Top 10 Action Films Similar to John Wick

Johnny Utah, Ted, and a slew of other unforgettable Keanu Reeves roles eventually culminated in one of the most iconic action movie franchises of modern cinema: *John Wick*. But what makes this series so special? Is it the jaw-dropping, meticulously choreographed fight sequences that leave you on the edge of your seat? Perhaps it's the stylish cinematography and immersive set designs that elevate every scene to cinematic art. Or maybe it’s the fact that Reeves performs nearly all of his own stunts — a rare commitment that adds authenticity and intensity to every punch, kick, and gunshot. Whatever the reason, these elements combine to make *John Wick* a standout in the world of high-octane action films.

While the first three films are endlessly rewatchable and our *John Wick: Chapter 4* review hailed it as a masterclass in action filmmaking, there's always room for more adrenaline-pumping entertainment. If you're craving similar thrills, check out this curated list of the best movies like *John Wick* — each delivering their own unique brand of intense action, grit, and unforgettable characters.

Top Movies Like John Wick

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Want to know where and when to stream *John Wick 4* or the entire series? Check out our guide on how to watch *John Wick 4* and where to stream the full franchise for the ultimate binge experience.

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 Review
Where to Watch: Rentable on various platforms

Widely regarded by many as one of the greatest action films ever made, The Raid 2 is a high-intensity sequel that builds upon its predecessor with bigger budgets, more complex fight choreography, and an intricate storyline. Much like John Wick, this film centers around a lone warrior who takes on seemingly insurmountable odds. The martial arts performances are second to none, making this a must-watch for fans of visceral, hand-to-hand combat.

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 Review
Where to Watch: NBC, Amazon, or rentable on various platforms

A darkly comedic action thriller, Nobody delivers exactly what modern audiences crave: relentless violence, dry humor, and a protagonist who refuses to go down. Bob Odenkirk shines in a role that feels tailor-made for him, bringing both vulnerability and brute force to the screen. Like John Wick, the story revolves around a man pushed too far, unleashing his hidden skills in a spectacular way.

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 Review
Where to Watch: Stream on fuboTV or rent on Amazon

Shot entirely from a first-person perspective, Hardcore Henry is a wild ride packed with over-the-top action and tongue-in-cheek humor. While the lack of a traditional protagonist voice or face could be a drawback, the film turns it into a strength, drawing viewers directly into the chaos. It’s unapologetically absurd but undeniably entertaining — perfect for fans of John Wick looking for something a little different.

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 Review
Where to Watch: Rentable on Amazon and other platforms

Set against the backdrop of Cold War-era Berlin, Atomic Blonde is a stylish spy thriller filled with brutal fight scenes, moody visuals, and a killer soundtrack. Charlize Theron proves she can hold her own in any fight, delivering a performance that rivals even the toughest action stars. Like John Wick, the film balances sleek aesthetics with gritty realism and plenty of bone-crunching action.

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 Review
Where to Watch: Netflix

Based on a graphic novel, this Indonesian action epic dives deep into the brutal world of Triad crime syndicates. With fight scenes that rival John Wick in intensity and creativity, The Night Comes for Us is not for the faint of heart. Its raw energy and artistic violence create a viewing experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

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 Review
Where to Watch: Hulu or rentable on various platforms

Like John Wick, Taken features a father driven to extreme violence to protect someone he loves. Liam Neeson delivers a powerful performance as Bryan Mills, a retired operative who goes to war against human traffickers. Though Neeson doesn’t perform his own stunts like Reeves does, his gravitas and determination make this a classic revenge-action film.

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 Review
Where to Watch: Netflix

A non-stop action spectacle, Extraction follows a lone mercenary on a mission to rescue a kidnapped boy in Dhaka. Directed by a former stunt coordinator, the film features some of the most impressive real-time action sequences in recent memory. Like John Wick, the stunts are mostly practical, giving the fights a grounded, realistic feel.

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 Review
Where to Watch: Peacock, Prime Video, or rentable on various platforms

This South Korean action thriller stands out for its creative fight sequences and emotionally charged storytelling. Kim Ok-vin gives a powerhouse performance as a woman caught in a life of violence. The film’s innovative use of camera work and fight choreography draws clear parallels to John Wick, especially in its later installments.

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 Review
Where to Watch: Rentable on Amazon and other