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Top 25 Action Movies Ever Ranked

by Stella May 15,2025

At IGN, our passion for movies knows no bounds, but we have a special affinity for action films. These cinematic thrill rides have been a staple of our weekends, from the action-packed '80s to the adrenaline-fueled '90s. When we say "action movie," we're not just talking about the campy B-movies of yesteryear; we're encompassing a broad spectrum of subgenres, from action/comedy and sci-fi action to martial arts, superhero action, war, and adventure. Our list of the 25 best action movies of all time reflects this diversity, curated and voted on by IGN's most ardent action aficionados. We evaluated these films based on the quality of their action sequences, the level of excitement they deliver, and their enduring impact on the genre.

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, leading them to direct subsequent blockbusters like Captain America: Civil War and the climactic Avengers films of the Infinity Saga. This film is a gripping espionage thriller that not only disrupts Steve Rogers' life but shakes the entire MCU when it's revealed that SHIELD has been infiltrated by HYDRA since the Red Skull's defeat. The action sequences, featuring intense vehicle chases and meticulously choreographed fights, are top-notch as Steve confronts his past. Many consider Winter Soldier to be the pinnacle of MCU films, even surpassing 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 burst onto the scene in 2022, captivating audiences with its over-the-top spectacle and epic storytelling. This Indian action film presents fictionalized versions of two revolutionaries, Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem, portrayed by Ram Charan and N. T. Rama Rao Jr., respectively. Their tale of friendship and rebellion against British rule is a whirlwind of cartoonish violence and grandiose musical numbers, culminating in an intoxicating crescendo that is sure to climb 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 franchise has packed an astonishing amount of action into its four films over less than a decade. What started as a man's quest to avenge his slain puppy evolved into a global saga of redemption, featuring a dazzling array of martial arts styles and cinematic gunplay reminiscent of John Woo's work. John Wick: Chapter 4 pushes the boundaries further, culminating in a record-breaking conclusion that sees John climbing 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

The Fast and Furious saga has become increasingly audacious over the years, yet Fast Five remains a fan favorite, serving as the bridge between the early street-racing films and the later, globe-trotting adventures. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's debut as Luke Hobbs, tasked with capturing Dom Toretto and his crew, leads to a thrilling heist in Brazil that sets the stage for future installments, including the revenge plot in 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 introspective entries in the James Bond series. Daniel Craig's portrayal of Bond as tough yet emotionally vulnerable added a new layer of complexity to the character. The film's action sequences, including the iconic parkour chase at the beginning, are breathtaking and return Bond to his gritty origins. For more on 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 delves into the life of Bruce Lee's martial arts mentor during the Sino-Japanese War. With Donnie Yen in the lead and martial arts choreography by Sammo Hung, the film blends thrilling action with character-driven drama. While not a strict biography, it captures the essence of Ip Man's story with exhilarating martial arts sequences.

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 action with its tale of humanity's fight against a devastating alien invasion. The film's ensemble cast, including Will Smith and Bill Pullman, delivers memorable performances, while its spectacle of destruction and triumphant moments cemented it as a classic. It also launched Roland Emmerich's career in large-scale disaster films and solidified Will Smith's status as an action star.

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 blends breathtaking action with deep emotional storytelling. The film's fight scenes, set against stunning backdrops, are a marvel of choreography, particularly the tavern sequence featuring Zhang Ziyi's character. The film's success lies in its ability to marry action with a poignant love story.

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 showcases some of the most intense and realistic fight choreography in recent memory. The simple premise of a SWAT team trapped in a building full of killers results in a series of gripping action sequences that have made it an essential watch for action fans.

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

Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers features one of the most memorable action sequences in cinema with the Battle of Helm's Deep. Despite the film's fragmented narrative, the epic scale of the battle and the Ents' assault on Saruman's forces deliver a thrilling spectacle that showcases the resilience of the fellowship. For a complete overview, 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

James Cameron's True Lies revitalized Arnold Schwarzenegger's career by blending action with comedy. The film follows a secret agent whose wife is unaware of his double life, leading to a series of hilarious and action-packed sequences, including a memorable horseback chase and 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 widely regarded as the best Star Wars film, thanks in part to its stunning action sequences. From the AT-AT assault on Hoth to Luke Skywalker's lightsaber duel with Darth Vader, the film expanded the franchise's scope and set a new standard for sci-fi action. For a complete timeline, 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

John Woo's Hard Boiled is a masterclass in action filmmaking, turning gunplay into an art form. Chow Yun-fat's portrayal of Inspector "Tequila" Yuen and the film's iconic shootouts, including the teahouse, warehouse, and hospital sequences, are legendary. Despite stretching believability, the film's style and substance make it a thrilling watch.

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 that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The premise of keeping a bus moving over 50 mph leads to a series of exhilarating sequences, including a dangling elevator and a subway car battle. Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock deliver standout performances in this relentless thrill ride. For more on Keanu Reeves, 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

Michael Bay's The Rock is a near-perfect military action film, featuring Nicolas Cage's first foray into action and Sean Connery's iconic performance. The film's testosterone-fueled action, including Connery's rampage through San Francisco in a Hummer, makes it one of Bay's finest works. For more on Nicolas Cage, 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 continues to elevate the franchise's action with Tom Cruise performing his own stunts, including a HALO jump at 25,000 feet. The film's action sequences, from the bathroom brawl to the helicopter chase, are some of the series' best, setting a high bar for future installments.

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

Paul Verhoeven's 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 iconic lines amidst a backdrop of brutal violence. The film's dark vision of the future remains impactful.

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 stands out among '80s action films with its blend of testosterone-fueled action and intelligent storytelling. The film's iconic moments, from the arm-wrestling handshake to the final showdown with the alien hunter, have cemented its place in action cinema history. For more on the series, 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

Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill: Vol. 1 is a visceral revenge tale that showcases some of the most inventive and brutal action sequences in film. Uma Thurman's journey for "bloody satisfaction" culminates in the epic battle against the Crazy 88, a sequence that is as thrilling as it is bloody.

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 Wachowskis' vision, combined with Yuen Woo-Ping's choreography, created a new benchmark for action films. The film's blend of thought-provoking themes and kinetic action remains unmatched. For more on the series, 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 that showcases practical stunts enhanced by CGI. George Miller's vision brings the Mad Max saga into the 21st century, with Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron delivering iconic performances. The film's action and storytelling are a testament to Miller's mastery of the 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

James Cameron's Aliens transforms the horror of the original film into an action-packed epic. Sigourney Weaver's portrayal of Ellen Ripley anchors the film, which features some of the most intense action sequences in cinema, culminating in an unforgettable battle against the alien threat. For more on the series, 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+

Steven Spielberg's Raiders of the Lost Ark is an enduring action classic that launched the Indiana Jones franchise. Inspired by '30s serials and James Bond, the film features unforgettable action sequences, from Indy's temple escape to the climactic Ark opening. It remains a benchmark for cinematic thrill rides. For more on the series, 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 "lone hero vs. terrorists" formula. Bruce Willis' portrayal of John McClane, the everyman action hero, and Alan Rickman's iconic villain Hans Gruber make this film a perfect blend of action, humor, and character development. John McTiernan's direction elevates it to a classic status.

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

James Cameron's Terminator 2: Judgment Day is a landmark action film that combines relentless action with state-of-the-art special effects and a compelling narrative. From Arnold Schwarzenegger's iconic entrance to the epic battles with the T-1000, the film delivers non-stop thrills. Its message about destiny and the power of choice adds depth to its action-packed spectacle. For more on the series, 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!