Home > News > Top 25 Action Films Ever Ranked

Top 25 Action Films Ever Ranked

by Max May 15,2025

At IGN, we have a deep appreciation for all genres of film, but our hearts beat a little faster for action movies. They've been a staple of our cinematic diet, from the over-the-top thrillers of the '80s and '90s to the sophisticated and genre-blending blockbusters of today. When we talk about "action movies," we're not just reminiscing about the campy B-movies of yesteryear; we're celebrating a diverse spectrum that includes action/comedy, sci-fi action, martial arts, superhero action, war, and adventure films.

Our list of the 25 best action movies of all time was carefully curated and voted on by IGN's most ardent action enthusiasts. We weighed the quality of the action sequences, the level of excitement, and the film's overall impact and legacy. Here's a glimpse into our top picks:

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 nothing short of spectacular. It set a new standard for superhero films with its thrilling espionage narrative, which not only upended Steve Rogers' world but also shook the foundations of the entire MCU by revealing SHIELD's deep ties to HYDRA. The film's action sequences, including intense vehicle chases and meticulously choreographed fight scenes, are a testament to its place on our list. Many consider it the pinnacle of MCU films, even among the Avengers epics.

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 as a cinematic tour de force. This Indian epic tells the fictional tale of two revolutionaries, Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem, as they battle British oppression with a blend of action and musical exuberance. The film's over-the-top action sequences and Oscar-winning songs have captured audiences worldwide, promising to rise in esteem 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 with its relentless pace and innovative choreography. From its inception with a man seeking vengeance for his slain puppy, the saga has evolved into a global tale of redemption and survival. John Wick: Chapter 4 brings this journey to a breathtaking close with its record-breaking action sequences, culminating in a dramatic ascent up a 300-step staircase that symbolizes John's final battle.

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 heralded as the best entry in the Fast and Furious franchise. It's the film that shifted the series from street racing to high-stakes heists and globe-trotting adventures. The introduction of Luke Hobbs, played by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, added a new layer of intensity to the saga, culminating in a memorable heist in Brazil that set 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 reinvigorated the James Bond franchise with Daniel Craig's raw and intense portrayal of 007. This film delves deeper into Bond's psyche, showcasing his vulnerabilities alongside his lethal skills. The action sequences, particularly the opening parkour chase, are gripping and grounded, returning the series to its gritty roots.

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 chronicles the life of the legendary martial arts master, portrayed by Donnie Yen, during the tumultuous times of the Sino-Japanese War. With choreography by the esteemed Sammo Hung, the film combines thrilling martial arts action 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 captures the essence of '90s blockbuster cinema with its epic scale and memorable characters. The film's depiction of a global alien invasion and the subsequent fight for survival is both thrilling and iconic. It solidified Will Smith as an action star and set the stage for Roland Emmerich's signature style of cinematic destruction.

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 breathtaking blend of action and emotional storytelling. The film's visually stunning fight scenes, set against the backdrop of ancient China, are complemented by a poignant narrative of love and sacrifice. The tavern fight sequence, in particular, showcases the film's unique blend of martial arts and cinematic artistry.

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 showcase of Indonesian martial arts cinema. The film's premise is simple yet effective: a SWAT team trapped in a building full of killers must fight their way out. The result is a series of brutally realistic and impeccably choreographed fight scenes that have earned the film its place among action classics.

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 battle sequences in cinema history: the siege of Helm's Deep. The film's action is not just about spectacle; it's about the emotional stakes of the characters involved, making every clash of sword and shield resonate deeply.

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 a blend of action and comedy. The film's standout sequences, such as the horseback chase through the city and the bridge explosion, showcase James Cameron's ability to mix humor with high-octane thrills.

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 hailed as the best Star Wars film due to its iconic action sequences. From the battle on Hoth to the asteroid field chase and the legendary lightsaber duel, the film pushes the boundaries of what sci-fi action can achieve.

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 choreography. The film's balletic gunfights, particularly the teahouse shootout and the hospital finale, have become legendary. Chow Yun-fat's portrayal of Tequila Yuen elevates the film beyond mere action spectacle to a thrilling narrative of style and substance.

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 captures the essence of '90s action cinema. The film's premise of keeping a bus above 50 mph is executed with a series of unforgettable action sequences, from the dangling elevator to the 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 film, blending high-octane action with a compelling narrative. The film's standout moments, including Sean Connery's rampage through San Francisco, showcase Bay's flair for explosive action and memorable set pieces.

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 raises the bar for action cinema with Tom Cruise's daring 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 most thrilling in the series, cementing its place among the best action movies.

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 combines action with sharp social satire. The film's portrayal of a dystopian future, where a fallen cop becomes a cyborg enforcer, is both thrilling and thought-provoking. The action sequences are intense, and the film's humor adds a unique flavor to 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 stands out among '80s action films for its unique blend of sci-fi and jungle warfare. The film's iconic moments, from the arm-wrestling handshake to the final showdown with the alien hunter, have cemented its place in action movie lore.

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 revenge tale. The film's action sequences, particularly the battle with the Crazy 88, are both thrilling and visually stunning. Quentin Tarantino's homage to martial arts cinema is a testament to his love for the genre.

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 film's action sequences, including the iconic lobby shootout and the rooftop battle, are both groundbreaking and exhilarating. Its influence on the genre is undeniable.

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 chase through a post-apocalyptic wasteland. The film's practical effects and stunning visuals, combined with its intense action sequences, make it a modern masterpiece of the genre. Charlize Theron's Furiosa is a standout character, adding depth to the film's thrilling narrative.

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 transformed the horror of the original Alien into a full-blown action epic. The film's tension-filled sequences and epic battle scenes, combined with Sigourney Weaver's powerful performance as Ellen Ripley, make it one of the most thrilling entries 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 set the standard for action-adventure films. The film's opening sequence, with Indiana Jones navigating a booby-trapped temple, is iconic, and the film's relentless pace and thrilling set pieces have made it 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 its "everyman" hero, John McClane. The film's tense narrative, combined with its memorable action sequences and iconic villain, Hans Gruber, make it the perfect action movie. Its influence on the genre is immeasurable.

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 movie. Its non-stop action, groundbreaking special effects, and compelling narrative of redemption and hope set it apart. The film's iconic sequences, from the T-1000's pursuit to the final battle at the steel foundry, are thrilling and emotionally resonant.

See our guide to the Terminator movies in order.

What do you think is the best action movie of all time?