10 Movies Like John Wick That You Must Watch

John Wick is a highly-acclaimed action movie franchise that has taken the world by storm with its intense fight scenes, incredible stunts, and compelling storylines. The films follow the life of a retired hitman, John Wick, who is forced back into the world of assassins when his beloved dog is killed, and he seeks vengeance against those responsible. The movies have become a pop-culture phenomenon, and fans cannot seem to get enough of the adrenaline-pumping action. If you’re looking for more movies like John Wick, this article is for you. Here, we will be exploring 10 movies that are similar in style, tone, and action-packed thrills to satisfy your craving for more heart-pumping, adrenaline-fueled movies.

The Raid 2 (2014)

Some people consider it as “the ultimate action movie”, The Raid 2 is a sequel that outshines its predecessor in terms of both quality and budget. The talented cast, who also appeared in The Night Comes for Us, skillfully display their fighting and stunt abilities, which have paved the way for future projects. As of now, it is considered their best movie to date. Similar to John Wick, the film features numerous fight scenes and interesting supporting characters, but in the end, it is one man who takes on a group of attackers single-handedly.

Blade (1998)

Blade is a must-see for fans of action movies. Wesley Snipes is exceptional in his portrayal of the unemotional vampire hunter, Blade. He perfectly embodies the character with his use of the sword, shades, sleek one-liners, and stylish suit. Snipes’ martial arts background also means that he executes the necessary choreography and maneuvers with ease to eradicate the vampire menace. Kris Kristofferson’s portrayal of the irritable mentor, Whistler, is a true gem, and N’Bushe Wright’s portrayal of the awakened human, Karen, adds a touch of humanity and compassion to the story. Lastly, for those who crave high body count and copious amounts of blood, Blade delivers on both counts.

Nobody (2021) 

Nobody is a cutting-edge dark comedy filled with action that has gained significant attention. This movie elevates the “old guys kicking ass” genre to a new level. As a recent release, it’s evident that movie studios are starting to understand what audiences crave: a combination of senseless violence and dark humor. Although other films have attempted this approach, Nobody appears to have perfected the formula, with Bob Odenkirk’s outstanding acting and delivery adding to its appeal. The movie shares similarities with John Wick, as both feature a protagonist with impressive resilience, capable of overcoming injuries that would incapacitate most people.

Taken (2009)

Taken is a movie that depicts a situation where a father’s worst nightmare becomes a reality when his daughter is abducted by the last person one would want to mess with. Similar to John Wick, Brian Mills (played by Liam Neeson) is a determined individual who will stop at nothing to accomplish his objective: to eliminate everyone responsible for his daughter’s abduction. An interesting point to note is that both Neeson and Reeves were well into their middle age when they portrayed their respective roles in these action-packed films. While Reeves does perform his own stunts, Neeson’s presence in a gritty action flick is a treat for his fans. Undoubtedly, Taken stands as one of Neeson’s most remarkable movies to date.

Atomic Blonde (2017)

Atomic Blonde is an electrifying throwback film that features international espionage and double agents. It showcases Charlize Theron’s remarkable talent as a lead actress who knows how to kick butt. The movie is set in Berlin during the year the wall fell, and follows the journey of Lorraine Broughton, a British spy who is tasked with navigating the city’s chaos. The movie’s plot is filled with twists and turns, as the Cold War makes it hard to distinguish friend from foe. James McAvoy’s inclusion as Theron’s partner is a fantastic decision, as their on-screen chemistry adds to the film’s overall appeal. With its one-of-a-kind story, Atomic Blonde is a must-watch cinematic experience.

Kate (2021)

Kate, with its John Wick-esque action sequences and Tokyo-inspired visuals, is undeniably cool. The film follows a terminally ill assassin seeking vengeance and closure as she fights through a neon-soaked night of bloodshed and brutality. Mary Elizabeth Winstead delivers a killer performance, showcasing her character’s unyielding rage and determination as she takes on the yakuza. Alongside her is Woody Harrelson, playing the role of her boss and mentor, who assists her in completing her missions. While the movie’s storyline may be predictable, the stunning locations and lighting never fail to impress, providing countless memorable moments and shots.

Safe (2012)

Safe, directed by the same filmmaker behind Remember the Titans, showcases some of Jason Statham’s finest work. Safe, which hit theaters just two years prior to John Wick, incorporates comparable chunky and rapid movements that make the John Wick series a delight to watch, but with Statham’s distinct action flair. When viewing Safe, it’s difficult not to wince at the intense physicality of Statham’s performance as he kicks, tackles, and slams his way through the villainous henchmen to rescue a young girl from captivity. While the plot may be average, the well-executed framing and intelligent use of the set during the action sequences elevates the visual entertainment value of this gritty yet colorful action film that features an invincible hero.

Hardcore Henry (2015)

Audiences were immediately drawn to the extreme and over-the-top violence in Hardcore Henry, which is so intense that no disclaimer is necessary. The Bond-inspired introduction alone is enough to deter any hesitant viewers. The film is shot entirely from a first-person perspective, making it unique in its ability to generate sympathy for a protagonist who has no discernible face or voice. Additionally, the appearance of Sharlto Copley clones adds to the movie’s comedic self-awareness, emphasizing its overall ridiculousness. If you’re searching for high-octane action, Hardcore Henry will not disappoint as it becomes increasingly more absurd until its twisted finale.

The Man From Nowhere (2010)

The Man From Nowhere, also referred to as This Man, is a remarkable film that defies genre conventions and offers a perfect mix of heart-wrenching emotions and thrilling action. Despite a few instances of cheesy editing and soundtrack choices, the movie impresses with its engaging plot, superb performances, and stunning action sequences. The characters are skillfully crafted, and their amusing personalities inject a dose of humor into the story. Although it may not feature as much action as John Wick, the film’s revenge-driven storyline more than compensates for any slow build-up. It’s difficult to ignore the film’s excellent attributes, given its perfect Rotten Tomatoes rating of 100%.

Transporter 2 (2005)

In The Transporter 2, Statham showcases his most impressive fighting skills yet, without having to play the role of a hitman both on and off-screen. The movie is a must-watch due to its vivid and Michael Bay-style color grading, as well as the non-stop action. Director Louis Leterrier, known for directing The Incredible Hulk, takes The Transporter franchise out of Europe and into the hidden criminal underworld of Miami, Florida. This new setting presents numerous challenges for Statham’s character, as he encounters a variety of complex characters. Although it has been 17 years since its release, the fight scenes in Transporter 2 still stand out as exceptional.

Also Read: Revisiting Classic Movies That Will Never Return