10 John Wick-esque Action Movies You Should Watch

Natalie Brooks

6 min read

Post on May 12, 2025

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1. Nobody (2021)

Brutal, Inventive Fight Choreography Mirroring John Wick's Creativity

Nobody isn't your typical action thriller. It features Bob Odenkirk, best known for his comedic roles, unleashing a surprising and brutal arsenal of skills. The film's realistic gun-fu and intense hand-to-hand combat are masterclasses in creative action design.

• Realistic Gun-Fu: The fight sequences are grounded in reality, making the violence both impactful and believable.
• Unexpected Action Thriller: The plot twists and turns, keeping you guessing until the very end, much like John Wick's intricate storylines.
• Odenkirk's Transformation: Odenkirk's performance is a revelation, showcasing a surprising depth of action prowess that rivals some of the best in the genre.

2. Atomic Blonde (2017)

Stylish, 80s-Set Action with a Female Protagonist Channeling Wick's Lethality

Charlize Theron delivers a powerhouse performance in Atomic Blonde, a stylish action thriller set against the backdrop of 1980s Berlin. The film's neo-noir atmosphere and impressive fight scenes, showcasing both gunplay and brutal hand-to-hand combat, make it a must-see for fans of stylish action sequences.

• Female-Led Action: Theron's portrayal of Lorraine Broughton is a powerful and iconic female lead in the action genre.
• Stylish Action Sequences: The film's fight choreography is both brutal and elegant, a perfect blend of style and substance.
• Gritty Atmosphere: The 80s setting adds a unique layer to the film's overall aesthetic, enhancing the neo-noir action thriller feel.

3. The Night Comes for Us (2018)

Indonesian Action Masterpiece with Relentless, Over-the-Top Violence and Intricate Fight Choreography

Prepare for a brutal ride with The Night Comes for Us. This Indonesian action masterpiece is not for the faint of heart. Its relentless violence and intricate fight choreography, heavily influenced by Indonesian martial arts, are unlike anything you've seen before.

• Indonesian Action Cinema: The film showcases the incredible talent within Indonesian action cinema.
• Intense Fight Choreography: The fight sequences are breathtaking in their complexity and brutality.
• Dark, Morally Ambiguous Tone: The film's morally grey characters and themes add another layer of complexity to the already intense action.

4. Gunpowder Milkshake (2021)

Stylish Female-Led Action Flick with a Similar Blend of Gunplay and Close-Quarters Combat

Gunpowder Milkshake is a stylish and empowering female-led action movie that shares John Wick's flair for creative action sequences. The film’s strong female characters, creative weaponry, and visually stunning action sequences make it a perfect choice for fans of both action and female-driven narratives.

• Female-Led Action: The film features a strong ensemble of female characters, each with their unique fighting styles.
• Stylish Gunplay: The gunfights are choreographed with precision and style, showcasing creative use of weaponry.
• Creative Action Sequences: The film features a number of inventive and visually stunning action sequences.

5. Haywire (2011)

Early Example of Realistic, Brutal Action Sequences Showcasing Practical Fight Choreography

Haywire, starring Gina Carano, is a standout example of realistic action cinema. Carano's real-life martial arts skills are on full display, resulting in raw, visceral fight sequences that feel both intense and authentic.

• Realistic Fight Choreography: The film utilizes practical effects, making the fight scenes feel incredibly grounded and impactful.
• Practical Effects: The action sequences rely heavily on practical effects rather than CGI, enhancing the realism.
• Intense Action Thriller: The suspenseful plot keeps you engaged from beginning to end.

6. The Raid: Redemption (2011) & The Raid 2: Berandal (2014)

Indonesian Action Films Known for Their Relentless, Brutal, and Innovative Fight Choreography

The Raid: Redemption and its sequel, The Raid 2: Berandal, are Indonesian action films that redefined the genre. Their relentless, brutal, and innovative fight choreography, set within claustrophobic environments, is both exhilarating and terrifying.

• Intense Action: The films deliver non-stop action from start to finish.
• Brutal Fight Choreography: The fight scenes are incredibly brutal and realistic.
• Indonesian Martial Arts: The films showcase a variety of Indonesian martial arts styles.

7. Kill Bill Vol. 1 & 2 (2003-2004)

Quentin Tarantino's Stylish Revenge Saga with Iconic Fight Sequences and a Strong Female Lead

Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill is a stylish and violent revenge saga that has influenced countless action films. Uma Thurman's iconic performance and the film's over-the-top violence and diverse fight styles make it a classic of the genre.

• Stylish Action: The film's unique style is immediately recognizable.
• Iconic Fight Scenes: Many of the film's fight scenes have become iconic in their own right.
• Revenge Thriller: The film's plot is a classic revenge story.

8. Upgrade (2018)

Sci-Fi Action Thriller with Intense, Brutal Fight Sequences and a Unique Cybernetic Element

Upgrade blends sci-fi and action seamlessly, creating a unique and thrilling cinematic experience. Its intense, brutal fight sequences, enhanced by a unique cybernetic element, set it apart from other action films.

• Sci-Fi Action: The film perfectly blends sci-fi elements with intense action.
• Cyberpunk Action: The cybernetic element adds a unique flavor to the action sequences.
• Intense Fight Choreography: The fight choreography is both brutal and creative.

9. Baby Driver (2017)

Action-Packed Crime Thriller with Expertly Choreographed Car Chases and Intense Action Sequences Synchronized to Music

Baby Driver is a unique action film that uses music as a core element of its narrative and action. The expertly choreographed car chases and intense action sequences, all synchronized to the soundtrack, create a truly unforgettable experience.

• Stylish Action Sequences: The film's action sequences are visually stunning and tightly choreographed.
• Car Chase Action: The car chases are some of the best and most creative in recent cinema history.
• Music-Driven Action: The film uses music to enhance the action, creating a truly unique viewing experience.

10. Point Blank (2019)

Fast-Paced Action Thriller with a Relentless Pace and Inventive Action Set Pieces

Point Blank is a fast-paced action thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Its relentless pace and inventive action set pieces make it a perfect choice for fans of intense action thrillers.

• Intense Action Thriller: The film provides non-stop action and suspense.
• Fast-Paced Action: The film’s pace is relentless, keeping the viewer fully engaged.
• Inventive Action Sequences: The action sequences are creative and innovative, utilizing the environment effectively.

Conclusion

From the realistic gun-fu of Nobody to the stylish female-led action of Atomic Blonde and the brutal intensity of The Raid, these 10 John Wick-esque action movies deliver the same high-octane thrills and stylish violence that defined the John Wick franchise. Each film offers a unique contribution to the genre, showcasing diverse styles, settings, and characters, all united by their commitment to intense fight choreography and captivating storytelling. So, grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare for a cinematic adrenaline rush. Watch these John Wick-esque action movies and let us know your thoughts in the comments below! What other best action movies or neo-noir action films do you recommend for fans of gun-fu movies and intense action thrillers? Keep exploring the best in John Wick-esque action movies!