It’s undeniable that action movies have been a mainstream entertainment source for decades. In an exhilarating movie experience, an audience can be transported to a new world and see larger-than-life characters in intense situations. Action movies also tend to offer an emotional high compared to other genres, with their exciting action sequences and intriguing storylines. Whether you’re looking for a pulse-pounding thriller or a big-budget blockbuster, here is a list of good action movies people simply cannot miss out on.
Explosive Blockbusters
- Die Hard
Die Hard is an action-packed classic that tells the story of an off-duty police officer (Bruce Willis) who must save his wife from hostage-taking criminals in a Los Angeles skyscraper. This movie was a true game-changer in the action genre and had viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
- Mad Max: Fury Road
This dystopian-styled action flick became the epitome of modern mainstream action movies. The film follows Mad Max (played by Tom Hardy) as he embarks on a journey through a terrifying wasteland. Beautifully filmed and heart-pounding set pieces dominate the movie, and it also scored six Oscars upon its release in 2015.
- The Matrix
The Matrix was way ahead of its time with its implementation of special effects and plot. The movie follows a computer programmer who discovers that the world he lives in is a simulated reality created by intelligent machines. It’s constantly held as a foundational film for many action movies today and offers an entertaining experience for viewers of all ages.
- Avengers: Endgame
This superhero flick is a powerful conclusion to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). It follows the surviving Avengers’ mission to reverse their foes’ devastation and avenge their fallen comrade. An emotional rollercoaster and exhilarating action sequences form a perfect closure for this movie, making it a must-watch for any action genre fan.
- Mission Impossible: Fallout
The sixth installment of the Mission Impossible saga, this movie follows world-renowned spy Ethan Hunt and his mission to save the entire world. Complex plot points and mind-blowing action sequences make this movie an unforgettable experience.
Pulse-Pounding Thrillers
- Heat
Heat is an underrated movie based on a cat-and-mouse chase between a criminal (Robert DeNiro) and a dedicated cop (Al Pacino). With iconic performances and long sequences debating the nature of criminality, Heat offers intense thriller moments and an emotional takeaway as well.
- Seven
In this thriller, two detectives (Morgan Freeman & Brad Pitt) investigate a series of emotionally disturbing murders related to the seven deadly sins. It offers a suspenseful experience and its ending remains legendary, even decades after its release.
- The Usual Suspects
This neo-noir movie follows a group of criminals who form an unlikely alliance to pull off a daring heist. The plot twists and intense, unpredictable scenes are delivered beautifully in this academy award-winning movie.
- Prisoners
Starring Hugh Jackman in the lead, this movie follows a desperate father as he searches for his abducted daughter. With a heartfelt narrative and emotionally-charged scenes, Prisoners offers a captivating experience with purposeful dialogue and strong performances.
- The Grifters
This crime-adventure flick gives legendary performances from its all-star cast, led by Anjelica Huston and John Cusack. As con-artists in a road of no return, they offer an unforgettable experience to viewers of all ages, with a thrilling and unique story line.
Action movies offer an explosive movie experience that viewers can never get enough of. From pulse-pounding thrillers to blockbuster spectacles, this list of good action movies is an ideal starting point for fans of the genre. To the average viewer, the experiences offered in these movies may range from pure entertainment to a form of meaningful storytelling. No matter which one you decide to watch, these action flicks are sure to provide an enjoyable experience.
