Top 10 John Wick Inspired Films: A Ranked List

Chloe Fitzgerald

6 min read Post on May 11, 2025

Top 10 John Wick Inspired Films: A Ranked List

#1 - John Wick (2014): The Foundation

Why it's the benchmark for John Wick inspired films.

Innovative Gun-fu: John Wick practically invented a new style of action, seamlessly blending gunplay with hand-to-hand combat in a way rarely seen before. The precise choreography and balletic movements set a new standard.
Stylish Action Sequences: The film is visually stunning, with meticulously crafted action sequences that are both brutal and elegant. The use of practical effects and minimal CGI further enhances the realism.
World-Building: The intricate underworld of assassins, complete with its own rules, codes, and currency, is deeply compelling and sets the stage for countless imitators.
Keanu Reeves' Performance: Keanu Reeves' portrayal of John Wick is iconic. His quiet intensity and understated emotionality perfectly complement the film's stylish violence.

#2 - Nobody (2021): Underestimated Intensity

Comparing the "retired assassin" trope and its execution.

Bob Odenkirk's Surprising Action Prowess: Bob Odenkirk, known for his comedic roles, delivers a stunning performance as a seemingly ordinary man with a lethal past. His transformation into a capable action hero is both unexpected and captivating.
Similar Themes of Revenge: Like John Wick, Nobody explores themes of revenge and the consequences of a violent past. The film successfully taps into the same emotional core that makes John Wick so compelling.
Visceral Fight Choreography: Nobody features brutal and realistic fight sequences that are both thrilling and impactful. The film avoids excessive CGI, opting for practical effects that add to the visceral nature of the action.

#3 - Atomic Blonde (2017): Stylish Cold War Espionage

The stylish action and atmosphere.

Charlize Theron's Athleticism: Charlize Theron delivers a powerhouse performance as Lorraine Broughton, a spy who expertly navigates a dangerous world of political intrigue and violence. Her athleticism is on full display in the film's impressive action sequences.
Long-Take Fight Scenes: Atomic Blonde features several breathtaking long-take fight scenes that showcase both the skill of the actors and the precision of the choreography.
The 80s Setting Mirroring John Wick's Aesthetic Influences: The film's 80s setting and gritty aesthetic are reminiscent of the stylistic influences present in John Wick, creating a similar atmosphere of stylish violence.

#4 - Gunpowder Milkshake (2021): Female-Led Action

A female perspective on the assassin genre.

Strong Female Characters: Gunpowder Milkshake features a diverse cast of strong female characters who are both skilled assassins and complex individuals. The film offers a refreshing female-led perspective on the often male-dominated assassin genre.
Unique Action Style: The film's action sequences are stylish and creative, incorporating elements of both gun-fu and hand-to-hand combat. The choreography is unique and visually impressive.
The Mother-Daughter Relationship Adding Emotional Depth: The film's emotional core revolves around the complex relationship between a mother and daughter, adding a layer of emotional depth to the action-packed narrative.

#5 - Kill Bill: Vol. 1 & 2 (2003-2004): The Precursor

Influence on John Wick's style and storytelling.

Quentin Tarantino's Influence on Action Cinema: Quentin Tarantino's influence on modern action cinema is undeniable. Kill Bill, with its stylized violence, inventive camera work, and memorable characters, paved the way for films like John Wick.
Violent Yet Stylish Action: Kill Bill features some of the most inventive and stylish action sequences in cinematic history. The film's violence is both shocking and entertaining, showcasing a unique approach to action choreography.
Strong Female Lead: Uma Thurman's performance as Beatrix Kiddo is iconic. Her character is a strong, independent female lead who delivers both emotional depth and impressive action skills.

#6 - The Night Comes for Us (2018): Indonesian Action Extravaganza

Brutal and unrelenting action sequences.

Over-the-Top Violence: The Night Comes for Us doesn't shy away from graphic violence. The film's action sequences are brutal and unrelenting, making it a must-see for fans of intense action.
Intense Fight Choreography: The fight choreography is incredibly well-executed, showcasing a blend of Indonesian martial arts styles. The sequences are both visceral and visually stunning.
Indonesian Martial Arts Influence: The film's influence on Indonesian martial arts is evident in the style and intensity of its action sequences.

#7 - Extraction (2020): High-Stakes Rescue Mission

Action-packed sequences in a realistic setting.

Chris Hemsworth's Physicality: Chris Hemsworth delivers a powerful performance, showcasing his impressive physicality in the film's intense action sequences.
Practical Fight Choreography: Extraction features realistic and intense fight choreography, largely relying on practical effects to enhance the realism of the action.
Realistic Depiction of Violence: The film's depiction of violence is grounded in reality, adding to the intensity and suspense of its action sequences.

#8 - Kate (2021): A Dying Assassin's Final Mission

Exploring the themes of mortality and revenge.

Mary Elizabeth Winstead's Performance: Mary Elizabeth Winstead delivers a compelling performance as Kate, a dying assassin seeking revenge. Her character arc is both emotional and intense.
Emotional Depth Alongside Intense Action: Kate manages to blend intense action sequences with emotionally resonant moments, adding depth and complexity to its narrative.
Fast-Paced Plot: The film maintains a fast-paced plot that keeps viewers engaged from beginning to end.

#9 - The Raid: Redemption (2011): The Indonesian Influence

The impact of Indonesian martial arts on action cinema.

Intense and Relentless Fight Choreography: The Raid: Redemption features some of the most intense and relentless fight choreography ever put to film, influencing the style seen in John Wick.
Confined Setting: The film's confined setting, a high-rise apartment building, enhances the claustrophobia and intensity of the action sequences.
Influence on John Wick's Fight Style: The Raid's influence on John Wick's fight style is undeniable, with both films showcasing a similar blend of gun-fu and hand-to-hand combat.

#10 - Nobody (2021): A Different Kind of Retired Assassin

Unexpected action hero and unique story.

Surprising Action: The unexpected action hero, portrayed convincingly by Bob Odenkirk, delivers an exciting twist on the retired assassin trope.
Relatable Character: Despite his lethal skills, the character remains relatable, adding emotional depth to the action sequences.
Focus on Family: The film explores themes of family and protection, providing a unique perspective within the assassin thriller genre.

Conclusion

This list highlights some of the best John Wick inspired films, showcasing the variety and creativity within this exciting subgenre of action movies. John Wick (2014), Nobody (2021), and Atomic Blonde (2017) stand out for their innovative action choreography, stylish visuals, and compelling narratives. But the list also includes diverse offerings such as Gunpowder Milkshake, Kill Bill, and The Night Comes for Us, proving the versatility and enduring appeal of the John Wick style. Have you seen any other great John Wick inspired films? Share your recommendations in the comments below! Dive into the world of stylish action and discover more amazing films inspired by the iconic John Wick universe!