Are you ready for an adrenaline-fueled movie marathon? Look no further than Netflix’s impressive collection of action-packed films. From high-octane heists to explosive superhero adventures, we’ve rounded up the 25 best action movies currently streaming on Netflix. Grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare for heart-racing thrills with these must-watch flicks.
1. Extraction (2020)
Chris Hemsworth stars as Tyler Rake, a fearless black market mercenary, in this high-octane thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When Tyler is hired to rescue the kidnapped son of an imprisoned international crime lord, he finds himself thrust into a dangerous world of weapons dealers and drug traffickers. The mission quickly spirals out of control, pushing Tyler to his limits both physically and emotionally.
Director Sam Hargrave, known for his stunt work in Marvel films, brings his expertise to create jaw-dropping action sequences. The film’s centerpiece is a breathtaking 12-minute continuous shot that follows Tyler through a chaotic chase across an entire city. Hemsworth delivers a gritty, intense performance that showcases his range beyond his Thor persona.
Extraction doesn’t skimp on the violence, with brutal hand-to-hand combat and explosive gunfights throughout. But amidst the chaos, the film also explores themes of redemption and the toll of violence on the human psyche. With stunning cinematography capturing the gritty streets of Dhaka, Bangladesh, Extraction is a visceral, heart-pounding thrill ride that action fans won’t want to miss.
2. The Old Guard (2020)
Based on the graphic novel by Greg Rucka, The Old Guard brings a fresh twist to the superhero genre. Charlize Theron leads a team of immortal mercenaries who have secretly protected humanity for centuries. When their extraordinary abilities are suddenly exposed, they must fight to keep their freedom while training their newest recruit.
Director Gina Prince-Bythewood crafts a stylish and thoughtful action film that balances intense combat sequences with deeper philosophical questions about immortality and purpose. Theron shines as the world-weary Andy, bringing both physical prowess and emotional depth to the role. The supporting cast, including KiKi Layne and Matthias Schoenaerts, each get moments to showcase their skills in thrilling fight scenes.
The film’s action is brutal and visceral, with creative choreography that takes advantage of the characters’ healing abilities. But what sets The Old Guard apart is its exploration of the burden of immortality and the bonds formed over centuries. With strong LGBTQ+ representation and a diverse cast, the film offers a refreshing take on the superhero team dynamic. Whether you’re in it for the action or the character drama, The Old Guard delivers on both fronts.
3. Army of the Dead (2021)
Zack Snyder returns to his zombie roots with this ambitious heist film set in a post-apocalyptic Las Vegas. When casino owner Bly Tanaka offers former zombie war hero Scott Ward (Dave Bautista) a chance to recover $200 million from a vault beneath the Vegas strip, he assembles a ragtag team for the dangerous mission. The catch? They have only 32 hours before the government nukes the entire city.
Army of the Dead combines the zombie genre with elements of heist films and action blockbusters to create a unique and entertaining spectacle. Snyder’s signature visual style is on full display, with slow-motion action sequences and vibrant, neon-soaked cinematography. The film introduces a new twist on zombie lore with intelligent “Alpha” zombies, adding an extra layer of danger to the mission.
Bautista anchors the film with a surprisingly emotional performance, while the ensemble cast brings humor and heart to their roles. The action set pieces are massive in scale, from zombie tiger attacks to explosive shootouts in casinos. While the plot may stretch credibility at times, Army of the Dead embraces its over-the-top premise with gusto, delivering a fun and action-packed thrill ride for zombie enthusiasts and action fans alike.
4. The Night Comes for Us (2018)
For fans of brutal, no-holds-barred action, The Night Comes for Us is an absolute must-watch. This Indonesian martial arts thriller follows Ito (Joe Taslim), a former member of the Southeast Asian Triad, who turns against his former allies to protect a young girl. His decision sets off a violent chain reaction as he faces off against an army of gangsters, including his childhood friend turned enemy, Arian (Iko Uwais).
Director Timo Tjahjanto crafts some of the most intense and visceral fight scenes ever put to film. The choreography is intricate and lightning-fast, showcasing the incredible talents of its cast, many of whom are veteran martial artists. The violence is unflinchingly graphic, with creative kills and bone-crunching impacts that will make even hardened action fans wince.
While the plot is relatively straightforward, the film’s strength lies in its relentless pacing and escalating action sequences. Each fight raises the stakes, culminating in an epic showdown between Taslim and Uwais that ranks among the best martial arts duels in recent memory. The Night Comes for Us is not for the faint of heart, but for those seeking pure, unadulterated action, it’s an adrenaline-fueled masterpiece.
5. Triple Frontier (2019)
Triple Frontier brings together an all-star cast for a tense and morally complex heist film. Ben Affleck, Oscar Isaac, Charlie Hunnam, Garrett Hedlund, and Pedro Pascal star as former Special Forces operatives who reunite for a dangerous mission: to rob a South American drug lord and keep the money for themselves. What starts as a well-planned operation quickly spirals out of control, testing the limits of their loyalty and morality.
Director J.C. Chandor crafts a gritty and realistic portrayal of military operations, drawing on the expertise of his cast and technical advisors. The film’s action sequences are tense and methodical, eschewing Hollywood bombast for a more grounded approach. The heist itself is a masterclass in sustained tension, with unexpected complications arising at every turn.
Beyond the action, Triple Frontier delves into the psychological toll of combat and the struggles veterans face in civilian life. The stellar cast brings depth to their characters, exploring the complex motivations behind their desperate gamble. As the mission unravels, the film becomes a meditation on greed, brotherhood, and the consequences of crossing moral lines. With stunning cinematography capturing the harsh South American landscape, Triple Frontier is a thought-provoking and intense thriller that lingers long after the credits roll.
6. Gunpowder Milkshake (2021)
Gunpowder Milkshake serves up a stylish and female-driven take on the assassin genre. Karen Gillan stars as Sam, a highly skilled hitwoman who was abandoned by her mother (Lena Headey) at a young age. When a job goes wrong, Sam finds herself protecting a young girl (Chloe Coleman) while on the run from dangerous enemies. To survive, she must team up with her estranged mother and a lethal sisterhood of assassins known as The Librarians.
Director Navot Papushado creates a vibrant and colorful world that contrasts sharply with the brutal violence on display. The action sequences are inventively choreographed, with creative use of locations and weapons. One standout scene involves Sam fighting with paralyzed arms, showcasing Gillan’s physical comedy skills alongside her action chops.
The film’s greatest strength is its stellar cast of women, including Angela Bassett, Michelle Yeoh, and Carla Gugino as The Librarians. Each actress brings a unique energy to their role, creating memorable characters that leave you wanting more. While the plot may tread familiar ground, the film’s neon-soaked visuals, dark humor, and girl power message make for an entertaining and empowering action romp.
7. The Gray Man (2022)
Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans face off in this globe-trotting spy thriller from the Russo Brothers. Gosling stars as Court Gentry, aka Sierra Six, a skilled CIA operative who uncovers dark agency secrets. When a psychopathic former colleague (Evans) puts a bounty on his head, Six must use all his skills to stay alive while protecting a young girl caught in the crossfire.
The Gray Man boasts a massive budget, and it shows in the film’s spectacular action set pieces. From a thrilling tram chase in Prague to an explosive showdown in a Croatian town square, the Russos deliver blockbuster-level spectacle. The fight choreography is crisp and intense, with Gosling proving himself a capable action star.
Evans steals many scenes as the mustached and maniacal Lloyd Hansen, chewing scenery with gleeful abandon. The supporting cast, including Ana de Armas and Regé-Jean Page, adds depth to the international intrigue. While the plot may feel familiar to spy thriller fans, the charismatic performances and relentless pacing keep things engaging. With its mix of humor, over-the-top action, and globe-trotting adventure, The Gray Man is pure popcorn entertainment on a massive scale.
8. Okja (2017)
While not a traditional action film, Bong Joon-ho‘s Okja features several thrilling sequences that earn it a spot on this list. The story follows Mija (Ahn Seo-hyun), a young South Korean girl who has raised Okja, a massive, genetically engineered “super pig.” When a multinational corporation takes Okja for their own purposes, Mija embarks on a daring rescue mission across the globe.
Bong’s unique vision blends genres seamlessly, creating a film that’s part action-adventure, part satire, and part heartwarming drama. The action scenes are inventive and often unexpected, from a chaotic chase through a Seoul underground mall to a daring slaughterhouse infiltration. The CGI bringing Okja to life is flawless, making the creature feel real and lovable.
The international cast, including Tilda Swinton, Paul Dano, and Jake Gyllenhaal, brings depth and humor to their roles. But it’s the relationship between Mija and Okja that forms the emotional core of the film. Okja tackles heavy themes like animal rights and corporate greed, but never loses sight of its thrilling adventure story. It’s a unique and unforgettable film that defies easy categorization.
9. Project Power (2020)
In a world where a mysterious pill grants temporary superpowers, an ex-soldier (Jamie Foxx), a teenage dealer (Dominique Fishback), and a determined cop (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) team up to stop the dangerous drug from spreading through New Orleans. The catch? You don’t know what power you’ll get until you take the pill, and there’s always a chance it could kill you.
Project Power takes a fresh approach to the superhero genre, exploring the consequences of sudden, unpredictable abilities. The action sequences are creative and varied, showcasing a wide range of powers from super-strength to camouflage. Directors Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman bring a gritty, street-level feel to the superpowered chaos.
Foxx and Gordon-Levitt bring star power to their roles, but it’s newcomer Fishback who steals many scenes as the aspiring rapper turned reluctant hero. The film touches on themes of systemic inequality and the dangers of unchecked power, giving depth to its high-concept premise. While it may not reinvent the superhero wheel, Project Power offers a fun and action-packed twist on familiar tropes.
10. Outside the Wire (2021)
Set in the near future, Outside the Wire stars Anthony Mackie as Leo, an android military officer who teams up with a human drone pilot (Damson Idris) for a dangerous mission to stop a nuclear attack. As they venture into a war-torn Eastern European landscape, the lines between man and machine begin to blur.
Director Mikael Håfström crafts intense action sequences that blend futuristic technology with gritty, boots-on-the-ground combat. Mackie shines as the android Leo, bringing both physical prowess and unexpected depth to the role. The film explores themes of artificial intelligence, the ethics of warfare, and the human cost of conflict.
While the plot may tread familiar sci-fi territory, Outside the Wire keeps things engaging with its fast pace and well-executed action set pieces. The near-future setting allows for some creative weapons and gadgets without straying too far into the realm of fantasy. It’s a solid entry in the military sci-fi genre that should satisfy action fans looking for a futuristic twist.
11. 6 Underground (2019)
Michael Bay brings his signature brand of over-the-top action to Netflix with 6 Underground. Ryan Reynolds leads a team of skilled operatives who have faked their own deaths to take on dangerous missions that governments won’t touch. Their latest target: overthrowing a brutal dictator in the fictional country of Turgistan.
As expected from a Bay film, 6 Underground is a non-stop barrage of explosive action sequences, car chases, and witty one-liners. The opening car chase through Florence is a particular highlight, showcasing Bay’s talent for controlled chaos. The international cast, including Mélanie Laurent and Dave Franco, brings charm and humor to their roles.
The plot is often convoluted and takes a backseat to the spectacle, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing for viewers seeking pure, unadulterated action. Bay’s kinetic visual style is on full display, with rapid-fire editing and saturated colors creating a comic book-like aesthetic. 6 Underground won’t win any awards for subtlety, but for fans of Bay’s brand of high-octane entertainment, it delivers the goods in spades.
12. The Adam Project (2022)
Ryan Reynolds teams up with his younger self in this sci-fi action adventure directed by Shawn Levy. Reynolds plays Adam Reed, a time-traveling pilot who crash-lands in 2022 and enlists the help of his 12-year-old self (Walker Scobell) to save the future. Along the way, they must confront their past and come to terms with the loss of their father (Mark Ruffalo).
The Adam Project blends action, humor, and heart in a way that recalls classic 80s adventure films. The time travel plot allows for some creative action sequences, including a thrilling lightsaber-esque duel in a forest. Reynolds brings his trademark wit to the role, but also shows a more vulnerable side as he confronts his younger self.
While the sci-fi elements provide the framework, the emotional core of the film lies in its exploration of grief, family, and second chances. Jennifer Garner and Zoe Saldana round out the strong cast, adding depth to the family drama. With its mix of spectacle and sentiment, The Adam Project offers a crowd-pleasing adventure for viewers of all ages.
13. Spectral (2016)
In this underrated sci-fi action film, a special forces team faces off against mysterious, ghostly entities in war-torn Moldova. James Badge Dale stars as Dr. Mark Clyne, a DARPA scientist who must join the military operation to uncover the nature of these deadly apparitions and find a way to stop them.
Director Nic Mathieu creates a tense and atmospheric thriller that blends military action with supernatural horror elements. The “spectrals” are a unique and terrifying threat, with their ability to pass through walls and instantly kill anyone they touch. The film’s effects work is impressive, creating believable and eerie adversaries.
Spectral shines in its world-building, crafting a detailed near-future setting with advanced military technology. The action sequences are well-executed, with a mix of tense firefights and creative problem-solving as the team tries to combat an enemy they can barely see. While the plot may feel familiar to fans of military sci-fi, the film’s unique antagonists and strong production values make it a solid choice for action and horror fans alike.
14. The Harder They Fall (2021)
This stylish Western brings together an all-star cast of Black actors for a revenge tale with a modern twist. Jonathan Majors stars as Nat Love, an outlaw seeking vengeance against the man who killed his parents. His target? The ruthless Rufus Buck (Idris Elba), who has just been freed from prison by his loyal gang.
Director Jeymes Samuel infuses the classic Western genre with a fresh energy, blending anachronistic elements like modern music with traditional Western tropes. The result is a vibrant and unique take on the genre that feels both familiar and fresh. The action sequences are expertly crafted, with intense gunfights and thrilling horseback chases that showcase the stunning desert landscapes.
The star-studded cast, including Regina King, Zazie Beetz, and LaKeith Stanfield, brings depth and charisma to their roles. Each character feels fully realized, with their own motivations and backstories that add layers to the central conflict. The film also touches on themes of legacy, loyalty, and the cyclical nature of violence.
The Harder They Fall stands out for its celebration of Black cowboys and outlaws, highlighting a often-overlooked aspect of American Western history. With its stylish visuals, pulsing soundtrack, and explosive action, it’s a fresh and exciting take on the Western genre that’s not to be missed.
15. Kate (2021)
Mary Elizabeth Winstead stars in this neon-soaked action thriller as Kate, an expert assassin who discovers she’s been poisoned and has only 24 hours to exact revenge on her killers. As the clock ticks down and the poison takes its toll, Kate forms an unlikely alliance with the teenage daughter (Miku Martineau) of a past target.
Director Cedric Nicolas-Troyan creates a visually striking world, setting the action against the backdrop of Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife and shadowy underworld. The film’s action sequences are brutally choreographed, with Winstead performing many of her own stunts in intense hand-to-hand combat scenes. As Kate’s condition worsens, the physical toll on her body adds an extra layer of tension to each fight.
While the plot may tread familiar ground in the “assassin on a revenge mission” genre, Winstead’s committed performance elevates the material. Her portrayal of Kate’s physical and emotional journey as she reckons with her past and faces her mortality gives the film its emotional core. With its stylish visuals, pulse-pounding action, and strong central performance, Kate is a solid entry in the female-led action thriller genre.
16. Wheelman (2017)
Frank Grillo stars in this taut, minimalist thriller as a getaway driver caught in a dangerous double-cross. When a bank heist goes wrong, the unnamed Wheelman must navigate the streets of Boston while trying to uncover who set him up and protect his family.
Director Jeremy Rush takes an unconventional approach to the action genre, confining most of the film to the interior of the Wheelman’s car. This claustrophobic setting ratchets up the tension as Grillo’s character juggles phone calls, evades pursuers, and tries to piece together the mystery. The car chases are grounded and intense, focusing on skilled driving rather than over-the-top stunts.
Grillo carries the film with his gruff charisma, creating a compelling protagonist despite the minimal backstory. The real-time nature of the plot keeps the pacing tight, with each new revelation and complication adding to the mounting pressure. While Wheelman may lack the spectacle of bigger-budget action films, its stripped-down approach and focus on tension make for a gripping ride.
17. The Siege of Jadotville (2016)
Based on a true story, The Siege of Jadotville recounts the heroic stand of 150 Irish UN peacekeepers against 3,000 Congolese troops and foreign mercenaries in 1961. Jamie Dornan stars as Commandant Pat Quinlan, who must lead his vastly outnumbered men in a desperate defense of their isolated outpost.
Director Richie Smyth brings this little-known historical event to life with intense battle sequences and a focus on the camaraderie between the soldiers. The film does an excellent job of conveying the dire situation faced by the Irish troops, who were left without reinforcements or supplies for days. The action is realistic and gritty, showcasing the ingenuity and bravery of the defenders.
Beyond the combat, The Siege of Jadotville explores the political machinations behind the conflict, highlighting the complex geopolitical situation in post-colonial Africa. Dornan delivers a strong performance as the level-headed Quinlan, whose leadership and tactical skills were crucial to the unit’s survival. For history buffs and war film enthusiasts, this underappreciated gem offers a compelling look at a forgotten moment in military history.
18. The Outpost (2020)
Another true story of military heroism, The Outpost recreates the Battle of Kamdesh, one of the bloodiest American engagements of the Afghan War. Based on the book by Jake Tapper, the film follows a small unit of U.S. soldiers who must defend their remote outpost against an overwhelming Taliban force.
Director Rod Lurie, a West Point graduate, brings authenticity and respect to the portrayal of the soldiers’ experiences. The film’s centerpiece is a harrowing 40-minute recreation of the battle, featuring long takes that immerse the viewer in the chaos and confusion of combat. The cast, including Scott Eastwood and Caleb Landry Jones, deliver raw and emotional performances that honor the real-life soldiers they portray.
The Outpost doesn’t shy away from the realities of war, depicting both the monotony of daily life at the base and the sudden, intense violence of battle. The film also explores the strategic failures that left the outpost vulnerable, adding a layer of frustration and inevitability to the events. With its focus on accuracy and its intense, visceral depiction of modern warfare, The Outpost stands as one of the most powerful war films in recent years.
19. How It Ends (2018)
This apocalyptic road movie stars Theo James as Will, a young lawyer who must travel across a collapsing America with his estranged father-in-law (Forest Whitaker) to rescue his pregnant wife. As they journey westward, they encounter various threats and allies in a world rapidly descending into chaos.
Director David M. Rosenthal creates a tense atmosphere of mounting dread as the cause of the disaster remains mysterious. The film’s action sequences range from tense standoffs to car chases through abandoned highways, all set against the backdrop of a beautiful but increasingly dangerous landscape.
While the plot may feel familiar to fans of post-apocalyptic fiction, the chemistry between James and Whitaker keeps things engaging. Their evolving relationship forms the emotional core of the film as they navigate both external threats and their own complicated history. How It Ends may leave some questions unanswered, but its focus on character dynamics and survival in an uncertain world make for a compelling journey.
20. Polar (2019)
Based on the graphic novel series, Polar stars Mads Mikkelsen as Duncan Vizla, aka The Black Kaiser, a retiring assassin who finds himself targeted by his former employer. As Duncan fights to survive, he also forms an unlikely bond with his reclusive neighbor (Vanessa Hudgens).
Director Jonas Åkerlund brings a hyperkinetic visual style to the film, with saturated colors and stylized violence that recall the work of directors like Quentin Tarantino and Guy Ritchie. The action sequences are brutal and over-the-top, with Mikkelsen’s stoic presence contrasting sharply with the cartoonish violence around him.
Polar revels in its pulpy, comic book-inspired world, embracing both the dark humor and excessive violence of its source material. Mikkelsen brings gravitas to his role, making Duncan a compelling anti-hero despite his violent profession. While the tone may be uneven at times, Polar offers a visually striking and unapologetically violent take on the assassin genre.
21. Close (2019)
Noomi Rapace stars in this taut action thriller as Sam, a counter-terrorism expert and bodyguard assigned to protect a wealthy young heiress (Sophie Nélisse). When a violent kidnapping attempt forces them on the run, Sam must use all her skills to keep her charge alive while uncovering a conspiracy that goes deeper than she imagined.
Director Vicky Jewson crafts intense and realistic action sequences that showcase Rapace’s physical prowess. The film’s fight scenes are brutal and grounded, emphasizing Sam’s training and quick thinking over flashy moves. The growing bond between Sam and her reluctant protectee adds emotional depth to the high-stakes action.
Close stands out for its focus on female characters in a genre often dominated by men. Rapace brings both toughness and vulnerability to her role, creating a complex heroine who subverts typical action movie tropes. While the plot may follow familiar beats, the strong performances and well-executed action make Close a solid entry in the bodyguard thriller subgenre.
22. Sentinelle (2021)
This French action thriller stars Olga Kurylenko as Klara, a traumatized soldier who returns from Syria to join an anti-terrorism unit in Nice. When her sister is brutally assaulted, Klara embarks on a rogue mission of vengeance that puts her at odds with both her superiors and dangerous criminals.
Director Julien Leclercq brings a gritty, realistic style to the film’s action sequences. The combat scenes are intense and visceral, with Kurylenko performing many of her own stunts. The beautiful backdrop of the French Riviera provides a stark contrast to the violence unfolding within it.
Sentinelle explores themes of PTSD and the toll of violence on those who inflict it. Kurylenko delivers a nuanced performance as Klara, conveying both her character’s strength and her inner turmoil. While the revenge plot may feel familiar, the film’s exploration of its protagonist’s psychological state and the moral ambiguity of her actions add depth to the narrative.
23. The Last Days of American Crime (2020)
Based on the graphic novel by Rick Remender, this dystopian heist film is set in a near-future America on the brink of implementing a government signal that makes it impossible for citizens to knowingly commit crimes. Edgar Ramírez stars as Graham Bricke, a career criminal who teams up with a gangster’s son (Michael Pitt) and a hacker (Anna Brewster) for one last epic score before the signal goes live.
Director Olivier Megaton brings his experience with action franchises like Taken and Transporter to create large-scale set pieces and explosive confrontations. The film’s dystopian setting allows for some creative world-building, with a society on the brink of collapse providing a tense backdrop for the heist.
While The Last Days of American Crime may stretch credibility with its high-concept premise, it delivers on action and spectacle. The cast commits fully to their roles, bringing life to their morally ambiguous characters. For fans of dystopian fiction and heist films, it offers an intriguing blend of genres with plenty of thrills along the way.
24. Lost Bullet (2020)
This French action thriller follows Lino (Alban Lenoir), a skilled mechanic and former criminal who must prove his innocence when he’s framed for murder. The key to clearing his name? A missing car with a bullet lodged in it that proves his alibi.
Director Guillaume Pierret crafts impressive car chases and fight scenes on a modest budget, showcasing Lenoir’s physical performance and stunt driving skills. The film’s action has a raw, practical feel that stands out in an era of CGI-heavy blockbusters.
Lost Bullet keeps its plot straightforward, focusing on Lino’s desperate quest to find the evidence he needs while evading both the police and corrupt officials. The result is a lean, mean action film that recalls classic car-centric thrillers. While it may not break new ground, Lost Bullet delivers solid, no-frills action entertainment.
25. Xtreme (2021)
Rounding out our list is this Spanish revenge thriller that follows Max (Teo García), a retired hitman seeking vengeance against his brother, who betrayed him and killed his son. Teaming up with a teenage girl whose family was also victimized, Max embarks on a brutal path of retribution.
Director Daniel Benmayor delivers stylish and brutally choreographed action sequences that showcase García’s martial arts skills. The film’s fight scenes are intense and creative, making use of various weapons and environments to keep things fresh.
Xtreme doesn’t reinvent the wheel when it comes to revenge plots, but it executes its familiar story with flair and intensity. The bond that forms between Max and his young ally adds emotional depth to the violent proceedings. For fans of hard-hitting martial arts action, Xtreme offers a satisfying and adrenaline-pumping experience.
Conclusion
Netflix’s action movie library offers something for every fan of the genre, from high-concept sci-fi to gritty crime thrillers. Whether you’re in the mood for explosive spectacle, intense hand-to-hand combat, or thought-provoking narratives wrapped in action trappings, these 25 films deliver pulse-pounding entertainment. So grab your remote, settle in, and prepare for an action-packed movie marathon that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
