by Claire Apr 16,2025
At IGN, our passion for movies runs deep, and action films hold a special place in our hearts. From the adrenaline-fueled adventures of the '80s and '90s to the modern masterpieces of today, action movies have always been a thrilling escape. We believe the term "action movie" encompasses more than just the campy B-movies of yesteryear. Our list celebrates the best of various action subgenres, including action/comedy, sci-fi action, martial arts, superhero action, war, and adventure.
Our selection process involved a dedicated team of IGN's biggest action fans. We meticulously evaluated each film based on the quality of its action sequences, the level of excitement it generated, and its lasting impact on the genre. Here, we present IGN's top 25 action movies of all time, showcasing the films that have set the standard for action cinema.
The Russo Brothers' inaugural venture into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" was a resounding success. This film not only paved the way for their future projects like "Captain America: Civil War" and the Avengers films of the Infinity Saga, but it also stands out as a compelling espionage thriller. It masterfully intertwines Steve Rogers' personal struggles with the broader implications of SHIELD's infiltration by HYDRA. The action sequences, including vehicle chases and fight choreography, are top-notch, showcasing Steve's battle against his past. Many consider "Winter Soldier" to be one of the finest films in the MCU, even surpassing the Avengers movies.
"RRR" stormed onto the scene in 2022, captivating audiences with its audacious storytelling and over-the-top action. This Indian epic, featuring fictionalized versions of revolutionaries Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem, blends cartoonish violence with sweeping musical numbers, including Oscar-winning songs. The film's portrayal of their friendship and fight against British oppression creates a thrilling, larger-than-life experience that is sure to climb higher on our list as time progresses.
The John Wick franchise has packed an incredible amount of action into its four films, released over less than a decade. The saga began with John Wick's quest for vengeance following the death of his beloved dog, a symbol of his grief for his late wife. This journey evolved into a global battle for redemption, showcasing various martial arts and gunplay choreographed like a ballet. "John Wick: Chapter 4" pushes the boundaries even further, culminating in a breathtaking conclusion featuring a literal 300-step staircase challenge.
The "Fast and Furious" series has evolved dramatically since its inception over two decades ago, but "Fast Five" remains a fan favorite. This film serves as a pivotal point, bridging the original street racing narrative with the high-stakes, world-saving missions of later installments. It introduced Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Luke Hobbs, tasked with capturing Dom Toretto and his crew. The climactic heist in Brazil is not only thrilling but also sets the stage for the revenge-driven plot of "Fast X."
"Casino Royale" offers a more cerebral take on the James Bond franchise. Daniel Craig's portrayal of Bond adds depth, presenting him as both thuggish and emotionally vulnerable. This nuanced performance, combined with a lack of the franchise's usual extravagances, grounds the film in realism. The action sequences, such as the opening parkour chase, are gripping and showcase Bond's raw, gritty capabilities. This film marks a significant return to Bond's roots and remains one of the series' most impactful entries.
Check out our guide to James Bond movies in order.
"Ip Man" delves into the life of Bruce Lee's martial arts mentor during the Sino-Japanese War. Starring Donnie Yen and featuring choreography by Sammo Hung, this film blends thrilling martial arts with a character-driven narrative. It captures the essence of Wing Chun master Ip Man with a blend of action and drama, offering a stylized yet heartfelt look at his journey.
"Independence Day" epitomizes '90s action cinema with its spectacle of alien invasion and human resilience. The film's blend of thrilling action and memorable characters, including a pilot, a scientist, and a President delivering an iconic speech, makes it a quintessential popcorn movie. It not only solidified Will Smith's status as an action star but also set a benchmark for blockbuster disaster films.
Ang Lee's "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" is a masterful blend of action and emotion. The film's characters, portrayed by Michelle Yeoh and Chow Yun-fat, carry deep emotional burdens that contrast with their graceful, gravity-defying fights. The choreography, set against stunning landscapes like bamboo forests, elevates the film to an art form. The tavern fight sequence, in particular, showcases a mix of kung fu, wire-work, and comedy, making it a standout in action cinema.
"The Raid: Redemption" delivers some of the most intense and realistic action scenes in recent cinema. This Indonesian film follows a SWAT team trapped in a building full of killers, resulting in relentless, brutal fight sequences. The film's simplicity and focus on action make it a must-watch for any action enthusiast.
The battle for Helm's Deep in "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers" is a defining moment in action cinema. The film, while fragmented into multiple storylines, culminates in a thrilling and satisfying battle that showcases the determination of humans, elves, hobbits, and even trees against overwhelming odds. This sequence stands as one of the saga's most memorable spectacles.
See our guide to The Lord of the Rings movies in order.
"True Lies" revitalized Arnold Schwarzenegger's career with its blend of action and comedy. The film follows a secret agent whose wife is unaware of his double life, leading to hilarious and action-packed scenarios. Memorable sequences like the horseback chase and bridge explosion highlight the film's thrilling nature.
"The Empire Strikes Back" is often hailed as the best "Star Wars" film, thanks to its stunning action sequences. From the battle on Hoth to the asteroid field chase and the iconic lightsaber duel between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, the film expanded the scope and ambition of the franchise, setting new standards for sci-fi action.
See our guide to the Star Wars movies in order.
"Hard Boiled" showcases John Woo's signature style, turning gunplay into a balletic art form. Chow Yun-fat's character, Inspector "Tequila" Yuen, delivers some of the most iconic action sequences in cinema, including the teahouse shootout and the hospital finale. The film's thrilling choreography and bold style make it a seminal action movie.
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