An age-old saying goes: Actions often speak louder than words. This sentiment seems particularly applicable to the world of cinema. In this art form where ‘showing’ is more important than ‘telling’, a dozen powerful dialogue scenes may not be as impactful or lasting as a single striking action sequence.
Today, I’m highlighting my top picks for the most thrilling action movies from the past decade, right here at ScreenCrush. As you delve into this list, you might notice that we’ve intentionally excluded two other genres that frequently intertwine with action – Sports and Animation. While a film like “Creed” could arguably fall under the action category due to its intense fighting scenes, and “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” boasts some truly dynamic set pieces, we’ve decided to focus solely on action movies for this particular feature.
The first one was intentionally excluded since sports films appear to form a unique category that deserves individual evaluation, and the second one was omitted because it seems unfair to contrast the athletic abilities of real humans, which are influenced by factors like physics, with those of cartoon characters who don’t have any limitations on their actions.
After narrowing down the options, this is what remains. I hope these words resonate powerfully, just like these extraordinary action films do.
The 10 Best Action Movies of the Last 10 Years (2015-2024)
10. Avengement (2019)
Over the past 15 years, no one has headlined as many gritty action movies as Scott Adkins. Although he’s been involved in big-budget Hollywood productions (such as playing Mads Mikkelsen’s henchmen in “Doctor Strange”), he’s primarily known for his work in direct-to-video (now direct-to-streaming) action films. A prime demonstration of his straightforward, lethal acting style can be seen in the movie “Avengement,” where Adkins, along with frequent collaborator director Jesse V. Johnson, portrays an ex-convict on a highly personal quest for revenge against his own brother. Despite its somewhat playful title, this film is a surprisingly raw and brutal little production.
9. The Fall Guy (2024)
In the spirit of an aging muscle car with faulty brakes, “The Fall Guy” gains momentum swiftly and never lets up, sharing the same exhilarating energy as a classic Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland musical about putting on a show. This series is so heartfelt in its adoration for movie magic that it inspires you to create your own film or simply watch one.
However, what audiences perceive as “movie magic” in “The Fall Guy” is actually the result of both illusion and hard work, much of which is performed by the unsung heroes behind the scenes, whom the show honors. As Emily Blunt’s character Jody Moreno tells Ryan Gosling’s stuntman Colt Seavers, their action sequences aim to convey the idea “How far would you go for the one you love?” If “the one” is replaced with the euphoria of exceptional cinema, then that captures the driving force behind this delightful and entertaining show.
8. Rebel Ridge (2024)
2024 could have seen Aaron Pierre as the center of cinematic discussions for his compelling portrayal of an honest Marine entangled with unscrupulous cops in the movie “Rebel Ridge.” However, despite being one of a dozen new Netflix releases in September that year, it didn’t quite garner the attention expected. But let’s make it clear, this doesn’t diminish Pierre’s exceptional performance or Jeremy Saulnier’s delivery of another masterful action film, reminiscent of “First Blood,” but reimagined through our contemporary lens. This film deviates from conventional action tropes as its protagonist, a Marine martial arts instructor wrongfully accused by a corrupt police chief, attempts to deescalate situations peacefully whenever possible (although, fortunately for the audience, he isn’t always successful).
7. John Wick: Chapter 3 — Parabellum (2019)
6. Mission: Impossible — Fallout (2018)
Discussing the intricate, mind-bending plots and death-defying stunts of Mission: Impossible – Fallout, which surpassed even the extraordinary feats of its predecessor Rogue Nation, is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what makes this film stand out.
In an era where popular culture often leans toward cynicism, Tom Cruise stands as a unique artist who embodies genuine devotion. He could easily delegate his stunts or rely on technology, but he doesn’t because he genuinely believes in his films and goes to extraordinary lengths (such as falling and running great distances) to captivate his audience. This intense dedication is evident in every frame of this unapologetically entertaining and earnest action film. For instance, during the shooting of one stunt, Cruise actually broke his ankle, yet he completed the shot and it was included in the final film.
5. Bad Black (2016)
Despite its raw, exhilarating, and chaotic nature, the Ugandan action film titled “Bad Black” is not a comedy of blunders like Tommy Wiseau’s work. Instead, it feels more like a powerful shot of adrenaline directly into your system. Director Nabwana I.G.G. launches the story with an epic 10-minute chase and gunfight through Wakaliga streets, and the pace seldom slows for the following hour. The editing is fast-paced yet understandable, the stunts are strikingly athletic, the glimpses into Ugandan life are captivating, and the joy exhibited by everyone involved is genuinely contagious. In essence, this movie isn’t so bad that it’s good – it’s so entertaining that it’s simply Bad Black at its best.
4. John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)
In the story of “John Wick”, though Chapter 4 might mark its end or not, it undeniably peaked – quite literally so in the movie’s finale, where Keanu Reeves’ John Wick battles his way up an immense staircase leading to the Sacré-Cœur church in Paris. Spanning three hours and filled with action sequences that could easily stand alone in three films, “John Wick: Chapter 4” finds its protagonist traversing the globe, determined to find a means to finally put an end to his relentless conflict with the High Table. Reeves once again demonstrates his prowess as a graceful and emotional anti-hero, this time accompanied by the series’ most impressive lineup of action stars yet: Scott Adkins, Laurence Fishburne, Hiroyuki Sanada, Shamier Anderson, and notably Donnie Yen as the blind swordsman/assassin Caine. It remains a mystery how Reeves and director Chad Stahelski could possibly surpass this achievement, but I would gladly welcome further attempts.
3. Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
In the 2020s, it seemed almost impossible to imagine a more unnecessary film than a follow-up to Top Gun. However, against all odds, director Joseph Kosinski and actor-producer Tom Cruise, with an unyielding determination and deep dedication to traditional cinematic skills, managed to create a sequel that was not just thrilling and enjoyable, but also seemed resonant with our contemporary world – perhaps not politically, but certainly in terms of the allure of breathtaking visuals that can only be experienced on a massive screen. In today’s context, this could be seen as a daring perspective.
2. RRR (2022)
This Indian film, a grand spectacle lasting three hours, overwhelms your brain’s pleasure centers with a combination of spectacle, romance, music, and high-octane action sequences. In essence, it reimagines an old-school John Woo action movie from South Asia, where two exceptionally powerful men, one being Bheem (portrayed by N.T. Rama Rao Jr.), a warrior from the Gond tribe, and Rama (Ram Charan), a member of the British Empire’s military, find themselves on opposite sides of the law but unexpectedly form an alliance due to unforeseen circumstances. In Delhi, Bheem is searching for a kidnapped girl, while Rama is tasked with finding the mysterious man who seeks her. Despite their initial enmity, a strange coincidence transforms them into swift allies. The audacity of RRR in captivating its audience is unparalleled, and its seamless blend of action and dance sequences is truly remarkable.
1. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Mad Max: Fury Road, released within the last decade, stands out as the best car chase movie of our time and beyond. Its action sequences are impressive, but what truly sets it apart is its profound spiritual and even Biblical themes. The film follows a group of heroic women, led by the legendary Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron), on a journey through the desert, escaping the ruins of Sodom and Gomorrah in search of a new paradise. Tom Hardy’s character, Max, serves as their guide, much like Moses in the Old Testament. George Miller’s masterful chaos demonstrates that action films can be both exhilarating and intelligent. If anyone tells you otherwise, simply look them straight in the eye and say, ‘That’s a misleading temptation.’
Notable Recognitions Include:
Atomic Blonde, Black Panther, Everything Everywhere All at Once, Gemini Man, The Killer (2024), Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, The Nice Guys, Shadow, Sicario, Triple Frontier. (These films have garnered recognition in their respective categories.)
Or
In addition to the winners, these movies deserve special mention: Atomic Blonde, Black Panther, Everything Everywhere All at Once, Gemini Man, The Killer (2024), Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, The Nice Guys, Shadow, Sicario, Triple Frontier.
Or
These films have earned notable recognition: Atomic Blonde, Black Panther, Everything Everywhere All at Once, Gemini Man, The Killer (2024), Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, The Nice Guys, Shadow, Sicario, Triple Frontier.
Every ‘Star Trek’ Movie Ranked From Worst to Best
13. Star Trek: Nemesis
A compelling idea for a Star Trek movie – Captain Picard facing his evil counterpart – was unfortunately undermined by an execution that went terribly awry. Instead of utilizing makeup or special effects to portray Patrick Stewart’s doppelganger, they opted for a young British actor who bore no resemblance to Stewart, then gave him a shaved head, a prosthetic nose, and deemed it sufficient.
To add insult to injury, Tom Hardy was cast as the clone, making an already questionable decision even more noticeable given his rising stardom at the time. If this were the only film in which Hardy appeared, the concept would not have worked. One wonders why they shaved Tom Hardy’s head when Stewart himself is bald; I suppose it was an attempt to make them look alike despite the circumstances.
However, Patrick Stewart wasn’t naturally bald; he lost his hair over time. In a particularly ironic moment, Captain Picard reflects on his youth while gazing at a photograph from Starfleet Academy – and it shows a completely bald Tom Hardy! This moment is undeniably one of the most unintentionally humorous in all of Star Trek.
To make matters worse, the plot was convoluted and illogical (including the clone’s acquisition of a Data prototype robot and using it to trick the Enterprise into a complex trap). The result is the worst film ever made within the Star Trek franchise. (Yes, even surpassing the one that most people believe is the worst.)
12. Star Trek V: The Final Frontier
Although they might appear simple, I find the campfire conversations between Kirk, Spock, and Bones to be quite impactful in this instance. The concept of the Starship Enterprise departing to search for God aligns well with the original Star Trek series’ atmosphere. However, the primary concern lies with Spock’s storyline, which is usually the standout aspect of traditional Star Trek films.
In this particular movie, Spock is embroiled in a struggle with his previously unmentioned half-brother Sybok (Laurence Luckinbill). It seems as though these characters hail from different realms. (It’s not coincidental that the least effective Spock film is also the only one directed by William Shatner.)
11. Star Trek Into Darkness
In this film, there are delightful character moments, entertaining nods to the series’ past, and some truly spectacular views of the U.S.S. Enterprise. However, to appreciate these aspects, you must endure a significant portion of the movie featuring Benedict Cumberbatch as John Harrison/[Character’s Secret Identity Redacted], which is disappointingly unintelligent. His scheme is foolish, his mysterious benefactor’s plan is senseless, the way Kirk and Spock thwart him is brainless, and the repetition of scenes from Wrath of Khan is particularly ill-advised.
J.J. Abrams skillfully blended elements he found intriguing from the extensive Star Trek universe to create his first Star Trek film. In Into Darkness, however, Abrams and the franchise seem to be at odds. Abrams is known for his affinity for mystery boxes, while a reinterpretation of Wrath of Khan makes little sense when it becomes nothing but plot twists. Despite the film’s theme, Abrams failed to understand that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few, or the one.
10. Star Trek: Generations
In this intertwining of various generations from the iconic series, ‘Star Trek’, there’s an awkward transition taking place as the original cast and the crew of ‘The Next Generation’ exchange roles. Only three actors from the classic ‘Trek’ era were persuaded to return, with Captain Kirk, played by Shatner, getting the most screen time. The rest of the ‘TNG’ cast and the Enterprise seem to be grappling with the vastness of the big screen. Malcolm McDowell plays a typical ‘Trek’ adversary, another character coveting an immense cosmic energy source. However, Patrick Stewart and Shatner share some enjoyable moments in their limited scenes together.
9. Star Trek: Insurrection
Insurrection” can be described as follows: While it aligns best with the TV series “The Next Generation” among all the movies, it’s not very memorable. Compared to other potential stories, this one about the Enterprise aiding the Space Amish on a radiation-soaked planet that induces intense attraction might have had exciting possibilities, but the end result is quite tame and adheres closely to typical “Next Generation” formula. The movie could have been more sensual! There are a couple of entertaining scenes, such as Data’s joke about his design for water landings and Captain Picard dancing the mambo, but the intriguing sexual theme serves mainly as a backdrop for a standard “Next Generation” escapade. Let’s see more romance in Star Trek!
8. Star Trek III: The Search For Spock
In every iconic Star Trek film, each has its distinctive atmosphere. Notably, The Search for Spock serves as a heist-like adventure within the series, where the remaining Enterprise crew members orchestrate a daring plan to recover their ship and retrieve Spock’s body, which is currently inhabited by Dr. McCoy’s consciousness.
On one side, The Search For Spock retracts (to some extent) the devastating ending from The Wrath of Khan, an aspect that continues to bother me. On the other hand, The Search For Spock offers memorable Star Trek moments, like Captain Kirk delivering a Klingon with a sequence of kicks and the timeless declaration “I… have had… enough… of you!
7. Star Trek: The Motion Picture
As a devoted fan, I’ve poured my thoughts extensively on the tranquil pleasures this film offers, but to sum it up concisely – and yes, I realize this may seem paradoxical when discussing the leisurely paced “Star Trek: The Motion Picture” – I find the way this film expands the scope of a universe that was once confined to the small screen truly captivating. For me, one of the standout aspects is Spock’s narrative arc in TMP; the struggle he faces in suppressing emotions and his eventual realization of the significance of “basic feelings” amidst the cosmic grandeur of the final frontier is compelling. Although the movie does boast a generous serving of breathtaking visuals, it skillfully maintains its focus on the characters without losing them from view for extended periods.
6. Star Trek: First Contact
Following a bumpy debut in “Generations”, producers managed to steer the ship back on course with the subsequent installment, “Star Trek: First Contact”. This time-travel adventure saw Captain Picard and his crew from the Enterprise journeying into the past to thwart the Borg from preventing the Federation’s formation. With high stakes and a powerful portrayal by Patrick Stewart as Picard (who harbors animosity towards the Borg due to their actions during “The Next Generation” TV series), “First Contact” was deemed worthy of comparisons to the second film in the original “Trek” saga.
5. Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home
In the classic film “Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home,” the iconic spaceship, the Enterprise, traveled backward in time to 1986. Their mission was to circle the Sun and find a pair of humpback whales, an extinct species in their era, to save Earth from destruction. This time travel adventure left the Star Trek crew feeling out of place, resulting in amusing scenes like Chekov seeking directions to “nuclear weapons.” Despite being the wittiest among the Star Trek movies, it’s undeniably silly. If you don’t appreciate its charm, then you might as well be labeled a double fool!
4. Star Trek Beyond
Among Star Trek movies, one that often goes unnoticed is arguably the most impressive due to a captivating villain portrayed by Idris Elba, a powerful message aligned with Star Trek’s IDIC philosophy, and breathtaking action sequences that serve as an epic conclusion for the rebooted film series. Moreover, having Justin Lin in the director’s chair elevates this movie to one of the best-directed action films within the entire franchise.
3. Star Trek
As a movie enthusiast, I must say that 2009’s “Star Trek” stands out as one of the most ingenious reimaginings of an established franchise in Hollywood. This film not only unveiled an exceptional new cast playing the legendary Enterprise characters – Chris Pine as Captain Kirk, Zachary Quinto as Mr. Spock, and Zoe Saldana as Lt. Uhura – but it also wisely brought back Leonard Nimoy as “Spock Prime” to bridge the gap between the old films and this fresh take. The storyline itself is a thrilling space odyssey with well-crafted character development and remarkably enhanced visual effects. If you’re seeking a more dynamic and action-packed version of “Star Trek”, this movie is definitely worth watching.
2. Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
In a slightly rephrased manner,
The general consensus among many fans favors “The Wrath of Khan” as the top “Star Trek” movie, but it doesn’t quite make my personal pick. Despite its status as an excellent “Star Trek” film in itself, I feel there are others that outshine it. Indeed, it’s a captivating, poignant space thriller with Spock’s emotional sacrifice reaching heights seldom seen in blockbusters.
The scene where Spock passes away and Kirk delivers his eulogy at the funeral is profoundly moving, especially considering Kirk’s struggle to maintain composure. However, the emotional impact of these events is somewhat diminished because they were reversed in a subsequent film. If “The Wrath of Khan” had been the last “Star Trek” movie or Leonard Nimoy’s final portrayal of Spock, it might have endured as the best “Star Trek” film. Unfortunately, fate and good corporate management had other plans.
“The Wrath of Khan” is meant to depict Captain Kirk grappling with death for the first time. Later films, however, allowed him to escape death repeatedly. The movie at the top of my list tackles similar themes more effectively…
1. Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country
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2025-04-17 21:26