Sometimes you just wanna watch some tough guys kick butt and take names. Netflix has got you covered with some high-octane action movies that really get the blood pumping.
If you find yourself slouched on the couch without energy, it’s about time you treated yourself to a lineup of films that will get your heart racing and palms sweating.
Here’s our list of the best action movies on Netflix right now that promise to give you an adrenaline rush…
Our list features movies on Netflix U.S. only. Some films may not be available on international Netflix platforms. We frequently update this article to remove and replace action films that are currently on Netflix.
1. Spider-Man (2002)
IMDb: 7.4/10
Web-heads, rejoice – Spider-Man has hit Netflix to tickle your spidey-senses! Considered one of the best Spider-Man movies, this Marvel blockbuster is a fun ride to watch if you’re up for some superhero action. Following Peter Parker as he transforms into the beloved hero to fight off his nemesis, this Netflix film is undoubtedly always a hit among viewers.
2. Anon (2018)
IMDb: 6.1/10
In a near future, the government has put a system in place that records people’s memories, a procedure that has reduced crime to nearly 0%. In this ‘ideal’ society, a detective must face a series of crimes that prove this system has a flaw. This tense, ambitious thriller is the perfect adrenaline provider for a cozy night in, and a puzzle you’ll be eager to solve just as much as the protagonists!
3. Skyfall (2012)
IMDb: 7.0/10
Considered one of the best James Bond movies, Skyfall is certainly worth a watch – even if you’ve watched these films a hundred times over before. Daniel Craig takes on the lead role of 007, the famous British secret agent who works to stop and destroy a looming threat of MI6. Want a thrilling ride? Skyfall is a top action movie on Netflix that won’t disappoint – plus, it will make you want to watch the entire popular film series!
4. Gun City (2018)
IMDb: 6.3/10
This tense, dark Spanish crime action movie is set in 1921 and tells the story of a cop heading to Barcelona to investigate the theft of military weapons. Gritty and filled with raw talent, this film will transport you into a whole other time and make you shudder at every turn. Although it’s in another language, Gun City is truly one of the best action movies Netflix has to offer right now.
5. Extraction (2020)
IMDb: 6.8/10
Starring Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake, book-turned-movie, Extraction tells the story of a mercenary who’s hired to save the kidnapped son of an Indian drug lord. Action cliches and manic sequences, this original Netflix action movie offers that adrenaline rush you’re craving to wake up on a Friday evening.
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6. The Nice Guys (2016)
IMDb: 7.3/10
No one ever imagined Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe in the same movie together, but this odd pairing actually works. The Nice Guys is a lighthearted and fun action movie that sees the Hollywood duo take on roles of private detectives, investigating the case of a missing girl and death of a porn star. Set in the 1970s, this cool adrenaline rush movie is a must-watch among the many blockbusters Netflix has to offer.
7. I Am Mother (2019)
IMDb: 6.7/10
In this latest post-apocalyptic thriller, a teenage girl was raised alone by a motherly robot to repopulate the Earth, but their bubble is threatened by the arrival of a wounded woman, the first human being the ‘daughter’ has ever seen. This tense, minimalist but gripping blockbuster is by far one of the best things Netflix has given us, and every second of it is worth your time.
8. Inception (2010)
IMDb: 8.8/10
An adrenaline rush movie like no other. Inception was released over 10 years ago and yet, it seems it was only yesterday its moving buildings and trippy upside down shots were making our jaws drop in cinemas. Even a decade later, Christopher Nolan’s incredible dream-heist film is still proving just as effective. Fantastic cinematography, a delirious plot, plus a star-studded cast make Inception a must-watch on Netflix.
9. Léon: The Professional (1994)
IMDb: 8.5/10
With action, crime and drama wrapped into one brilliant blockbuster, what more could you ask for when looking for a Netflix movie to stream? Léon, a professional assassin takes in a young girl and trains her to learn the trade after the murder of her family. Thrilling and violent as well as emotionally intense, this movie is one to watch over and over again.
10. Inside Man (2006)
IMDb: 7.6/10
What’s the word ‘action’ without a bit of Denzel Washington? This crime and mystery masterpiece follows the gripping tale of a hostage that promises to get hearts pumping and palms sweating. A gripping action flick with a plot that keeps you guessing at the edge of your seats.
11. The Hunger Games (2012)
IMDb: 7.6/10
If you’ve yet to tuck into the Hunger Games film series, now’s the time – the entire set is on Netflix! With the new prequel hitting theatre screens, soon, it’s a great opportunity to catch up on all the events surrounding Katniss Everdeen, a young girl who participates in the Hunger Games. These games aren’t just any old games, but a televised competition where teenagers are chosen to fight to the death.
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12. The Old Guard (2020)
IMDb: 6.7/10
A Netflix original that offers a pure adrenaline boost in the form of great action, adventure and fantasy. Charlize Theron is Andy, the lead warrior of a group of immortal mercenaries who must fight against their latest threat. A 2020 movie that will give any viewer some entertainment during quarantine and lockdown.
13. Underworld (2003)
IMDb: 7.0/10
For those who want to dive into an action thriller, Underworld is a great movie choice. With elements of fantasy and themes of horror, this story follows a vampire warrior who’s on a mission to destroy the Lycans – werewolves – who are said to have killed her family. Dark and gothic, this movie’s ideal for a thrilling night in.
14. Triple Frontier (2019)
IMDb: 6.4/10
Action blockbuster, Triple Frontier has an all-star cast as well as an A-star story. Available on Netflix only, this 2019 film observes the tale of five friends and operatives who plan a heist in South America. Things take an unexpected turn and get out of hand, forcing the men to question their friendship, skills and morals.
15. Bright (2017)
IMDb: 6.3/10
Ever watched a movie taking place in a contemporary society where fairies and other mythological creatures are hanging out with humans? No? Same here. Well, if that’s the type of strange, interesting universe you’re looking for, Bright definitely has it all. What’s more? Will Smith is here to lead the story as a cop working with an orc to protect a young elf. He’ll make you laugh at every turn and you’ll definitely thank us!
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16. Drive (2011)
IMDb: 7.8/10
A movie that will take you on a drive with pounding action and hard core violence. Starring Ryan Gosling as ‘Driver’, this mysterious man acts as a Hollywood stuntman who moonlights as a getaway driver on the side. When he’s tasked to help his neighbors out, Driver finds himself twisted in a tale of trouble and love.
17. 6 Underground (2019)
IMDb: 6.1/10
Ryan Reynolds leaves behind his iconic character of Deadpool, and takes on the roll of another kind of action hero named One. Six individuals who want to forget their pasts and change the future set out on a challenging mission full of car chases, heists and great action choreography. Although this movie isn’t exactly Oscar-worthy, you should still press play for some downright entertainment.
18. Captain Phillips (2013)
IMDb: 7.8/10
This incredible action flick is right up your sleeve when in need of an epic adrenaline rush. Tom Hanks stars as Richard Phillips, captain of the MV Maersk Alabama cargo ship, which is hijacked by Somali pirates. Based on the true story of the 2009 hijacking incident, this tension-driven film is a highly riveting watch that shouldn’t be missed.
19. The Adam Project (2021)
IMDb: 6.7/10
Another Netflix original that might give you that adrenaline rush you’ve been craving. Put this action flick on your watchlist and tag along with its all-star cast including Ryan Reynolds, Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Garner and Zoe Saldana. With hints of comedy, this sci-fi movie includes time-travel fun, chronicling the story of Adam as he teams up with his younger self and his late father for a secret mission.
20. Uncharted (2022)
IMDb: 6.4/10
Wondering what action movie to watch on Netflix? 2022 blockbuster Uncharted is intense enough to keep you glued to your screen until the end credits start rolling. Tom Holland proves he’s more than just a Spider-Man actor in this video game-turned-movie that promises adventure, action and an exciting treasure hunt like no other.
21. Rocky (1976)
IMDb: 8.1/10
There’s no introducing this one. But here goes. Rocky Balboa is just a small-time boxer until he goes up against the world heavyweight champion. Whether you like boxing or not, this classic movie will have you gripped from the get go. In fact, the whole movie collection is available to stream. It’s a great pick if you’re struggling and scrolling through films on Netflix, we’ll tell you that much.
22. Bad Boys (1995)
IMDb: 6.9/10
This buddy cop movie has everything you need – action, comedy, and friendship! All of it led by the phenomenal duo that are Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. Bad Boys gives you a ride you’re unlikely to forget as the two cops try to track down stolen drugs and get into a whole lot of shenanigans along the way.
23. Zombieland (2009)
IMDb: 7.6/10
This action and adventure film is a must-watch. Promising to deliver edge-of-your-seat action, Zombieland brings together a group of survivors trying to make it through zombie-filled America in the funniest and most unexpected of ways. What’s more? It’s a hilarious comedy movie starring Emma Stone, Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson and Bill Murray.
24. Army of the Dead (2021)
IMDb: 7.5/10
Zack Snyder’s latest blockbuster promises a thrill, blending action, crime and horror all into one. There’s a zombie outbreak in Vegas, but that doesn’t stop a daring group of mercenaries who want to pull of a major heist – in a casino. Yeah, it’s as whopping mad as it sounds, but it’s a treat to feast your eyes on. Streaming on Netflix, now!
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25. Red Notice (2021)
IMDb: 7.1/10
This anticipated movie is a must-watch among the many blockbusters Netflix has to offer. Why? Firstly, it features a star-studded cast (Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot) and it’s said to promise some kick-ass fun about an Interpol agent who heads out to track down the world’s most wanted art thief.
26. Kindergarten Cop (1990)
IMDb: 6.2/10
A timeless classic dating all the way back to 1990 when Arnold Schwarzenegger was in his prime. This super-fun action comedy is all your family needs when in the mood for a feel good story. In this movie, a cop poses as a kindergarten teacher in order to pin down dangerous criminals, bringing all the action, comedy and crime you’d expect.
Those are our top picks for some edge-of-your-seat action with a few laughs and thrills thrown in for good measure.
Netflix’s offerings are changing all the time, so watch these movies while you can! If you see something new or you have a favorite we didn’t mention in our list, feel free to tell us in the comments below.
There are sections of this article that were written by Kasey Rubenstein
This article was originally published in September 2015.
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