The 10 Best John Wick-Inspired Action Movies

Chloe Fitzgerald

6 min read

Post on May 12, 2025

4.7

Share

Gun-Fu Mastery: Movies that Showcase Exceptional Gunfight Choreography

John Wick's signature gun-fu isn't just about shooting; it's an art form. These films elevate gunplay beyond simple shootouts, emphasizing innovative techniques and stylish movements.

Beyond the Gun Kata: Innovative Gunfight Styles

• The Raid: Redemption (2011): This Indonesian masterpiece redefined close-quarters combat, packing brutal, relentless action into claustrophobic settings. The gunfights are chaotic, brutal, and incredibly well-choreographed.
• Nobody (2021): Bob Odenkirk's surprisingly lethal character delivers a masterclass in understated, yet incredibly effective, gun-fu. The action is realistic, visceral, and surprisingly creative.
• Shoot 'Em Up (2007): A hyper-stylized and over-the-top action flick that pushes the boundaries of gunplay with creative camera angles and incredibly fast-paced action sequences.
• John Wick (2014): Naturally, the original is a must-see for anyone looking for inspiration. The film itself set the standard for gun-fu that many others have tried to emulate.

Tactical Reloading and Weapon Proficiency

Beyond the flashy moves, some films prioritize realistic weapon handling and tactical reloading. These films showcase precision and efficiency in their gun use.

• Point Blank (2010): A tense and stylish thriller with expertly choreographed action sequences that showcase both gunplay and hand-to-hand combat.
• The Equalizer (2014): Denzel Washington's retired operative demonstrates impressive marksmanship and tactical prowess in this vigilante thriller.

Neo-Noir Aesthetics: Dark Atmospheres and Stylish Visuals

The John Wick films excel in their atmospheric visuals, blending gritty urban landscapes with stylish cinematography. These films share that same neo-noir aesthetic.

Gritty Urban Landscapes and Stylish Cinematography

• Drive (2011): Neon-drenched nightscapes and a haunting atmosphere create a visually stunning backdrop for the film's tense action.
• Blade Runner 2049 (2017): This visually stunning sequel boasts a breathtakingly bleak and futuristic setting that perfectly encapsulates a neo-noir aesthetic.
• Sin City (2005): A visually striking film noir adaptation featuring bold graphic novel aesthetics, dark themes, and violent action.
• Brick (2005): A neo-noir mystery film with a unique visual style and a compelling story.

Underworld Settings and Complex Characters

Many John Wick-inspired films explore the morally ambiguous world of organized crime.

• Collateral (2004): A tense thriller set against the backdrop of Los Angeles at night, with a compelling cat-and-mouse chase.
• Paid in Full (2002): This crime drama offers a gritty look into the world of drug dealing in 1980s Harlem.

Intricate Fight Choreography: Beyond Gunplay

While gun-fu is central, the best John Wick-inspired films also showcase impressive hand-to-hand combat.

Brutal and Realistic Hand-to-Hand Combat

• The Night Comes for Us (2018): An Indonesian action film with some of the most brutal and relentless fight choreography ever put to film.
• Oldboy (2003): Famous for its iconic hallway fight scene, this South Korean thriller is a masterclass in intense, visceral action.
• Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior (2003): A stunning showcase of Muay Thai martial arts, featuring breathtaking fight sequences.
• The Night Comes for Us (2018): This Indonesian action film offers incredibly brutal and well-choreographed hand-to-hand combat scenes.

Creative Weapon Usage

Beyond guns, inventive weapon use adds another layer of excitement.

• Atomic Blonde (2017): Charlize Theron's spy uses an array of unconventional weapons in stylish and effective ways.
• Haywire (2011): Gina Carano's MMA skills are on full display in this action thriller, with inventive fight sequences incorporating various objects as weapons.

Character-Driven Action: Compelling Protagonists and Their Motivations

The best action movies aren't just about the fights; they're about the characters driving them.

Motivated Anti-Heroes

• Taken (2008): Liam Neeson's character is driven by a powerful desire for revenge, making his actions all the more compelling.
• Man on Fire (2004): Denzel Washington plays a burned-out bodyguard who is pushed to his limits by a kidnapping.
• The Transporter (2002): Jason Statham's character has a strict code of ethics but will break it for the right price and for the right reason, making him a compelling character.
• John Wick (2014): Keanu Reeves’ performance as John Wick started it all, and cemented his legacy.

Consequences and Moral Ambiguity

Some films explore the ethical complexities of violence and its consequences.

• The Revenant (2015): Leonardo DiCaprio's survival story is a brutal journey through the wilderness, exploring themes of revenge and survival.
• Prisoners (2013): This intense thriller delves into the dark side of human desperation, blurring the lines between justice and revenge.

Conclusion: Find Your Next John Wick-Inspired Action Fix

John Wick-inspired action movies are defined by their stylish gun-fu, neo-noir aesthetics, intricate fight choreography, and compelling, morally ambiguous characters. This list showcases films that excel in these areas. From the brutal gunfights of The Raid: Redemption to the stylish visuals of Drive and the intense hand-to-hand combat of The Night Comes for Us, these films deliver a unique brand of action-packed entertainment.

Key Takeaways: For exceptional gun-fu, watch The Raid: Redemption and Nobody; for neo-noir style, try Drive and Blade Runner 2049; for brutal hand-to-hand combat, check out The Night Comes for Us and Oldboy; and for compelling characters, explore Taken and Man on Fire.

Dive into the world of John Wick-inspired action – find your next John Wick-esque thrill ride! Which of these films have you seen? What are your favorite John Wick-inspired action movies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!