5 Perfect Action Movies Nobody Talks About Anymore

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Action is one of the most popular and enduring genres in film history. It truly showcases what movies can do, delivering exciting movement, energy, and fast-paced thrills to viewers worldwide. Despite sometimes facing criticism, many of the best films from the last six decades are action movies.

Action movies like The Matrix, Die Hard, and Heat have defined the genre for years, and rightfully so. However, many other excellent action films have been overlooked and deserve more recognition. For every well-remembered hit like Mad Max: Fury Road, John Wick, or Kill Bill, there are dozens of forgotten action movies that are worth revisiting.

To Live and Die in L.A. Is A Pulse-Pounding Crime Epic

William Friedkin, the director behind iconic movies like The Exorcist, The French Connection, and Sorcerer, also made a fantastic but often overlooked film called To Live and Die in L.A., released in 1985. The movie centers on a federal agent’s relentless pursuit of a counterfeiter who killed his partner.

This movie is filled with incredible action, featuring what many consider to be one of the best car chases ever filmed – even surpassing the famous one in The French Connection. The climactic scene remains shocking for audiences today. Boasting a superb cast of memorable character actors – including Willem Dafoe, John Turturro, Dean Stockwell, and William Petersen – To Live and Die in L.A. truly deserves to be mentioned alongside classics like Heat and Bullitt.

The Last of the Mohicans Is An Action-Packed Historical Drama

I’ve always thought Michael Mann is one of the most important action directors we’ve had in the last thirty years. He really started to get noticed with films like Thief. But before he completely redefined crime thrillers with Heat in 1995, he blew me away with his incredible depiction of colonial America in The Last of the Mohicans. It’s still one of the most powerful war films I’ve ever seen.

Featuring a standout performance by Daniel Day-Lewis, The Last of the Mohicans demonstrates director Michael Mann’s skill for realistic and visually striking action sequences, but in a fresh setting. Rather than modern guns and cityscapes, the film emphasizes close combat, traditional firearms, and the fighting styles of Native Americans. It’s a truly impressive film, and while many appreciate it, The Last of the Mohicans should be considered one of the best action movies ever made.

Eastern Condors Is A War-Torn Tale of Violence and Honor

Many action movie fans know Hong Kong filmmaking thanks to director John Woo, and his films are still considered classics. However, Hong Kong has produced many other talented directors who aren’t as well-known. One of these is Sammo Hung Kam-Bo, and his 1987 film, Eastern Condors, is arguably his best work as both director and leading actor.

Eastern Condors is a standout action film from the 1980s, which was a great decade for the genre. The movie follows a group of Chinese prisoners who are given a dangerous secret mission in Vietnam in exchange for their freedom. Packed with incredible practical effects, exciting fight scenes, and a relentless pace, it surpasses many of the big-budget American action movies of the time. It’s a truly essential watch for action fans and remains a hidden gem within the genre.

Speed Racer Is A Misunderstood Sci-Fi Action Masterpiece

The Wachowskis didn’t just revolutionize action movies with their 1999 hit, The Matrix; they’ve consistently challenged filmmaking conventions ever since. While many fans focus on The Matrix, their 2008 film Speed Racer is arguably their most impressive work after it, and remains unfairly overlooked and underappreciated.

The movie Speed Racer is a stunning and imaginative take on the original manga. It’s a rare action film that feels truly groundbreaking, constantly pushing the limits of visual filmmaking with its incredible effects, fast-paced editing, and vibrant, unique colors. It’s a shame it didn’t get the recognition it deserved, as it remains a genuinely innovative and heartwarming action movie.

Man on Fire Is Denzel Washington’s Greatest Action Achievement

Denzel Washington is considered one of the best actors working today, and he’s starred in some incredibly popular and well-regarded action films. While movies like The Equalizer series, Unstoppable, Training Day, and The Book of Eli are all highlights, many fans consider his collaboration with the late Tony Scott on Man on Fire to be his absolute best.

When Man on Fire first came out, it didn’t receive much praise from critics or audiences. However, it has since become a standout action film of the 2000s. The movie is visually striking, features one of Denzel Washington’s most compelling performances, and includes some truly memorable action sequences. Despite Washington’s continued popularity in action roles, Man on Fire remains surprisingly overlooked. It’s a beautifully made action film and deserves to be remembered as one of the best of the 21st century.

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2026-02-10 19:12