If you’re a fan of action-packed films, you know how exhilarating a gripping storyline combined with high-octane fights can be. John Wick has set a new benchmark for action movies, but it’s far from the only franchise delivering adrenaline-fueled entertainment. If you’re on the hunt for similar films that provide that same rush, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore a selection of action movies that capture the essence of John Wick.
10. Jack Reacher: Never Go Back
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes: 6.2/37%
- Director: Edward Zwick
- Starring: Tom Cruise, Cobie Smulders, Aldis Hodge
- Release Date: December 21, 2012
Both Jack Reacher and John Wick feature protagonists whose violent pasts refuse to let them live peacefully. The thrilling fight sequences in both films are nothing short of breathtaking. Reacher, framed for espionage, grapples with adversaries, ultimately uncovering a deeper conspiracy involving U.S. soldiers.
9. The Old Guard
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes: 6.7/80%
- Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood
- Starring: Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, Chiwetel Ejiofor
- Release Date: July 10, 2020
While their narratives differ, both John Wick and The Old Guard showcase stunning choreography and stoic protagonists. Andy, the lead in The Old Guard, leads a group of immortal mercenaries and faces significant loss. The film artfully marries gripping action with emotional stakes, making it a worthy watch.
8. Atomic Blonde
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes: 6.7/80%
- Director: David Leitch
- Starring: Charlize Theron, James McAvoy
- Release Date: July 28, 2017
Atomic Blonde, starring Charlize Theron, follows another morally complex character much like John Wick. With a gripping tale ripe for exploration, it invites viewers into the world of espionage and intrigue. Lorraine Broughton is tasked with recovering a list of agents amidst chaos, leading to thrilling showdowns.
7. Extraction
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes: 6.8/67%
- Director: Sam Hargrave
- Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Rudhraksh Jaiswal
- Release Date: April 24, 2020
Similar in style, Extraction offers a fast-paced experience comparable to John Wick, showcasing a lone hero’s mission filled with high-stakes action. Unlike John Wick, it opts for realism rather than stylized fight choreography, which provides a refreshing contrast to its thrilling narrative.
6. The Hitman’s Bodyguard
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes: 6.9/44%
- Director: Patrick Hughes
- Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L. Jackson
- Release Date: August 18, 2017
The comedic flair of The Hitman’s Bodyguard adds a layer of levity to the action genre. Although it features intense sequences akin to John Wick, it balances them with humor brought to you by the dynamic duo of Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson. Expect thrilling chases paired with laugh-out-loud moments!
5. Wrath of Man
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes: 7.1/68%
- Director: Guy Ritchie
- Starring: Jason Statham
- Release Date: May 7, 2021
Wrath of Man presents a vengeance-driven protagonist who, like John Wick, navigates a world fraught with danger. As H integrates into the security industry, his true motives gradually unfold, creating a gripping narrative filled with suspense and skillful combat.
4. Nobody
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes: 7.4/84%
- Director: Ilya Naishuller
- Starring: Bob Odenkirk
- Release Date: March 26, 2021
Much like John Wick, Nobody follows a man pulled back into violence due to his past. Hutch Mansell’s journey is not just about fighting; it’s about reclaiming his life and protecting his family from emerging threats.
3. The Raid: Redemption
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes: 7.6/87%
- Director: Gareth Evans
- Starring: Iko Uwais
- Release Date: March 23, 2012
The Raid: Redemption has become synonymous with intense action, showcasing a lone hero battling against overwhelming odds. Much like John Wick, it focuses on hard-hitting combat and a relentless pace.
2. Taken
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes: 7.7/60%
- Director: Pierre Morel
- Starring: Liam Neeson
- Release Date: February 27, 2008
Taken features Liam Neeson as Bryan Mills, a relentless father who goes after an entire criminal organization to rescue his kidnapped daughter. His single-handed prowess serves as a thrilling counterpart to John Wick, making it a classic in the genre.
1. Sicario
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes: 7.7/92%
- Director: Denis Villeneuve
- Starring: Emily Blunt
- Release Date: September 18, 2015
Sicario immerses you in a world where crime syndicates dictate the rules. Although not as action-heavy as John Wick, it explores significant moral dilemmas in a powerful narrative. Emily Blunt shines as an FBI agent dealing with complex situations that could cost lives.
Looking for more gripping stories and action-packed experiences? Dive deeper into films that thrill and entertain. Don’t forget to explore more at Moyens I/O for content that will keep you on the edge of your seat!