, history, or Tom Hanks, “Saving Private Ryan” is a must-watch.
12. Gladiator (2000)
“Gladiator” is a historical epic film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Russell Crowe as Maximus Decimus Meridius, a successful Roman general who is betrayed and forced into slavery. Maximus becomes a gladiator and rises through the ranks of the arena, seeking revenge against the emperor (Joaquin Phoenix) who murdered his family and took his rightful place as ruler.
The film is known for its thrilling and intense battle scenes, as Maximus fights for his life and for justice in the arena. The film also features stunning visual effects, a well-written script that balances action, drama, and character development, and a powerful musical score.
“Gladiator” was a commercial and critical success and won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Its impact on the historical epic genre and the film industry is still felt today, and its iconic status has led to numerous honors and awards. If you’re a fan of history, epic adventures, or Russell Crowe, “Gladiator” is a must-watch.
13. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
“Mad Max: Fury Road” is a post-apocalyptic action film directed by George Miller and starring Tom Hardy as Mad Max Rockatansky, a lone road warrior who joins forces with Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron) to escape from a tyrannical ruler (Hugh Keays-Byrne) and his army of War Boys.
The film is known for its high-octane action scenes, as Mad Max and Furiosa lead a group of refugees across the desert in a battle for survival. The film features stunning visuals, intricate and well-choreographed action sequences, and a fast-paced storyline that keeps the audience on the edge of their seat.
“Mad Max: Fury Road” was a commercial and critical success and won six Academy Awards, including Best Costume Design and Best Production Design. Its impact on the post-apocalyptic genre and the film industry is still felt today, and its iconic status has led to numerous honors and awards. If you’re a fan of action, adventure, or Tom Hardy, “Mad Max: Fury Road” is a must-watch.
14. The Expendables (2010)
“The Expendables” is an action film directed by Sylvester Stallone and starring a cast of veteran action stars, including Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, Terry Crews, and Steve Austin. The film follows a group of elite mercenaries who are hired to overthrow a dictator in South America.
The film is known for its over-the-top action scenes and its all-star cast, as well as its nods to classic action films and its self-referential humor. The film features well-choreographed action sequences, explosions, and gunfire, as the Expendables use their combat skills to take down their enemies.
“The Expendables” was a commercial success and received mixed reviews from critics. Its impact on the action genre and the film industry is still felt today, and its sequels have been popular with fans of the genre. If you’re a fan of classic action films or its all-star cast, “The Expendables” is a fun and entertaining watch.
15. The Bourne Identity (2002)
“The Bourne Identity” is an action thriller film directed by Doug Liman and starring Matt Damon as Jason Bourne, a man who is found with two bullets in his back and no memory of his past. Bourne sets out on a mission to discover his true identity and uncover the truth about his past.
The film is known for its fast-paced and intense action scenes, as Bourne uses his combat skills and intelligence to evade his enemies and stay one step ahead of them. The film also features a well-written script that balances action, suspense, and mystery, and a strong performance from Damon in the lead role.
“The Bourne Identity” was a commercial and critical success and spawned a franchise that includes several sequels and spin-offs. Its impact on the action thriller genre and the film industry is still felt today, and its iconic status has led to numerous honors and awards. If you’re a fan of action, suspense, or Matt Damon, “The Bourne Identity” is a must-watch.
16. John Wick (2014)
“John Wick” is an action film directed by Chad Stahelski and starring Keanu Reeves as the title character, a retired hitman who is forced back into the criminal underworld to avenge the death of his beloved pet dog.
The film is known for its stylish and brutal action scenes, as John Wick uses his combat skills and marksmanship to take down his enemies with ruthless efficiency. The film features well-choreographed fight scenes, intense gun battles, and an iconic performance from Keanu Reeves in the lead role.
“John Wick” was a commercial and critical success and spawned several sequels and a franchise. Its impact on the action genre and the film industry is still felt today, and its iconic status has led to numerous honors and awards. If you’re a fan of action, violence, or Keanu Reeves, “John Wick” is a must-watch.
17. Jurassic Park (1993)
“Jurassic Park” is a science fiction adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg and based on the novel by Michael Crichton. The film stars Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, Richard Attenborough, and Bob Peck, and tells the story of a group of people who are brought to a remote island where genetically-engineered dinosaurs have been created for a theme park. When things go wrong, the visitors find themselves in a dangerous situation as the dinosaurs escape and run rampant on the island.
The film is known for its groundbreaking special effects, which brought the dinosaurs to life in a way that had never been seen before. The film’s suspenseful and thrilling action scenes, along with its strong performances and well-written script, made it a box office success and a critical hit.
“Jurassic Park” was a milestone in the film industry and is widely regarded as one of the best and most influential science fiction films of all time. Its impact on the film industry is still felt today, and its sequels and franchise have been popular with audiences around the world. If you’re a fan of science fiction, adventure, or action, “Jurassic Park” is a must-watch.
18. Sicario (2015)
“Sicario” is a crime thriller film directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Taylor Sheridan. The film stars Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin, and Benicio Del Toro and follows the journey of an idealistic FBI agent as she is brought into a covert government task force to take down a powerful Mexican drug cartel.
The film is known for its tense and suspenseful atmosphere, as well as its hard-hitting action scenes. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty and danger of the American Southwest and Mexico, and the performances from the lead actors are strong and memorable.
“Sicario” was a commercial and critical success and is considered one of the best crime thrillers of the 2010s. Its impact on the film industry and the careers of its filmmakers and actors is still felt today, and its sequels and franchise have continued to receive critical acclaim. If you’re a fan of crime thrillers, action, or Emily Blunt, “Sicario” is a must-watch.
19. The Fifth Element (1997)
“The Fifth Element” is a science fiction action film directed by Luc Besson and starring Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, and Gary Oldman. The film is set in the 23rd century and follows the journey of a taxi driver who becomes the key to saving humanity from a mysterious and powerful evil force known as the Great Evil.
The film is known for its unique and imaginative world-building, as well as its strong and quirky characters. The visual effects are groundbreaking, the action scenes are thrilling, and the soundtrack is memorable.
“The Fifth Element” was a commercial and critical success and is considered one of the best science fiction films of the 1990s. Its impact on the film industry and popular culture is still felt today, and its influence can be seen in many subsequent science fiction films. If you’re a fan of science fiction, action, or Bruce Willis, “The Fifth Element” is a must-watch.
20. Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
“Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back” is a science fiction film directed by Irvin Kershner and the second installment in the original “Star Wars” trilogy. The film stars Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher, and follows the journey of the Rebel Alliance as they are pursued by the evil Galactic Empire.
The film is widely considered to be the best film in the “Star Wars” franchise, and for good reason. The story is deeper and more complex than its predecessor, the characters are more fleshed out and their relationships are more complex, and the twists and turns are both surprising and emotionally resonant. The visuals are stunning, the action scenes are thrilling, and the soundtrack is unforgettable.
“The Empire Strikes Back” was a commercial and critical success, and its impact on the film industry and popular culture is still felt today. It is considered a classic of science fiction and a must-watch for fans of the genre. If you’re a fan of “Star Wars,” science fiction, or action, “The Empire Strikes Back” is a must-see.
21. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” is a superhero animated film directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, and Rodney Rothman. The film follows Miles Morales as he becomes the Spider-Man of his reality and teams up with other versions of Spider-Man from different dimensions to save New York City from the Kingpin.
The film is widely regarded as one of the best superhero films of all time, and for good reason. The animation style is groundbreaking, with a comic book-inspired aesthetic that is both unique and beautiful. The voice acting is excellent, with standout performances from Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, and Mahershala Ali, and the humor is sharp and well-timed.
“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” was a commercial and critical success, winning the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, and its impact on the film industry and popular culture is still felt today. If you’re a fan of superhero films, animation, or “Spider-Man,” “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” is a must-watch.
22. Spider-Man 2 (2004)
“Spider-Man 2” is a superhero film directed by Sam Raimi and the second installment in the original “Spider-Man” trilogy. The film stars Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson, and Alfred Molina as Dr. Otto Octavius/Doctor Octopus.
The film is widely considered to be one of the best superhero films of all time, and for good reason. Tobey Maguire gives a standout performance as Peter Parker, capturing both the character’s humor and his inner turmoil, and Alfred Molina is equally excellent as the film’s villain, Doctor Octopus. The action scenes are thrilling and well-choreographed, and the special effects are groundbreaking for the time.
“Spider-Man 2” was a commercial and critical success, and its impact on the film industry and popular culture is still felt today. If you’re a fan of superhero films, or “Spider-Man,” “Spider-Man 2” is a must-watch.
23. Robocop (1987)
“RoboCop” is a science fiction action film directed by Paul Verhoeven and released in 1987. The film takes place in a crime-ridden Detroit, where a police officer is brought back to life as a cyborg law enforcer to clean up the streets.
“RoboCop” is a satirical take on corporate greed, politics, and media, as well as a commentary on the future of law enforcement. The film is violent, action-packed, and filled with dark humor, and its special effects and practical effects still hold up today.
Peter Weller gives a standout performance as RoboCop, and the film’s supporting cast, including Nancy Allen, Kurtwood Smith, and Miguel Ferrer, are equally excellent. “RoboCop” was a commercial and critical success, and its impact on the film industry and popular culture is still felt today. If you’re a fan of science fiction, action, or satirical films, “RoboCop” is a must-watch.
24. Total Recall (1990)
“Total Recall” is a classic science fiction action film directed by Paul Verhoeven and released in 1990. The film stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as Douglas Quaid, a construction worker who begins to question his own identity after undergoing a mind-bending procedure at a company called Rekall. The film is set in a future where Earth is divided into two warring nations, and Quaid is drawn into a dangerous and complex conspiracy involving Mars and the fate of humanity.
The film is filled with non-stop action, incredible special effects, and Verhoeven’s signature dark humor. Arnold Schwarzenegger gives a standout performance as Quaid, and the film’s supporting cast, including Sharon Stone, Rachel Ticotin, and Michael Ironside, are equally excellent.
“Total Recall” was a commercial and critical success, and its impact on the film industry and popular culture is still felt today. If you’re a fan of science fiction, action, or Arnold Schwarzenegger, “Total Recall” is a must-watch.
25. Black Hawk Down (2001)
“Black Hawk Down” is a war film directed by Ridley Scott and released in 2001. The film is based on the real-life events of the Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia in 1993 and stars an ensemble cast including Josh Hartnett, Ewan McGregor, Tom Sizemore, and Eric Bana.
The film follows a group of US soldiers who are sent to Somalia on a mission to capture two top lieutenants of a warlord. However, the mission goes awry and the soldiers find themselves fighting for survival in the streets of Mogadishu.
“Black Hawk Down” is a intense and brutal portrayal of the realities of war and the sacrifices of soldiers. The film is expertly directed by Ridley Scott and features impressive cinematography, intense action sequences, and a powerful score.
The film’s large ensemble cast gives strong performances, with standout turns by Josh Hartnett, Ewan McGregor, and Tom Sizemore. The film’s depiction of the events of the Battle of Mogadishu is both accurate and respectful, and it serves as a testament to the bravery and heroism of the soldiers who fought there.
“Black Hawk Down” is a well-made and emotionally impactful film that provides a sobering look at the realities of war. If you’re a fan of war films or historical dramas, “Black Hawk Down” is a must-watch.