Top 10 Action Films Similar to John Wick

From the iconic roles of Johnny Utah in "Point Break" to Neo in "The Matrix," Keanu Reeves has given us unforgettable characters. However, his portrayal of John Wick stands out as one of the most thrilling and beloved movie series of recent times. What makes the John Wick movies so exceptional? Is it the adrenaline-pumping, meticulously choreographed action scenes? Perhaps it's the inventive cinematography and set designs that captivate our senses? Or could it be that Reeves himself performed most, if not all, of his stunts, adding a layer of authenticity to the films? These elements, among others, contribute to the allure of the John Wick franchise.

Despite the re-watchability of the first three films and the acclaim our review gave to "John Wick: Chapter 4" as a cinematic masterpiece, fans are always hungry for more high-octane action. If you're looking to explore similar thrills beyond the John Wick universe, here's a curated list of top movies that echo the spirit of John Wick.

Top Movies Like John Wick

11 ImagesCurious about how to watch the latest John Wick movie? Check out our comprehensive guide on how to stream John Wick 4 and the entire series for a thrilling binge.

The Raid 2 (2014)

Image credit: Sony Pictures ClassicsDirector: Gareth Evans | Writer: Gareth Evans | Stars: Iko Uwais, Arifin Putra, Oka Antara | Release Date: January 21, 2014 | Review: IGN's The Raid 2 review | Where to watch: Available for rent on various platforms

Often hailed as "the greatest action movie ever," The Raid 2 is a sequel that not only outshines its predecessor but also raises the bar in terms of budget and quality. From the same creative minds behind "The Night Comes for Us," this film showcases the cast's exceptional fighting and stunt abilities, which have set a benchmark for future projects. Much like John Wick, The Raid 2 features numerous fight scenes and compelling secondary characters, but ultimately, it's the story of one man taking on an army of adversaries.

Nobody (2021)

Image credit: Universal PicturesDirector: Ilya Naishuller | Writer: Derek Kolstad | Stars: Bob Odenkirk, Connie Nielsen, RZA | Release Date: March 26, 2021 | Review: IGN's Nobody review | Where to watch: Stream on NBC or rent on Amazon and other platforms

"Nobody" is a fresh take on the action genre, blending dark comedy with intense action sequences. It elevates the "old guys kicking ass" trope to new heights. As the newest addition to this list, it reflects a growing trend in cinema: audiences craving a mix of violence and humor. Bob Odenkirk's compelling performance and witty dialogue enhance the film's appeal. Similar to John Wick, "Nobody" showcases a protagonist with incredible resilience, shrugging off injuries that would incapacitate most.

Hardcore Henry (2015)

Image credit: STXfilmsDirector: Ilya Naishuller | Writer: Ilya Naishuller | Stars: Sharlto Copley, Danila Kozlovsky, Haley Bennett | Release Date: September 12, 2015 | Review: IGN's Hardcore Henry review | Where to watch: Stream on fuboTV or rent on Amazon and other platforms

"Hardcore Henry" is known for its extreme and over-the-top violence, which instantly captivated audiences. The film's first-person perspective adds a unique layer to the narrative, making the faceless and voiceless protagonist surprisingly relatable. The presence of Sharlto Copley's clones adds a humorous touch, and the movie's self-awareness of its absurdity only adds to its charm. If you're in the mood for escalating action and a wild ride, "Hardcore Henry" delivers until its twisted finale.

Atomic Blonde (2017)

Image credit: Focus FeaturesDirector: David Leitch | Writer: Kurt Johnstad | Stars: Charlize Theron, James McAvoy, John Goodman | Release Date: March 12, 2017 | Review: IGN's Atomic Blonde review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and other platforms

Set against the backdrop of Cold War-era Berlin, "Atomic Blonde" is a stylish blend of espionage and action. Charlize Theron's portrayal of British spy Lorraine Broughton cements her status as a formidable action heroine. The film's plot twists and turns amidst the chaos of a city on the brink, and the chemistry between Theron and James McAvoy enhances the movie's intrigue and watchability. It's a gripping tale of double agents and international intrigue that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The Night Comes for Us (2018)

Image credit: NetflixDirector: Timo Tjahjanto | Writer: Timo Tjahjanto | Stars: Joe Taslim, Iko Uwais, Julie Estelle | Release Date: September 22, 2018 | Review: IGN's The Night Comes for Us review | Where to watch: Available on Netflix

Adapted from a graphic novel, "The Night Comes for Us" delves into the brutal world of the Triad, a powerful Chinese crime syndicate. The film's graphic yet engaging action sequences draw inspiration from classics like "Kill Bill" and "John Wick," resulting in a bloodier, slightly excessive narrative. What sets it apart is its darker, more hopeless tone, which lends it an art-house feel that lingers long after the credits roll.

Taken (2008)

Image credit: EuropaCorp DistributionDirector: Pierre Morel | Writer: Luc Besson, Robert Mark Kamen | Stars: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Leland Orser | Release Date: February 27, 2008 | Review: IGN's Taken review | Where to watch: Available on Hulu or for rent on other platforms

"Taken" mirrors the intensity of John Wick with its story of a father's relentless pursuit to save his kidnapped daughter. Liam Neeson's portrayal of Brian Mills showcases a man with unwavering focus, much like John Wick. Although Neeson doesn't perform his own stunts, his presence in a high-octane action film is a treat for fans. At the time of filming, Neeson was 56, not far off from Reeves' age during the first John Wick movie, adding an interesting parallel between the two actors.

Extraction (2020)

Image credit: NetflixDirector: Sam Hargrave | Writer: Joe Russo, Anthony Russo, Ande Parks | Stars: Chris Hemsworth, Rudhraksh Jaiswal, Randeep Hooda | Release Date: April 24, 2020 | Review: IGN's Extraction review | Where to watch: Available on Netflix

"Extraction" follows the story of a lone operative on a mission, delivering non-stop action with some of the most elaborate stunt work in recent cinema. Directed by Sam Hargrave, who has a background as a stunt coordinator on films like "Avengers: Endgame" and "Atomic Blonde," the movie excels in its action sequences. The long takes and real stunts mirror the intensity of John Wick, and Chris Hemsworth's performance adds an extra layer of excitement for fans of his work.

The Villainess (2017)

Image credit: Next Entertainment WorldDirector: Jung Byung-gil | Writer: Jung Byung-gil, Jung Byeong-sik | Stars: Kim Ok-vin, Shin Ha-kyun, Sung Joon | Release Date: May 21, 2017 | Review: IGN's The Villainess review | Where to watch: Available on Peacock and Prime Video or for rent on other platforms

"The Villainess" offers a more narrative-driven experience than John Wick but stands out with its innovative fight choreography and set designs. The film's similarities lie in its fighting styles and the execution of scenes like the katana motorcycle fight, which predates a similar scene in "John Wick: Chapter 3." Kim Ok-bin's powerful performance as the female protagonist adds depth and intensity to the film, making it a standout on this list.

Commando (1985)

Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: Mark L. Lester | Writer: Joseph Loeb III, Matthew Weisman, Steven E. de Souza | Stars: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rae Dawn Chong, Alyssa Milano | Release Date: October 4, 1985 | Review: IGN's Commando review | Where to watch: Available for rent on Amazon and other platforms

"Commando" is a quintessential 80s action film featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger as John Matrix, a retired Special Forces Colonel on a mission to rescue his kidnapped daughter. While the film embraces the era's cheesiness with its over-the-top action and villainous characters, it remains a beloved classic for its sheer entertainment value. Schwarzenegger's portrayal of a one-man army adds to the film's charm and appeal.

The Man From Nowhere (2010)

Image credit: CJ EntertainmentDirector: Lee Jeong-beom | Writer: Lee Jeong-beom | Stars: Won Bin, Kim Sae-ron | Release Date: August 4, 2010 | Where to watch: Available on Prime Video or for rent on other platforms

"The Man From Nowhere" blends action with emotional depth, telling the story of a man seeking revenge for a kidnapped child. While it may not match John Wick's action volume, its well-crafted plot and compelling performances make the build-up to the action sequences highly rewarding. The film's perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes underscores its quality, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.