Top 10 Action Movies Of 2021: The Ultimate Thrill Ride
Hey, action movie buffs! 2021 delivered some seriously heart-pounding, adrenaline-fueled flicks that kept us on the edge of our seats. So, let's dive straight into the ultimate countdown of the top 10 action movies of 2021, complete with explosions, epic fight scenes, and unforgettable moments. Get ready for a wild ride!
1. Nobody
Kicking off our list is "Nobody," a film that took everyone by surprise. Nobody is a masterclass in understated action, starring Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell, a seemingly ordinary suburban dad with a hidden past. When his home is invaded, Hutch unleashes a brutal set of skills that he had long suppressed. What makes "Nobody" so great is its blend of dark humor, realistic fight choreography, and Odenkirk's incredible performance. He transforms from a mild-mannered family man to a lethal force with terrifying ease. The action sequences are visceral and impactful, avoiding the over-the-top theatrics of some other films on this list. Instead, "Nobody" grounds its action in a sense of reality, making it all the more thrilling. The film's success lies in its ability to subvert expectations. We're used to seeing Odenkirk as Saul Goodman, the quick-witted lawyer from "Breaking Bad" and "Better Call Saul." But here, he proves he can handle the action genre with aplomb. The supporting cast, including Christopher Lloyd and Connie Nielsen, adds depth and intrigue to the story. Overall, "Nobody" is a must-watch for action fans looking for something a little different, something with a bit more grit and a lot more punch. It's a film that proves you don't need a superhero or a massive budget to deliver pulse-pounding action and memorable characters. This is a movie that will leave you cheering for the underdog, or in this case, the seemingly ordinary dad who turns out to be anything but.
2. Godzilla vs. Kong
Next up, we have the colossal clash of titans: "Godzilla vs. Kong." Guys, this movie was pure, unadulterated monster mayhem! Godzilla vs. Kong delivered exactly what it promised: a spectacular showdown between two of cinema's most iconic creatures. The visual effects are stunning, bringing these behemoths to life in breathtaking detail. Each punch, roar, and city-smashing stomp is rendered with incredible realism, making you feel like you're right in the middle of the battle. While the human characters might not be the main draw, the film wisely focuses on the monster action, giving us plenty of epic clashes to enjoy. The Hong Kong battle sequence is a particular highlight, with Godzilla and Kong tearing through skyscrapers like they're made of cardboard. What makes "Godzilla vs. Kong" so enjoyable is its sheer scale and spectacle. It's a movie that demands to be seen on the biggest screen possible, with the loudest sound system you can find. It's a popcorn flick in the truest sense of the word, offering pure escapism and adrenaline-pumping action. The film also explores the lore and mythology surrounding these creatures, delving into their origins and motivations. This adds a layer of depth to the monster action, making it more than just mindless destruction. Whether you're a longtime fan of Godzilla or Kong, or just a casual moviegoer looking for some epic entertainment, "Godzilla vs. Kong" is sure to deliver. It's a monster movie that lives up to its hype, offering a thrilling and visually stunning experience from start to finish. So grab your snacks, settle in, and prepare to witness the ultimate battle for supremacy.
3. Wrath of Man
Wrath of Man is Guy Ritchie's return to form, a gritty and violent heist thriller starring Jason Statham. Statham plays H, a mysterious and stoic man who takes a job as a security guard at an armored truck company. But H has a hidden agenda: he's looking for the people responsible for killing his son. What follows is a brutal and relentless quest for revenge, filled with double-crosses, intense gunfights, and Ritchie's signature stylized direction. "Wrath of Man" is a departure from some of Ritchie's more comedic films, opting for a darker and more serious tone. The action is visceral and unforgiving, with Statham dispatching his enemies with ruthless efficiency. The film's non-linear narrative adds to the intrigue, slowly revealing H's past and his motivations. The supporting cast, including Holt McCallany, Jeffrey Donovan, and Josh Hartnett, adds depth and complexity to the story. "Wrath of Man" is a thrilling and suspenseful action film that will keep you guessing until the very end. It's a showcase for Statham's talents as an action star, and a reminder of Ritchie's skill as a director. If you're looking for a movie with a dark edge, intense action, and a compelling story, "Wrath of Man" is definitely worth checking out. It's a film that will leave you on the edge of your seat, wondering what H will do next.
4. The Suicide Squad
James Gunn's "The Suicide Squad" is a riotous and irreverent superhero film that completely revitalizes the franchise. This isn't your typical superhero movie; it's a violent, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt adventure featuring a group of misfit villains on a suicide mission. The cast is phenomenal, with Margot Robbie, Idris Elba, John Cena, and Daniela Melchior all delivering standout performances. Gunn's direction is pitch-perfect, balancing the film's dark humor with moments of genuine emotion. The action sequences are creative and over-the-top, perfectly capturing the chaotic energy of the Suicide Squad. What makes "The Suicide Squad" so great is its willingness to take risks. It's a film that doesn't shy away from violence, and it's not afraid to kill off major characters. This creates a sense of unpredictability that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The film also has a surprisingly strong emotional core, exploring themes of redemption, friendship, and sacrifice. "The Suicide Squad" is a refreshing and entertaining superhero film that will appeal to both comic book fans and casual moviegoers. It's a film that proves that superhero movies can be funny, violent, and surprisingly heartfelt. If you're looking for a movie that will make you laugh, gasp, and maybe even shed a tear, "The Suicide Squad" is definitely worth watching.
5. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings
"Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" is a game-changer for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, introducing a new hero and a fresh perspective on the superhero genre. This film is a visually stunning and action-packed adventure that seamlessly blends martial arts with superhero tropes. Simu Liu is excellent as Shang-Chi, bringing both vulnerability and strength to the role. The fight choreography is some of the best in the MCU, with each action sequence feeling unique and impactful. The supporting cast, including Awkwafina, Meng'er Zhang, and Tony Leung, adds depth and complexity to the story. What makes "Shang-Chi" so great is its cultural authenticity. The film embraces its Chinese heritage, incorporating elements of Chinese mythology, culture, and language. This creates a rich and immersive experience that sets it apart from other superhero films. The film also explores themes of family, identity, and legacy, adding emotional weight to the action. "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" is a groundbreaking and entertaining superhero film that will appeal to audiences of all backgrounds. It's a film that proves that diversity and representation can make superhero stories even more compelling. If you're looking for a movie that will thrill you, move you, and introduce you to a new hero, "Shang-Chi" is a must-see.
6. Raging Fire
Hailing from Hong Kong, "Raging Fire" is a blazing action spectacle that delivers non-stop thrills. This film is a testament to the enduring power of Hong Kong action cinema, featuring incredible stunts, intense gunfights, and a gripping story. Donnie Yen stars as Cheung Sung-bong, a highly respected police officer who finds himself on a collision course with a former protégé who has turned to a life of crime. The action sequences are expertly choreographed and executed, showcasing Yen's incredible martial arts skills. The film's gritty and realistic portrayal of police work adds to the tension, making each action sequence feel even more impactful. What makes "Raging Fire" so great is its commitment to practical effects and realistic stunt work. The film avoids CGI whenever possible, opting for real explosions, car chases, and hand-to-hand combat. This creates a visceral and immersive experience that sets it apart from many modern action films. "Raging Fire" is a must-see for fans of Hong Kong action cinema, a thrilling and action-packed film that will leave you breathless. It's a reminder of the enduring power of practical effects and realistic stunt work, and a showcase for Donnie Yen's incredible talent.
7. Army of Thieves
Prequel to "Army of the Dead", Army of Thieves gives us a lighter, heist-focused story. While it might not be as zombie-filled as its predecessor, it delivers on charm and suspense. Matthias Schweighöfer returns as Dieter, the quirky safecracker, and his performance is as engaging as ever. The film follows Dieter's recruitment into a crew of international thieves, as they attempt to crack a series of seemingly impossible safes across Europe. The heists are clever and suspenseful, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. What makes "Army of Thieves" so enjoyable is its focus on character development and humor. The film takes its time to introduce us to the members of the heist crew, and we get to know their motivations and personalities. This makes us care about them, even though they're technically criminals. The humor is also well-placed, providing moments of levity amidst the tension. "Army of Thieves" is a fun and entertaining heist film that will appeal to fans of the genre. It's a lighter and more accessible than "Army of the Dead", but it still delivers on thrills and suspense. If you're looking for a movie that will make you laugh, gasp, and maybe even root for the bad guys, "Army of Thieves" is definitely worth checking out.
8. Kate
"Kate" is a neon-soaked action thriller starring Mary Elizabeth Winstead as the titular assassin. When Kate is poisoned and given only 24 hours to live, she embarks on a violent and relentless quest for revenge. The film is a stylish and visually striking action film, with vibrant colors and kinetic camerawork. Winstead delivers a fierce and compelling performance as Kate, showcasing her physical prowess and emotional range. The action sequences are brutal and inventive, with Kate using her skills and resources to take down her enemies. What makes "Kate" so great is its relentless pace. The film never lets up, constantly throwing new obstacles and challenges in Kate's path. This creates a sense of urgency and excitement that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The film also explores themes of revenge, redemption, and the cost of violence, adding depth and complexity to the action. "Kate" is a thrilling and action-packed film that will appeal to fans of the genre. It's a stylish and visually striking movie with a compelling performance from Mary Elizabeth Winstead.
9. Copshop
"Copshop" is a gritty and suspenseful action thriller set in a small-town police station. When a con artist and a hitman find themselves locked up in the same jail, they must team up to survive against a corrupt police force. The film is a tightly plotted and suspenseful thriller, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. Gerard Butler and Frank Grillo deliver strong performances as the hitman and the con artist, respectively. The action sequences are brutal and realistic, with a focus on close-quarters combat. What makes "Copshop" so great is its claustrophobic setting. The film takes place almost entirely within the confines of the police station, creating a sense of tension and confinement. This adds to the suspense, making each action sequence feel even more impactful. "Copshop" is a thrilling and action-packed film that will appeal to fans of the genre. It's a tightly plotted and suspenseful thriller with strong performances and realistic action.
10. Black Widow
Rounding out our list is "Black Widow," a long-awaited solo film for Scarlett Johansson's iconic character. Set between the events of "Captain America: Civil War" and "Avengers: Infinity War," the movie delves into Natasha Romanoff's past as a trained assassin. Black Widow delivers some solid action sequences, exploring Natasha's origins and introducing new characters like Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), who quickly became a fan favorite. The film also provides closure for Natasha's character, giving her a proper send-off after her sacrifice in "Avengers: Endgame." What makes "Black Widow" enjoyable is its exploration of Natasha's backstory. We finally get to see her training, her family, and the events that shaped her into the Black Widow. This adds depth and complexity to her character, making her even more compelling. The action sequences are also well-executed, showcasing Natasha's skills as a spy and assassin. "Black Widow" is a satisfying and entertaining superhero film that will appeal to fans of the MCU. It's a fitting tribute to one of the franchise's most beloved characters, and a fun action flick in its own right.
So, there you have it – the top 10 action movies of 2021! Which ones were your favorites? Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments below, and get ready for another year of awesome action flicks!