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The 25 Best Action Movies of All Time

Author : Aurora Update : May 05,2025

At IGN, we have a deep appreciation for all genres of cinema, but our passion for action films is unparalleled. Growing up with the action-packed thrillers of the '80s and '90s, we've seen it all—from the delightfully cheesy B-movies to the groundbreaking masterpieces. Our definition of an action movie goes beyond the clichés, encompassing a wide range of subgenres such as action/comedy, sci-fi action, martial arts, superhero action, war, and adventure. This diversity is reflected in our carefully curated list, which includes the top action movies across these categories.

Our selection process involved input from IGN's most dedicated action movie enthusiasts. We evaluated films based on the quality of their action sequences, the level of excitement they delivered, and their lasting impact on cinema. Without further ado, here are 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' first foray into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) with "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" was a triumph. This film stands out as a high-stakes espionage thriller that not only disrupts Steve Rogers' life but also reshapes the entire MCU. The revelation that SHIELD has been infiltrated by HYDRA since the Red Skull's defeat adds layers of intrigue and tension. The action scenes, from vehicle chases to intense fight choreography, are executed with precision and flair, making this film a contender for the best in the MCU, including the Avengers series.

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" burst onto the scene in 2022, captivating audiences with its over-the-top action and vibrant storytelling. This Indian epic reimagines the lives of revolutionaries Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem, blending their friendship and fight against British rule into a thrilling narrative. The film's three-hour runtime is filled with cartoonish violence and spectacular musical sequences, including Oscar-winning songs, creating an exhilarating experience that promises to climb even higher in our rankings as time goes on.

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 within a decade. What started as a quest for vengeance over a killed puppy has evolved into a global saga of redemption, featuring a mix of martial arts, gunplay, and intense choreography. "John Wick: Chapter 4" pushes the boundaries even further, culminating in a breathtaking finale that sees John Wick facing monumental challenges, including 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

"Fast Five" marks a pivotal moment in the "Fast and Furious" franchise, often regarded as its pinnacle. It bridges the original narrative with the later, more audacious adventures. The introduction of Dwayne Johnson's character, Luke Hobbs, adds a new dynamic to the series. The film's climax, a high-stakes heist in Brazil, remains a highlight and sets the stage for future plot developments, including the revenge-driven narrative of "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" offers a cerebral take on the James Bond saga, with Daniel Craig portraying a more vulnerable yet equally formidable 007. The film's action sequences, such as the iconic parkour chase, are gripping and grounded, returning Bond to his gritty roots. Craig's performance adds depth to the character, making this film a standout in the franchise.

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 teacher during the Sino-Japanese War. With Donnie Yen in the lead and martial arts choreography by Sammo Hung, the film blends thrilling action with compelling drama. While not a strict biography, it captures the essence of Ip Man's journey with vibrant energy and skill.

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 bravado with its tale of humanity's battle against alien invaders. The film's ensemble cast, including Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum, delivers memorable performances, while the spectacle of city-size flying saucers and destructive beam blasts captivates audiences. It's a quintessential popcorn movie that solidified Roland Emmerich's reputation for large-scale destruction.

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 that combines breathtaking action with a poignant love story. The film's fight scenes, set against stunning natural backdrops, are choreographed with grace and precision. The tavern fight sequence, in particular, showcases a blend of martial arts, wire-work, and comedy, making it a standout moment 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 that delivers some of the most intense fight scenes in recent memory. The film's premise—a SWAT team trapped in a building full of killers—sets the stage for a series of brutal and brilliantly choreographed battles. It's 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 battle sequences in cinematic history at Helm's Deep. Despite the story's fragmented nature, the film's action set pieces, including the Ents' attack on Saruman's forces, are thrilling and impactful, showcasing the determination of the fellowship's members 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 career with its blend of action and comedy. The film features memorable sequences, such as a horseback chase through the city and a bridge explosion, all while delivering laughs through its talented cast. It's a testament to James Cameron's ability to mix genres effectively.

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 stunning action sequences, from the assault on Hoth to the iconic lightsaber duel between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader. Irvin Kershner's direction elevated the franchise's scope and set pieces, making it a timeless classic.

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. Chow Yun-fat's portrayal of Inspector "Tequila" Yuen is iconic, with action sequences like the teahouse shootout and the hospital finale standing out as some of the best in cinema history. Despite its high-octane action, the film also delves into deeper themes.

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 thriller that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The film's premise—a bus that must maintain a speed above 50 mph—leads to a series of unforgettable set pieces, from a dangling elevator to a runaway bus. Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock deliver compelling performances that elevate the film's excitement.

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 Nicolas Cage and Sean Connery in a high-stakes military thriller. The film's action is relentless, with standout sequences like Sean Connery's rampage through San Francisco in a Hummer. It's a perfect example of Bay's flair for explosive action.

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" showcases Tom Cruise's commitment to performing his own stunts, including a HALO jump at 25,000 feet. The film's action sequences, such as the bathroom brawl and the helicopter chase, are some of the best in the series, continuing to push the boundaries of what's possible in 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 and satirical take on police corruption and corporate greed. Peter Weller's portrayal of the cyborg enforcer is both cold and humorous, making the film a standout in the action genre. Its blend of violence and dark humor sets it apart as a unique and impactful 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 that stands out with its intense jungle warfare and iconic alien adversary. The film's action sequences, from arm-wrestling handshakes to the final showdown, are memorable and have cemented its place in action movie history.

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 and stylish action film that follows The Bride's quest for revenge. Quentin Tarantino's direction infuses the film with a unique blend of violence and cinematic flair, with the epic battle against the Crazy 88 being a highlight of the film's action.

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 introduction of "bullet time" and innovative fight choreography. The film's philosophical themes and thrilling action sequences, including the iconic battle between Neo and Agent Smith, have made it a timeless classic 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 non-stop action spectacle that blends practical stunts with CGI to create an unforgettable cinematic experience. The film's two-hour chase sequence is a masterclass in action filmmaking, with Tom Hardy's Max and Charlize Theron's Furiosa delivering iconic performances.

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 horror of the original film into a thrilling action epic. James Cameron's direction elevates the tension and action, with Sigourney Weaver's performance as Ellen Ripley anchoring the film. The climactic battle against the Xenomorphs is a defining moment in action cinema.

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 that set the standard for action cinema. Steven Spielberg's direction, combined with Harrison Ford's iconic performance as Indiana Jones, delivers unforgettable sequences and a thrilling narrative that remains unmatched.

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 relatable hero and iconic villain. Bruce Willis's portrayal of John McClane, combined with Alan Rickman's performance as Hans Gruber, creates a perfect blend of action, humor, and character development. The film's action sequences and plot twists make it a timeless classic.

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, blending non-stop action with groundbreaking special effects and a compelling narrative. The film's action sequences, from Arnold Schwarzenegger's entrance to the final battle at the steel foundry, are unforgettable. Its message about the power of choice and redemption elevates it beyond a typical action film.

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!