10 Action Thrillers That Capture The John Wick Essence: A Ranked Review

Chloe Fitzgerald

5 min read

Post on May 11, 2025

4.7

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#1 - John Wick (2014) – The Benchmark

No list of John Wick-esque action thrillers is complete without the original. John Wick (2014) set the standard, influencing a generation of stylish action movies. Keanu Reeves' stoic performance, combined with the innovative gun-fu and meticulously crafted world-building, created a masterpiece. The Continental Hotel, a haven for assassins, established a unique universe brimming with intrigue.

• Innovative gun-fu style: John Wick popularized a new level of gun-fu, seamlessly blending firearms and hand-to-hand combat.
• World-building that creates a unique universe: The intricate rules and hidden society of assassins captivated audiences.
• Groundbreaking action sequences: Each fight scene is a carefully choreographed ballet of violence, both brutal and beautiful.
• Superb cinematography: The film's visual style, dark and gritty yet elegant, is a key ingredient in its success.

#2 - Nobody (2021) – A Worthy Successor

Nobody follows a similar trajectory to John Wick, showcasing a seemingly ordinary man unleashing extraordinary skills. While lacking the established world of assassins, Nobody compensates with intense, realistic fight choreography and Bob Odenkirk's surprisingly effective portrayal of a retired hitman.

• Similarities in gunplay: The film features thrilling gun battles with a similar level of precision and brutality.
• Unique aspects of the plot or characters: The focus on family and revenge provides a different emotional core than John Wick.
• Strengths and weaknesses compared to John Wick: While lacking the stylish flair of John Wick, Nobody delivers raw, visceral action that resonates powerfully.

#3 - Atomic Blonde (2017) – Stylish Gunplay and Intrigue

Set during the Cold War, Atomic Blonde boasts incredible fight choreography and a distinct visual style. Charlize Theron delivers a powerhouse performance, embodying a lethal spy navigating a treacherous world of espionage and double-crosses.

• Noteworthy action scenes: The extended, unbroken fight sequences are a highlight, showcasing brutal, realistic combat.
• Intriguing plot elements: The complex narrative keeps viewers guessing until the very end.
• Overall style and tone: The film's 80s aesthetic and gritty atmosphere enhance the thrilling experience.

#4 - The Night Comes for Us (2018) – Indonesian Brutality

This Indonesian action thriller delivers unrelenting violence with stunning fight choreography. While lacking the refined style of John Wick, The Night Comes for Us compensates with sheer intensity and a relentless pace. It's a visceral, bloody, and unforgettable action experience.

#5 - Gunpowder Milkshake (2021) – Female-Led Action

A refreshing take on the genre, Gunpowder Milkshake features a female-led cast showcasing impressive fight skills and a darkly humorous script. While the gun-fu isn't as refined as John Wick's, the action is still thrilling and well-executed.

#6 - Haywire (2011) – A Pioneering Influence

Steven Soderbergh's Haywire predates John Wick, yet its realistic fight choreography and focus on practical effects foreshadowed the stylistic action that would define the later franchise. Gina Carano's MMA background shines through in the film's intense hand-to-hand combat sequences.

#7 - Kate (2021) – A Deadly Deadline

Kate features a compelling plot revolving around a female assassin racing against time. The action is stylish and violent, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead delivers a strong performance.

#8 - Bullet Train (2022) – Chaos on Wheels

While not directly mimicking John Wick's style, Bullet Train features fantastically choreographed action sequences set within the confined space of a speeding train. The comedic elements add a unique flavor to the intense action.

#9 - The Accountant (2016) – Mathematical Mayhem

The Accountant features Ben Affleck as a highly skilled accountant with a hidden life as a lethal assassin. While the action sequences aren't as frequent, they're meticulously crafted and highly effective.

#10 - Extraction (2020) – High-Octane Action in Dhaka

Extraction offers a different kind of action thriller, focused on intense chase sequences and brutal close-quarters combat in the bustling streets of Dhaka. While it lacks the neo-noir style of John Wick, the action is thrilling and relentlessly paced.

Honorable Mentions – Close Contenders

Several films almost made the top 10. Free Fire (2016) delivered a claustrophobic and intense gun battle, while Equalizer (2014) showed a similar concept of a retired professional using their skills for revenge. Red Notice (2021), though more comedic, features stylish action sequences.

Finding Your Next John Wick Fix

This review highlighted 10 exceptional action thrillers that capture various aspects of John Wick's stylistic violence and gripping world-building. From the benchmark-setting original to innovative female-led action films and gritty, realistic fight sequences, these movies offer something for every action fan. We considered gun-fu proficiency, fight choreography intricacy, plot engagement, and the overall atmospheric impact when ranking these top contenders. Dive into these intense action thrillers inspired by the John Wick universe! What are your favorite John Wick-inspired action thrillers? Share your thoughts in the comments section! Explore the world of stylish gun-fu with these top John Wick-esque action films!