Top 10 Action Movies Of 2021: A Thrilling Countdown

Hey guys! Ready for a high-octane trip down memory lane? Let's dive headfirst into the best action movies of 2021. It was a year packed with explosions, car chases, and jaw-dropping stunts. From superhero showdowns to gritty thrillers, 2021 delivered some seriously unforgettable action flicks. So, grab your popcorn, buckle up, and let’s get started!

1. No Time to Die

Topping our list is No Time to Die, Daniel Craig's final outing as James Bond. This movie isn't just an action spectacle; it's an emotional rollercoaster that gives Craig's Bond a proper send-off. Directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, the film sees Bond coming out of retirement to face a new, technologically advanced threat. What makes No Time to Die stand out is its blend of classic Bond elements with modern sensibilities.

Why it's great: The action sequences are phenomenal, featuring breathtaking stunts and inventive gadgets. The hand-to-hand combat is brutal and realistic, and the car chases are some of the best in the series. But beyond the action, the film delves into Bond's emotional life, giving him a depth we haven't seen before. The supporting cast, including Léa Seydoux and Rami Malek, delivers stellar performances, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. The cinematography is gorgeous, with stunning locations and beautifully composed shots. Ultimately, No Time to Die is a fitting conclusion to Craig's era, honoring the character's legacy while pushing him in new directions. It's a film that balances spectacle with substance, making it a must-watch for any action fan. The emotional weight of the story, combined with the high-octane action, solidifies its place as one of the best action movies of 2021. Plus, who can forget that heart-stopping ending? It's a Bond film that will be talked about for years to come.

2. Godzilla vs. Kong

Next up, we have the colossal clash of titans in Godzilla vs. Kong. This movie delivers exactly what it promises: a no-holds-barred brawl between two of cinema's most iconic monsters. The sheer scale of the battles is mind-blowing, with cityscapes being reduced to rubble as Godzilla and Kong duke it out. If you're a fan of monster movies, this is the ultimate showdown.

Why it's great: Godzilla vs. Kong is a visual feast, with stunning CGI and expertly choreographed monster fights. The film doesn't skimp on the human element either, with a cast of characters trying to understand and control these powerful creatures. The plot is straightforward but effective, providing a solid framework for the monster mayhem. What sets this movie apart is its commitment to delivering pure, unadulterated action. There are no slow moments; it's a constant barrage of epic battles and thrilling escapes. The sound design is incredible, with each roar, stomp, and explosion rattling your bones. Godzilla vs. Kong is a celebration of monster movie history, paying homage to the classics while pushing the genre forward. It's a film that knows exactly what it is and delivers it with gusto. Whether you're Team Godzilla or Team Kong, you'll find plenty to love in this monster mash. It's a popcorn flick in the best sense of the word, offering a thrilling and visually spectacular experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The sheer spectacle of the battles is enough to make it a standout action movie of 2021.

3. The Suicide Squad

James Gunn's The Suicide Squad is a chaotic, hilarious, and action-packed romp through the DC universe. This isn't your typical superhero movie; it's a darkly comedic adventure with a team of misfit villains on a deadly mission. The film is bursting with vibrant characters, outrageous violence, and Gunn's signature quirky humor.

Why it's great: The Suicide Squad is a breath of fresh air in the superhero genre. It's irreverent, unpredictable, and unafraid to take risks. The characters are all flawed and fascinating, and the ensemble cast delivers fantastic performances. The action sequences are creative and over-the-top, perfectly complementing the film's tone. Gunn's direction is masterful, balancing the humor and action with skill. The soundtrack is killer, adding to the film's energetic vibe. The Suicide Squad is a movie that knows how to have fun, and that energy is infectious. It's a celebration of comic book mayhem, with plenty of surprises and unexpected twists. The film's willingness to embrace its own absurdity is what makes it so enjoyable. It's a superhero movie that doesn't take itself too seriously, and that's a welcome change of pace. If you're looking for a superhero movie that's different from the rest, The Suicide Squad is a must-see. It's a wild ride from start to finish, and you're guaranteed to have a blast. The film's unique blend of humor, action, and heart makes it a standout in the superhero genre and a worthy addition to our list.

4. Nobody

Nobody stars Bob Odenkirk as Hutch Mansell, a seemingly ordinary suburban dad with a hidden past. When his home is invaded, Hutch unleashes his dormant skills, revealing himself to be a highly trained and deadly operative. This movie is a thrilling and violent ride that showcases Odenkirk's surprising action chops.

Why it's great: Nobody is a masterclass in action filmmaking. The fight choreography is brutal and realistic, and Odenkirk delivers a surprisingly convincing performance as a badass action hero. The film's plot is simple but effective, providing a solid foundation for the action. What sets Nobody apart is its focus on character. Hutch is a complex and compelling protagonist, and his journey from ordinary dad to deadly operative is fascinating to watch. The film is also surprisingly funny, with moments of dark humor that add to its charm. Nobody is a movie that knows how to deliver thrills, and it does so with style and panache. It's a celebration of action cinema, with nods to classic films like Death Wish and Taken. If you're looking for an action movie that's both exciting and intelligent, Nobody is a must-see. It's a wild ride from start to finish, and you'll be rooting for Hutch every step of the way. Odenkirk's performance is a revelation, proving that he's more than just a comedic actor. The film's blend of action, humor, and character development makes it a standout in the genre and a worthy addition to our list.

5. Wrath of Man

Guy Ritchie's Wrath of Man is a gritty and intense heist thriller starring Jason Statham. Statham plays H, a mysterious and stoic character who takes a job at an armored truck company. As he thwarts a robbery, his true motives are revealed, leading to a violent and suspenseful showdown.

Why it's great: Wrath of Man is a return to form for Guy Ritchie, showcasing his signature style of gritty action and sharp dialogue. Statham is perfectly cast as the brooding and deadly H, and the supporting cast delivers strong performances. The film's plot is intricate and suspenseful, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. The action sequences are brutal and realistic, and Ritchie's direction is top-notch. Wrath of Man is a movie that knows how to build tension, and it does so with skill and precision. It's a celebration of classic heist movies, with nods to films like Heat and The Town. If you're looking for an action movie that's both thrilling and intelligent, Wrath of Man is a must-see. It's a dark and violent ride from start to finish, and you'll be on the edge of your seat the entire time. Statham's performance is magnetic, and Ritchie's direction is masterful. The film's blend of action, suspense, and character development makes it a standout in the genre and a worthy addition to our list.

6. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is a groundbreaking addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, introducing a new hero and exploring Chinese mythology and martial arts. Simu Liu stars as Shang-Chi, a skilled martial artist who must confront his past when he's drawn into the web of the Ten Rings organization.

Why it's great: Shang-Chi is a visually stunning and action-packed superhero movie that blends martial arts with the Marvel formula. The fight choreography is incredible, showcasing a variety of styles and techniques. Liu is perfectly cast as Shang-Chi, bringing both charm and physicality to the role. The film's plot is engaging and emotional, exploring themes of family, legacy, and identity. The supporting cast, including Awkwafina and Tony Leung, delivers fantastic performances. Shang-Chi is a movie that celebrates diversity and representation, and it does so with grace and skill. It's a welcome addition to the MCU, expanding the universe in exciting new ways. The film's blend of action, mythology, and character development makes it a standout in the superhero genre and a worthy addition to our list. It's a must-see for any Marvel fan, offering a fresh and exciting take on the superhero formula.

7. Army of the Dead

Zack Snyder's Army of the Dead is a zombie heist movie set in a post-apocalyptic Las Vegas. Dave Bautista stars as Scott Ward, a mercenary who assembles a team to infiltrate the zombie-infested city and retrieve a fortune from a vault. This movie is a wild and bloody ride with plenty of action and zombie mayhem.

Why it's great: Army of the Dead is a visually stunning and action-packed zombie movie that delivers exactly what it promises: a thrilling heist in a zombie-infested city. The zombies are unique and terrifying, and the action sequences are creative and over-the-top. Bautista is perfectly cast as the grizzled mercenary, and the supporting cast delivers strong performances. The film's plot is simple but effective, providing a solid foundation for the zombie mayhem. Army of the Dead is a movie that knows how to have fun, and that energy is infectious. It's a celebration of zombie cinema, with nods to classic films like Dawn of the Dead and 28 Days Later. If you're looking for a zombie movie that's both exciting and visually stunning, Army of the Dead is a must-see. It's a wild ride from start to finish, and you're guaranteed to have a blast. The film's blend of action, horror, and heist elements makes it a standout in the zombie genre and a worthy addition to our list.

8. Raging Fire

Raging Fire is a Hong Kong action film directed by Benny Chan, starring Donnie Yen and Nicholas Tse. Yen plays Cheung Sung-bong, a highly respected police officer who finds himself on a collision course with his former protégé, Yau Kong-ngo (Tse), who has become a criminal seeking revenge. This movie is a thrilling and intense action film with breathtaking fight choreography and a compelling story.

Why it's great: Raging Fire is a masterclass in Hong Kong action filmmaking. The fight choreography is incredible, showcasing Yen's martial arts skills and Tse's intensity. The film's plot is engaging and emotional, exploring themes of justice, loyalty, and betrayal. The action sequences are relentless and visually stunning, with plenty of explosions and gunfights. Raging Fire is a movie that pays homage to classic Hong Kong action films, and it does so with style and skill. It's a must-see for any fan of the genre, offering a thrilling and intense cinematic experience. The performances are top-notch, and the direction is masterful. The film's blend of action, drama, and character development makes it a standout in the genre and a worthy addition to our list. It’s a final, fiery testament to Benny Chan's directorial talent, making it all the more poignant.

9. Infinite

Infinite stars Mark Wahlberg as Evan McCauley, a man who discovers that his hallucinations are actually visions from past lives. He learns that he is one of the