Top 10 Action Movies Similar to John Wick

From Johnny Utah to Ted to Neo, Keanu Reeves has delivered countless iconic roles, but perhaps none as exhilarating as John Wick. What makes the John Wick series so captivating? Is it the adrenaline-pumping, meticulously choreographed action scenes? The innovative cinematography and set designs that catch our eye? Or the fact that Keanu Reeves himself performs the majority, if not all, of his own stunts? These are just a few reasons why fans adore the John Wick saga.

While the first three films remain endlessly rewatchable, and our John Wick: Chapter 4 review hailed it as a masterpiece, you might be craving more action beyond this beloved franchise. Dive into our curated list of the best movies like John Wick to explore new dimensions of high-octane excitement.

Top Movies Like John Wick

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

The Raid 2 (2014)

Image credit: Sony Pictures Classics
Director: 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: Rentable on various platforms

Dubbed by some as "the greatest action movie ever," The Raid 2 surpasses its predecessor with a higher budget and enhanced quality. Crafted by the same team behind The Night Comes for Us, this film showcases the cast's impressive fighting and stunt skills, setting the stage for their future endeavors. Much like John Wick, it features numerous fight scenes and compelling secondary characters, yet centers on one man taking down a small army of foes.

Nobody (2021)

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

Nobody is a modern action-packed dark comedy that elevates the "old guys kicking ass" genre. As the newest entry on our list, it reflects studios' growing understanding of what audiences crave: intense violence infused with dark humor. Bob Odenkirk's exceptional performance and delivery add to the film's appeal. Similar to John Wick, the protagonist's resilience and ability to endure seemingly insurmountable injuries captivate viewers.

Hardcore Henry (2015)

Image credit: STXfilms
Director: 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

The extreme violence of Hardcore Henry instantly captured audiences' hearts. Its Bond-esque introduction sets the tone, and its unique first-person perspective creates a compelling narrative despite the protagonist's lack of a face or voice. Sharlto Copley's multiple roles add a humorous self-awareness to the film. If over-the-top action is your thing, Hardcore Henry's escalating absurdity will not disappoint.

Atomic Blonde (2017)

Image credit: Focus Features
Director: 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

Atomic Blonde is a stylish, action-packed espionage thriller that cements Charlize Theron's status as a formidable leading lady. Set against the backdrop of Berlin during the fall of the Wall, the film follows British spy Lorraine Broughton as she navigates a city rife with deceit. The chemistry between Theron and James McAvoy enhances the film's intrigue and watchability, making it a standout entry in the action genre.

The Night Comes for Us (2018)

Image credit: Netflix
Director: 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: Netflix

Adapted from a graphic novel, The Night Comes for Us delves into the brutal world of the Triad, a dominant Chinese crime syndicate. The film's action blends elements of Kill Bill and John Wick, resulting in a graphically intense yet entertaining narrative. Its bleak and hopeless tone adds an art-house feel, making it a memorable and impactful watch.

Taken (2008)

Image credit: EuropaCorp Distribution
Director: 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: Hulu, or rentable on other platforms

Much like John Wick, Taken is driven by a father's relentless pursuit to rescue his kidnapped daughter. Liam Neeson, at 56 during filming, embodies a character whose determination mirrors that of John Wick's. While Neeson doesn't perform his own stunts, his presence in this action-packed thriller is a gift to fans. Taken remains one of Neeson's most iconic films.

Extraction (2020)

Image credit: Netflix
Director: 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: Netflix

Extraction follows a lone wolf's relentless mission, featuring nearly non-stop action and some of the most sophisticated stunt work in recent cinema. Directed by Sam Hargrave, who coordinated stunts for Avengers: Endgame and Atomic Blonde, the film delivers on its promise of intense action. The long takes and real stunts echo John Wick's style, with the added thrill of Chris Hemsworth's commanding performance.

The Villainess (2017)

Image credit: Next Entertainment World
Director: 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: Peacock and Prime Video, or rentable on other platforms

The Villainess, though more story-driven than John Wick, stands out with its creative fight choreography and set designs. It shares similarities in fighting styles and even predates John Wick: Chapter 3 with its katana motorcycle scene. Kim Ok-bin's powerful performance as the female protagonist adds depth and intensity to this action-packed film.

Commando (1985)

Image credit: 20th Century Fox
Director: 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: Rentable 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 it may not be everyone's favorite, its over-the-top action and campy elements, including a Freddie Mercury-inspired villain, add to its charm and entertainment value.

The Man From Nowhere (2010)

Image credit: CJ Entertainment
Director: Lee Jeong-beom | Writer: Lee Jeong-beom | Stars: Won Bin, Kim Sae-ron | Release Date: August 4, 2010 | Where to watch: Prime Video, rentable on other platforms

The Man From Nowhere is a poignant blend of action and emotion, telling the story of a man seeking revenge. While it may not match John Wick's action intensity, its well-crafted plot, compelling performances, and moments of humor make it a worthy watch. With a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score, it's a film that's hard to ignore.