At IGN, we have a deep appreciation for all genres of film, but our passion for action movies is unparalleled. These films, whether they be the quintessential B-movie action flicks that filled our weekends in the '80s and '90s, or the more sophisticated entries in the genre, have a special place in our hearts. Our curated list of the top 25 action movies spans a wide range of subgenres, including action/comedy, sci-fi action, martial arts, superhero action, war, and adventure, ensuring a comprehensive celebration of the genre's diversity.
Our selection process involved the expertise of IGN's dedicated action movie enthusiasts, who considered the quality of action sequences, the intensity of thrills, and the enduring impact of each film on the genre and popular culture.
Here is our list of IGN's 25 best action movies of all time:
25. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
Image credit: Walt Disney StudiosDirector: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo | Writer: Christopher Markus, Stephen McFeely | Stars: Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan | Release Date: March 13, 2014 | Review: IGN's Captain America: Winter Soldier review | Where to Watch: Stream on Disney+, or rentable from Prime Video and other platforms
The Russo Brothers' debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) with Captain America: The Winter Soldier set a high bar, not only leading them to direct Captain America: Civil War but also the climactic Avengers films of the Infinity Saga. This film is a masterclass in espionage thrillers, upending Steve Rogers' world and the entire MCU by revealing SHIELD's infiltration by HYDRA. The action sequences, from vehicle chases to meticulously choreographed fights, showcase Steve's confrontation with his past, earning it accolades as one of the best MCU films, including comparisons to the Avengers movies.
24. RRR (2022)
Image credit: Variance FilmsDirector: S. S. Rajamouli | Writer: S. S. Rajamouli | Stars: N. T. Rama Rao Jr., Ram Charan, Ajay Devgn | Release Date: March 25, 2022 | Where to Watch: Netflix
RRR stormed into 2022, captivating audiences with its vibrant depiction of fictionalized Indian revolutionaries Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem. This epic blends over-the-top action with musical grandeur, featuring Oscar-winning songs that amplify its narrative. Its three-hour runtime is filled with cartoonish violence and sweeping melodies, promising a lasting impact on the action genre.
23. John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)
Image credit: LionsgateDirector: Chad Stahelski | Writer: Shay Hatten, Michael Finch | Stars: Keanu Reeves, Donnie Yen, Bill Skarsgård | Release Date: March 6, 2023 | Review: IGN's John Wick: Chapter 4 review | Where to Watch: Rent from platforms, including Prime Video
The John Wick series has redefined action cinema, packing intense sequences into its films, culminating in Chapter 4. This installment brings John Wick's saga to a thrilling, record-breaking conclusion, showcasing a blend of martial arts, gunplay, and high-stakes action. The film's choreography, particularly the iconic 300-step staircase scene, exemplifies the franchise's commitment to cinematic excellence.
22. Fast Five (2011)
Image credit: Universal PicturesDirector: Justin Lin | Writer: Chris Morgan | Stars: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Jordana Brewster | Release Date: April 15, 2011 | Review: IGN's Fast Five review | Where to Watch: Rent from Prime Video and other platforms
Fast Five stands as a pivotal entry in the Fast and Furious saga, blending high-octane action with a compelling narrative. This film, marking Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's debut as Luke Hobbs, elevates the series with its audacious heist in Brazil. It serves as a bridge to the franchise's later, more grandiose adventures, cementing its place as a fan favorite.
21. Casino Royale (2006)
Image credit: Sony PicturesDirector: Martin Campbell | Writer: Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, Paul Haggis | Stars: Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Mads Mikkelsen | Release Date: November 14, 2006 | Review: IGN's Casino Royale review | Where to Watch: Rent from Apple TV and other platforms
Casino Royale redefines the James Bond franchise with Daniel Craig's portrayal of a more vulnerable yet formidable 007. The film's action, highlighted by the breathtaking parkour chase, combines with a deeper narrative exploration of Bond's character, making it a standout in the series.
Check out our guide to James Bond movies in order.
20. Ip Man (2008)
Image credit: Mandarin FilmsDirector: Wilson Yip | Writer: Edmond Wong, Chan Tai-lee | Stars: Donnie Yen, Simon Yam, Lynn Hung | Release Date: December 18, 2008 | Where to Watch: Stream on Peacock or rent from Prime Video and other platforms
Ip Man introduces audiences to the legendary martial arts master and Bruce Lee's teacher, portrayed by Donnie Yen. With choreography by Sammo Hung, the film offers a blend of thrilling action and character-driven drama, capturing the essence of Wing Chun during the Sino-Japanese War.
19. Independence Day (1996)
Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: Roland Emmerich | Writer: Roland Emmerich, Dean Devlin | Stars: Will Smith, Bill Pullman, Jeff Goldblum | Release Date: June 25, 1996 | Review: IGN's Independence Day review | Where to Watch: Stream with MGM+, or rent from Apple TV and other platforms
Independence Day embodies '90s action cinema with its depiction of humanity's battle against alien invaders. This film, a spectacle of destruction and heroism, solidified Will Smith's status as an action icon and set the stage for Roland Emmerich's future blockbuster endeavors.
18. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
Image credit: Sony Pictures ClassicsDirector: Ang Lee | Writer: Wang Hui-ling, James Schamus, Tsai Kuo-jung | Stars: Michelle Yeoh, Chow Yun-fat, Zhang Ziyi | Release Date: May 18, 2000 | Review: IGN's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon review | Where to Watch: Stream with Max, or rent from Prime Video and other platforms
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon combines breathtaking martial arts with a poignant love story. Ang Lee's direction, coupled with the stunning choreography and scenic beauty, elevates the film to an artistic masterpiece within the action genre.
17. The Raid: Redemption (2011)
Image credit: Sony Pictures ClassicsDirector: Gareth Evans | Writer: Gareth Evans | Stars: Iko Uwais, Joe Taslim, Donny Alamsyah | Release Date: September 8, 2011 | Review: IGN's The Raid: Redemption review | Where to Watch: Rent from Prime Video and other platforms
The Raid: Redemption is a testament to the power of action cinema, with its relentless, brutally realistic fight sequences. This Indonesian gem tells a simple yet gripping story of a SWAT team's desperate fight for survival inside a building filled with killers.
16. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)
Image credit: New Line CinemaDirector: Peter Jackson | Writer: Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, Stephen Sinclair, Peter Jackson | Stars: Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Viggo Mortensen | Release Date: December 5, 2002 | Review: IGN's LOTR: The Two Towers review | Where to Watch: Max
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers features one of cinema's most iconic battle scenes at Helm's Deep. Peter Jackson's vision brings epic scale and emotional depth to the action, making it a standout entry in the trilogy.
See our guide to The Lord of the Rings movies in order.
15. True Lies (1994)
Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: James Cameron | Writer: James Cameron | Stars: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jamie Lee Curtis, Bill Paxton | Release Date: July 15, 1994 | Review: IGN's True Lies review | Where to Watch: Stream (with ads) on The Roku Channel, or rent from Apple TV and other platforms
True Lies revitalized Arnold Schwarzenegger's career with its blend of action and comedy. James Cameron's direction delivers unforgettable action sequences, including a thrilling horseback chase and a spectacular bridge explosion.
14. Star Wars: Episode 5 - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: Irvin Kershner | Writer: George Lucas, Leigh Brackett, Lawrence Kasdan | Stars: Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Harrison Ford | Release Date: May 6, 1980 | Review: IGN's The Empire Strikes Back review | Where to Watch: Disney+
The Empire Strikes Back is often hailed as the best Star Wars film due to its compelling action sequences, from the assault on Hoth to the epic lightsaber duel between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader. Irvin Kershner's direction expanded the franchise's scope, making it a landmark in sci-fi action.
See our guide to the Star Wars movies in order.
13. Hard Boiled (1992)
Image credit: Golden Princess Film ProductionDirector: John Woo | Writer: John Woo, Gordon Chan, Barry Wong | Stars: Chow Yun-fat, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Teresa Mo | Release Date: April 16, 1992 | Review: IGN's Hard Boiled review | Where to Watch: Not available to stream
Hard Boiled showcases John Woo's signature style, turning gunplay into an art form. The film's iconic action sequences, including the teahouse shootout and the hospital finale, are celebrated for their choreography and intensity.
12. Speed (1994)
Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: Jan de Bont | Writer: Graham Yost | Stars: Sandra Bullock, Keanu Reeves, Dennis Hopper | Release Date: June 7, 1994 | Review: IGN's Speed review | Where to Watch: Stream on Max, or rent from Prime Video and other platforms
Speed is a relentless thrill ride, capturing the essence of '90s action cinema. Jan De Bont's direction delivers one exhilarating sequence after another, from a bus hurtling over 50 mph to a subway car showdown, cementing its status as a classic.
See our guide to the best Keanu Reeves movies.
11. The Rock (1996)
Image credit: Buena Vista PicturesDirector: Michael Bay | Writer: David Weisberg, Douglas S. Cook, Mark Rosner | Stars: Nicolas Cage, Sean Connery, Ed Harris | Release Date: June 7, 1996 | Review: IGN's The Rock review | Where to Watch: Hulu, or rent from Prime Video and other platforms
The Rock is a quintessential Michael Bay action film, starring Nicolas Cage and Sean Connery in a high-stakes military thriller. Its testosterone-fueled narrative and explosive action sequences make it a standout in Bay's oeuvre.
See our guide to the best Nicolas Cage movies.
10. Mission: Impossible - Fallout (2018)
Image credit: Paramount PicturesDirector: Christopher McQuarrie | Writer: Christopher McQuarrie | Stars: Tom Cruise, Simon Pegg, Henry Cavill | Release Date: July 12, 2018 | Review: IGN's Mission: Impossible - Fallout review | Where to Watch: Paramount+
Mission: Impossible - Fallout pushes the boundaries of action cinema with Tom Cruise performing daring stunts, including a HALO jump. The film's intense action, from bathroom brawls to helicopter chases, solidifies its place as the pinnacle of the franchise.
9. RoboCop (1987)
Image credit: Orion PicturesDirector: Paul Verhoeven | Writer: Edward Neumeier, Michael Miner | Stars: Peter Weller, Nancy Allen, Daniel O'Herlihy | Release Date: July 17, 1987 | Review: IGN's RoboCop review | Where to Watch: Max, or rent from Prime Video and other platforms
RoboCop blends gritty action with sharp social satire. Paul Verhoeven's vision of a dystopian future, coupled with Peter Weller's stoic performance, creates a film that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.
8. Predator (1987)
Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: John McTiernan | Writer: Jim Thomas, John Thomas | Stars: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Carl Weathers, Kevin Peter Hall | Release Date: June 12, 1987 | Review: IGN's Predator review | Where to Watch: Hulu, or rent from Prime Video and other platforms
Predator epitomizes '80s action with its blend of muscle, machismo, and memorable one-liners. The film's innovative use of special effects and its iconic alien hunter have left an indelible mark on the genre.
See our guide to the Predator movies in order.
7. Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003)
Image credit: Miramax FilmsDirector: Quentin Tarantino | Writer: Quentin Tarantino | Stars: Uma Thurman, Lucy Liu, Michael Madsen | Release Date: October 10, 2003 | Review: IGN's Kill Bill: Vol. 1 review | Where to Watch: Hulu, or rentable from other platforms
Kill Bill: Vol. 1 showcases Quentin Tarantino's flair for stylized violence and cinematic homage. The film's epic battle sequences, particularly the confrontation with the Crazy 88, are a testament to its place in action cinema.
6. The Matrix (1999)
Image credit: Warner Bros.Director: The Wachowskis | Writer: The Wachowskis | Stars: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss | Release Date: March 24, 1999 | Review: IGN's The Matrix review | Where to Watch: NBC, or rentable on other platforms
The Matrix revolutionized action cinema with its "bullet time" effects and philosophical depth. The Wachowskis' vision, combined with groundbreaking choreography, created a film that continues to influence the genre.
See our guide to the Matrix movies in order.
5. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Image credit: Warner Bros. PicturesDirector: George Miller | Writer: George Miller, Brendan McCarthy, Nico Lathouris | Stars: Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult | Release Date: May 7, 2015 | Review: IGN's Mad Max: Fury Road review | Where to Watch: TNT, TBS, tru TV
Mad Max: Fury Road is a relentless two-hour chase, showcasing George Miller's mastery of practical effects and action choreography. The film's narrative of redemption and survival, led by Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron, makes it a modern action classic.
4. Aliens (1986)
Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: James Cameron | Writer: James Cameron, David Giler, Walter Hill | Stars: Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, Bill Paxton | Release Date: July 18, 1986 | Review: IGN's Aliens review | Where to Watch: Hulu, rentable on other platforms
Aliens transforms the horror of the original into an action-packed epic. James Cameron's direction, combined with Sigourney Weaver's iconic performance, delivers one of the most thrilling and suspenseful films in the genre.
See our guide to the Alien movies in order.
3. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
Image credit: Paramount PicturesDirector: Steven Spielberg | Writer: George Lucas, Philip Kaufman, Lawrence Kasdan | Stars: Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, Paul Freeman | Release Date: June 12, 1981 | Where to Watch: Paramount+
Raiders of the Lost Ark is the quintessential adventure film, launching the Indiana Jones franchise with unforgettable action and charm. Steven Spielberg's direction, combined with Harrison Ford's charismatic performance, makes it a timeless classic.
See our guide to the Indiana Jones movies in order.
2. Die Hard (1988)
Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: John McTiernan | Writer: Jeb Stuart, Steven E. de Souza | Stars: Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Alexander Godunov | Release Date: July 12, 1988 | Review: IGN's Die Hard review | Where to Watch: Stream on Prime Video and Hulu
Die Hard redefined the action genre, introducing the "everyman" hero in Bruce Willis's John McClane. John McTiernan's direction, combined with Alan Rickman's memorable villain, creates an action film that remains a benchmark for the genre.
1. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
Image credit: Tri-Star PicturesDirector: James Cameron | Writer: James Cameron, William Wisher | Stars: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Robert Patrick | Release Date: July 1, 1991 | Review: IGN's Terminator 2 review | Where to Watch: Hoopla, rentable from Prime Video and more
Terminator 2: Judgment Day is the pinnacle of action cinema, combining relentless action with groundbreaking special effects and a poignant message about destiny. James Cameron's vision, along with Arnold Schwarzenegger's iconic performance, makes it a landmark film in the genre.
See our guide to the Terminator movies in order.
What do you think is the best action movie of all time?
- Captain America: The Winter Soldier
- RRR
- John Wick: Chapter 4
- Fast Five
- Casino Royale
- Ip Man
- Independence Day
- Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
- The Raid: Redemption
- The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
- True Lies
- Star Wars: Episode 5 - The Empire Strikes Back
- Hard Boiled
- Speed
- The Rock
- Mission: Impossible - Fallout
- RoboCop
- Predator
- Kill Bill: Vol. 1
- The Matrix
- Mad Max: Fury Road
- Aliens
- Raiders of the Lost Ark
- Die Hard
- Terminator 2: Judgment Day
- Other (Tell us in the comments!)
What are your favorite action movies? What explodes to the top of your list? Let us know in the comments!
New Action Movies of 2025
In 2025, the action genre continues to evolve with a variety of new releases. We've reviewed some of the standout films of the year, offering insights into both the best and the worst:
- Love Hurts - 4/10
- Back in Action - 4/10
- Old Guy - 5/10
- Cleaner - 5/10
- Captain America: Brave New World - 5/10
- The Gorge - 7/10
For more detailed reviews, dive into all IGN movie reviews.
Upcoming Action Movies
Looking ahead, there's an exciting lineup of action movies slated for release in 2025:
- **Thunderbolts*** - May 2, 2025
- Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning - May 23, 2025
- Karate Kid: Legends - May 30, 2025
- Ballerina - June 6, 2025
- Superman - June 11, 2025
- F1 - June 27, 2025
- The Fantastic Four: First Steps - July 25, 2025
- The Naked Gun - August 1, 2025
