10 Action Movies Like John Wick: A Ranked List

Felix Dubois

6 min read

Post on May 12, 2025

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Are you a fan of the breathtaking gun-fu, stylish violence, and intricate fight choreography of the John Wick franchise? If so, you're in luck! This list ranks ten action movies that capture the same thrilling essence, offering a blend of intense action, compelling narratives, and unforgettable characters that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From neo-noir thrillers to explosive shootouts, we've curated a selection to satisfy every John Wick aficionado. This exploration of John Wick action movies will lead you to your next cinematic obsession.

<h2>Top Tier: Matching the John Wick Intensity (Ranked)</h2>

These films come closest to replicating the signature blend of stylish action, compelling storylines, and unforgettable characters found in the John Wick universe. They are the best examples of John Wick style action movies.

<h3>#1 Nobody (2021):</h3>

Bob Odenkirk delivers a surprisingly brutal and action-packed performance in Nobody. This film perfectly captures the unexpected intensity and visceral fight choreography that defines John Wick.

• Similar visceral fight choreography: The fight scenes are brutal, realistic, and incredibly well-choreographed, echoing the style of John Wick.
• Unexpected twists: The plot keeps you guessing, with surprising reveals and turns that will leave you breathless.
• Revenge storyline: Like John Wick, Nobody centers on a seemingly ordinary man pushed to the edge, seeking revenge.
• Relatable underdog protagonist: Odenkirk's character is initially unassuming, making his transformation into a relentless action hero all the more satisfying. This resonates with the underdog appeal of John Wick.

<h3>#2 Atomic Blonde (2017):</h3>

Charlize Theron shines in this stylish spy thriller. Atomic Blonde delivers incredible fight sequences, a strong female lead, and a captivating Cold War setting, creating a cinematic experience that rivals John Wick in its stylish brutality.

• Stylish action: The film is visually stunning, with expertly crafted fight sequences that are both brutal and elegant.
• Strong female lead: Theron's portrayal of Lorraine Broughton is a powerful and captivating performance, mirroring the strong, independent protagonist of John Wick.
• Cold War setting: The 1980s Berlin backdrop adds a unique atmosphere and aesthetic, distinct yet comparable to the underworld settings of John Wick.
• Intricate hand-to-hand combat: The fight choreography is top-notch, showcasing a blend of martial arts and brutal street fighting.

<h3>#3 The Raid: Redemption (2011):</h3>

This Indonesian martial arts action film is raw, brutal, and relentlessly intense. The Raid: Redemption offers non-stop action in a claustrophobic setting, showcasing incredible martial arts skills with minimal dialogue—a perfect example of action-driven storytelling reminiscent of John Wick.

• Unrelenting action: The film is packed with continuous, high-octane fight sequences.
• Claustrophobic settings: The setting intensifies the action, creating a sense of tension and immediacy.
• Impressive martial arts skills: The film showcases incredible martial arts expertise.
• Minimal dialogue: The focus remains firmly on the action, similar to the often dialogue-light sequences in John Wick.

<h2>Mid-Tier: Similar Themes and Action Styles (Ranked)</h2>

These John Wick action movies share thematic elements and action styles with the franchise but might not quite match the same level of intensity or stylistic polish.

<h3>#4 Gunpowder Milkshake (2021):</h3>

Gunpowder Milkshake is a female-led action movie with stylish gunplay and a unique visual style. It’s a fun, female-centric take on the revenge-driven action of John Wick.

• Stylish action: The film features impactful and well-choreographed action sequences.
• Strong female characters: A compelling cast of women drive the narrative and action.
• Revenge storyline: The core plot revolves around revenge, echoing a key element of John Wick.
• Unique visual flair: The film boasts a distinct visual identity that stands out.

<h3>#5 Haywire (2011):</h3>

Gina Carano's MMA skills are on full display in this thrilling espionage tale. Haywire features incredibly realistic fight choreography and a suspenseful plot.

• Realistic fight choreography: Carano's MMA background lends authenticity to the combat sequences.
• Strong female lead: Carano's performance is powerful and compelling.
• Suspenseful plot: The story keeps you guessing until the very end.
• MMA influences: The fight style strongly reflects Carano's MMA background.

<h3>#6 Shoot 'Em Up (2007):</h3>

Shoot 'Em Up is an over-the-top action movie with inventive gunplay and a darkly comedic edge. It's a wild ride that embodies the creative violence of John Wick, albeit with a more comedic bent.

• Exaggerated action: The action is incredibly over-the-top and creatively violent.
• Creative gunplay: The film features inventive and memorable gun-fu sequences.
• Darkly comedic tone: The film blends action with dark humor.
• Memorable villain: The antagonist is suitably menacing and memorable.

<h2>Lower Tier: Action with a John Wick Vibe (Ranked)</h2>

These films offer a taste of the John Wick experience but might not fully capture the same level of overall quality or stylistic consistency. They still deliver strong action and offer a John Wick style experience.

<h3>#7 Upgrade (2018):</h3>

Upgrade is a cyberpunk thriller with some intense hand-to-hand combat and body horror elements. It's a unique take on revenge and action, showcasing technological augmentation in a dark and stylish setting.

• Cyberpunk setting: The futuristic setting adds a distinct atmosphere.
• Intense action: The film delivers some brutal and satisfying fight sequences.
• Technological augmentation: The protagonist's enhancements provide unique action possibilities.
• Revenge theme: The core of the story is a quest for revenge.

<h3>#8 The Night Comes for Us (2018):</h3>

This Indonesian action film features non-stop violence and brutal martial arts. The Night Comes for Us is a relentless action experience.

• Extreme violence: The film is incredibly violent and graphic.
• Relentless action: The action is almost constant throughout the film.
• Indonesian martial arts: The fight choreography showcases the unique skills of Indonesian martial artists.
• Gangland setting: The story unfolds within a violent and dangerous gang world.

<h3>#9 Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014):</h3>

Kingsman: The Secret Service is a stylish spy action movie with a humorous touch. It’s a stylish and fun entry that shares some of the slick action sequences of John Wick.

• Stylish action: The action is both elegant and brutal.
• Spy thriller elements: The film incorporates classic spy thriller tropes.
• Humor: The film balances action with humor effectively.
• Memorable characters: The film features a cast of memorable characters.

<h3>#10 Bullet Train (2022):</h3>

Bullet Train is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller with multiple interwoven storylines. It provides a fast-paced, chaotic thrill ride with some impressive action sequences.

• Fast-paced action: The film is packed with continuous action.
• Ensemble cast: A large cast of characters keeps the action exciting.
• Intricate plot: The story is complex and engaging.
• Unique setting: The confined setting of a bullet train provides a unique backdrop for the action.

<h2>Conclusion:</h2>

This list offers a diverse range of action movies that share the same spirit and intensity as John Wick. From the brutally realistic to the wildly creative, these films offer something for every fan of stylish, high-octane action. Whether you're looking for more gun-fu, intricate fight choreography, or compelling narratives, you'll find something to satisfy your need for a thrilling cinematic experience. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and start exploring the world of John Wick action movies – you won't be disappointed! Start your action-packed journey today and discover your new favorite John Wick action movie!