Top 10 Action Films Similar to John Wick

From Johnny Utah to Ted, and Neo to the iconic John Wick, Keanu Reeves has graced us with a plethora of unforgettable roles. But it's the John Wick series that stands out as one of the most beloved action franchises of all time. What makes these movies so enthralling? Is it the fast-paced, meticulously choreographed action sequences that keep us on the edge of our seats? Or perhaps it's the creative cinematography and set design that captivate our senses? And let's not forget the awe-inspiring fact that Reeves himself performed most, if not all, of his own stunts. These elements, among others, are what make the John Wick movies an exhilarating experience.

While the first three films remain perennially re-watchable, and our John Wick: Chapter 4 review hailed the final installment as a masterpiece, you might be craving more action-packed thrills. If that's the case, dive into our curated list of the best movies that echo the spirit of John Wick.

Top Movies Like John Wick

11 ImagesCurious about where to catch the latest installment? Our guide on how to watch John Wick 4 and where to stream the entire series will help you plan your next movie marathon.

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

Hailed by some as "the greatest action movie ever," The Raid 2 surpasses its predecessor in both quality and scale. From the team behind The Night Comes for Us, this film showcases the cast's exceptional fighting and stunt skills, setting a high bar for future projects. Much like John Wick, The Raid 2 features an abundance of thrilling fight scenes and compelling secondary characters, but ultimately, it's about one man taking on an army of foes.

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 the dark comedy action flick that's taking the genre by storm. Elevating the "old guys kicking ass" trope, this recent release demonstrates studios' keen understanding of what audiences crave: thrilling violence mixed with dark humor. Bob Odenkirk delivers a standout performance, bringing both intensity and wit to his role. The film's similarity to John Wick lies in the protagonist's incredible resilience, bouncing back from injuries that would incapacitate others.

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's extreme violence and first-person perspective immediately captivated audiences. The film's Bond-esque opening sets a tone of relentless action, and despite the protagonist having no face or voice, it manages to evoke sympathy. The inclusion of Sharlto Copley's clones adds a humorous self-awareness that complements the film's over-the-top nature. If you're after action that escalates to absurdity, Hardcore Henry delivers until its thrilling conclusion.

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: Available for rent on Amazon and other platforms

Set against the backdrop of a chaotic Berlin during the fall of the Wall, Atomic Blonde is a stylish espionage thriller that cements Charlize Theron's status as a formidable action star. Playing British spy Lorraine Broughton, Theron navigates a web of deceit and betrayal. The chemistry between Theron and James McAvoy enhances the film's intrigue and watchability, making it a standout in the action genre.

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

Inspired by a graphic novel, The Night Comes for Us delves into the brutal world of the Triad, a Chinese crime syndicate. The film blends the action styles of Kill Bill and John Wick, resulting in a graphically intense yet captivating narrative. Its darker, more hopeless tone sets it apart, offering an art-house feel that lingers with the viewer.

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: Stream on Hulu, or rent on other platforms

Similar to Commando, Taken revolves around a father's relentless quest to save his kidnapped daughter. Like John Wick, Brian Mills (Liam Neeson) exhibits an unwavering determination to exact vengeance on those responsible. While Neeson doesn't perform his own stunts as Reeves does, his presence in such an intense action film is a gift to fans. Taken remains one of the best Liam Neeson movies, showcasing his commanding performance at 56 years old.

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 delivers nearly non-stop action from the get-go, featuring some of the most elaborate stunt work in recent cinema. Directed by Sam Hargrave, who honed his skills as a stunt coordinator on films like Avengers: Endgame and Atomic Blonde, the movie's action sequences are as relentless and intense as John Wick's. The use of long takes and Hemsworth's charismatic performance make it a thrilling watch.

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 rent on other platforms

The Villainess offers a more narrative-driven experience than John Wick but doesn't skimp on the action. Its creative fight choreography and set designs set new standards for action films. The film's similarity to John Wick lies in its fighting styles and the iconic katana motorcycle scene, which predates John Wick: Chapter 3. Kim Ok-bin's compelling performance as the female lead further elevates this cinematic gem.

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

A quintessential 80s action flick, Commando follows John Matrix (Arnold Schwarzenegger) on a mission to rescue his kidnapped daughter. While it may not be everyone's favorite action protagonist, Schwarzenegger's portrayal of a retired Special Forces Colonel is undeniably iconic. The film's blend of excessive explosions and campy villainy adds a layer of fun to this classic.

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 rent on other platforms

The Man From Nowhere is a genre-blending film that combines action with emotional depth. Despite some dated editing and score choices, the plot, performances, and action sequences are impressive. The well-crafted characters add a comedic touch, making the film's revenge-driven narrative even more engaging. While it may not match John Wick's action intensity, its compelling story and a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score make it a must-watch.