From John Wick to Gladiator: 10 Action Movies Every Film Lover Should Watch
Action movies have given cinema some of its most memorable moments, from intense hand-to-hand combat and dangerous car chases to large-scale battles and daring stunts.
However, the best action films offer more than explosions and impressive fight sequences. They combine compelling characters, strong storytelling and scenes that keep audiences invested in what happens next.
Film publication Collider explored this distinction in a November 1, 2026, ranking of eight outstanding action movies ever made. Its selection includes films from different decades, with particular attention to how their action sequences contribute to the stories.
From Hollywood blockbusters to Asian martial arts classics, here are 10 action movies every film lover should watch.
1. John Wick (2014)
Starring Keanu Reeves, John Wick follows a retired hitman who returns to the criminal underworld after a group of gangsters attacks him and takes away the last connection to his late wife.
Directed by Chad Stahelski, the film became popular for its carefully choreographed gunfights, close-combat sequences and distinctive approach to action filmmaking.
Its success also established a franchise that has continued to attract audiences.
2. Gladiator (2000)
Directed by Ridley Scott, Gladiator stars Russell Crowe as Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman general who becomes a gladiator after losing his family and position.
The film combines brutal arena battles with political betrayal and a story of revenge.
Its large-scale combat scenes and Crowe’s performance helped make it one of the most recognisable historical action films.
3. Police Story (1985)
Jackie Chan’s Police Story is one of the standout selections in Collider’s ranking.
The Hong Kong action film follows police officer Chan Ka-kui, who becomes involved in a dangerous case involving a crime boss and a witness.
Directed by Jackie Chan and Chi-Hwa Chen, the film is particularly famous for its shopping-mall finale, featuring dangerous stunts involving escalators, glass structures and a decorated pole.
4. The Raid 2 (2014)
Directed by Gareth Evans, The Raid 2 follows Rama, played by Iko Uwais, as he goes undercover to infiltrate a criminal organisation.
Unlike its predecessor, which largely takes place inside one building, the sequel expands into a wider criminal world involving rival gangs and corruption.
Its intense fight choreography, prison-yard confrontation and kitchen battle make it a major entry in modern martial arts cinema.
5. Aliens (1986)
James Cameron directed this science-fiction action film, which brings back Sigourney Weaver as Ellen Ripley.
After surviving the events of the first film, Ripley returns to the planet where the alien creatures were discovered, this time alongside a group of colonial marines.
The film combines military action, science fiction and survival horror, with Ripley’s determination to protect a young girl adding an emotional dimension to the story.
6. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt in this sixth instalment of the Mission: Impossible franchise.
Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, the film follows Hunt and his team as they attempt to recover stolen plutonium and prevent a catastrophic attack.
Its helicopter chase, rooftop pursuit and bathroom fight are among its most memorable sequences.
7. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
Harrison Ford stars as archaeologist Indiana Jones in Steven Spielberg’s adventure action film.
Jones races against Nazi forces to locate the biblical Ark of the Covenant before it falls into the wrong hands.
The film combines treasure hunting, dangerous traps, fistfights and memorable chase sequences.
8. Die Hard (1988)
Bruce Willis plays John McClane, a New York police officer who finds himself fighting a group of armed criminals after they take control of a Los Angeles skyscraper.
Directed by John McTiernan, Die Hard stands out because its central character is not an invincible action hero. McClane gets injured, makes mistakes and struggles to survive.
Its confined setting and tense confrontations helped establish a lasting formula for action thrillers.
9. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
Arnold Schwarzenegger returns as the Terminator in James Cameron’s science-fiction action sequel.
This time, his character is programmed to protect young John Connor from the more advanced T-1000, played by Robert Patrick.
The film is remembered for its groundbreaking visual effects, motorcycle chase and final confrontation in a steel mill.
10. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
George Miller’s Mad Max: Fury Road completes this selection.
Starring Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron, the film follows Max Rockatansky and Imperator Furiosa as they attempt to escape the control of a ruthless warlord.
Much of the story unfolds through an extended desert pursuit involving heavily modified vehicles, explosions and practical stunts.
Its fast-paced storytelling and visual spectacle make it one of the defining action films of recent decades.