The action genre is often synonymous with high-stakes fight sequences and vibrant, bloody confrontations. However, this reputation should not overshadow the intricate storytelling and character development seen in numerous underrated action films. These gems deftly blend stunning choreography and remarkable stunts with compelling narratives and emotional arcs, captivating audiences far beyond mere physicality. While mainstream action flicks tend to dominate box office charts—even without stellar reviews—there are remarkable movies that resonate deeply with critics yet fail to garner extensive public attention.
Diverging opinions between critics and general viewers frequently highlight films that offer visceral excitement paired with substance. These lesser-known titles often masterfully intersect violence and narrative depth. As streaming platforms continue to expand their catalogs, 2024 presents an excellent opportunity for audiences to rediscover several underrated action classics. Notably, significant contributions to the action genre have emerged from various decades, each deserving recognition for its unique approach to fight choreography and cinematic storytelling.
10 The Night Comes For Us (2018)
Directed by Timo Tjahjanto
The Indonesian thriller The Night Comes for Us is an audaciously violent entry in the action genre, redefining cinematic violence while making a lasting impression on its audience. The film’s graphic portrayal of brutality often desensitizes viewers, allowing them to appreciate the thrilling absurdity of the narrative. Though its plot might feel somewhat thin at times, the film excels in orchestrating its action sequences to enhance the viewing experience.
Joe Taslim stars as Ito, a man who attempts to escape his tumultuous life in organized crime, continually pursued by his former friend and formidable foe, Arian (Iko Uwais). The equally matched leading men deliver electrifying fight sequences that maintain viewer engagement from beginning to end.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
The Night Comes For Us (2018) |
92% |
83% |
9 RRR (2022)
Directed by S. S. Rajamouli
With its impactful storytelling and heart-pounding action, RRR quickly rose to acclaim as one of the most innovative action films of the decade. This historical epic narrates the story of two friends, Raju (Ram Charan) and Bheem (N. T. Rama Rao Jr.), who are inspired by the real-life revolutionaries Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem, who bravely fought against British colonial oppression in India. The film’s stunning visual effects and impactful score fully immerse viewers in a gripping tale of resistance.
One standout aspect is the film’s musical numbers, particularly the Oscar-winning “Naatu Naatu,”encapsulating the film’s blend of hope and determination despite its darker themes. Since being added to Netflix, RRR has captured a broader international audience, making it an essential watch for all action fans.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
RRR (2022) |
96% |
94% |
8 Content (2022)
Directed by Jalmari Helander
Set against the backdrop of World War II, the Finnish film Sisu offers a satirical take on the action genre’s overdone tropes. Featuring a blend of bloodshed and humor akin to films like Inglourious Basterds, this film thrives on its exaggerated portrayal of combat sequences. Jorma Tommila stars as Aatami Korpi, a gold prospector who singlehandedly battles a battalion of SS soldiers trying to claim his newfound wealth. The film’s outrageous elements coupled with an escalating sense of intensity keep viewers at the edge of their seats, creating an adrenaline-pumping experience.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Contents (2022) |
94% |
88% |
7 Lady Snowblood (1973)
Directed by Toshiya Fujita
As a seminal work from the 1970s, Lady Snowblood remains a cornerstone in the realm of action-revenge films. Directed by Toshiya Fujita, it features Meiko Kaji in a hauntingly unforgettable role as the titular character, celebrated for its beautifully choreographed fight scenes that blend artistry with martial prowess. The film’s impact transcends time, influencing a plethora of modern filmmakers, notably Quentin Tarantino.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Lady Snowblood (1973) |
100% |
86% |
6 Polite Society (2023)
Directed by Nida Manzoor
In Polite Society, the ensemble cast brings writer-director Nida Manzoor’s vision to life, showcasing the intricate family ties that define the film’s narrative. Ria (Priya Kansara) becomes consumed with the idea of thwarting her sister Lena’s (Ritu Arya) upcoming marriage to a questionable suitor, reflecting her aspiration to become a stuntwoman. Manzoor’s direction cleverly intertwines various cinematic styles, drawing influence from both Martial Arts and classic Bollywood.
This thought-provoking film, while receiving a limited release, made significant waves among viewers and critics alike, praised for its engaging screenplay and feminist themes. Nida Manzoor’s previous success with the TV series Lady Parts further establishes her as a director to watch.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Polite Society (2023) |
91% |
84% |
5 The Day Of The Jackal (1973)
Directed by Fred Zinnemann
The classic thriller The Day of the Jackal has resurfaced in pop culture, reignited by the recent Peacock adaptation. Originally featuring Edward Fox as the chilling assassin on a mission, this French action-thriller may lack the frenetic pace of present-day films, yet its meticulous tension-building and intriguing characters ensure captivating viewing from start to finish.
While the modernization of espionage and investigation techniques have transformed the genre since its release, the film endures as an emblematic expression of its time, capturing a world filled with gentleman spies, tension, and intrigue. It continues to stand as a timeless classic in the action canon.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
The Day of the Jackal (1973) |
91% |
88% |
4 The Man From Nowhere (2010)
Directed by Lee Jeong-beom
Despite achieving acclaim in South Korea, The Man From Nowhere didn’t make significant waves internationally. Those fortunate enough to view this gripping story, however, were mesmerized by Won Bin’s powerful performance as Cha Tae-sik, a man embroiled in a harrowing mission to protect a young girl. The film intricately intertwines themes of drug trafficking and organ harvesting, offering a dark, gripping narrative that balances intense action with poignant moments of tenderness.
While the graphic violence depicted might not suit every viewer, its raw intensity and emotional depth offer a compelling experience for fans of the genre.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
The Man From Nowhere (2010) |
100% |
90% |
3 True Romance (1993)
Directed by Tony Scott
Despite its enthusiastic critical reception at release, True Romance struggled at the box office, barely recouping its production budget. Featuring Christian Slater and Patricia Arquette as star-crossed lovers unwittingly caught in a dangerous world, the film has since garnered a devoted cult following. While the main audience remains grounded in Tarantino fans and film enthusiasts, its limited mainstream acceptance remains a point of regret.
Nonetheless, the film’s engaging storyline and exceptional cast make it a hidden gem in the action genre.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
True Romance (1993) |
93% |
93% |
2 Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior (2003)
Directed by Prachya Pinkaew
Renowned as a cornerstone of Thai martial arts cinema, Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior delivers groundbreaking fight choreography that captivates action aficionados. Its impressive use of stunts devoid of CGI or wires allows for a raw and visceral experience, with Tony Jaa shines as the standout performer. The film’s exhilarating chase scenes, in which Jaa deftly navigates treacherous streets, cement its legacy in the genre.
Considered one of Jaa’s most iconic roles, Ong-Bak serves as a testament to the rich tradition of martial arts cinema and its electrifying legacy.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior (2003) |
85% |
84% |
1 Riders Of Justice (2021)
Directed by Anders Thomas Jensen
In Riders of Justice, Mads Mikkelsen delivers a captivating performance in this Danish action-comedy that, despite its pandemic release, resonates strongly with critics. Mikkelsen plays Markus, whose quest for vengeance unfolds with darkly comic undertones that make this film noteworthy. Many may recognize Mikkelsen from the TV series Hannibal, yet he proves himself to be a compelling action star in this context.
Beyond Mikkelsen’s performance, the film’s engaging fight scenes seamlessly convey the emotional dynamics at play as Markus reconnects with his daughter, Mathilde (Andrea Heick Gadeberg). Potential viewers may hesitate due to the Danish language; however, the action sequences and overarching emotional narrative transcend language barriers and ensure an engaging viewing experience.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Riders of Justice (2021) |
96% |
89% |
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