At IGN, our passion for movies runs deep, and action films hold a special place in our hearts. From the thrilling B-movies of the '80s and '90s to the diverse subgenres that have since emerged, action movies continue to captivate us with their adrenaline-pumping sequences and unforgettable characters. Our list of the top 25 action movies of all time was carefully curated by IGN's avid action movie enthusiasts, taking into account the quality of action, the level of excitement, and the enduring impact of each film.
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 MCU with "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" set a high bar, leading to their involvement in subsequent major Marvel projects. This film blends espionage thriller elements with high-octane action, revealing SHIELD's infiltration by HYDRA and delivering some of the best action sequences in the MCU. The film's impact on the franchise and its thrilling narrative have earned it acclaim as one of the best MCU films, 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, offering a spectacular blend of action, drama, and musical numbers. This Indian epic tells the story of two revolutionary figures, Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem, as they battle British oppression. Its over-the-top action and cultural significance have made it a standout, likely to climb 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 redefined action cinema, packing intense sequences into four films in less than a decade. "John Wick: Chapter 4" concludes the saga with a bang, showcasing John's journey from personal vengeance to a global quest for redemption. With its innovative action choreography, the film pushes the boundaries of what action movies can achieve.
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" is often hailed as the pinnacle of the "Fast and Furious" franchise, seamlessly transitioning from street racing to high-stakes heists. The introduction of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Luke Hobbs added a new dimension to the series, culminating in a thrilling heist in Brazil that set the stage for the franchise's future.
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" reinvigorated the James Bond series with Daniel Craig's gritty portrayal of 007. The film blends cerebral storytelling with breathtaking action, returning Bond to his roots with intense, grounded sequences that have set a new standard for 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" brings the life of Bruce Lee's martial arts teacher to the screen with grace and intensity. Donnie Yen's portrayal, combined with Sammo Hung's exceptional choreography, delivers a thrilling mix of martial arts action and character-driven drama.
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 spectacle, featuring a ragtag group of heroes fighting against an alien invasion. Its blend of action, humor, and patriotic fervor has cemented its status as a beloved action classic.
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
"Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" combines stunning martial arts action with deep emotional storytelling. Ang Lee's direction and the film's breathtaking fight scenes, set against beautiful landscapes, have made it an enduring masterpiece.
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" delivers some of the most intense and realistic action scenes of the past decade. The story of a SWAT team trapped in a building full of killers is brought to life through masterful choreography and direction.
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 Two Towers" features one of the most epic battles in cinema history at Helm's Deep. Peter Jackson's vision brings the fragmented stories of the fellowship together in a thrilling and visually stunning manner.
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" reinvigorated Arnold Schwarzenegger's action career with its blend of humor and thrilling action sequences. The film's memorable set pieces, like the horseback chase and bridge explosion, have made it a standout in the genre.
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 "Star Wars" film due to its gripping action sequences and expanded universe. From the battle on Hoth to the iconic lightsaber duel, the film's impact on the franchise is undeniable.
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, blending stylish gunplay with intense action. The film's iconic sequences, including the teahouse shootout and hospital finale, have cemented its place in action cinema history.
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, with Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock delivering unforgettable performances. The film's tense action sequences, from the bus chase to the subway battle, keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
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" showcases Michael Bay's flair for action, with Nicolas Cage and Sean Connery leading a testosterone-fueled adventure. The film's explosive sequences and dynamic performances 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" continues to push the boundaries of action cinema with Tom Cruise's daring stunts. From the HALO jump to the helicopter chase, the film delivers some of the most thrilling sequences 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 gritty action with satirical humor, delivering a powerful critique of corporate America. Peter Weller's portrayal of the cyborg enforcer has made the film a classic in the action genre.
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 intense action and iconic scenes. Arnold Schwarzenegger's battle against the alien hunter has become legendary, influencing countless films that followed.
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, with Uma Thurman's quest for revenge driving the narrative. The film's epic fight scenes, particularly the battle with the Crazy 88, are unforgettable.
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 depth. The film's influence on the genre and its iconic action sequences have made it a timeless classic.
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, blending practical effects with stunning visuals. Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron's performances drive the film's intense narrative, making it one of the most exhilarating action films of the 21st century.
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 anchors the film, while the intense action sequences elevate it to one of the best in the genre.
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 thrilling adventure that set the standard for action films. Harrison Ford's portrayal of Indiana Jones, combined with Steven Spielberg's direction, has made this film a timeless classic.
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 Bruce Willis's everyman hero and Alan Rickman's iconic villain. The film's tense action and memorable dialogue have made it a perennial favorite.
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 ultimate action film, blending groundbreaking special effects with a compelling story. Arnold Schwarzenegger's iconic performance and the film's thrilling action sequences have cemented 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!)
AnswerSee ResultsWhat 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 a range of new action movies, 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 and other 2025 action movies on IGN.
Upcoming Action Movies
Looking forward to more action-packed thrills? 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
