The 10 Best Action Movies of the Last 10 Years

One common saying is “Actions speak louder than words.” This phrase seems particularly applicable to the world of cinema. In the art of storytelling where ‘show, don’t tell’ is key, powerful dialogue sequences often pale in comparison to a single striking action scene.

Here at ScreenCrush today, we’re highlighting the top 10 action movies from the past decade. As you peruse this list, you’ll find that we’ve excluded two other genres frequently linked with action – Sports and Animation. While a movie like Creed might seem action-packed due to its fight scenes, it falls under the sports genre. Similarly, although Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse offers thrilling animation, we categorize it as an animation film rather than action.

The first one was omitted intentionally since sports movies have a distinct category that warrants individual evaluation, and the second one because it seems unfair to make comparisons between real-life human athletes, who are subject to physical laws, and animated characters without limitations on their actions.

After eliminating other options, this is all that remains. I hope my words resonate strongly, as a tribute to these extraordinary action films.

The 10 Best Action Movies of the Last 10 Years (2015-2024)

10. Avengement (2019)

Scott Adkins has been the leading star in numerous straightforward action films during the past 15 years, with his roles spanning both high-budget Hollywood productions (such as playing one of Mads Mikkelsen’s henchmen in Doctor Strange) and direct-to-video/streaming thrillers. A perfect illustration of his unadorned, ruthless acting style can be found in the film Avengement, where Adkins, collaborating frequently with director Jesse V. Johnson, portrays an ex-convict on a highly personal quest for revenge against his own brother. Despite its somewhat amusing title, this movie offers a satisfyingly raw and grim viewing experience.

9. The Fall Guy (2024)

Just as an aging muscle car with faulty brakes, once “The Fall Guy” gains momentum, it seldom slows down, mirroring the spirited energy of a classic Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland musical production. The show embodies such a heartwarming adoration for cinematic enchantment that it inspires viewers to create or simply enjoy more films.

However, let’s clarify that “movie magic” is somewhat of a misnomer. To the audience, when a film captivates like “The Fall Guy,” it seems magical. Behind the scenes, crafting such enchantment involves both illusions and grueling work – much of it attributed to the unsung heroes below-the-line who are celebrated in this series.

At one point, Emily Blunt’s character Jody Moreno tells Ryan Gosling’s stuntman Colt Seavers that she desires their action sequences to convey the message “How far would you go for the one you love?” If “the one” represents the exhilarating euphoria of exceptional cinema, then this captures the driving force behind this entertaining production.

8. Rebel Ridge (2024)

2024 saw Aaron Pierre delivering an impressive performance as an upright Marine entangled with unscrupulous cops in the movie “Rebel Ridge”. However, despite being one of a dozen new Netflix releases in September of that year, it didn’t seem to generate much buzz. This doesn’t diminish Pierre’s remarkable acting or Jeremy Saulnier’s talent as a filmmaker, who is known for movies like “Blue Ruin” and “Green Room”. Saulnier once again delivers an exceptional action movie with “Rebel Ridge”, a film that feels like a modern-day interpretation of “First Blood”. Unlike conventional action films, the hero, a Marine martial arts instructor falsely accused by a corrupt police chief, strives to find non-violent solutions when possible. Fortunately, for the viewers, he isn’t always successful in his attempts.

7. John Wick: Chapter 3 — Parabellum (2019)

In the incredible movie “John Wick: Chapter 3,” every moment is captivating. However, the film’s initial 40 minutes are arguably the most intense and thrilling cinematic work of the past decade. During this period, Keanu Reeves’ relentless assassin escapes from New York City not only physically (by running, biking, and horseback riding) but also literally by brutally killing a man with a book. John Wick, although you are excommunicated, you will forever remain engraved in my heart. I have a feeling we’ll be seeing more of you soon, at least on this list.

6. Mission: Impossible — Fallout (2018)

Discussing the intricate and thrilling storylines along with death-defying stunts of Mission: Impossible – Fallout, which surpassed even those seen in Rogue Nation, directed by Christopher McQuarrie; all these elements serve as decoration for what truly sets this film apart.

In today’s jaded popular culture landscape, Tom Cruise stands out as a genuine and sincere artist. He could have delegated his stunts or used more computer-generated effects. However, he chooses to perform them himself because he genuinely believes in his movies, going to great lengths (literally falling or running any distance) to entertain his audience. This intense dedication is evident in every frame of this unapologetically enjoyable and earnest action film. An illustration of this commitment can be seen in the fact that Cruise sustained a broken ankle while performing the stunt shown in this image, but he still completed it and it was included in the final cut of the movie.

5. Bad Black (2016)

As a film enthusiast, let me share my experience with “Bad Black”, an exhilarating, vibrant, action-packed movie hailing from Uganda. Contrary to some expectations, this isn’t a chaotic comedy like Tommy Wiseau’s masterpiece. Instead, it’s more akin to a heart-pumping adrenaline rush. Director Nabwana I.G.G. kicks off the story with an epic 10-minute chase and shootout through the bustling streets of Wakaliga, and the action seldom slows down for the following hour. The editing is fast-paced yet clear, the stunts are astonishingly athletic, the insights into Ugandan life are captivating, and the genuine joy emanating from everyone involved is utterly contagious. In essence, this isn’t a movie that’s so bad it’s good; rather, it’s so remarkable that it deserves to be called “Bad Black”.

4. John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)

In the world of John Wick, chapter 4 seems to mark the culmination or peak of the storyline, if not the final chapter. The movie’s grand finale sees Keanu Reeves’ character, John Wick, battling his way up an immense staircase that ascends towards Paris’ Sacré-Cœur church. Spanning a substantial three hours, this installment is packed with action sequences so memorable they could fill multiple movies. In John Wick: Chapter 4, the titular character embarks on a global journey in search of a way to bring an end to his relentless war against the High Table. Reeves once again delivers a mesmerizing and emotional portrayal of this anti-hero, with 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. I can hardly imagine how they could surpass this masterpiece, but I eagerly await the possibility of more from Reeves and director Chad Stahelski.

3. Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

In the 2020s, one might find it challenging to imagine a less crucial film than a follow-up to “Top Gun”. However, against all odds and with an immense dedication to traditional cinema artistry, director Joseph Kosinski and actor-producer Tom Cruise managed to create a “Top Gun” sequel that wasn’t just entertaining but also seemed relevant to our contemporary society – not in terms of politics, but rather in the necessity of visually stunning images that can only be appreciated on a large screen. In today’s context, such a perspective might even be considered daring or unconventional.

2. RRR (2022)

In simpler terms, the movie titled “RRR” is an extravagant, three-hour spectacle of romance, music, and high-energy action scenes that leaves your brain’s pleasure centers spellbound. It can be thought of as a modern, South Asian reinterpretation of an old John Woo action film, where two powerful men from different sides of the law unexpectedly form an alliance.

In this story, the two men are Bheem (played by N.T. Rama Rao Jr.), a warrior from the Gond tribe, and Rama (played by Ram Charan), a member of the British Empire’s military forces. Initially, they should be enemies since Bheem is searching for a kidnapped girl in Delhi, while Rama is tasked with finding the man looking for her. However, a strange coincidence brings them together as friends instead. The movie is incredibly bold in its efforts to captivate the audience, and the seamless blend of fighting and dancing sequences is truly remarkable.

1. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Mad Max: Fury Road” stands out as the best car chase movie of the past decade, and perhaps even the entire century. Its action sequences are impressive, but it’s also one of the most spiritually profound films of the last ten years, with a Biblical feel. It tells a story similar to the exodus from Sodom and Gomorrah, where a group of brave women, led by the iconic Imperator Furiosa (played by Charlize Theron), journey through the desert in search of a new paradise. Tom Hardy’s character, Max, serves as their guide, helping them find safety, but he can’t join them there. George Miller’s chaotic masterpiece demonstrates that action movies can be both exciting and intelligent. If someone tries to convince you otherwise, you should look them straight in the eye and say, “That’s a trap.

Notable Recognitions Include:

– Atomic Blonde (Original Title)
– Black Panther
– Everything Everywhere All at Once
– Gemini Man
– The Killer (Expected Release Year 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 faces off against his evil counterpart – was derailed by an abysmal execution. Instead of using makeup or special effects to make another actor resemble Patrick Stewart, they chose a young British performer who bore no resemblance to him, shaved his head, fitted him with a prosthetic nose, and considered the job done.

To add insult to injury, the doppelganger was portrayed by Tom Hardy, making it even more jarring since he has become a major star in his own right. However, if this was the only film Hardy ever made, the concept wouldn’t work. One wonders why they shaved Tom Hardy’s head? I understand that Patrick Stewart is bald, and they were trying to make the actor resemble Hardy as much as possible, so they shaved his head too.

But Patrick Stewart wasn’t born bald; he lost his hair gradually. At one point, Captain Picard reflects on his youth while looking at a photograph of himself from Starfleet Academy – and it’s a picture of a totally bald Tom Hardy! It’s one of the funniest unintended moments in all of “Star Trek.”

Together with a convoluted plot that made no sense (including Hardy’s clone somehow obtaining a prototype robot identical to Data and then using it to lead the Enterprise into a complex trap), you have the worst “Star Trek” film ever. (Yes, even worse than the one that everyone thinks is the worst.)

12. Star Trek V: The Final Frontier

Although they might seem cheesy, I appreciate the campfire conversations between Kirk, Spock, and Bones in this installment, as it aligns with the authentic feel of the original Star Trek series. However, the central aspect that stands out is Spock’s storyline, a key element often emphasized in classic Trek movies.

In this particular film, Spock grapples with his hitherto undiscussed half-brother Sybok (Laurence Luckinbill), and it appears as if these characters belong to distinct realms. It’s no accident that the least impressive Spock movie is also the one directed by William Shatner.

11. Star Trek Into Darkness

In this film, there are delightful character scenes, entertaining nods to the series’ past, and breathtaking views of the U.S.S. Enterprise. However, enjoying these aspects requires enduring the first half, which features Benedict Cumberbatch as John Harrison/[Character’s Secret Identity Redacted], a plot element that falls flat on its face. His plan is illogical, his secret benefactor’s scheme is nonsensical, the way Kirk and Spock thwart him lacks depth, and the repetition of scenes from Wrath of Khan feels forced.

J.J. Abrams skillfully integrated what appealed to him from the rich tapestry of Star Trek, using these elements in his first film. However, with Into Darkness, Abrams and the franchise seemed to be at odds. Abrams is known for his enigmatic storytelling style, while a remake of Wrath of Khan loses coherence when it becomes nothing but unexpected turns. Despite Abrams’ focus on his mystery box narrative, he failed to understand that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few, or even one.

10. Star Trek: Generations

In this production, the timelines of multiple ‘Star Trek’ series intertwine, creating a somewhat uneven transition from the original crew to that of ‘The Next Generation’. Just three veteran ‘Trek’ actors agreed to reappear, with Captain Kirk (played by Shatner) being given substantial screen time. The remaining cast members from ‘TNG’ and the Enterprise seem to be grappling with the demands of the big screen. Malcolm McDowell assumes the role of an antagonist typical in ‘Trek’, seeking control over a colossal cosmic force. At least, Patrick Stewart and Shatner appear to enjoy their brief shared moments on set.

9. Star Trek: Insurrection

The most favorable assessment of “Star Trek: Insurrection” is that it closely resembles an episode from the “Next Generation” series among all its films. However, the least flattering review would be that it doesn’t stand out as a particularly remarkable episode. It might even be considered the least thrilling movie based on the concept of “The Enterprise assists the Space Amish on a planet where radiation induces intense attraction.” There are some entertaining scenes, like Data’s quip about his design for water landings and Captain Stewart dancing to mambo music, but the provocative premise serves more as a backdrop for a routine (and chaste) “Next Generation” journey. Let’s make “Star Trek” more sensual!

8. Star Trek III: The Search For Spock

In each Star Trek film, there’s a distinctive atmosphere; The Search for Spock, in particular, can be likened to a heist movie within the series. After the destruction of the Enterprise, the remaining crew members embark on a mission to recover their ship and Spock’s body. His consciousness is temporarily residing inside Dr. McCoy’s mind at that time.

On one side, The Search For Spock provides a resolution (albeit partial) to the devastating ending of The Wrath of Khan, which I still find troubling. On the other hand, The Search For Spock offers some iconic Star Trek moments, such as Captain Kirk taking down a Klingon with a sequence of kicks and the unforgettable exclamation, “I… have had… enough… of you!

7. Star Trek: The Motion Picture

As a devoted film critic, I must confess that I’ve lavished words on the languid delights this cinematic gem offers. In essence, discussing the slow-paced beauty of ‘Star Trek: The Motion Picture’ may seem oxymoronic, given its leisurely pace. However, let me clarify why I find it captivating – this film extends the scope of a universe that was once confined to our television screens.

One aspect that particularly resonates with me is the character development of Spock in ‘TMP’. The story arc assigned to him is one of his finest, as he grapples with his emotional suppression and ultimately learns the significance of “simple feelings” amidst the cosmic grandeur of the final frontier.

Though visually stunning and brimming with awe-inspiring spectacles, this movie never loses focus on its characters for extended periods. It’s a testament to the filmmakers’ skill in balancing grandeur and character development.

6. Star Trek: First Contact

Following a bumpy debut in “Generations”, producers managed to steady the course with the ensuing installment, “Star Trek: First Contact”. This time-travel adventure saw Captain Picard and his Enterprise crew journeying back in time to thwart the Borg from altering history, preventing the Federation from ever forming. With high-stakes action and a powerful portrayal by Patrick Stewart as Picard (who harbors a deep resentment towards the Borg due to their actions during “The Next Generation” TV series), “First Contact” earned comparisons to the second film in the original “Trek” franchise.

5. Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home

As a die-hard cinema enthusiast, I must share my take on the unique journey that “Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home” took us on. This film dared to defy the conventions of time travel, sending the Enterprise hurtling back into the past – specifically 1986! Their mission? To retrieve a pair of humpback whales, an extinct species in their time, to prevent Earth’s destruction.

The crew found themselves in unfamiliar waters, as they were fish out of water in our world. A moment that still makes me chuckle is when Chekov asked for directions to the “nuclear wessels.” It might be the silliest of all “Star Trek” movies, but it’s hard not to appreciate its endearing charm. If you don’t find enjoyment in this film… well, let’s just say a double dose of skepticism is on you!

4. Star Trek Beyond

Amongst Star Trek movies, one that often goes unacknowledged is particularly noteworthy. Idris Elba delivers an outstanding villain performance, and the film carries a powerful message aligning with Star Trek’s IDIC philosophy. Stunning action sequences serve as the cherry on top, wrapping up the rebooted Star Trek film series in style. Moreover, having Justin Lin at the helm might just make this one of the finest directed action movies across the entire Star Trek series.

3. Star Trek

As a dedicated cinephile, I must say that 2009’s “Star Trek” stands out as a clever rejuvenation of an established franchise in Hollywood. It introduced a fresh and fantastic cast into the legendary Enterprise roles, with Chris Pine as Captain Kirk, Zachary Quinto as Mr. Spock, and Zoe Saldana as Lt. Uhura. Yet, it didn’t forget its roots entirely; Leonard Nimoy returned as “Spock Prime” to bridge the gap between the old films and this one, providing explanations for any inconsistencies. The movie offers a thrilling science fiction journey with well-crafted character moments and enhanced special effects. If you’re seeking a more dynamic and action-packed version of “Star Trek,” this is the film to catch.

2. Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan

In a somewhat different take,

“Generally speaking, many fans consider ‘The Wrath of Khan’ as the top-tier ‘Star Trek’ movie. However, it doesn’t rank as my personal favorite. Despite being an outstanding space thriller with a deeply emotional climax featuring Spock’s sacrifice, its long-term appeal is diminished due to the fact that the events depicted were reversed in the subsequent film. If ‘The Wrath of Khan’ had been the final ‘Star Trek’ movie or Leonard Nimoy’s last appearance as Spock, it might have withstood the test of time as the best ‘Star Trek.’ Unfortunately, fate and good corporate management had other plans.”

“‘The Wrath of Khan’ is supposed to be a story that portrays Captain Kirk grappling with death for the first time. However, later films allowed him to dodge death repeatedly. In my opinion, the movie at the top of my list handles similar themes more effectively…

1. Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country

The Undiscovered Country, serving as a poignant farewell to the original Star Trek crew. This movie offers everything a devoted Trek enthusiast could desire. It’s a blend of celebration and summary, featuring action, science-fiction, clever humor, complex interstellar politics, Spock solving mysteries with logical brilliance, Kirk sharing romantic moments with an exotic alien (Iman!), and Chekov donning the most extravagant wig I have ever seen. What’s more, it offers a more emotional experience than The Wrath of Khan, as it was truly the final time Kirk, Spock, Bones, Uhura, Sulu, Scotty, and Chekov worked together before venturing into the great unknown permanently. (For additional insights, check out this article.)

2025-04-17 18:55