John Wick stormed into the theatres in 2014, creating a lot of buzz, and has remained one of the best action movies in Hollywood. The movie earned high praise for its slick action sequences, stylized cinematography, and fast-paced screenplay.
The reason why John Wick stands out from other thrilling action films is the fact that other than jaw-dropping action and visuals, the movie presents strong acting performances from its cast. Keanu Reeves was acclaimed for delivering a meritorious performance that stuck with the audience and made the character of John Wick memorable. Chad Stahelski’s commendable direction only added to its extolment and turned the movie into a cult classic.
The critical acclaim of the movie resulted in the development of a franchise with movies that continue the story of Wick. The character’s popularity among fans also caused the release of a video game by the same name as the movie.
In this article, we shall provide you with a list of 15 movies just like John Wick that will assuredly cause an adrenaline rush in your body.
1. John Wick: Chapter 2
First up on the list unsurprisingly is the 2nd installment of the John Wick franchise. Keanu Reeves returned to the role of John Wick in 2017, once again delivering a laudable performance that thrilled the viewers. Directed by the original director from the first film, chapter 2 of John Wick takes the audience on a thrill ride just as it did in the previous part.
The film received several accolades for its action choreography and screenplay. It is rated 7.4 on IMDb and collected $171.5 million at the box office.
After watching John Wick, there exists no better choice than the 2nd chapter which takes the plot forward and keeps one engrossed in its world.
2. John Wick: Chapter 3- Parabellum
Coming up next is the very next installment in the franchise, John Wick: Chapter 3- Parabellum. Another unsurprising name as it drives the story of John Wick even further. With the original crew along with Reeves returning and interesting new characters, the movie delivers to its expectations.
It was released in 2019 and grossed a total of $326.7 million at the box office- almost twice the collection of its predecessor. The movie has an identical IMDb rating to the 2nd installment.
Yet again, the audience is taken on an exciting adventure filled with crazy action sequences, and this time with the element of martial arts.
3. The Matrix franchise
The list of ‘15 movies like John Wick’ is incomplete without the inclusion of the exemplary ‘Matrix’ franchise. The Matrix, released in 1999 remains to date, one of the most reputed action movies of all time. Ever since its release, it acts as the benchmark that action films aim to achieve. From the liturgical ‘bullet time’ to Neo’s iconic black trench coat, the Matrix franchise has offered more to the action genre than any other movie.
The franchise consists of four films- The Matrix, The Matrix Reloaded, The Matrix Revolutions, and The Matrix Resurrections. The first 3 films were released back to back with the first one in 1999 and the next two in 2003 while the latest addition came out recently in 2021.
If you relished John Wick, there is no doubt whatsoever that you would revel in the ‘Matrix’ films. With the protagonist being played by none other than Keanu Reeves himself, it is inexorable that The Matrix will satisfy your action cravings.
The Matrix is rated with a creditable 8.7 on IMDb, The Matrix Reloaded is at 7.2, The Matrix Revolutions at 6.7, and The Matrix Resurrections at 5.7.
Though it is conspicuous that the ratings go down with each succession, it is not a reason to ignore the sequels. With slick action sequences and stunts continuing from the first installment, the sequels do deliver an appreciative watch.
4. Nobody
Upon its release in 2021, Nobody has been associated with John Wick for the show that it puts up. Laudable and violent action, a solo protagonist fighting against the mob, and dramatic cinematography- all this is reminiscent of John Wick. The film is directed by Ilya Naishuller and stars Bob Odenkirk in the lead.
Nobody is rated 7.4 on IMDb and collected $57.5 million at the box office which is quite reputable, considering its limited budget of $16 million.
5. The Equalizer
The Equalizer is a fairly popular name in the world of action cinema. Starring the revered Denzel Washington, the movie delivers a 2 hours and 12 minutes fun ride. The plot follows the events when a retired black-ops commando tries to protect a girl from the Russian mob.
The film has been acclaimed for its agile screenplay and strong performances by the cast, especially Washington
The Equalizer came out in theaters in 2014 and collected $192.3 million at the box office. It is directed by Antoine Fuqua.
6. Taken Series
Another famous series on this list is the acclaimed ‘Taken’ series. It includes Taken from 2008, Taken 2 from 2012, and Taken 3 from 2014. All three movies follow the escapades of the protagonist- an ex-CIA officer Bryan Mills, played by Liam Neeson.
The first installment was widely celebrated and is rated 7.8 on IMDb. Even though the subsequent ventures fail to reach the bar that Taken had set, they undoubtedly present astonishing feats by the characters.
Taken is a must-watch for those who savored John Wick. And although the plots of Taken 2 and 3 are not assuredly engaging, the fight scenes provide a strong reason to not eschew them.
7. Transporter Series
Continuing from one series to the next, we have the Transporter series starring the lean, mean fighting machine, Jason Statham.
The series comprises 3 films, The Transporter, Transporter 2, and Transporter 3, released in 2002, 2005, and 2008 respectively.
Like many other movies on this list, Transporter depicts the exploits of an ex-military man. With Statham being at the forefront, the Transporter series is sure to present excellent fight sequences and stunts.
The Transporter franchise ensures that you remain at the edge of your seat and satiates your hangover from John Wick.
8. Bullet Train
Bullet Train is a recent blockbuster in the world of action cinema. Directed by David Leitch, the film stars the adored Brad Pitt. The fight choreography is crisp with a creative plot set inside a speeding train.
Released this year itself, the film grossed $239.1 million. IMDb rates it at a reputable 7.4.
9. Crank
Released in 2006, Crank is an action-filled high-octane spectacle. The movie stars Jason Statham who plays a master assassin.
It is directed by Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor and is rated 6.4 on IMDb.
A sequel to Crank was also released in 2009 but does not engage the audience notably, especially after one has witnessed the epic John Wick.
10. The Drop
Starring Tom Hardy in the lead, The Drop is a high-octane thriller with a unique storyline and praiseworthy screenplay. Directed by Michaël R. Roskam, The Drop was released in 2014.
Upon its release, critics lauded the cast for the portrayals of their respective characters.
Though it is a crime drama, a genre that exists in adequacy, the script offers a new take on the genre that is noteworthy.
IMDb rates it at a fine 7 out of 10.
11. Peppermint
Peppermint is a distinctive constituent in this list as it illustrates a female protagonist. It portrays a woman who attempts to exact revenge 5 years after her family is brutally murdered.
The movie was criticized for its poor screenplay and cliché sequences upon its release in 2018. But it still is a great entertainer and worth a watch. Directed by Pierre Morel, the film is rated 6.4 on IMDb.
12. The Hitman’s Bodyguard
Released in 2017, The Hitman’s Bodyguard is an action epic starring the extravagant duo of Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson.
It was directed by Patrick Hughes and collected a revenue of $176.6 million at the box office.
The movie offers rousing action, stunts, and chases- all that the audience demands from a good action flick.
A sequel to the film was also released in 2021 and is also a fascinating watch.
13. The Gray Man
Another multi-starrer action flick on the list is The Gray Man. Offering a riveting face-off between two celebrated stars Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans, this beast of a movie is one of the best action movies of 2022.
The film is directed by another revered duo- Anthony and Joe Russo. The Gray Man, by all means, captures the minds of the viewers and takes them on a gripping 2 hours journey.
14. Safe
Yet another Jason Statham movie on this list is 2012’s Safe. Directed by Boaz Yakin, this movie delivers everything that one demands from a Jason Statham film- slick fights, car chases, and insane stunts.
Safe should surely be on your watchlist after witnessing John Wick.
IMDb rates it at 6.5 out of 10.
15. Accident Man
Wrapping up the list, is another revenge story, Accident Man. Directed by Jesse V. Johnson, the movie was released in 2018. It stars Scott Adkins in the role of the protagonist who is a seasoned hitman.
With an astounding mix of witty humor and all-out fight scenes, the movie succeeds in presenting an action-packed ride to its audience.
The film received critical applause for its slick fight scene choreographies.