The best American action films you need to see once in your life
These American action movies are not only highly entertaining, they have also had a lasting impact on cinematic history through their creativity, memorable characters, and breathtaking scenes.
It is imperative that everyone have travelled by airplane at least once in their lifetime.
Action films that epitomize American cinematic greatness.
(1988) by John McTiernan
A movie featuring a young officer who becomes cornered in a Los Angeles skyscraper hijacked by armed assailants. The film is renowned for its unrelenting suspense and for introducing a relatable hero, an ordinary man placed in a perilous extreme situation.
(2015) by George Miller
The Mad Max franchise was revitalized with a stunning visual presentation. Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron portray characters who fight for survival in a post-apocalyptic desert landscape. This film, with its exquisitely choreographed action sequences, is as impressive a work of art as it is a box office hit.
(1991) by James Cameron
Arnold Schwarzenegger once again plays the Terminator, this time in a protective role rather than as a killer. The groundbreaking special effects and heart-stopping action sequences have cemented this film's place as a cinematic icon.
(2008) by Christopher Nolan
A dark and intense thriller unfolds as Heath Ledger's portrayal of the Joker delivers a chilling performance, complemented by adrenaline-fueled action sequences, particularly a heart-pounding car chase through the streets of Gotham City. This film revolutionized the action genre by incorporating intricate psychological elements into its narrative.
(2000) by Ridley Scott
A cutting-edge movie starring Russell Crowe as Maximus, a Roman general who has been betrayed, seeks his revenge by becoming a gladiator. The intense fight scenes in the arena and the story of personal vendetta have made it a cult classic, leaving a lasting impact on the action film genre. For cinephiles, a sequel to this iconic sword-and-sandals epic will hit theaters in November 2024, featuring Pedro Pascal, Paul Mezcal, and Denzel Washington.
"The Matrix (1999)" by Lilly and Lana Wachowski
Actor Keanu Reeves portrays Neo, a programmer who discovers that reality is a computer-generated simulation created by artificial intelligence.
(1987) by Richard Donner
Mel Gibson and Danny Glover form a dynamic duo in a series of intense and thrilling action sequences. A combination of comedic, action-packed, and heartwarming camaraderie moments, this film made a lasting impact on the 1980s and paved the way for many other films in the same genre.
(1981) by Steven Spielberg
The film is a tribute to the 1930s serials, featuring thrilling action scenes like the truck chase and the snake scene. It is a classic action-packed adventure movie.
(2014) by Chad Stahelski
A movie that redefined modern action films with visually striking fight scenes and a gritty, dark atmosphere. The film tells the story of a former assassin driven by an all-consuming desire for vengeance. With its groundbreaking fight sequences, the movie has become a cult classic.
(2014) by Antoine Fuqua
This action movie is notable for its high level of intensity and the compelling personality of its main character.
(2018) by Christopher McQuarrie
It's perhaps the standout film in the series. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, this movie showcases Tom Cruise performing some remarkable stunts, such as a rapid-paced chase through Paris and a daring free-fall parachute jump from a great height. With its intricate storyline and exhilarating action sequences, this film is an absolute must-see for fans of the genre.
(2002) by Doug Liman
Directed by Doug Liman, this movie led the way for a new generation of spy films. Matt Damon portrays Jason Bourne, a man suffering from amnesia who is relentlessly pursued by those responsible for his condition. The film is notable for its gripping fight sequences and high-stakes car chases, solidifying Bourne as a quintessential hero in contemporary action movies.
(2001) by Simon West
Angelina Jolie plays Lara Croft in this film. Directed by Simon West, it combines action, adventure, and an exploration of ancient mysteries and secrets. Due to its thrilling action scenes and compelling female lead, Tomb Raider left a lasting impact in the early 2000s as an action movie influenced by popular culture.