At IGN, we have a soft spot for action movies, a genre that's been a staple of our cinematic diet since the explosive days of the '80s and '90s. While we fondly remember the classic B-movie thrillers, our appreciation for action films extends far beyond the realm of campy entertainment. We've curated a diverse list that celebrates the best of action cinema across various subgenres, including action/comedy, sci-fi action, martial arts, superhero action, war, and adventure.
Our selection process involved IGN's dedicated action movie enthusiasts, who voted on films based on the quality of their action sequences, the level of excitement they provide, and their lasting impact on the genre. Here, we present IGN's top 25 action movies of all time, each chosen for its unique contribution to the adrenaline-pumping world of action cinema.
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 set a high bar, leading them to direct subsequent Marvel blockbusters. This film stands out as a gripping espionage thriller, revealing the deep-seated infiltration of HYDRA within SHIELD. The action scenes, including vehicle chases and intense fight choreography, are executed with precision, making it a standout in the MCU and often hailed as one of the franchise's best films.
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 worldwide in 2022 with its extravagant blend of action and musical drama. This Indian epic, featuring fictionalized versions of historical revolutionaries, delivers over-the-top action sequences and memorable musical numbers, including Oscar-winning songs. Its exuberant style and storytelling make it a standout addition to 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 been a testament to high-octane action, and Chapter 4 brings the saga to a thrilling climax. Keanu Reeves' portrayal of the relentless hitman continues to impress, with action sequences that blend various martial arts and gunplay into a seamless dance of destruction. This installment breaks new ground in the franchise, pushing the boundaries of action filmmaking.
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 marks a pivotal moment in the Fast and Furious franchise, blending high-stakes action with thrilling car chases. It's often considered the best in the series, introducing Dwayne Johnson's character, Luke Hobbs, and setting the stage for the franchise's evolution into globe-trotting adventures. The film's climactic heist in Brazil remains a highlight of the series.
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 reinvents the James Bond franchise, presenting Daniel Craig as a more gritty and emotionally complex 007. The film's action sequences, particularly the opening parkour chase, are breathtaking, grounding Bond's adventures in a more realistic and intense world. This film set a new standard for the series, blending action with deeper character exploration.
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 legendary martial arts master through a thrilling blend of action and drama. Donnie Yen's portrayal, combined with Sammo Hung's masterful choreography, brings the Wing Chun style to life in a captivating way. This film not only entertains but also pays homage to a significant figure in martial arts history.
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 is a quintessential '90s action blockbuster, featuring a thrilling battle against alien invaders. With iconic scenes like the President's rousing speech and the destruction of landmarks, the film combines spectacle with a compelling ensemble cast, cementing its place in action cinema history.
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 visually stunning masterpiece, blending martial arts with a poignant love story. The film's breathtaking fight scenes, set against beautiful landscapes, showcase a blend of elegance and intensity, making it a landmark in action cinema.
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, featuring some of the most intense and well-choreographed fight scenes in recent memory. Its straightforward plot of a SWAT team trapped in a building full of criminals allows for non-stop action, making it a must-watch for action enthusiasts.
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 the most epic battles in cinematic history at Helm's Deep. The film's action sequences, combined with its deep storytelling and character development, make it a standout in the action genre, showcasing the power of fantasy action.
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 is a perfect blend of action and comedy, revitalizing Arnold Schwarzenegger's career. The film's action sequences, including a memorable chase on horseback and an explosive bridge scene, are complemented by its humorous tone, making it a standout action/comedy.
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 considered the best of the Star Wars saga, thanks to its thrilling action sequences. From the battle on Hoth to the iconic lightsaber duel between Luke and Darth Vader, the film pushes the boundaries of sci-fi action, setting a high standard for the genre.
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 is a quintessential John Woo film, featuring some of the most stylish gunplay ever captured on screen. Chow Yun-fat's portrayal of Tequila, combined with Woo's signature slow-motion action sequences, makes this film a landmark in action cinema, influencing countless others.
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, featuring one of the most iconic action premises of the '90s. Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock deliver unforgettable performances in this film, which is packed with tension-filled sequences, from the bus chase to the subway battle, making it a timeless action 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, featuring explosive action and memorable performances by Nicolas Cage and Sean Connery. The film's high-octane sequences, including a thrilling chase through San Francisco, make it a standout in the action genre.
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 bar for action filmmaking with its daring stunts, including Tom Cruise's HALO jump. The film's action sequences, from the bathroom brawl to the helicopter chase, are executed with precision and intensity, making it one of the best in the series.
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 action with dark satire, presenting a gritty vision of the future. Peter Weller's portrayal of the cyborg enforcer, combined with the film's intense action scenes and humorous one-liners, makes it a unique and enduring action film.
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 quintessential '80s action film, featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger in a battle against an alien hunter. The film's iconic action sequences, combined with its memorable characters and dialogue, make it a standout 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 action film, showcasing Quentin Tarantino's unique style. The film's action sequences, particularly the battle with the Crazy 88, are executed with precision and flair, making it a standout in the genre.
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 groundbreaking "bullet time" effects and philosophical themes. The film's action sequences, combined with its thought-provoking narrative, make it a landmark in the genre, influencing countless films that followed.
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 non-stop action spectacle, featuring some of the most thrilling car chases ever filmed. The film's practical effects and intense action sequences, combined with its compelling characters, make 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 transforms the horror of the original film into a thrilling action epic. Sigourney Weaver's performance as Ellen Ripley, combined with the film's intense action sequences, make it a standout in the genre, setting a high standard for action-horror films.
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 action adventure, featuring one of the most iconic opening sequences in cinema history. The film's blend of action, humor, and character development, combined with Steven Spielberg's masterful direction, make it a landmark in the genre.
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 with its thrilling premise and memorable characters. Bruce Willis's portrayal of John McClane, combined with the film's intense action sequences and witty dialogue, make it a timeless classic, often considered the perfect action movie.
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 a landmark action film, featuring groundbreaking special effects and intense action sequences. The film's blend of action, emotion, and philosophical themes, combined with Arnold Schwarzenegger's iconic performance, make it the ultimate action movie, setting a standard that few have matched.
See our guide to the Terminator movies in order.
What do you think is the best action movie of all time? Let us know in the comments!
New Action Movies of 2025
2025 has seen a variety of new action movies, and we've reviewed the best and worst of them. Check out our reviews of some of the biggest action movies released in 2025 so far:
- 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 in-depth analysis, dive into all IGN movie reviews.
Upcoming Action Movies
For those eager to know what action movies are on the horizon, here are some of the most anticipated releases 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
