Top 20 English Action Films One Must Watch

2024 has been an incredible year for action movies, offering audiences a perfect blend of gripping stories, breathtaking stunts, and unforgettable moments. The genre has continued to raise the bar, delivering films that combine explosive sequences with compelling characters and narratives. With advancements in filmmaking and a focus on immersive storytelling, this year’s action movies have kept viewers hooked from start to finish. Here, we take a closer look at the top English action films of 2024 that have captured the imagination of moviegoers and set the standard for action-packed entertainment.

Source - DevianArt

Here are the Top 20 English Action Films of 2024

1. Red One

Red One, directed by Jake Kasdan, is a high-octane Christmas action film starring Dwayne Johnson as Callum Drift, head of North Pole security, and Chris Evans as Jack O'Malley, a notorious hacker. The story follows their daring mission to rescue Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons) from kidnappers on Christmas Eve, blending holiday cheer with explosive action. It features an ensemble cast that includes Lucy Liu, Bonnie Hunt, and Kiernan Shipka. It is available on Amazon Prime Video.

2. Twisters

Twisters, directed by Lee Isaac Chung, serves as a standalone sequel to the 1996 disaster film "Twister." The narrative centers on Kate Carter (Daisy Edgar-Jones), a retired storm chaser and meteorologist who is persuaded to return to Oklahoma to collaborate with a new team employing advanced technologies. Their mission is to investigate a series of powerful tornadoes and mitigate their destructive impact. The ensemble cast includes Glen Powell as Tyler Owens, a thrill-seeking YouTuber, and Anthony Ramos as Javi, a military radar expert. It is available for streaming in Peacock. 

3. Civil War

Civil War, directed by Alex Garland, is a speculative action film set in a dystopian near-future America. The narrative follows a group of journalists, led by Lee Smith (Kirsten Dunst), as they navigate through war-torn landscapes to reach the White House before Washington D.C. falls. The ensemble cast includes Cailee Spaeny, Wagner Moura, Stephen McKinley Henderson, and Nick Offerman. The film is available for streaming on multiple platforms, including Max, Apple TV, Prime Video, and Hulu. 

4. Transformers One 

Transformers One, is an animated prequel that delves into the origins of iconic characters Optimus Prime and Megatron, exploring their early friendship and the events leading to their rivalry. The film features voice performances by Chris Hemsworth as Optimus Prime and Brian Tyree Henry as Megatron. It can be streamed on Paramount+. The film is also available for digital purchase or rental through platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango At Home. 

5. Rebel Ridge 

Rebel Ridge is a crime thriller directed by Jeremy Saulnier, featuring Aaron Pierre as Terry Richmond, a former Marine who confronts systemic corruption in a small town after his cousin's bail funds are unjustly seized by the local police. The film also stars Don Johnson, AnnaSophia Robb, and James Cromwell. The film was released on Netflix and is available for streaming exclusively on that platform. 

6. Damsel 

Damsel is a fantasy adventure film directed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo, featuring Millie Bobby Brown as Princess Elodie, who is betrothed to Prince Henry (Nick Robinson). The narrative follows Elodie as she uncovers a sinister plot involving a dragon and a deadly ceremony, leading her to confront her captors and fight for her freedom. The film also stars Angela Bassett, Robin Wright, Ray Winstone, and Shohreh Aghdashloo. It was released on Netflix and is available for streaming exclusively on the platform. 

7. The Union

The Union is an American spy action-comedy thriller directed by Julian Farino, featuring Mark Wahlberg as Mike McKenna, a New Jersey construction worker who is recruited into the world of espionage by his high school sweetheart, Roxanne Hall (Halle Berry). The film also stars Mike Colter, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Alice Lee, Jackie Earle Haley, and J.K. Simmons. It was released on Netflix and is available for streaming exclusively on the platform. 

8. Deadpool & Wolverine

Deadpool & Wolverine is a superhero action-comedy film directed by Shawn Levy, featuring Ryan Reynolds reprising his role as Deadpool and Hugh Jackman returning as Wolverine. The narrative follows Deadpool, who is recruited by the Time Variance Authority to help safeguard the multiverse. To accomplish this, he enlists a variant of Wolverine from an alternate universe, leading to a series of comedic and action-packed adventures. The film is currently available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar. 

9. Furiosa - A Mad Max Saga

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga is a prequel to the acclaimed "Mad Max: Fury Road," directed by George Miller. The film explores the origins of Furiosa, portrayed by Anya Taylor-Joy, as she navigates a post-apocalyptic wasteland. The cast also includes Chris Hemsworth as Dementus and Tom Burke as the Warlord. The narrative delves into Furiosa's journey from the Green Place of Many Mothers to her rise as a formidable leader in the dystopian world. It is now available for streaming on Max. 

10. The Fall Guy

The Fall Guy is an action-comedy film directed by David Leitch, featuring Ryan Gosling as Colt Seavers, a seasoned Hollywood stuntman, and Emily Blunt as Jody Moreno, a talented camerawoman. The narrative follows Colt as he is drawn back into the film industry to locate a missing actor, leading to a series of high-octane adventures and rekindling his relationship with Jody. The film also stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Hannah Waddingham. It is currently available for streaming on Peacock. 

11. Dune - Part Two

Dune: Part Two is the sequel to the 2021 film "Dune", directed by Denis Villeneuve. The film continues the epic saga of Paul Atreides, portrayed by Timothée Chalamet, as he aligns with the Fremen to avenge his family and fulfill his destiny. Zendaya returns as Chani, with new cast members including Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan and Austin Butler as Feyd-Rautha. The narrative delves deeper into the political and ecological complexities of Arrakis, exploring themes of power, prophecy, and survival. It is now available for streaming on HBO Max. 

12. Monkey Man

Monkey Man is an action thriller marking the directorial debut of Dev Patel, who also stars as the protagonist, Kid. The film follows Kid's journey as he navigates the challenges of reintegrating into society after a lengthy prison sentence, confronting themes of vengeance, societal corruption, and personal redemption. The cast includes Sikandar Kher as Rana Singh, Sharlto Copley as Tiger, and Sobhita Dhulipala as Sita. The film is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. 

13. Godzilla Minus One  

Godzilla Minus One is a Japanese kaiju film directed by Takashi Yamazaki, marking a return to the franchise's roots with a darker and more serious tone. Set in post-war Japan, the narrative follows Shikishima (Ryunosuke Kamiki), an ex-kamikaze pilot who survived the war and now faces the emergence of Godzilla, a creature embodying the nation's post-war trauma. Godzilla Minus One is currently available for streaming on Netflix. 

14. Bad Boys - Ride or Die  

Bad Boys: Ride or Die is the fourth installment in the "Bad Boys" franchise, directed by Adil & Bilall. The film reunites Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett, who are tasked with clearing the name of their late boss, Captain Howard. The narrative delves into their personal and professional challenges, blending high-octane action sequences with comedic elements. The cast also features Vanessa Hudgens as Detective Rita, Jacob Lattimore as Detective Zeke, and Paola Núñez as Captain Teresa Burnett. The film is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. 

15. Hit Man 

Hit Man is a crime comedy directed by Richard Linklater, featuring Glen Powell as Gary Johnson, a mild-mannered professor who becomes a fake hitman for the police. The film follows Gary's journey as he navigates the complexities of his double life, blending elements of crime, comedy, and romance. The cast also includes Adria Arjona as Madison, Austin Amelio as Detective Zeke, and Jacob Lattimore as Detective Zeke. Hit Man is currently available for streaming on Netflix. 

16. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes 

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is a science fiction film directed by Wes Ball, set approximately 300 years after the death of Caesar. The story follows Noa, a young chimpanzee, as he embarks on a journey to rescue his enslaved clan from the corrupted Proximus Caesar. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is currently available for streaming on Hulu and for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. 

17. The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is an action-comedy directed by Guy Ritchie, inspired by true events from World War II. The film chronicles the formation of the UK's first-ever special forces unit, established by Prime Minister Winston Churchill and military officials, including author Ian Fleming. This covert team of rogues and mavericks embarks on daring missions against Nazi forces, employing unconventional tactics that lay the foundation for modern black operations. The ensemble cast features Henry Cavill, Eiza González, Alan Ritchson, Alex Pettyfer, and Henry Golding. The film is available for digital purchase on platforms like Amazon Video and iTunes and has been followed by DVD and Blu-ray releases. 

18. Brothers

Brothers is an action-comedy film directed by Max Barbakow. The story centers on twin brothers, Mike (Peter Dinklage) and Moke (Josh Brolin), who come from a family of criminals. They reunite for one last heist worth $4 million, joined by their estranged mother (Glenn Close). The film also features Brendan Fraser as a menacing character demanding the return of stolen emeralds. The film is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. 

19. The Beekeeper

The Beekeeper is an action-thriller directed by David Ayer, featuring Jason Statham as Adam Clay, a former operative of a clandestine organization known as "Beekeepers." The narrative follows Clay's quest for vengeance after a personal tragedy, leading him to confront a web of corruption with national implications. The film is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. 

20. The Shadow Strays

The Shadow Strays is an action crime thriller directed by Timo Tjahjanto. The film follows Codename 13, a 17-year-old assassin portrayed by Aurora Ribero, who is suspended after a botched mission in Japan. During her hiatus, she encounters Monji, an 11-year-old boy who has recently lost his mother to a crime syndicate. Determined to protect him, 13 defies her mentor and takes on the syndicate, leading to a series of intense confrontations. The film is available on Netflix. From blockbuster franchises to original tales, each movie brought something unique to the screen. With such a strong lineup, the future of action cinema looks brighter than ever, leaving us eagerly anticipating what’s in store for the years to come. Wishing you all a very Happy New Year!

Written By Anoushka Chowdhury

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