Top 25 Action Movies Ever Ranked

At IGN, we have a deep appreciation for movies across all genres, but action films hold a special place in our hearts. They are the cinematic equivalent of our childhood weekends, filled with both the thrilling and the sometimes absurd. Yet, the term "action movie" encompasses far more than just the classic B-movie fare. Our list of the 25 best action movies of all time showcases the diversity of the genre, from action/comedy to sci-fi action, martial arts, superhero action, war, and adventure.

Our selection process involved input from IGN's most passionate action movie enthusiasts. We took into account the quality of the action sequences, the level of excitement, and the film's overall impact on cinema.

25. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

Image credit: Walt Disney Studios
Director: 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 made a significant impact with their first Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) directorial effort, Captain America: The Winter Soldier. This film is not just a thrilling espionage adventure but also a pivotal moment in the MCU, exposing the infiltration of HYDRA within SHIELD. The action scenes, including the intense vehicle chases and meticulously choreographed fights, showcase Steve Rogers battling his past and reshaping his future. Many consider this film one of the finest entries in the MCU, even surpassing some of the Avengers films.

24. RRR (2022)

Image credit: Variance Films
Director: 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 with its extravagant storytelling and larger-than-life action sequences. This Indian epic, centered on fictionalized versions of revolutionaries Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem, combines historical drama with over-the-top action and musical elements, culminating in a cinematic experience that is both audacious and unforgettable. With its Oscar-winning songs and thrilling action, RRR is poised to rise even higher in our rankings over time.

23. John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)

Image credit: Lionsgate
Director: 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 astonishing amount of action into its four films, all released within a decade. What began as a quest for vengeance over a slain puppy has evolved into a global saga of redemption, featuring a blend of martial arts, gunplay, and sheer cinematic flair. John Wick: Chapter 4 pushes the franchise to new heights, culminating in an epic showdown that tests John Wick's limits in a literal and metaphorical ascent up a 300-step staircase.

22. Fast Five (2011)

Image credit: Universal Pictures
Director: 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

While the Fast and Furious franchise has ventured into increasingly outlandish territory, Fast Five stands out as a fan favorite. It serves as a pivotal point, blending the original street-racing narrative with the high-stakes, globe-trotting adventures that followed. The introduction of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Luke Hobbs and the climactic heist in Brazil have cemented Fast Five's place as a beloved entry in the series, setting the stage for future installments.

21. Casino Royale (2006)

Image credit: Sony Pictures
Director: 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 saga with its gritty, cerebral approach. Daniel Craig's portrayal of Bond as a tough exterior with deep emotional wounds adds a new layer to the iconic character. The film's action sequences, such as the parkour chase in the opening, are not just visually stunning but also ground the story in a more realistic, intense setting. This film marks a significant return to Bond's roots, focusing on espionage and personal stakes.

Check out our guide to James Bond movies in order.

20. Ip Man (2008)

Image credit: Mandarin Films
Director: 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

The Ip Man series focuses on the legendary martial arts master who taught Bruce Lee. The first film, starring Donnie Yen and choreographed by Sammo Hung, blends thrilling martial arts with a compelling character drama set during the Sino-Japanese War. While not a strict biography, Ip Man captures the essence of its subject with elegance and excitement, showcasing the art of Wing Chun in a way that is both entertaining and respectful.

19. Independence Day (1996)

Image credit: 20th Century Fox
Director: 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 world under siege by alien invaders. With its mix of spectacle, humor, and heart, the film showcases a diverse cast of characters who come together to fight against overwhelming odds. From Will Smith's charismatic performance to Bill Pullman's iconic speech, Independence Day remains a beloved example of popcorn entertainment.

18. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)

Image credit: Sony Pictures Classics
Director: 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 is a masterful blend of action and emotional depth. Directed by Ang Lee, this film features breathtaking fight scenes set against stunning natural backdrops, such as the iconic bamboo forest. The story, driven by themes of love, duty, and freedom, is elevated by the performances of Michelle Yeoh and Chow Yun-fat. The action sequences, choreographed by Yuen Woo-Ping, combine martial arts with an almost balletic grace, making this film a landmark in the genre.

17. The Raid: Redemption (2011)

Image credit: Sony Pictures Classics
Director: 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

From Indonesia, The Raid: Redemption is a raw and intense action film that has captivated audiences worldwide. The film follows a SWAT team trapped in a building full of criminals, leading to a series of brutal and meticulously choreographed fight scenes. Directed by Gareth Evans, The Raid showcases the talent of martial artist Iko Uwais and has become a benchmark for action cinema.

16. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)

Image credit: New Line Cinema
Director: 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 iconic battle sequences in cinematic history at Helm's Deep. The film, while splitting the fellowship into multiple storylines, delivers a thrilling and satisfying spectacle, especially with the Ents' destruction of Saruman's forces. This entry in the trilogy showcases the resilience and bravery of its characters, making it a standout in action cinema.

See our guide to The Lord of the Rings movies in order.

15. True Lies (1994)

Image credit: 20th Century Fox
Director: 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. Directed by James Cameron, the film follows a secret agent whose double life is unknown to his wife. With memorable performances and thrilling action sequences, including a horseback chase and a dramatic bridge explosion, True Lies remains a standout action/comedy.

14. Star Wars: Episode 5 - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

Image credit: 20th Century Fox
Director: 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 regarded as the best film in the Star Wars saga, thanks in part to its thrilling action sequences. From the battle on Hoth to the asteroid chase and the iconic lightsaber duel between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, the film pushes the boundaries of sci-fi action. Directed by Irvin Kershner, Empire expands the universe with greater depth and excitement.

See our guide to the Star Wars movies in order.

13. Hard Boiled (1992)

Image credit: Golden Princess Film Production
Director: 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 seminal work in action cinema, directed by John Woo. The film features Chow Yun-fat as a cop who transforms gunfights into balletic sequences, with memorable scenes like the teahouse shootout and the hospital finale. While pushing the limits of plausibility, Hard Boiled remains an exhilarating showcase of style and substance.

12. Speed (1994)

Image credit: 20th Century Fox
Director: 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, directed by Jan de Bont. The film's premise of keeping a bus over 50 mph leads to a series of unforgettable action sequences, from a dangling elevator to a runaway bus. Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock deliver compelling performances, making Speed a timeless action classic.

See our guide to the best Keanu Reeves movies.

11. The Rock (1996)

Image credit: Buena Vista Pictures
Director: 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, blending high-octane action with a compelling story. Starring Nicolas Cage and Sean Connery, the film follows a chemical weapons specialist and a former prisoner as they infiltrate Alcatraz to stop a rogue general. The film's explosive action and charismatic performances make it a standout in the genre.

See our guide to the best Nicolas Cage movies.