The John Wick series has captivated audiences worldwide, and it's no surprise why. Is it the thrilling, meticulously choreographed action scenes that keep us on the edge of our seats? Perhaps it's the innovative cinematography and set design that immerse us into its world. Or could it be the dedication of Keanu Reeves, who performs most, if not all, of his own stunts? These elements, among others, contribute to the allure of the John Wick franchise, making it a go-to for action movie enthusiasts.
While the first three films are endlessly rewatchable, and our John Wick: Chapter 4 review hailed it as a masterpiece, fans craving more action beyond the John Wick universe can explore these top movies that echo the series' intensity and style. Dive into our list of the best movies like John Wick and discover a new dimension of adrenaline-pumping entertainment.
Top Movies Like John Wick
11 Images
Curious about watching John Wick 4 or binge-watching the entire series? Check out our comprehensive guide on how to watch John Wick 4 and where to stream all John Wick movies.
The Raid 2 (2014)
Image credit: Sony Pictures ClassicsDirector: Gareth Evans | Writer: Gareth Evans | Stars: Iko Uwais, Arifin Putra, Oka Antara | Release Date: January 21, 2014 | Review: IGN's The Raid 2 review | Where to watch: Rentable on various platforms
Hailed by some as "the greatest action movie ever," The Raid 2 elevates the action genre to new heights. As a sequel, it outshines its predecessor with a higher budget and enhanced quality. The cast delivers stunning fighting and stunt performances, paving the way for future action projects. Like John Wick, The Raid 2 features numerous fight scenes and compelling secondary characters, but ultimately, it's about one man taking on an army of adversaries.
Nobody (2021)
Image credit: Universal PicturesDirector: Ilya Naishuller | Writer: Derek Kolstad | Stars: Bob Odenkirk, Connie Nielsen, RZA | Release Date: March 26, 2021 | Review: IGN's Nobody review | Where to watch: NBC, or rentable on Amazon and other platforms
Nobody blends dark comedy with high-octane action, taking the "old guys kicking ass" trope to new heights. As the newest addition to this list, it's evident that studios are tuning into what audiences crave: intense action mixed with humor. Bob Odenkirk's stellar performance and sharp dialogue elevate the film, echoing the resilience of John Wick's protagonist who bounces back from injuries that would incapacitate others.
Hardcore Henry (2015)
Image credit: STXfilmsDirector: Ilya Naishuller | Writer: Ilya Naishuller | Stars: Sharlto Copley, Danila Kozlovsky, Haley Bennett | Release Date: September 12, 2015 | Review: IGN's Hardcore Henry review | Where to watch: Stream on fuboTV, or rent on Amazon and other platforms
Hardcore Henry's extreme and over-the-top violence immediately captured audiences' hearts. Its unique first-person perspective, devoid of a visible protagonist's face or voice, still manages to evoke empathy. The film's self-aware humor and increasingly ridiculous action sequences culminate in a twisted finale, making it a perfect match for fans of John Wick's action-packed style.
Atomic Blonde (2017)
Image credit: Focus FeaturesDirector: David Leitch | Writer: Kurt Johnstad | Stars: Charlize Theron, James McAvoy, John Goodman | Release Date: March 12, 2017 | Review: IGN's Atomic Blonde review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and other platforms
Set against the backdrop of Cold War Berlin, Atomic Blonde showcases Charlize Theron's prowess as a formidable spy navigating a city in chaos. The film's retro aesthetic and intricate plot twists, combined with the electric chemistry between Theron and James McAvoy, make for a thrilling watch. Its action sequences and espionage themes resonate well with fans of John Wick.
The Night Comes for Us (2018)
Image credit: NetflixDirector: Timo Tjahjanto | Writer: Timo Tjahjanto | Stars: Joe Taslim, Iko Uwais, Julie Estelle | Release Date: September 22, 2018 | Review: IGN's The Night Comes for Us review | Where to watch: Netflix
Drawing from a graphic novel, The Night Comes for Us delves into the dark world of the Triad. Its action sequences, reminiscent of Kill Bill and John Wick, are both graphic and entertaining. The film's bleak and hopeless tone adds an art-house feel, distinguishing it as a unique entry on this list.
Taken (2008)
Image credit: EuropaCorp DistributionDirector: Pierre Morel | Writer: Luc Besson, Robert Mark Kamen | Stars: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Leland Orser | Release Date: February 27, 2008 | Review: IGN's Taken review | Where to watch: Hulu, or rentable on other platforms
Like John Wick, Taken centers on a father's relentless pursuit to rescue his kidnapped daughter. Liam Neeson's portrayal of Brian Mills at 56 years old mirrors Keanu Reeves' age during the first John Wick film. Though Neeson doesn't perform his own stunts, his presence in this action-packed thriller is a gift to fans, cementing Taken as one of his best works.
Extraction (2020)
Image credit: NetflixDirector: Sam Hargrave | Writer: Joe Russo, Anthony Russo, Ande Parks | Stars: Chris Hemsworth, Rudhraksh Jaiswal, Randeep Hooda | Release Date: April 24, 2020 | Review: IGN's Extraction review | Where to watch: Netflix
Extraction delivers non-stop action from the get-go, featuring some of the most intricate stunt work in recent cinema. Directed by Sam Hargrave, a former stunt coordinator for films like Avengers: Endgame and Atomic Blonde, the film's action is relentless and reminiscent of John Wick, with long takes and actors performing their own stunts. Plus, seeing Chris Hemsworth toss around adversaries adds an extra thrill.
The Villainess (2017)
Image credit: Next Entertainment WorldDirector: Jung Byung-gil | Writer: Jung Byung-gil, Jung Byeong-sik | Stars: Kim Ok-vin, Shin Ha-kyun, Sung Joon | Release Date: May 21, 2017 | Review: IGN's The Villainess review | Where to watch: Peacock and Prime Video, or rentable on other platforms
The Villainess offers a more narrative-driven experience than John Wick, yet its fight choreography and set designs are strikingly similar. Featuring innovative fight scenes, including the katana motorcycle sequence predating John Wick: Chapter 3, this film raises the bar for action movies. Kim Ok-bin's compelling performance as the female protagonist adds depth to the action.
Commando (1985)
Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: Mark L. Lester | Writer: Joseph Loeb III, Matthew Weisman, Steven E. de Souza | Stars: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rae Dawn Chong, Alyssa Milano | Release Date: October 4, 1985 | Review: IGN's Commando review | Where to watch: Rentable on Amazon and other platforms
Commando, a classic Schwarzenegger film, shares the theme of a father rescuing his kidnapped daughter. Arnold's portrayal of John Matrix as a one-man army delivers quintessential 80s action, complete with over-the-top explosions and a memorable villain. Its blend of action and humor makes it a fun watch for John Wick fans.
The Man From Nowhere (2010)
Image credit: CJ EntertainmentDirector: Lee Jeong-beom | Writer: Lee Jeong-beom | Stars: Won Bin, Kim Sae-ron | Release Date: August 4, 2010 | Where to watch: Prime Video, rentable on other platforms
The Man From Nowhere blends action with emotional depth, offering a mix of genres that balance each other well. Despite some corny moments, the film's plot, performances, and action sequences are impressive. Its revenge-driven narrative and well-developed characters make it a compelling watch, even if it doesn't match John Wick's action intensity.
AnswerSee ResultsAnd that's our selection of the 10 best movies to watch if you're a fan of John Wick. What are your thoughts on our list? Do you have any other suggestions? Share your opinions in the comments!