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2023 has proven to be an exceptional year for cinema, particularly in the genres of horror, animation, and, most notably, action. The action genre has seen remarkable releases, with audiences enjoying the latest installments from iconic franchises like Indiana Jones, Mission: Impossible, and John Wick. Additionally, original action films have emerged, showing great potential to launch their own series.
As we approach the end of the year, the excitement continues with highly anticipated releases such as The Marvels, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, and John Woo’s Silent Night. The action movie scene in 2023 has been dynamic and promising, with new updates and entries keeping the discussions lively. This article, last updated on November 11th, 2023, reflects the latest features, entries, and information to ensure the content remains current and engaging.
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15 Best Action Movies of 2023
Plane
In early January, the release of Plane marked the beginning of an exceptional year for action films, and it’s hard to imagine a more fitting movie for the task. Gerard Butler and Mike Colter delivered outstanding performances as Captain Brodie Torrence and the criminal Louis Gaspare. The action sequences are intense and, at times, downright crazy.
What sets it apart? The movie successfully channels the spirit of ’80s action films, which are renowned for their outrageous plots, nonsensical elements, and over-the-top action. Planefrom 2023 not only captures these elements but also adds an extra layer, making it a true homage to the authentic and exhilarating feel of ’80s action epics.
Gran Turismo
Gran Turismo, a biographical sports drama, delves into the emotional core beneath the adrenaline-fueled world of racing, unfolding a remarkably authentic narrative. The film chronicles the journeys of three underdogs – a former race car driver, a blue-collar gamer, and a motorsport executive – as they embark on a daring mission, staking everything they have on the pursuit of victory.
What Sets It Apart? In a rare feat, Gran Turismo stands out as a video game adaptation that truly grasps the essence of its source material, successfully translating it to the cinematic experience. It is a challenge for many movies to capture visuals and emotions that immerse viewers alongside the characters. Particularly compelling is the transformation from gamer to racer, portraying the arc of a teenager who never envisioned such a path, combined with cinematic race scenes that authentically capture the spirit of our times.
Guy Richie’s The Covenant
Guy Ritchie, hailed as one of the standout directors of our era, has consistently impressed audiences with iconic films like Snatch and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, not to mention the remarkable Sherlock Holmes series featuring Robert Downey Jr. In his latest endeavor, The Covenant, Ritchie ventures into the war film genre, depicting the story of a Green Beret and his Afghan interpreter during the Taliban conflict.
What sets The Covenant apart is its captivating narrative, brought to life by the outstanding performances of Jake Gyllenhaal and Dar Salim. Ritchie’s directorial prowess shines through in the film’s exhilarating and brutal action sequences, making it a standout surprise of the year and solidifying its place among the biggest and best releases.
The Killer
Fans of the John Wick franchise will undoubtedly find immense enjoyment in The Killer. The film features a gripping narrative that bears some resemblance to Taken, coupled with extraordinary action sequences. Notably, the standout moment is a remarkable long-take hallway fight scene that rivals the best action sequences of the year.
What sets it apart is the impeccable cinematography and seamless editing, ensuring that the action unfolds with a captivating fluidity. Every gunshot, knife slash, and punch is vividly portrayed, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the intensity of the scenes. Jang Hyuk, an action star often overlooked, delivers a stellar performance, making The Killer deserving of a broader and more appreciative audience.
Fast X
If a Fast and Furious film takes the spotlight in a year, it’s a given that it will secure a spot on the year’s top action movies list. Fast X delivers all the elements we cherish in the Fast and Furious series: extravagant action sequences, thrilling street races, and the quintessential “family” dynamic, epitomized by Vin Diesel’s voice. What distinguishes Fast X from its franchise counterparts is the remarkable portrayal of the antagonist by Jason Momoa, solidifying his position as the franchise’s standout villain.
Extraction 2
Extraction 2, the eagerly anticipated sequel to Sam Hargrave’s original Netflix action hit, lived up to expectations three years after its predecessor. The movie boasts breathtaking action scenes, including an impressive nearly 30-minute long take featuring Chris Hemsworth’s Tyler Rake navigating a prison riot, engaging in an epic car chase, and participating in a thrilling fight sequence on a train—all seamlessly woven into one continuous shot. Notably, the storyline surpasses that of the first film, and the sequel not only stands on its own but also lays the groundwork for numerous exciting spin-offs and sequels on the horizon.
The Equalizer 3
In 2023, the trend of franchise expansions continues with The Equalizer 3, a captivating blend of retirement thriller and justice exploration. The film follows Robert McCall, a former CIA operative seeking a peaceful life in Southern Italy. Despite trying to avoid meddling, McCall is drawn into a conflict as his newfound friends fall prey to local crime lords.
What sets the movie apart is Denzel Washington’s impeccable and intense performance, coupled with immersive and expertly choreographed action sequences. The film seamlessly weaves together elements of art and science in depicting McCall’s fury against the mafia. Ultimately, The Equalizer 3 delivers pure popcorn entertainment, serving as a fitting and satisfying conclusion to an outstanding trilogy.
Creed III
Michael B. Jordan’s directorial debut, Creed III, stands out as one of the most impressive and stylish films in the Rocky/Creed franchise. It delivers a compelling and personal narrative with well-developed characters and story arcs. The film’s antagonist is both terrifying and unpredictable, adding to its overall impact. However, what sets Creed III apart is its exceptional action sequences.
Drawing inspiration from Michael B. Jordan’s love for anime, the movie incorporates elements from the genre into its boxing scenes. The fights are characterized by stylized choreography, high speed, and an over-the-top flair reminiscent of anime. Slow-motion shots, close-ups of characters’ eyes, and a standout moment where time seems to freeze as Adonis Creed gets sucker-punched in the stomach create a visceral and awe-inspiring experience. Creed III successfully combines the intensity of boxing with the visual excitement of anime, making it a standout entry in the franchise.
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Polite Society
Polite Society, a delightful surprise hit in 2023, is a captivating story that revolves around an aspiring martial artist and stuntperson who becomes suspicious of her sister’s fiancé and future mother-in-law. What sets it apart is its resemblance to Edgar Wright films such as Scott Pilgrim and Hot Fuzz, evident in its rapid editing, humor, and stylish presentation. The movie stands out with its exceptional action sequences, impressive costume design, and endearing performances that effortlessly charm the audience.
Sisu
Undoubtedly, witnessing the defeat of Nazis is immensely gratifying, as exemplified in iconic films like Indiana Jones and Inglourious Basterds. However, the 2023 release Sisu takes this satisfaction to new heights. The movie is characterized by its intense and wild action scenes, where Nazis face explosive mines, knives embedded in their skulls, and one particularly memorable instance of being strapped to a bomb and thrown out of an airplane. The brutality of these scenes, combined with their compelling nature, makes Sisu an action movie that should not be overlooked.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
While some may argue that superhero movies don’t fit the traditional action movie mold, it’s difficult to deny that Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 deserves a spot on this list, given its iconic action sequences. Amidst its heartfelt moments, the film excels in delivering compelling action.
What sets it apart? The standout action scene occurs in the long hallway fight at The High Evolutionary’s base. Crafted to appear as a single continuous take, each member of the Guardians of the Galaxy has their moment to showcase their impressive powers. This particular sequence stands out as the best “team action shot” in a superhero film since the memorable one-take shot in The Avengers featuring the heroes battling in New York.
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and modern appeal, making it accessible to both long-time fans and newcomers. Harrison Ford reprises his role as Indy for a final mission, centering around the quest for a powerful dial with the potential to alter history. The addition of Indy’s goddaughter and the antagonist, Jürgen Voller, a former Nazi, adds depth to the storyline. Mads Mikkelsen’s seasoned acting and Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s humor contribute to the overall excitement.
The movie excels in both action and adventure, demonstrating that the classic Indiana Jones formula improves with time. This fifth installment serves as a fitting conclusion to the iconic film series, celebrating the genre’s enduring appeal. Ultimately, the film elevates the fun factor, paying a poetic homage to cinema and the legendary character it introduced.
Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves stands out as one of the year’s top movies, delivering a captivating energy reminiscent of the Pirates of the Caribbean series and crafting a delightful and humorous adventure. The film’s greatness is attributed to its impeccable cast featuring Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, Hugh Grant, Sophia Lillis, Justice Smith, and Regé-Jean Page, all delivering outstanding performances with remarkable chemistry. Additionally, the movie’s action sequences are sensational, highlighted by a memorable Avengers-style moment where all the heroes engage in an exhilarating long take to confront the antagonist.
Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One
The franchise seems to have no end in sight, as Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One continues the trend of Ethan Hunt taking on new challenges. This time, the seasoned agent and his team are on a mission to locate a dangerous new weapon, with the fate of humanity hanging in the balance against a powerful enemy. Tom Cruise, in his iconic role, brings his characteristic style to the film, embodying a character who defies death in the face of his perilous job.
What sets the film apart is director Christopher McQuarrie’s adept storytelling and ability to inject thrilling action into every scene. While the seventh installment has already gained recognition for featuring one of the most impressive stunts in cinematic history, it’s crucial to highlight that the narrative and intrigue of Dead Reckoning Part One have also evolved, making it a standout summer blockbuster.
John Wick: Chapter 4
What could surpass the exceptional John Wick: Chapter 4? The captivating fight scenes, including the amusingly lengthy stair shootout, John’s skillful combat amidst traffic, an impressive nunchuck battle, and a flawless Dragon’s Breath shotgun sequence reminiscent of a top-down video game, contribute to its greatness.
Keanu Reeves delivers a stellar performance, but the ensemble cast takes this sequel to new heights. Donnie Yen gives his finest performance, Bill Skarsgård is both terrifying and suave as the antagonist, Scott Adkins is phenomenal, and the performances of Ian McShane, the late Lance Reddick, and Laurence Fishburne once again stand out. With such a remarkable cast, it’s a formidable challenge for any movie to surpass John Wick: Chapter 4 as the best action film of the year.
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