Action and adventure is the most popular film genre in the world by a huge margin. In the United States and Canada alone, total box office revenue for action and adventure films exceeded $121 billion from 1995 to 2023 -- drama films came next with only $36.35 billion.
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The success of the action-packed popcorn blockbuster lies in its fast-paced and adrenaline-fueled thrills, its straightforward good guy versus bad guy dynamic, and its universal appeal. The action flick is deliciously pacey, dragging the eyeballs from one gorgeous set piece to the next, but not before destroying that set piece in a ball of fire. The hero is easy to get behind with conventionally attractive looks and a righteous cause: avenging a loved one or saving the planet from a cataclysmic evil. These elements make the action film enticing to filmgoers worldwide, transcending language and cultural barriers to resonate with audiences of diverse backgrounds.
To celebrate the action film and its utter timelessness, we've ranked the best the genre has to offer, from the ventilation system of Nakatomi Plaza to the bowels of a freighter ship in deep space.
Let's start the countdown (don't sweat -- no bomb will go off when this countdown is over) of the very best action films ever made.
15. Logan (2017)
Sony Pictures
A poignant and gripping farewell to Hugh Jackman's iconic portrayal of Wolverine. Set in a near-future where mutants are on the brink of extinction, an aging Logan cares for an ailing Professor X and a young mutant girl, Laura. Its mature and character-driven narrative solidifies its place as one of the greatest superhero films ever made.
14. Casino Royale (2006)
Columbia Pictures
The James Bond film, directed by Martin Campbell, marks a reinvention of the iconic spy franchise with Daniel Craig as the new 007. The film follows Bond's early career as he earns his 00 status and embarks on a high-stakes mission to defeat a terrorist financier in a high-stakes poker game. With gritty action, intense performances, and a more grounded approach, "Casino Royale" revitalized the Bond series, earning praise for Craig's portrayal and becoming one of the most successful and critically acclaimed entries in the long-running franchise.
13. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
Sony Pictures
Ang Lee's martial arts masterpiece weaves an epic tale of love, honor, and destiny set in ancient China. The film follows skilled warriors, Li Mu Bai and Yu Shu Lien, as they pursue a stolen legendary sword. With breathtakingly choreographed fight sequences and a richly emotional narrative, the film blends romance and action seamlessly. Its visual splendor and captivating performances by Chow Yun-fat, Michelle Yeoh, and Zhang Ziyi garnered widespread acclaim and numerous awards, making "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" a cinematic triumph that transcends borders.
12. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
CBS
This sci-fi action film directed by James Cameron is a groundbreaking and adrenaline-pumping sequel to The Terminator. In this epic follow-up, a new, more advanced Terminator, the T-1000, is sent to kill John Connor, the future leader of the resistance. To protect John, an older model, the T-800, teams up with him and his mother, Sarah Connor. With revolutionary visual effects, heart-pounding action, and emotional depth, the film raised the bar for action blockbusters.
11. The Bourne Identity (2002)
Universal Pictures
Directed by Doug Liman, the film follows Jason Bourne, a man suffering from amnesia, as he discovers his true identity as a highly-skilled CIA operative. Hunted by his former employers, Bourne embarks on a gripping and high-stakes journey to unravel the mysteries of his past while using his lethal abilities to survive. With its intense action sequences, gripping plot, and Matt Damon's compelling performance as Jason Bourne, the film became a critical and commercial success, establishing the franchise as a cornerstone in the spy-action genre.
10. Avengers: End Game (2018)
Marvel Studios
This monumental culmination of the Marvel Cinematic Universe picks up after the devastating events of Infinity War, as the remaining heroes strive to undo Thanos' snap. With its epic scale, emotional depth, and satisfying character arcs, it delivers a thrilling and heartfelt conclusion. The movie showcases impressive visual effects, spectacular action sequences, and powerful performances, particularly from Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man. Avengers: Endgame successfully weaves together multiple storylines, paying homage to the franchise's legacy while delivering an emotional and triumphant finale, making it a remarkable and beloved blockbuster.
9. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
Lucasfilm Ltd.
This iconic action-adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Harrison Ford as the adventurous archaeologist Indiana Jones brilliantly combines thrilling action, daring stunts, and humorous moments with a compelling and fast-paced narrative. It captures the essence of classic adventure serials while introducing a charismatic and unforgettable hero in Indiana Jones. The film's captivating storyline, outstanding practical effects, and John Williams' iconic score create an immersive and entertaining cinematic experience. Raiders of the Lost Ark remains a timeless and beloved classic that continues to enchant audiences with its sense of adventure and escapism.
8. Aliens (1986)
Twentieth Century Fo
Aliens is a science fiction horror film directed by James Cameron and a sequel to the 1979 film Alien (the title also holds the most terrifying shift from singular to plural ever made -- "you're saying there's more of them now!?"). The movie follows Ellen Ripley, portrayed brilliantly by Sigourney Weaver, as she returns to the deadly planet LV-426 with a team of marines to confront the xenomorph threat. It excels in building tension and suspense, delivering intense and heart-pounding action sequences. The film showcases groundbreaking special effects, including the iconic Alien Queen, and expertly blends horror, sci-fi, and military elements. Weaver's powerful performance, the strong ensemble cast, and Cameron's skillful direction make Aliens a thrilling and genre-defining film that remains a timeless classic loved by both critics and audiences.
7. The Dark Knight (2008)
Warner Bros.
This masterpiece, directed by Christopher Nolan, transcends the superhero genre. The film follows Batman's relentless battle against the Joker, portrayed brilliantly by Heath Ledger in an iconic performance. With its gripping storytelling, intense action sequences, and moral complexities, it delves deep into the psyche of its characters. Ledger's posthumous Academy Award-winning performance as the Joker is haunting and mesmerizing, elevating the movie to new heights. The film's exploration of the duality of good and evil, along with its thrilling plot and powerful themes, makes The Dark Knight an exceptional and enduring cinematic achievement.
6. Enter The Dragon (1973)
Warner Bros.
This highly influential martial arts film directed by Robert Clouse stars Bruce Lee as a skilled martial artist recruited by British intelligence to infiltrate a criminal island fortress and expose an illegal fighting tournament. The film showcases Lee's unparalleled athleticism and mesmerizing fighting skills in breathtaking action sequences. It explores themes of honor, justice, and the pursuit of personal growth. With its groundbreaking choreography, captivating storytelling, and charismatic performance by Bruce Lee, Enter the Dragon became a cultural phenomenon, leaving a lasting impact on martial arts cinema and solidifying Lee's status as a global icon.
5. Seven Samurai (1954)
Toho
This Japanese epic film, directed by Akira Kurosawa, is set in feudal Japan and revolves around a group of seven ronin (masterless samurai) hired by a village to protect them from bandits. The film delves deep into themes of honor, sacrifice, and the complexities of human nature. Known for its masterful storytelling, exceptional cinematography, and powerful character development, Seven Samurai is a timeless classic and a milestone in world cinema. It remains a highly influential and celebrated film, praised for its artistry, social commentary, and enduring impact on filmmaking globally.
4. The Matrix (1999)
Warner Bros.
A science fiction action film written and directed by the Wachowskis that is absolutely groundbreaking. The story follows Thomas Anderson, a computer hacker known as Neo, who discovers the truth about reality being a simulated world controlled by machines while humans remain trapped in a virtual prison. Combining mind-bending concepts, stylish visuals, and revolutionary special effects, the film redefined the action genre. Keanu Reeves delivers a memorable performance as Neo, while Laurence Fishburne's portrayal of Morpheus and the iconic "bullet time" action sequences became cultural phenomena. The Matrix is celebrated for its philosophical depth, immersive world-building, and lasting impact on cinema and pop culture.
3. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Warner Bros.
The latest entry in the Mad Max franchise is also the best. The post-apocalyptic action film directed by George Miller is set in a desolate wasteland where resources are scarce, and tyranny reigns. The story centers on Max Rockatansky, portrayed by Tom Hardy, who reluctantly teams up with the fierce warrior Imperator Furiosa, played by Charlize Theron, to escape the tyrannical rule of Immortan Joe and rescue his enslaved wives. The film is a non-stop, high-octane chase filled with breathtaking practical stunts, stunning visuals, and intense action sequences. With its innovative cinematography, powerful female characters, and environmental themes, Mad Max: Fury Road is hailed as a modern action masterpiece and earned heaps of critical acclaim.
2. John Wick (2014)
Summit Entertainment
Keanu Reeves stars as the titular character, a retired hitman seeking vengeance for the death of his beloved dog, which was a gift from his deceased wife. The film is known for its stylish and visceral action sequences, choreographed with precision and skill. It introduces a rich and intriguing criminal underworld, with assassins operating by their own set of rules. Reeves' stoic and determined portrayal of John Wick, along with director Chad Stahelski's slick visual style and impressive fight choreography, make it a standout entry in the action genre, spawning a successful franchise with multiple sequels.
1. Die Hard (1988)
Getty Images
Debates rage on about whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie -- but there's no question it's a phenomenal action film, and our choice for the number one spot on this list. The story follows New York City cop John McClane, portrayed by Bruce Willis, who becomes the lone hero trapped in a Los Angeles skyscraper during a terrorist heist on Christmas Eve. With its intense and suspenseful plot, the movie delivers thrilling and explosive action sequences. Bruce Willis' charismatic performance as McClane, along with the memorable villain Hans Gruber played by Alan Rickman, creates a gripping and entertaining cat-and-mouse game. Die Hard redefined the action genre, setting the bar high for subsequent action films, and remains a beloved classic that has stood the test of time.
