Looking for an adrenaline-pumping film to watch tonight, but can’t seem to land on one? Rather than spend more time scrolling endlessly through channels and streaming services, check out this list of the top 10 best action movies to watch right now.
Keep an eye on this list as it is updated with the latest and greatest action movies so you can be sure you’re in the loop. From Central Intelligence to Gladiator, this list will help action movie fans stay up to date on the most popular action-packed movies available.
Watch Guide Methodology: Using proprietary viewership data, DIRECTV Insider curates lists of the most popular TV shows and movies being watched by real people, in real time, to help you pick the best trending content to watch across networks. Our rolling data collection also allows readers to see how a trending show’s ranking has changed week over week.
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TOP 10 ACTION MOVIES TO WATCH
Let’s get started. Here are the trending action movies that movie lovers are enjoying right now, with all the information you need to check them out for yourself.
1. ‘Central Intelligence’
↑ 450 vs. Prior Week
In the action-comedy, Central Intelligence, Bob Stone (Dwayne Johnson), once an overweight teen, surprises everyone by showing up to his high school reunion as a formidable CIA agent with muscles to boot. He reconnects with former popular athlete, now mundane accountant, Calvin Joyner (Kevin Hart), who can’t help but miss the thrill of his glory days.
Stone needs Calvin’s numerical prowess to help thwart a catastrophic security breach threatening the U.S. spy satellite system. Together, they navigate a world fraught with shootouts, espionage and deceit, in an exhilarating race against time to prevent global chaos. This film cleverly combines thrilling action with comedic elements for a truly unmissable experience.
2. ‘Fast & Furious 6’
↑ 459 vs. Prior Week
Nothing says adrenaline rush like Fast & Furious 6, where we see Dom (Vin Diesel) and Brian (Paul Walker) living as fugitives post their daring heist in Rio. The plot takes an exciting turn when Agent Hobbs, played by the formidable Dwayne Johnson, recruits them to topple a lethal gang of mercenary drivers.
And guess who is running this unstoppable crew? Someone from Dom’s past. It’s a heart-stopping, car-crashing thrilled ride where loyalties and skills are tested for a chance at a full pardon and a return home. Fast & Furious 6 embodies action and suspense in high speed, promising an unforgettable cinematic ride.
3. ‘We’re the Millers’
↑ 30 vs. Prior Week
We’re the Millers is a riotous comedy that will leave you in stitches, with just the right amount of action. Jason Sudeikis takes center stage as small-time Denver pot dealer David Clark, who, in a desperate attempt to clear a debt, becomes an unlikely drug mule smuggling narcotics across the Mexican border. He recruits the straight-laced stripper Rose (a dazzling performance by Jennifer Aniston), hapless teen Kenny and street-smart runaway Casey (Emma Roberts in a transformative role), to pose as a typical American family.
What commences is a road trip filled with surprising twists, uproarious predicaments and unexpected bonds. This hilarious film shrewdly blends the comedy with unexpected moments of genuine warmth.
4. ‘The Bourne Supremacy’
↑ 40 vs. Prior Week
In the thrilling sequel, The Bourne Supremacy, we return to the life of Jason Bourne (Matt Damon), as he is unjustly targeted by Russian agent Kirill (Karl Urban) for a crime he didn’t commit. Suddenly, a blissful life in India transforms into a tantalizing chase, pushing Bourne and his girlfriend, Marie (Franka Potente), onto an unexpected path.
A tragic miscalculation leaves Bourne vengeful and more determined, and he embarks on a relentless pursuit to clear his name, all while cunningly evading CIA head Pamela Landry (Joan Allen), who is hell-bent on his capture.
5. ‘The Bourne Identity’
↑ 25 vs. Prior Week
In the suspenseful 2002 film The Bourne Identity, Matt Damon delivers a gripping performance as a man found floating near death at sea, with no recollection of his past. Awaking to find an array of secret agent-like talents including exceptional fighting ability and linguistic skills, his struggle to piece together his identity unveils a lethal past. With the reluctant assistance of Marie, played by the compelling Franka Potente, he embarks on a relentless hunt for answers. As this thrilling adventure unfolds, they find themselves pursued by ruthless assassins, making the quest for his true identity a race against time.
6. ‘The Bourne Ultimatum’
↑ 75 vs. Prior Week
Navigating a web of intrigue and danger that spans the globe, Jason Bourne relentlessly pursues the elusive truth of his identity in The Bourne Ultimatum. Bourne’s high-stakes journey carries him from the depths of Russia to bustling Europe, the stark landscapes of northern Africa, and the vibrant streets of the United States.
As he narrows in on the reality of who he is, he must continuously outmaneuver those who are hot on his trail, intent on capturing or killing him. This thrilling third installment of the Bourne franchise presents an explosive fusion of suspense, action and mystery, promising an intriguing ride that leaves you hanging on every twist and turn.
7. ‘The Bourne Legacy’
↑ 70 vs. Prior Week
In the riveting 2012 action-thriller, The Bourne Legacy, the world of secret intelligence is set ablaze by the actions of Jason Bourne. Enter Edward Norton as Eric Byer, the architect of such covert programs, who now must extinguish one segment, Outcome, to save the rest. Caught in this deadly crossfire are Outcome agent Aaron Cross, impressively incarnated by Jeremy Renner, and research scientist Marta Shearing, potently portrayed by Rachel Weisz.
Both are targeted for termination but quickly prove to be more dangerous and elusive than Byer had ever anticipated. Prepare for high-stakes, edge-of-your-seat suspense as The Bourne Legacy unfolds.
8. ‘Walking Tall’
↑ 85 vs. Prior Week
Walking Tall (1981) stands tall as an iconic movie that harnesses the raw power of justice and bravery in the face of daunting adversity. Military hero Chris Vaughn, played compellingly by Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, unveils the grim reality of his humble hometown now under the corrupt dominion of his old schoolmate, Jay Hamilton (Neal McDonough).
The town’s honest lumber mill replaced by a seedy casino, crime and corruption, Vaughn, alongside his loyal friend Ray Templeton (Johnny Knoxville), prepares to fight back. With the police turning a blind eye, it’s all up to Vaughn, standing tall against the storm of injustice. A must-watch for those who love a good underdog story.
9. ‘Ride Along 2’
↑ 112 vs. Prior Week
Stepping into the world of crime-busting once again, Detective James Payton (Ice Cube) and newbie Ben Barber (Kevin Hart) power through hilarious ups and downs in Ride Along 2. Released in 2016, this action-comedy underlines the thrilling mix of police works, cracked humor and an unpredictable plot twist. Discover how a computer hacker and a homicide detective help them unravel a secret that could topple Miami’s drug trade, revealing a respected businessman as the mafia in the charming guise of Antonio Pope. Will they manage to gather enough proof to crack this case wide open?
3. ‘Gladiator’
↑ 15 vs. Prior Week
Prepare to step into the blood-soaked sands of the Roman Colosseum with Ridley Scott’s Gladiator. This explosive epic features Russell Crowe in his Oscar-winning role as Maximus, a Roman general betrayed by his heartless Emperor, Commodus, portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix.
Framed for treason, Maximus becomes a gladiator, fighting for vengeance and his honor in Rome’s greatest arena. Gladiator is more than a film about survival and revenge; it’s a journey into the heart of an ancient civilization, showcasing the triumph and tragedy of a man who became a legend. This captivating saga will take you back in time and leave you breathless with its awe-inspiring conclusions.
And there you have it: the top 10 action movies to stream at home. Stay tuned for updates to come so you can keep up with the best content available right now.
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And for even more insight into the top shows and movies to watch right now, check out these other lists:
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- 10 Best Limited Series to Watch
- The Top 10 Historical Period Drama Pieces to Watch Now
- The Top Western TV Shows to Watch Right Now
- Best Action Comedy Films to Watch Today
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular action movie franchises in recent years?
Some of the most iconic action franchises today include John Wick, Jason Bourne, Mad Max, Mission: Impossible and more.
Who are the most well known action stars?
The top action actors include Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, Tom Cruise, Liam Neeson, Keanu Reeves, and others.
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