At IGN, we have a deep appreciation for all genres of movies, but action films hold a special place in our hearts. They've been a staple of our viewing experience, from the classic, over-the-top action movies of the '80s and '90s to the diverse range of action subgenres we enjoy today. Our list of the top 25 action movies of all time showcases not just the traditional action fare but also includes action/comedy, sci-fi action, martial arts, superhero action, war, and adventure films.
Our selection process involved IGN's most dedicated action movie enthusiasts, who considered the quality of action, the level of excitement, and the film's lasting impact on cinema. Here's our countdown of the best action movies ever made:
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 with Captain America: The Winter Soldier was a resounding success, leading them to direct subsequent major MCU films. This film stands out as a gripping espionage thriller that not only disrupts Steve Rogers' life but also shakes the foundations of the entire MCU by revealing SHIELD's infiltration by HYDRA. The action sequences, including vehicle chases and intense fight choreography, are top-notch, making it a favorite among many as the best MCU film, 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 took audiences by storm in 2022 with its extravagant storytelling and action. This Indian epic features fictionalized versions of two revolutionaries fighting against British rule, blending over-the-top action with musical numbers, including Oscar-winning songs. Its blend of cartoonish violence and epic storytelling makes it a standout that's likely to climb higher on our list 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, evolving from a personal vendetta into a global saga of redemption. John Wick: Chapter 4 pushes the boundaries with its choreography, featuring a mix of martial arts and gunplay that feels like a dance. The film's climax, with its iconic 300-step staircase, is a testament to the series' relentless energy and innovation.
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, bridging the original street racing narrative with the later globe-trotting adventures. The introduction of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Luke Hobbs adds a new dynamic, culminating in a memorable heist in Brazil that sets the stage for future installments.
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 reinvents James Bond with Daniel Craig's portrayal of a more rugged and emotionally complex 007. The film's action sequences, including the iconic parkour chase, are thrilling and ground the character in a gritty reality, making it one of the most cerebral entries in the Bond 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 brings the story of Bruce Lee's martial arts teacher to life, focusing on his journey during the Sino-Japanese War. With Donnie Yen in the lead and choreography by Sammo Hung, the film combines thrilling martial arts with a compelling character-driven narrative, making it a standout in the genre.
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 film, showcasing humanity's fight against an alien invasion. With its memorable characters and iconic scenes, including the President's rousing speech, the film is a perfect example of popcorn entertainment that has stood the test of time.
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 visually stunning film that blends martial arts with a poignant love story. The action sequences, set against breathtaking landscapes, are beautifully choreographed, making it a landmark 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 lean and intense action film from Indonesia, featuring some of the most brutal and realistic fight scenes in recent memory. The story of a SWAT team trapped in a building full of killers is simple yet executed with incredible skill and energy.
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 battles in cinema history at Helm's Deep. Despite the fragmented narrative, the film's action sequences, including the Ents' assault on Isengard, are thrilling and showcase the saga's grand scale.
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's action sequences, including a memorable horseback chase and bridge explosion, are highlights of this entertaining mix of thrills and humor.
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 stunning action sequences, from the battle on Hoth to the iconic lightsaber duel between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader. The film's scope and set pieces elevated the franchise to new heights.
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 masterclass in action filmmaking, with John Woo's signature style turning gunplay into ballet. The film's iconic sequences, including the teahouse shootout and hospital finale, are some of the most influential 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 that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The film's premise of a bus that must stay above 50 mph leads to unforgettable action sequences, including a dangling elevator and a subway car battle, making it a standout in the genre.
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-octane military thriller. The film's action, including a memorable Hummer chase through San Francisco, is pure adrenaline-fueled entertainment.
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 performing his own stunts, including a HALO jump. The film's action sequences, from the bathroom brawl to the helicopter chase, are some of the best 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 is a darkly satirical action film that blends violence with humor. The story of a fallen cop turned cyborg enforcer is both thrilling and thought-provoking, making it a standout in the 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 is a classic '80s action film that stands out for its intense action and memorable scenes. From the arm-wrestling handshake to the final showdown with the alien hunter, the film is a testament to the era's action movie excess.
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. The film's action sequences, particularly the battle with the Crazy 88, are thrilling and showcase Quentin Tarantino's unique filmmaking style.
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 themes. The film's action sequences, including the iconic lobby shootout, are both thrilling and thought-provoking, making it a landmark in 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 relentless two-hour chase that blends practical stunts with CGI to create a visually stunning action film. The film's focus on Furiosa's redemption story adds depth to the high-octane action.
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 original film's contained horror into an expansive action thriller. Sigourney Weaver's performance as Ellen Ripley anchors the film, which features some of the most intense action sequences in the franchise.
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 action classic that launched the Indiana Jones franchise. The film's action sequences, from the opening temple escape to the climactic Ark opening, are thrilling and iconic.
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 "everyman" hero, John McClane, and its iconic villain, Hans Gruber. The film's action sequences, humor, and character development make it a perfect action movie.
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, featuring non-stop action, groundbreaking special effects, and a compelling story about the power of choice. The film's action sequences, from the T-1000's pursuit to the final battle at the steel foundry, are unforgettable.
See our guide to the Terminator movies in order.
What do you think is the best action movie of all time?
New Action Movies of 2025
2025 has brought a variety 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 find our full reviews of these and other 2025 action movies on IGN.
Upcoming Action Movies
Looking forward to the rest of 2025, there are several exciting action movies on the horizon:
- **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
