At IGN, we're passionate about all genres of film, but our hearts beat a little faster for action movies. These films have been a staple of our weekend entertainment since the '80s and '90s, filling our Saturday nights and lazy Sunday afternoons with adrenaline-pumping excitement. However, the term "action movie" encompasses far more than just the campy B-movie fare of yesteryear. We've curated this list to highlight the best action movies across various subgenres, including action/comedy, sci-fi action, martial arts, superhero action, war, and adventure.
Our selection was meticulously compiled and voted on by IGN's most ardent action movie enthusiasts. We took into account the quality of the action, the level of thrills, and the enduring legacy of each film.
Here, then, are IGN's top 25 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 with Captain America: The Winter Soldier was nothing short of spectacular. It not only led them to helm Captain America: Civil War but also the epic conclusion of the Infinity Saga. This film stands out as a gripping espionage thriller, revealing the shocking infiltration of HYDRA within SHIELD, disrupting Steve Rogers' world and the entire MCU. The action sequences, including vehicle chases and intense fight choreography, are top-notch, making this a standout entry often hailed as the best MCU film, including 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 captivated audiences in 2022 with its extravagant storytelling and action. This Indian epic reimagines the lives of two revolutionaries, Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem, blending their fight against British rule with a tale of friendship. The film is a three-hour spectacle of over-the-top action and musical sequences, including Oscar-winning songs, making it an exhilarating experience that's likely to climb higher on our list in the coming years.
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 packed an incredible amount of action into its four films over less than a decade. What started as a quest for vengeance over a killed puppy evolved into a global saga of redemption and relentless action, showcasing various martial arts and gunplay as an art form. John Wick: Chapter 4 pushes the saga to new heights, culminating in a breathtaking finale that includes a literal 300-step staircase to oblivion.
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
Despite the increasingly fantastical nature of the Fast and Furious series, Fast Five is often considered its pinnacle. It bridges the original street racing narrative with the later high-stakes global adventures. The introduction of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Luke Hobbs and the climactic heist in Brazil are highlights that remain significant, especially with the ongoing narrative into Fast X.
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 stands out as one of the most cerebral James Bond films. Daniel Craig's portrayal of Bond adds a new depth, showing a character who is outwardly tough but emotionally vulnerable. The action sequences, particularly the opening parkour chase, are not just thrilling but also return Bond to his gritty roots.
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 showcases the life of Bruce Lee's martial arts mentor during the Sino-Japanese War. Starring Donnie Yen and choreographed by Sammo Hung, the film combines thrilling martial arts with a compelling character-driven story. While not a strict biography, it captures the essence of Ip Man's life with vigor and style.
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 epitomizes '90s blockbuster action with its tale of alien invasion and human resilience. It features a memorable ensemble cast and iconic scenes of destruction, kickstarting Roland Emmerich's love for obliterating landmarks and cementing Will Smith's status as an action hero.
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
Ang Lee's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a masterpiece of action and drama. With its stunning visuals, intricate fight choreography, and emotional depth, it stands as a landmark film in the genre, blending breathtaking action with poignant storytelling.
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 relentless action film from Indonesia, known for its brutally realistic fight scenes. The story of a SWAT team trapped in a building full of criminals is told through some of the most intense and well-choreographed action sequences in recent cinema.
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
In The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, the epic battle of Helm's Deep stands out as a defining moment in action cinema. Despite the fragmented storyline, the film delivers thrilling and satisfying action, showcasing the fierce determination of the fellowship against overwhelming odds.
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 action career with a mix of comedy and high-octane action. The film features memorable sequences like the horseback chase and bridge explosion, blending humor with thrilling action.
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, thanks to its stunning action scenes, including the iconic battle on Hoth and the asteroid field chase. It expanded the franchise's scope and set pieces, delivering unforgettable thrills.
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 of turning gunplay into ballet. The film features some of the most iconic shootouts in cinema history, blending style with substance in a thrilling narrative.
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 quintessential '90s action film, known for its relentless pace and thrilling set pieces. From the bus chase to the subway battle, it delivers non-stop excitement, showcasing Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock in memorable roles.
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 near-perfect military action film, featuring Nicolas Cage and Sean Connery in a high-octane adventure. The film's testosterone-fueled action, including a memorable Hummer chase, makes it one of Michael Bay's best.
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 raises the stakes with Tom Cruise performing his own stunts, including a 25,000-foot HALO jump. The film features some of the series' best action sequences, from the bathroom brawl to the helicopter chase, setting a new standard for action cinema.
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 is a gritty, satirical take on police corruption and corporate greed. Peter Weller's portrayal of the cyborg enforcer is both chilling and humorous, delivering a unique blend of violence and dark comedy.
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 is a standout action film from the '80s, filled with iconic moments and intense action. The film's blend of humor, action, and suspense has made it a timeless classic in 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 is a visceral revenge tale, featuring some of the most memorable action scenes in cinema. Quentin Tarantino's homage to martial arts films is both bloody and exhilarating, showcasing Uma Thurman's iconic performance as The Bride.
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 undertones. The film's blend of action, storytelling, and visual innovation has made it a benchmark for the genre, inspiring countless imitators.
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 chase film, combining practical stunts with CGI to deliver a visually stunning action experience. Tom Hardy's portrayal of Max complements Charlize Theron's iconic Furiosa, making it a standout in the action genre.
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 transformed the original film into an action-packed sequel, with Sigourney Weaver's Ellen Ripley leading the charge against the xenomorphs. The film's suspense and action, culminating in an epic battle, make it a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
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 a timeless adventure film, featuring one of cinema's most iconic opening sequences. The film's blend of action, adventure, and storytelling has made it a benchmark for the genre, showcasing Steven Spielberg's mastery.
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 "lone hero against terrorists" formula. Bruce Willis's portrayal of John McClane, coupled with Alan Rickman's iconic villain, makes it a perfect action film, blending humor, character development, and thrilling action.
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, featuring non-stop action, groundbreaking special effects, and a compelling narrative. The film's message about the power of choice and redemption, combined with its thrilling action sequences, cements its place as the best action movie of all time.
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
2025 has brought us a variety of new action films, and we've reviewed the best and worst of them. Here are some highlights:
- 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
You can check out our full reviews of these films and more on IGN.
Upcoming Action Movies
Looking forward to what's next in action cinema? Here are some of the biggest action movies set to 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
