Best Action Movies Of 2021: Top 10 List
Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the best action movies of 2021? Buckle up, because we're about to explore a rollercoaster of adrenaline-pumping flicks that kept us on the edge of our seats. 2021 was a fantastic year for action cinema, delivering everything from superhero showdowns to gritty, grounded thrillers. So, let's get started with the countdown of the top 10 action movies that made 2021 a memorable year for action aficionados!
1. No Time to Die
First on our list is "No Time to Die," Daniel Craig's final outing as the iconic James Bond. This movie isn't just an action spectacle; it's an emotional journey that ties up loose ends from Craig's previous Bond films. "No Time to Die" delivers breathtaking stunts, exotic locations, and a compelling narrative that adds depth to the action. The film begins with Bond enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica, which is quickly disrupted when his old friend Felix Leiter from the CIA seeks his help. This leads Bond on a dangerous mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist, crossing paths with the villainous Lyutsifer Safin, portrayed by Rami Malek. What makes this movie stand out is how it balances high-octane action with character-driven moments, giving Bond's character a sense of vulnerability and humanity we haven't seen before. The fight sequences are intense and realistic, choreographed to perfection, showcasing Craig's physicality and determination. Léa Seydoux returns as Madeleine Swann, adding emotional complexity to Bond's mission, making the stakes higher and more personal. The film's climax is a nail-biting showdown on Safin's island base, where Bond faces impossible odds to save the world and those he loves. "No Time to Die" is a fitting farewell to Daniel Craig's era as James Bond, blending classic Bond elements with modern storytelling, making it a must-watch for any action fan. Its impact extends beyond entertainment; it's a cinematic milestone that honors the legacy of James Bond while pushing the franchise forward.
2. Godzilla vs. Kong
Next up, we have "Godzilla vs. Kong," a colossal clash of titans that action fans had been eagerly anticipating. This movie delivers exactly what it promises: epic monster battles with stunning visual effects. "Godzilla vs. Kong" is a spectacle of sheer scale and destruction, where two of cinema's most iconic monsters go head-to-head in a battle for supremacy. The film's premise revolves around the mystery of why Godzilla is suddenly attacking human cities, leading humanity to seek the help of Kong, who resides on Skull Island. The ensuing battles are nothing short of breathtaking, with Hong Kong becoming the ultimate arena for their earth-shattering showdown. What sets this movie apart is its dedication to delivering jaw-dropping action sequences. Each fight is meticulously crafted, showcasing the unique strengths and abilities of both monsters. Godzilla's atomic breath and Kong's brute strength make for a visually stunning and destructive spectacle. The human characters, including those portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård and Millie Bobby Brown, add a layer of narrative depth as they try to understand the reasons behind the monsters' conflict. The film also delves into the Hollow Earth theory, adding a sci-fi element to the monster mayhem. "Godzilla vs. Kong" isn't just about mindless destruction; it explores themes of balance, survival, and the consequences of human interference with nature. The movie's visual effects are top-notch, making the monsters incredibly realistic and their battles all the more immersive. This film is a must-see for anyone who loves monster movies and craves large-scale action.
3. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings
"Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" is a groundbreaking entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, introducing a new hero with incredible martial arts skills. This movie seamlessly blends action, mythology, and family drama, making it a standout in the superhero genre. "Shang-Chi" tells the story of Shaun, a seemingly ordinary guy living in San Francisco, who is forced to confront his past when his father, Wenwu, the leader of the Ten Rings organization, seeks to bring him back into the fold. Simu Liu delivers a charismatic and powerful performance as Shang-Chi, showcasing both his physical prowess and emotional depth. The action sequences are a highlight of the film, choreographed with stunning precision and incorporating various styles of martial arts. From the bus fight scene to the final battle against the Dweller-in-Darkness, each action set piece is a visual treat. What makes "Shang-Chi" so special is its cultural representation, celebrating Chinese heritage and mythology. The film features a predominantly Asian cast and explores themes of family, destiny, and the burden of legacy. The supporting characters, including Awkwafina as Katy and Meng'er Zhang as Xialing, add humor and heart to the story. The introduction of the Ten Rings and the exploration of Wenwu's character add depth to the MCU's lore, setting the stage for future storylines. "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" is not just an action movie; it's a cultural milestone that expands the horizons of superhero cinema.
4. Nobody
"Nobody" is an unexpected gem that took action fans by surprise. Bob Odenkirk stars as Hutch Mansell, a seemingly ordinary suburban dad who unleashes a hidden set of skills when his family is threatened. This movie is a masterclass in action choreography, with Odenkirk delivering a surprisingly convincing performance as a lethal force. "Nobody" starts off with Hutch living a mundane life, but everything changes after a home invasion. This event triggers something within him, revealing a past he had long suppressed. The action sequences are brutal and realistic, showcasing Hutch's efficiency and resourcefulness. The bus fight scene is a standout, demonstrating Odenkirk's commitment to the role and the film's dedication to delivering intense action. What makes "Nobody" so appealing is its grounded approach to the action genre. Hutch isn't a superhero; he's a regular guy with extraordinary skills, making his journey all the more relatable. The film also features a great supporting cast, including Christopher Lloyd and RZA, who add to the film's charm. "Nobody" is a thrilling ride from start to finish, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. It's a testament to the fact that you don't need a huge budget or a superhero costume to deliver a memorable action movie.
5. Wrath of Man
"Wrath of Man" is a gritty and intense heist thriller directed by Guy Ritchie. Jason Statham stars as H, a mysterious and stoic character who takes a job at an armored truck company with a hidden agenda. This movie is a showcase of Ritchie's signature style, with its non-linear storytelling, violent action, and memorable characters. "Wrath of Man" unfolds as H systematically takes down a group of thieves, revealing his true identity and the reasons behind his actions. The film is dark and unforgiving, with a relentless pace that keeps you hooked from beginning to end. The action sequences are brutal and realistic, emphasizing the consequences of violence. What makes "Wrath of Man" so compelling is its exploration of revenge and justice. H is a man driven by grief and a desire for retribution, making him a complex and morally ambiguous character. The supporting cast, including Josh Hartnett and Scott Eastwood, adds depth to the story, each with their own motivations and secrets. "Wrath of Man" is a masterclass in suspense and action, delivering a thrilling cinematic experience that will leave you breathless.
6. The Suicide Squad
James Gunn's "The Suicide Squad" is a chaotic and hilarious take on the supervillain team. This movie is a vast improvement over its predecessor, delivering a perfect blend of action, humor, and heart. "The Suicide Squad" follows a group of incarcerated supervillains who are recruited by Amanda Waller to embark on a dangerous mission to destroy a Nazi-era laboratory on the island of Corto Maltese. The ensemble cast, including Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn, Idris Elba as Bloodsport, and John Cena as Peacemaker, delivers standout performances. The action sequences are over-the-top and inventive, with each character using their unique abilities to hilarious and deadly effect. What makes "The Suicide Squad" so enjoyable is its willingness to embrace its absurdity. The film is filled with dark humor, unexpected twists, and memorable moments that will leave you laughing out loud. Gunn's direction brings a fresh and unique perspective to the superhero genre, making this movie a standout in the DCEU. "The Suicide Squad" is a wild and entertaining ride that proves that sometimes, the bad guys can be the heroes.
7. Raging Fire
"Raging Fire" is a Hong Kong action film directed by Benny Chan, featuring Donnie Yen and Nicholas Tse. This movie is a high-octane thriller filled with intense action sequences and a compelling story of loyalty and betrayal. "Raging Fire" follows Shan (Donnie Yen), a highly respected police officer known for his dedication and integrity. However, his past comes back to haunt him when a former protégé, Ngo (Nicholas Tse), seeks revenge against the system that wronged him. The action sequences are incredibly well-choreographed, showcasing Yen's martial arts skills and Chan's expertise in directing action. What makes "Raging Fire" so captivating is its exploration of moral ambiguity. Both Shan and Ngo are driven by their own sense of justice, leading to a clash that is both physical and emotional. The film is a testament to the enduring appeal of Hong Kong action cinema, delivering a thrilling and unforgettable experience. "Raging Fire" is a must-watch for fans of action movies, showcasing the best of Hong Kong cinema.
8. Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins
"Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins" delves into the backstory of the iconic G.I. Joe character, Snake Eyes. This movie is packed with martial arts action and ninja lore, making it a thrilling ride for fans of the franchise. "Snake Eyes" tells the story of how Snake Eyes, played by Henry Golding, becomes a member of the Arashikage ninja clan. The film is filled with intense training sequences and battles, showcasing the skills and traditions of the ninja. What makes "Snake Eyes" so appealing is its focus on character development. The movie explores Snake Eyes' motivations and his journey to becoming the silent warrior we know and love. The supporting cast, including Andrew Koji as Storm Shadow, adds depth to the story, creating a compelling dynamic between the two characters. "Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins" is a solid action movie that expands the G.I. Joe universe and provides a deeper understanding of one of its most popular characters.
9. Army of Thieves
"Army of Thieves" is a prequel to Zack Snyder's "Army of the Dead," focusing on the character of Ludwig Dieter. This movie is a heist thriller with a romantic twist, delivering plenty of suspense and action. "Army of Thieves" follows Dieter as he is recruited by a mysterious woman to join a crew of international thieves to crack a series of seemingly impossible-to-crack safes across Europe. The film is filled with intricate heist sequences and thrilling escapes, showcasing Dieter's unique skills as a safecracker. What makes "Army of Thieves" so enjoyable is its lighthearted tone and focus on character dynamics. The film is a fun and entertaining ride that will keep you guessing until the very end. "Army of Thieves" is a great addition to the "Army of the Dead" franchise, providing a deeper understanding of one of its most beloved characters.
10. Copshop
Rounding out our list is "Copshop," a gritty and action-packed thriller set in a small-town police station. This movie stars Gerard Butler, Frank Grillo, and Alexis Louder, delivering a tense and suspenseful showdown. "Copshop" follows a con artist (Grillo) who finds himself in a small-town police station, along with a hitman (Butler) who is hunting him. A rookie police officer (Louder) must find a way to survive as the two men engage in a deadly game of cat and mouse. The action sequences are intense and realistic, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. What makes "Copshop" so compelling is its claustrophobic setting and the dynamic between the three main characters. The film is a masterclass in suspense, delivering a thrilling and unforgettable cinematic experience. "Copshop" is a must-watch for fans of action thrillers.
So, there you have it – the top 10 action movies of 2021! Each of these films brought something unique to the genre, whether it was groundbreaking action choreography, epic monster battles, or thrilling heist sequences. Which ones were your favorites? Let us know in the comments below! And get ready, because the world of action cinema is always evolving, and there's always something new and exciting on the horizon. Keep your eyes peeled for the next big thing, and until then, happy watching!