Top 10 Action Movies Similar to John Wick

The John Wick series has captivated audiences worldwide, and it's no surprise why. Is it the exhilarating, meticulously choreographed action sequences that keep us on the edge of our seats? Or perhaps it's the innovative cinematography and set design that captures our imagination? Could it be Keanu Reeves' dedication to performing most, if not all, of his own stunts that adds an extra layer of authenticity? These elements, among others, contribute to why we adore the John Wick films in all their glory.

While the first three films remain endlessly re-watchable, and our John Wick: Chapter 4 review hailed it as a masterpiece, fans craving more action-packed thrills beyond the franchise might be interested in exploring similar cinematic experiences. Here's a curated list of the top movies that echo the essence of John Wick.

Top Movies Like John Wick

11 ImagesWondering when and where you can watch the new movie? Check out our guide on how to watch John Wick 4 and where to stream John Wick movies for a binge of the whole series.

The Raid 2 (2014)

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

Often hailed as "the greatest action movie ever," The Raid 2 is a high-octane sequel that outshines its predecessor in both quality and budget. Directed by Gareth Evans, this film showcases the impressive fighting and stunt skills of its cast, paving the way for future projects like The Night Comes for Us. Like John Wick, it features intense fight scenes and compelling secondary characters, yet focuses on one man's relentless battle against overwhelming odds.

Nobody (2021)

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 the latest addition to the "old guys kicking ass" genre, blending action with dark humor to great effect. Bob Odenkirk's portrayal of the resilient protagonist, who bounces back from injuries that would incapacitate others, mirrors the tenacity seen in John Wick. This film showcases how studios are tapping into audiences' desires for action-packed entertainment with a comedic twist.

Hardcore Henry (2015)

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

Hardcore Henry captivates with its extreme, over-the-top violence and unique first-person perspective. Despite the protagonist's lack of a face and voice, the film's self-aware humor and relentless action, highlighted by Sharlto Copley's multiple roles, make it a standout. Its escalating absurdity offers a thrilling experience akin to John Wick.

Atomic Blonde (2017)

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 delivers a stylish mix of international espionage and thrilling action, solidifying Charlize Theron's status as a formidable action star. Set against the backdrop of Berlin during the fall of the Wall, this film's intricate plot and Theron's chemistry with James McAvoy elevate it to a must-watch for fans of John Wick.

The Night Comes for Us (2018)

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 offers a gritty narrative centered on the Triad, a powerful Chinese crime syndicate. Its blend of action styles reminiscent of Kill Bill and John Wick creates a visceral experience, though its darker, more hopeless tone sets it apart.

Taken (2008)

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

Taken shares thematic similarities with John Wick through its protagonist's unyielding pursuit of justice. Liam Neeson's character, Brian Mills, mirrors John Wick's relentless drive to save his daughter, making this a compelling watch for fans of the genre.

Extraction (2020)

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 showcases nearly non-stop action with some of the most intricate stunt work in recent cinema. Directed by Sam Hargrave, who was the stunt coordinator for films like Avengers: Endgame and Atomic Blonde, this film's relentless action and long takes are reminiscent of John Wick, with the added thrill of Chris Hemsworth's dynamic performance.

The Villainess (2017)

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 offers a story-driven approach with creative fight choreography that sets a new standard for action films. Its similarities to John Wick include the fighting styles and set designs, with Kim Ok-bin delivering a standout performance as the film's female protagonist.

Commando (1985)

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 that showcases Arnold Schwarzenegger's prowess as a one-man army on a mission to rescue his daughter. Its blend of action, humor, and over-the-top moments make it a fun, albeit cheesy, watch for fans of John Wick.

The Man From Nowhere (2010)

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 blends action with emotional depth, offering a compelling revenge narrative that, while not as action-heavy as John Wick, builds to a satisfying climax. Its high Rotten Tomatoes score and well-rounded characters make it a standout in the genre.

What is the best movie like John Wick? --------------------------------------

CommandoTakenThe Man from NowhereThe VillainessThe Raid 2NobodyHardcore HenryExtractionAtomic BlondeThe Night Comes for UsSomething else (let us know in the comments!)

AnswerSee ResultsAnd that's our pick of the 10 best movies to watch if you love John Wick. What do you think of our list? Have you got a suggestion that's missing? Let us know in the comments!