The 10 Best John Wick-Inspired Action Movies

Pedro Alvarez

7 min read

Post on May 11, 2025

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1. The Raid: Redemption (2011) & The Raid 2: Berandal (2014): Brutal Indonesian Action

Why it's John Wick-esque:

These Indonesian action masterpieces deliver relentless, visceral action that rivals John Wick's intensity. Think close-quarters combat taken to an extreme, with creative kill sequences and non-stop adrenaline. The focus is less on intricate plots and more on the brutal efficiency of the fight choreography.

• Unmatched martial arts choreography: The Raid films showcase breathtaking Indonesian martial arts, including Pencak Silat, resulting in incredibly fluid and brutal fight sequences.
• Visceral and brutal fight scenes: No punches (or kicks) are pulled. The films are unapologetically violent, making each impact feel impactful and real.
• Limited dialogue, focusing on action: The action speaks for itself. The minimal dialogue enhances the raw intensity of the fight scenes.
• High stakes and a relentless pace: The protagonists are constantly facing overwhelming odds, creating a sense of urgency and tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
• Similar themes of survival against overwhelming odds: Like John Wick, the heroes of The Raid are fighting for survival against a seemingly insurmountable number of enemies.

2. Nobody (2021): Suburban Dad Unleashed

Why it's John Wick-esque:

Nobody perfectly captures the unexpected "ordinary man with extraordinary skills" trope. Bob Odenkirk, known for his comedic roles, delivers a surprising performance as a seemingly mild-mannered suburbanite with a deadly past. The film expertly blends humor with intense action sequences.

• Bob Odenkirk's surprising action prowess: Odenkirk's transformation into a lethal assassin is a revelation. His performance is both believable and captivating.
• Clever fight choreography in everyday settings: The fights are inventive and utilize everyday objects as weapons, bringing a unique flavor to the action sequences.
• Satisfying revenge plot: The film's narrative provides a compelling reason for the character's violent outburst, making the action feel earned and justified.
• Blends humor with intense action: The film deftly balances dark humor with brutal action, creating a unique and engaging viewing experience.

3. Atomic Blonde (2017): Cold War Spy Thriller

Why it's John Wick-esque:

Atomic Blonde boasts stylish action sequences, a compelling female lead, and a morally ambiguous protagonist, mirroring many of John Wick's key elements. The film's aesthetic, with its 1980s Berlin setting, adds another layer of intrigue.

• Charlize Theron's incredible performance: Theron is captivating as Lorraine Broughton, a lethal MI6 agent navigating a treacherous world of espionage.
• Long takes and dynamic fight choreography: The film's impressive action sequences are often shot using long takes, showcasing the skill of both the actors and the stunt team.
• Gritty, realistic portrayal of espionage: Atomic Blonde doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of the Cold War spy world.
• Excellent soundtrack: The film's 80s soundtrack adds to the atmosphere and enhances the overall experience.

4. Haywire (2011): MMA-Influenced Action

Why it's John Wick-esque:

Preceding the John Wick era, Haywire paved the way for a new type of action movie. Gina Carano's real-world MMA background brings a level of realism and brutality to the fight sequences that is reminiscent of John Wick's gritty style.

• Gina Carano's realistic fight style: Carano's background in MMA is evident in the realistic and brutal fight choreography.
• Fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping action: The film is non-stop action from beginning to end, keeping viewers engaged and entertained.

5. Upgrade (2018): Sci-Fi Action with a Twist

Why it's John Wick-esque:

Upgrade blends sci-fi with thrilling action, focusing on precise, deadly movements. The protagonist's enhanced abilities through technological integration echo the almost superhuman capabilities of John Wick.

• Cyberpunk aesthetic and themes: The film's cyberpunk setting adds a unique visual style and thematic depth.
• Unique blend of action and sci-fi: Upgrade seamlessly integrates sci-fi elements into its high-octane action sequences.
• High-octane, visceral action sequences: The action is both creative and brutal, showcasing the protagonist's enhanced capabilities.

6. Shoot 'Em Up (2007): Over-the-Top Gun-Fu

Why it's John Wick-esque:

Shoot 'Em Up is a chaotic, hyper-stylized action film that embraces over-the-top violence and gun-fu with a darkly comedic tone. Its relentless pace and creative action sequences are reminiscent of John Wick's signature style.

• Unconventional action choreography: The gun-fu is unique and inventive, utilizing unconventional techniques and weapons.
• Dark humor and witty dialogue: The film balances its extreme violence with darkly comedic elements.
• Clive Owen's charismatic performance: Owen's performance anchors the film's wild energy, making it all the more enjoyable.

7. The Night Comes for Us (2018): Indonesian Gangster Action

Why it's John Wick-esque:

This Indonesian action film offers relentless violence, impressive martial arts, and a protagonist caught in a web of betrayal and revenge, similar to John Wick's central narrative.

• Brutal and stylish fight choreography: The fight sequences are brutal, lengthy, and incredibly well-choreographed.
• High body count: This film doesn't shy away from graphic violence, making it a must-see for fans of extreme action.
• Intense atmosphere: The film creates a tense and immersive atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

8. Gunpowder Milkshake (2021): Female-Led Action Thriller

Why it's John Wick-esque:

Gunpowder Milkshake features stylish action sequences, strong female characters, and a unique blend of violence and humor, aligning with John Wick's blend of genres and character archetypes.

• Strong female leads: The film boasts a compelling cast of female characters who are both powerful and complex.
• Stylish action sequences: The film’s action sequences are creative and visually impressive.
• Unique blend of humor and violence: Similar to Nobody, Gunpowder Milkshake balances dark humor with brutal action.

9. Bullet Train (2022): High-Octane Mayhem

Why it's John Wick-esque:

Bullet Train showcases expertly choreographed fight sequences set within a confined space – a speeding bullet train – mirroring the creative limitations that often fuel John Wick's most memorable battles. The film balances its action with darkly comedic moments and a complex ensemble cast.

• Clever use of a limited setting: The action is contained to the train, creating intense encounters.
• Ensemble cast of assassins: The film boasts a great number of memorable characters, each with their own distinct fighting styles.
• Fast-paced narrative: The plot moves at a breakneck speed, keeping the tension high from beginning to end.

10. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (2010): Fantasy Action (While not strictly similar, the acrobatic fight style holds some thematic resonance)

Why it's John Wick-esque (In a different way):

Though a fantasy film, Prince of Persia offers acrobatic fight scenes with a level of fluidity and precision that aligns with the grace and efficiency often seen in John Wick's combat style. The parkour-inspired movement adds a unique flavor to the action.

• Acrobatic fight choreography: The fight scenes emphasize agility and precise movements, mirroring the elegance of John Wick's gun-fu.
• Fantasy setting: While vastly different, the unique setting provides a visually stunning backdrop for action.
• Jake Gyllenhaal's performance: Gyllenhaal delivers an engaging performance as the titular prince.

Conclusion:

From brutal Indonesian action to stylish Cold War espionage and even a dash of fantasy, these 10 John Wick-inspired action movies deliver the same thrilling blend of gun-fu, stylish violence, and compelling narratives that made John Wick a global phenomenon. Each film offers a unique take on the genre, showcasing incredible action sequences and memorable characters. Ready to dive into the world of high-octane action? Watch these 10 John Wick-inspired films and discover your new favorite adrenaline-fueled adventure. What are your favorite John Wick-style action movies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!