The Greatest Action Movies Of All Time
The greatest epic action movies ever made have some of the best action stars to have ever fought on screen. Good Hollywood action movies tend to be the ones where we get a little substance to go along with the shooting; a little banter along with the battles. This list has some of the most awesome action films of all time, and it's now up to Ranker users to vote on which of these are truly the top action movies of all time. If you're looking for some of the greatest action movies of all time that are streaming on Netflix or Amazon, check out The Best Action Movies on Netflix and The Best Action Movies On Amazon Prime.
The list of popular action movies ever has famous action films with a mix of one man renegades (Die Hard), supernatural thrills (Alien), and science fiction dreams brought to reality on the big screen (Terminator, Jurassic Park). You'll even find some great comedic performances among the gun fights, smack talking, and explosions. Heck, you could probably fill a New Jersey size dump with all the stuff that gets blown up in these action films. The list covers a broad time range as well with nearly as many classic action movies making the list as newer, big budget CGI action-fest. Other good action movies to watch include The Matrix Trilogy, the John Wick movies, and The Bourne Series.
This is a fan ranked list and that means you can rerank this list so everyone can know that the biggest action movie of all time was actually...(this is where you fill in what you think the coolest action movie ever is). Make your voice heard and don't forget, these are action films so you're gonna have to be loud. And, if you love action movies, you might want to check out this list of the best action shows.
- 1Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong
- Released: 1991
- Directed by: James Cameron
In this adrenaline-pumping sequel, Arnold Schwarzenegger returns as a cyborg sent from the future to protect John Connor, leader of the human resistance against Skynet. With groundbreaking visual effects and an intense storyline, this film solidified its place among the greatest action movies of all time. The epic chase scenes and thrilling showdown between cyborgs are sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
- 2Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedelia
- Released: 1988
- Directed by: John McTiernan
Bruce Willis stars as off-duty NYPD officer John McClane, who finds himself trapped inside a Los Angeles skyscraper during a terrorist takeover led by Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman). Combining heart-pounding suspense with explosive action sequences, Die Hard has become synonymous with the modern action movie genre.
- 3Keanu Reeves, Michael Nyqvist, Alfie Allen
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Chad Stahelski
Keanu Reeves stars in this stylish and violent revenge thriller as a retired hitman who returns to his old ways after his beloved dog is killed by mobsters. Showcasing intricate martial arts choreography and gunplay, the film boasts relentless action sequences that have since spawned multiple sequels. With its sleek visuals and intense fight scenes, John Wick has earned its place among modern classics.
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- 4Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Aaron Eckhart
- Released: 2008
- Directed by: Christopher Nolan
Christian Bale reprises his role as Batman in Christopher Nolan's critically acclaimed sequel that introduces Heath Ledger's unforgettable portrayal of the Joker. As Gotham City descends into chaos under the Joker's reign of terror, Batman must navigate moral dilemmas while facing off against his most sinister adversary yet. This dark and intense action thriller is lauded for its intricate storytelling, unforgettable performances, and breathtaking visuals.
- 5Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen
- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Ridley Scott
Set in ancient Rome and starring Russell Crowe as Maximus Decimus Meridius, this historical drama delivers exhilarating action through brutal gladiatorial combat sequences. Betrayed by Emperor Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), Maximus is forced into slavery but rises through the ranks of gladiators as he seeks revenge for his family's murder. This epic tale of vengeance is filled with breathtaking visuals and intense battle scenes that leave viewers breathless.
- 6Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Michael Biehn
- Released: 1993
- Directed by: George P. Cosmatos
Chronicling the infamous events at O.K. Corral, this Western action film stars Kurt Russell as Wyatt Earp and Val Kilmer as Doc Holliday as they fight against a menacing group of outlaws known as the Cowboys. The gripping narrative is full of gunfights, daring escapes, and tense standoffs that have made this movie a beloved addition to Western cinema.
