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Revenge tragedy is a genre that revolves around the theme of payback and its often deadly consequences. In many movies, the latter part of this theme tends to be overlooked. Revenge stories are generally some of the most captivating narratives in cinema. When the protagonist’s vendetta is deeply personal, it becomes equally personal for the audience. This connection makes the character’s choices, whether for better or worse, more relatable. Most revenge films lean towards the action genre, featuring a protagonist with a dark past and a clear mission, often concluding with a satisfying resolution, despite the destruction and casualties they leave behind. An example of this is “Commando,” starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Update as of November 4, 2023: Revenge is often said to be best served cold, and with the temperature dropping, this article has been updated with even more exceptional revenge movies and information on where to stream these titles.
The finest revenge films elicit both emotional and intellectual responses from the audience. Whether the central character feels wronged, betrayed, or personally victimized, the pursuit of vengeance inevitably transforms them. Seeking retribution for a spouse’s death or rescuing a kidnapped child can turn someone into an entirely different person, pushing them to commit acts they never thought themselves capable of. At times, their actions may lead to unintended harm, leaving viewers to ponder whether it was all worth it. Here, we present a ranking of the greatest revenge films of all time.
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Best Revenge Movies of All Time
The Northman (2022)
“The Northman” is a hidden gem from 2022, directed by the highly creative Robert Eggers, known for his original IPs in Hollywood. Despite its brilliance, the film didn’t receive much attention from the general audience. It’s an adaptation of a Danish folk tale called “The Legend of Amleth,” which is also the source material for William Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The film features an impressive cast, including Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Willem Dafoe, all playing significant roles.
The screenplay, co-written by Eggers and Icelandic poet Sjón, follows the journey of a young boy as he undergoes the rituals to become a man in a Viking tribe. He witnesses his father’s betrayal by a close ally, leading to his mother’s capture, and he escapes into the world, ultimately becoming a warrior with a single purpose: to return home and exact vengeance on those who wronged his father. Upon his return, he embarks on a one-man vendetta against his father’s betrayers, but the story reveals complexities beyond his initial pursuit of justice.
The Punisher (2004)
The second cinematic adaptation of The Punisher featured a film written and directed by Jonathan Hensleigh and starred Thomas Jane as Frank Castle. The story explores the theme of revenge from multiple perspectives, illustrating how one act of wrongdoing leads to another. This narrative is based on the comic storyline “Welcome Back, Frank.” In the movie, Castle is an undercover FBI operative who successfully thwarts a weapon shipment orchestrated by the youngest son of mafia boss Howard Saint, portrayed by John Travolta.
In retaliation, the mob boss’s wife orders the brutal murder of Frank’s entire family. After surviving the attack, Frank embarks on a mission to eliminate the entire Saint family. He employs cunning and deception to systematically eliminate each member. Howard Saint eventually recognizes the formidable adversary he’s facing and sends his most formidable henchmen to eliminate Castle, but all of them meet gruesome fates. Frank shows no mercy, even in the final confrontation with the family’s matriarch. He swears to pursue his mission until his physical capabilities give out.
The Count of Monte Cristo (2002)
In “The Count of Monte Cristo,” the protagonist Edmond Dantes, played by Jim Caviezel, enjoys a wonderful life, a promising career, and a loving fiancée. However, his life takes a devastating turn when his closest friend betrays him, resulting in his wrongful imprisonment and the loss of everything he held dear. For nearly two decades, Edmond dwells on his lost life and the friend who betrayed him, harboring a burning desire to reclaim what was unjustly taken from him.
Edmond manages to escape confinement with the assistance of his fellow inmate Abbe Faria, portrayed by Richard Harris. He then adopts the persona of a mysterious count and infiltrates the aristocratic circles to get closer to the man who betrayed him, played by Guy Pearce. This story illustrates the remarkable outcomes that can be achieved through patience and perseverance, emphasizing that some vendettas from the past can come back to haunt those who wronged us. Notably, Henry Cavill also makes one of his early film appearances in the movie.
Darkman (1990)
Here’s a paraphrased description of the movie “Darkman,” directed by Sam Raimi and co-written with Chuck Pfarrer:
In the lesser-known classic “Darkman,” directed by Sam Raimi, we follow the unfortunate journey of Peyton Westlake, a scientist whose life takes a tragic turn when his lab is destroyed by criminals attempting to steal his research. This incident leaves Peyton disfigured and in pain. The film marks a turning point in Liam Neeson’s career, with his remarkable performance alongside Frances McDormand, who plays Julie, his romantic interest.
After a harrowing rescue, Peyton learns that he has undergone an experimental procedure to remove his ability to feel pain. Leveraging his scientific expertise, he develops a synthetic skin mask to conceal his disfigurement and blend into society. However, the trauma has shattered Peyton’s psyche, and he gains extraordinary strength whenever he becomes agitated. “Darkman” is characterized by the distinct visual style of Sam Raimi, combining elements of horror with intense action sequences.
The Revenant (2015)
“The Revenant,” directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hardy, is a solemn film that recounts the harrowing tale of Hugh Glass, a fur trapper who led an expedition in 1823. Following a brutal bear attack that leaves Glass on the brink of death, his fellow trapper, John Fitzgerald, proposes ending Glass’s suffering with a mercy killing. However, the group ultimately decides to leave Glass in Fitzgerald’s care, along with Glass’s half-Pawnee son, Hawk. In a tragic turn of events, Fitzgerald kills Glass’s son and buries him alive out of fear of an Arikara attack.
Glass miraculously survives, extricating himself from his shallow grave and embarking on an arduous journey back to civilization. His body is ravaged and fragile, held together by little more than makeshift stitches. Upon returning to society, Glass discovers that Fitzgerald has escaped, compelling him to set out on a relentless quest for vengeance against the man who had wronged him and his son. The film is a grueling experience for the audience, as it forces us to witness Glass’s fight for survival in the unforgiving wilderness, where he relies solely on his determination and cunning, driven by his thirst for revenge.
In the Bedroom (2001)
“In the Bedroom” portrays the grief-stricken parents dealing with the loss of their son while struggling to find a way to cope with the perpetrator’s freedom and the sluggish justice system. The film delves into the moral quandary of an elderly couple as they devise a plan to eliminate a dangerous individual, all while confronting their own ethical dilemmas about taking the law into their own hands and becoming vigilantes.
However, moral values don’t align with the Fowlers’ family, as their son Frank has been involved with a single mother, which contradicts their own principles. The movie features outstanding performances from Tom Wilkinson and Sissy Spacek, who portray the central couple. Despite receiving five Academy Award nominations, the film unfortunately did not win any.
Unforgiven (1992)
In the highly acclaimed Revisionist Western film “Unforgiven,” Clint Eastwood plays the role of an aging gunslinger and former outlaw who is drawn back into a life of violence to assist a young man seeking vengeance against the cowboys responsible for harming a prostitute. Upon the request of the aspiring gunman known as The Schofield Kid, the remorseful widower William Munny, portrayed by Eastwood, reluctantly agrees to undertake one last job, with the assistance of his longtime partner Ned Logan, played by Morgan Freeman, to claim a $1,000 bounty.
Their mission pits them against the corrupt sheriff, Little Bill Daggett, portrayed by Gene Hackman, as they seek to avenge the prostitute’s assault. This award-winning film showcases exceptional performances by its star-studded cast and explores the complexities of retribution and violence from various character viewpoints.
The Equalizer (2014)
Denzel Washington delivers a remarkable performance as the lead character in the intense action movie “The Equalizer.” He portrays a former intelligence agent turned vigilante seeking retribution against the Russian mafia after a teenage prostitute is assaulted. The film follows Robert McCall as he is forced out of his quiet, secluded life when a girl he befriends is brutally attacked by her pimp. This reignites a powerful and dangerous determination in him, leading him to take justice into his own hands and confront the violent crime boss.
The immense success of “The Equalizer” resulted in a well-received sequel in 2018 and a third installment released in 2023, featuring Dakota Fanning, who previously co-starred with Washington in “Man on Fire.”
Carrie (1976)
The classic horror movie, adapted from Stephen King’s debut novel “Carrie,” narrates the tale of an abused teenage girl who discovers her telekinetic powers. On a night meant to mark a turning point in her troubled life, she is publicly humiliated by her tormentors at school, pushing her to her breaking point.
In this film, we witness a vulnerable young girl with a unique gift who eventually reaches a brutal and iconic climax of revenge, a scene still influential in modern pop culture. Brian De Palma’s direction, particularly in the movie’s final act, is known for its innovative style. Additionally, both Sissy Spacek and Piper Laurie received Oscar nominations for their exceptional performances as Carrie and Margaret White.
V For Vendetta (2005)
The action revenge movie “V For Vendetta,” starring Hugo Weaving and Natalie Portman, depicts the story of a freedom fighter named “V” who embarks on a violent mission to overthrow the oppressive British government responsible for past injustices. This film is an adaptation of Alan Moore’s graphic novel and was scripted by the Wachowskis. Both Hugo Weaving and Natalie Portman deliver outstanding performances, effectively portraying their characters. The Guy Fawkes mask worn by the main character has become an iconic symbol associated with various groups, including Anonymous, that challenge government injustices.
Death Wish (1974)
“In the film ‘Death Wish,’ directed by Eli Roth and starring Charles Bronson as architect Paul Kersey, a traumatic incident involving the brutal assault of his wife and daughter by a gang of criminals triggers a vengeful rampage in the dangerous streets of New York City. Kersey takes the law into his own hands to seek retribution against those who harmed his family and to dispense vigilante justice to any lawbreakers he encounters. The movie explores the themes of revenge and the psychological impact it has on the protagonist. Charles Bronson reprised his role in several sequels, with the final installment released in 1994. In 2018, a remake of the original film was made, with Bruce Willis taking on the role of Paul Kersey.”
Upgrade (2018)
In Leigh Whannell’s underrated science fiction thriller “Upgrade,” Logan Marshall-Green portrays Grey, a man who experiences a life-altering tragedy when he and his wife fall victim to a gang shooting, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. Grey decides to seek assistance from a renowned tech engineer who implants a cutting-edge microchip into his neck. This implant takes full control of Grey’s physical abilities, enabling him to walk, move, and turning him into a formidable, combat-trained force. With his newfound abilities, Grey embarks on a mission to track down the individuals responsible for his wife’s death and uncover the mastermind behind the attack. Whannell’s cinematography, coupled with a remarkable performance by one of today’s finest actors, makes “Upgrade” a must-see for action enthusiasts.
Mandy (2018)
“Mandy,” directed by Panos Cosmatos, is a visually striking revenge film that tells the story of a couple whose happiness is shattered when a cult of drug-addicted hippies kidnaps and brutally murders Red Miller’s (played by Nicolas Cage) wife, Mandy, in front of him, leaving him for dead. After suffering a mental breakdown, Red retrieves his old crossbow from a friend (Bill Duke) and creates his own weapons for a violent and gory quest for vengeance.
The movie begins with an artsy and psychedelic atmosphere before transitioning into a savage and blood-soaked journey. Nicolas Cage’s performance is exceptional in this peculiar film, impressing both critics and audiences. “Mandy” is a standout in Cage’s career and helped establish Panos Cosmatos as a promising director to keep an eye on.
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Taken (2008)
In the film Taken, we see a retired CIA operative and divorced father, played by Liam Neeson, who is left feeling powerless when his estranged daughter is kidnapped far away. He is forced to issue a deadly warning to the kidnappers, telling them to release his daughter or face dire consequences. This resonates with many parents, as they often contemplate the extremes they would go to in order to protect their children. Although Neeson delivered an excellent performance, even performing most of his own stunts, the role was initially intended for Jeff Bridges. Neeson was cast only after Bridges dropped out. Interestingly, Neeson continued to portray similar characters in other movies and franchises, maintaining the same tone of voice and mission, which could be seen as a form of typecasting.
Cape Fear (1962 & 1991)
Both the original and Scorsese’s remake of Cape Fear offer a twist on the typical revenge narrative, where a crazed convict seeks retribution against his former attorney for putting him in jail. This serves as an example of the repercussions of doing what is considered morally right.
In the modern version, Sam had an opportunity to prevent Max Cady, who was unhinged, from being imprisoned. However, he concealed crucial evidence once he realized his own guilt. Almost twenty years later, Cady is released from prison and relentlessly pursues Sam to seek vengeance for his actions. Robert De Niro received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, and Juliette Lewis, who portrayed the daughter, earned a Best Supporting Actress nomination.
Promising Young Woman (2020)
In the movie “Promising Young Woman,” revenge carries a complex emotional tone. The film primarily revolves around Cassie seeking vengeance against the man responsible for her best friend’s suicide following a sexual assault. Throughout the movie, Cassie encounters various instances of male chauvinism while unexpectedly falling in love.
She may have found the right person, but her quest for justice takes a dark turn, forcing her to continue her plan even after her own demise. The film concludes with a nearly flawless resolution, leaving the audience with a sense of satisfaction, and writer/director Emerald Fennell received recognition with an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for her work on the film.
Memento (2000)
In this mind-bending journey directed by Christopher Nolan, the protagonist Leonard, portrayed by Guy Pearce, embarks on a quest to avenge his wife’s murder. However, he grapples with short-term memory loss, necessitating him to jot down notes that lose their significance every time he falls asleep.
Memento’s intricate narrative unfolds along two interwoven timelines, gradually unveiling fragments of the overarching puzzle. One timeline traces events in reverse order, while the other unfolds in black-and-white, progressing chronologically. Both timelines ultimately converge in an unexpected conclusion that lingers in memory long after the film’s release. The plot’s ingenious twists remain impactful, even more than two decades later.
Lady Vengeance (2005)
“Lady Vengeance is part of the same vengeance trilogy as Oldboy, sharing a theme of seeking revenge. The story centers around a woman who is wrongly accused of a crime, coerced into a false confession, and imprisoned for over a decade. Upon her release, she devises a meticulous plan to exact revenge on all those responsible. The film also includes a subplot where parents seek vengeance on a monstrous character. Although it’s a companion to Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance, these films are not directly linked, but watching the trilogy in succession provides a cathartic yet emotionally intense viewing experience. While it may not be as widely known as Oldboy, Lady Vengeance is a remarkable and distinctive film.”
Gladiator (2000)
Maximus, portrayed by Russell Crowe, was a celebrated Roman general who enjoyed the admiration of the aging Emperor, who had designated him as his successor to serve as regent. However, this decision led to a coup, where the Emperor’s son murdered his own father and sentenced Maximus and his family to death. Despite his efforts to save his wife and son, Maximus was captured and forced to become a gladiator, a mere pawn in a deadly combat. This cruel twist of fate eventually brought him to the Roman Colosseum, where he would face his family’s murderer once again, as he encountered Commodus, played by Joaquin Phoenix, who organized the gladiatorial games.
With the support of his fellow gladiators, Maximus prepared to seek vengeance against his enemy. “Gladiator” received 12 Academy Award nominations and won five, including Best Picture and Best Actor. Many believe that Joaquin Phoenix’s outstanding portrayal of the villain was unjustly overlooked for the Best Supporting Actor award, even though it is widely regarded as one of the greatest villain performances in cinematic history.
I Saw the Devil (2010)
“I Saw the Devil” is a gripping South Korean horror thriller that delves into the psychological torment of a grief-stricken man with a determined mission. Rather than descending into gratuitous violence, the film evolves into a compelling narrative of a cunning individual relentlessly pursuing a serial killer. When the hunter captures the killer, he chooses not to end his life but instead prolongs his suffering through a violent and relentless pursuit. This graphic and intense movie stands out as one of South Korea’s finest contributions to the genre.
The Crow (1994)
“The Crow” is set on the night before Halloween and tells the story of Eric Draven (played by Brandon Lee) and his fiancé, who are brutally murdered by the henchmen of a ruthless drug lord. After Eric’s death, his soul is guided to the afterlife, but a raven intervenes and brings him back to the world of the living, where he seeks revenge against those responsible for his and his lover’s death.
However, Eric’s time for retribution is limited, as there is a closing window of opportunity. Unfortunately, a tragic accident occurred during the making of the film when Brandon Lee was accidentally shot with a prop gun, leading to his death. This accident had a profound impact on gun safety practices in Hollywood productions.
John Wick (2014)
John Wick initially yearned to leave his life as an assassin in the past and hoped to spend his remaining years with his wife. Tragically, her battle with cancer led to her passing, leaving behind a puppy as a source of solace and a symbol of hope in John’s life. However, this hope is brutally extinguished when a group of thugs invades his home, resulting in the puppy’s demise. Overwhelmed by anger, John embarks on a relentless quest for vengeance in a hail of bullets.
The film John Wick boasts an impressive ensemble, with notable actors such as Willem Dafoe, Ian McShane, and John Leguizamo. It also marked Keanu Reeves’ reunion with Chad Stahelski, his former stunt double from The Matrix trilogy. Reeves’ dedication to the role extended to performing approximately 90% of his own stunts in this action-packed film, which helped revive his Hollywood career.
Kill Bill Vol. 1 and 2 (2003, 2004)
This epic tale of violence and chaos unfolds as a former member of the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad, portrayed by Uma Thurman, awakens from a four-year coma with a burning desire for vengeance. Her mission: to seek retribution against her former comrades, who had brutally murdered her fiancé and unborn child.
The two installments of “Kill Bill,” Volume 1 and Volume 2, offer an exhilarating and intense cinematic experience. They follow the determined Bride as she ruthlessly eliminates anyone standing in her path to justice. The story culminates in a climactic showdown with the mastermind behind the mayhem, Bill, portrayed by David Carradine, who also happens to be her former mentor and lover. Many consider this work to be Quentin Tarantino’s finest film.
Oldboy (2003)
A crude and intoxicated man, Oh Dae-su (played by Choi Min-sik), is locked up in a confined space with just a bed and a TV. While in captivity, he learns from the news that his wife has been killed, and he’s the main suspect. Over the course of 15 years, he dwells on seeking revenge.
Suddenly, he’s released under mysterious circumstances. The story unfolds as he tries to uncover the identity of his captor and the reasons behind his imprisonment. Filled with intense action and an unexpected twist at the end, “Oldboy” is a gripping tale of retribution and retribution, gradually revealing not only the motives for Dae-su’s confinement but also the enigma of his release.
Inglourious Basterds (2009)
In Quentin Tarantino’s “Inglourious Basterds,” the director reimagines World War II and its conclusion in a unique way. The film, which has become a cultural phenomenon, tells the story of a group of vengeful individuals determined to bring down the Nazis, including Adolf Hitler and his associates. Their mission is to eliminate these Nazi figures, and the setting for this mission is a movie theater.
Tarantino’s choice of using a movie theater as a backdrop is a poetic one, as it symbolizes the culmination of his vision, with hundreds of Nazis meeting their fiery demise. It’s perplexing that the film didn’t receive an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, given its creativity and impact. However, it’s a consolation that Christoph Waltz received a well-deserved Oscar for his portrayal of the sinister Nazi character, Hans Landa. “Inglourious Basterds” serves as the ultimate revenge story, tapping into the deep-seated desire for seeing Hitler held accountable for his heinous actions, even if it’s only on the silver screen.
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