My Top 10 Favorite Action Films of All-Time

I have decided to compile top ten lists for my favorite movies of all-time in each genre. To begin, I will list my top ten favorite action movies ever. To make it on this list, a film has to showcase impressive action sequences, intriguing storylines, and complex characters. So, there's no chance for brainless action pictures to make the cut. I'm only considering the top tier of the action genre. If a film contains action, but it's not necessarily its primary feature, it probably won't be on this list, even if I like it more than some of the movies here. Movies like Inception, The Dark Knight, Lord of the Rings, or any war movies won't be on here because I don't think their action sequences, though impressive, are what stand out the most. So, let's begin...

#10 -  Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)

I suspect this pick will come as a surprise to many. This 2011 reboot of the Planet of the Apes franchise garnered positive reviews and had an impressive showing at the box office, but I think it was brushed aside by a lot of people. To me, Rise of the Planet of the Apes is a richly thrilling and emotionally involving action drama that boasts breathtaking set pieces and a truly enthralling performance by Andy Serkis. An explosive and compelling start to the new Apes franchise, and just a great movie in general. 

#9 - The Fugitive (1993)

This 1993 Harrison Ford-Tommy Lee Jones action thriller is a great example of pure cinematic entertainment and excitement; a nonstop thrill ride that not only keeps you on the edge of your seat with its frenetic action scenes, but also features a compelling plot that keeps you guessing throughout. Ford and Jones also give typically rock solid performances. It stands today as one of Hollywood's finest achievements in action and suspense. 

#8 - Skyfall (2012)

I'm a big fan of Bond. Always have been. Daniel Craig's first and third outings as Agent 007 are two of my favorite in the James Bond franchise. Skyfall is what Bond can be when the series is at its best. It deftly blends spectacular action and set pieces with an intricate story, an awesome villain, touching character scenes, and the undeniable cool factor that 007 brings. Daniel Craig's interpretation of the British secret agent is one of the best, and that's no different in this one. A fantastic film for Bond enthusiasts such as myself, action junkies, and just about anyone else who wants to watch a movie they'll undoubtedly enjoy. In my opinion, this is a must see.

#7 - Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)

The second installment in James Cameron's Terminator franchise is, in my opinion, the best of the series. While the first one had more of a horror/thriller feel (largely thanks to Arnold Schwarzenegger's creepy performance), T-2 focuses more on action and human drama, which ultimately leads to a better movie. Schwarzenegger is great as the Terminator himself, delivering iconic lines and movie moments left and right. Compared to the other entries in the franchise, the stakes for this one are ramped up, the acting is improved, and the action is more satisfying. All of this makes for one of the best action movies ever made, and a sci-fi action classic that will likely always be the high point of the franchise. 

#6 - Aliens (1986)

Next up is yet another James Cameron classic. This sci-fi sequel is as equally thrilling and suspenseful as its predecessor is scary. While not without frightening moments, Cameron decided to go with more action than Ridley Scott did with the original Alien. Instead of being scarily slow-moving and gradual in its approach like Scott's horror classic, Aliens provides fast-paced and viscerally satisfying thrills and excitement. Sigourney Weaver is great in the lead role of Ripley, and the supporting cast all do a nice job. A must see for science fiction and action fans alike, this film will always be remembered and cherished. 

#5 - Casino Royale (2006)

This is, in my opinion, the greatest of all the Bonds. Combining Daniel Craig's excellent performance, incredibly tense and entertaining poker scenes, an enjoyable villain, and some thrilling action scenes, Casino Royale is likely to captivate everyone, not just 007 diehards. For Bond fans, though, this is a real treat; an intense and adult reinvention of the classic character that does away with the silly and cartoony style of its immediate predecessors. It's dark, slick, witty, and deliciously entertaining fun. I am immensely fond of this film, and it remains great no matter how many times I watch it. 

#4 - The Matrix (1999)

The Wachowski Brothers really outdid themselves with this science fiction/action masterpiece. Not only did it help redefine the sci-fi action genre for this generation, it delivered some of the most memorable action sequences ever filmed. Along with its awesome, mind-twisting action, The Matrix features a compelling plot about a dystopian future where the world we live in is not real. It's both intellectually and viscerally exceptional, and is just as fun today as it was upon its release. 

#3 - The Bourne Ultimatum (2007)

The conclusion to the original Bourne trilogy is by far the best entry in the franchise. Paul Greengrass is one of very few directors that not only pulls off shaky-cam, but actually uses it to his advantage. The camerawork by Greengrass is sharp, tense, and makes you feel like you're on the run with Jason Bourne. Matt Damon brings real conviction to Bourne, and his performance in Ultimatum is not only the best of the series, but one of his career best. Everything seems to be firing on all cylinders so perfectly in this film. The action is at times astonishingly good, the plot is compelling and intriguing, and the actors are all at the top of their game. What's not to like about this movie? In my opinion, it's one of the very finest action pictures ever made. 

#2 - Die Hard (1988)

The '80s saw a lot of great movies come about, one of which being the popcorn flick of all popcorn flicks, Die Hard. Bruce Willis' wily charm along with some of the most tense and exciting action scenes of all-time is what really makes this movie great. Alan Rickman's menacing, severely underrated villain Hans Gruber only adds to the film's greatness. This is the pinnacle of sheer popcorn entertainment; you don't have to turn off your brain to enjoy it, but it's perfect for casual viewing as well. Its many sequels are all entertaining in their own right (except the latest installment), but none of them can truly live up to the heady thrills and pure cinematic entertainment of the original Die Hard. Yipee-ki-yay, mother....well, you know. 

#1 - Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

This is the movie my mind runs to when I think of the ultimate action film. I have seen it countless times since I was a child, and it still entertains as much today as it ever has. Steven Spielberg and George Lucas' classic action-adventure franchise began with Raiders, and while I have enjoyed each of the sequels (some more than others), this is what started it all. And, come on, it's Indiana Jones! One of the most iconic and just plain awesome movie characters of all-time. Who doesn't love him? Harrison Ford is perfectly cast in the role, and Karen Allen does a great job opposite him. I really can't think of anything that could possible be said against this movie. Thrilling action, an interesting and layered plot, endearing and iconic characters, great performances, impeccable direction, superb theme music, engrossing locales...need I go on?