20 Hidden Gems: The Underrated Action Movies You Must Discover

1. Nobody 2021，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 330027, ID: 7888964
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Nobody (2021) is a clever action flick that repositions the star of “Better Call Saul” as someone closer to Liam Neeson’s action heroes. The film is a reminder of times when action films suffered no such pretensions. It’s a bloody, funny, stylish shot of adrenaline.
2. Charade 1963，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 86516, ID: 0056923
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Charade (1963) is a delightful romp with Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn’s sparkling chemistry at the center of some perfectly orchestrated mayhem. It’s a lark of a thriller in the manner of Hitchcock’s ‘To Catch a Thief’ and ‘North by Northwest,’ with a sparkling wit and the visual grace of a director who can turn action into dance.
3. The Adventures of Robin Hood 1938，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 54844, ID: 0029843
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The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938) was made with sublime innocence and breathtaking artistry. It’s a film that exists in an eternal summer of bravery and romance. It’s a film that was done in the grand manner of silent-day spectacles with sweep and breadth of action.
4. Kung fu 2004，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 152167, ID: 0373074
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‘Kung Fu Hustle’, directed by Stephen Chow, is a delightful blend of comedy, fantasy, and martial arts. The film’s unique humor, engaging storyline, and spectacular fight scenes make it a memorable and enjoyable watch. It’s a testament to Chow’s ability to create a martial arts film that is as funny as it is thrilling.
5. Upgrade 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 211552, ID: 6499752
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‘Upgrade’ is a hidden gem in the realm of sci-fi action films. It presents a compelling narrative set in a near-future world, with a plot revolving around revenge and artificial intelligence. The film’s action sequences are intense and well-executed, and Logan Marshall-Green delivers a strong performance as the lead character.
6. Batman Returns 1992，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 330054, ID: 0103776
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Tim Burton’s ‘Batman Returns’ is a dark and atmospheric take on the Batman franchise. The film features memorable performances from Michael Keaton, Danny DeVito, and Michelle Pfeiffer. Despite its brooding tone, ‘Batman Returns’ offers a compelling narrative and impressive action sequences that make it an underrated gem in the superhero genre.
7. Batman Begins 2005，IMDB Rating: 8.2, IMDB Votes: 1593098, ID: 0372784
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‘Batman Begins’ marks a significant point in superhero cinema, offering a deep exploration into the origins of Batman. Christian Bale delivers a convincing performance as the tormented hero, and the film’s dark tone sets it apart from many other superhero movies. Its focus on character development and motivation provides a refreshing take on the Batman story.
8. Ready Player One 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 493137, ID: 1677720
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Steven Spielberg’s ‘Ready Player One’ is a dazzling visual feast that immerses viewers in a vibrant virtual reality world. While the film is packed with nostalgic pop culture references, its true strength lies in its breathtaking CGI and thrilling action sequences. Despite some narrative shortcomings, the movie’s imaginative visuals and energetic pace make it a standout in the action genre.
9. Mission: Impossible 1996，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 474060, ID: 0117060
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Brian De Palma’s ‘Mission: Impossible’ is a masterclass in suspense and action, featuring Tom Cruise in his iconic role as Ethan Hunt. The film’s intricate plot and high-stakes sequences, including the unforgettable vault heist, set a new standard for spy thrillers. Its stylish direction and relentless pace ensure it remains a timeless action classic.
10. Jack Reacher 2012，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 367846, ID: 0790724
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Tom Cruise delivers a compelling performance in ‘Jack Reacher,’ a gritty action thriller that combines sharp dialogue with intense action scenes. The film’s tightly woven plot and Cruise’s magnetic presence elevate it above typical genre fare, making it an underrated gem worth revisiting.
11. Doctor Strange 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 813864, ID: 1211837
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Marvel’s ‘Doctor Strange’ is a visually stunning journey into the mystical, with Benedict Cumberbatch perfectly embodying the titular character. The film’s innovative special effects and mind-bending action sequences set it apart from other superhero movies, offering a fresh and captivating experience.
12. Tag 2018，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 148252, ID: 2854926
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‘Tag’ is a surprisingly heartfelt and hilarious action-comedy based on a true story. The ensemble cast, including Ed Helms and Jeremy Renner, brings infectious energy to this tale of lifelong friends engaged in an epic game of tag. Its blend of humor and action makes it an underrated delight.
13. Spy 2015，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 260409, ID: 3079380
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Melissa McCarthy shines in ‘Spy,’ a hilarious and action-packed film that cleverly parodies the spy genre. Her transformation from a desk-bound CIA analyst to a formidable undercover agent is both entertaining and empowering. The film’s blend of comedy and action, along with strong performances from the supporting cast, makes it a standout in the genre. Despite some predictable moments, ‘Spy’ is a delightful watch that balances humor and thrills perfectly.
14. The Other Guys 2010，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 291147, ID: 1386588
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‘The Other Guys’ is a refreshing take on the buddy cop genre, with Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg delivering impeccable comedic performances. The film’s satire of police procedurals is both clever and laugh-out-loud funny, making it an underrated gem. The chemistry between the leads and the unexpected plot twists keep the audience engaged from start to finish. It’s a must-watch for fans of action-comedies.
15. Kingsman: The Golden Circle 2017，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 366641, ID: 4649466
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‘Kingsman: The Golden Circle’ continues the franchise’s tradition of over-the-top action and stylish visuals. Taron Egerton and Colin Firth return with strong performances, and the addition of the Statesman adds a fresh dynamic. While the plot can be convoluted at times, the film’s humor and high-octane action sequences make it an enjoyable ride. It’s a visually stunning and entertaining sequel that doesn’t disappoint.
16. RED 2 2013，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 181626, ID: 1821694
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‘RED 2’ reunites Bruce Willis, Helen Mirren, and John Malkovich for another round of explosive action and witty banter. The film’s blend of humor and action, along with its stellar cast, makes it a fun and engaging watch. While it may not surpass the original, ‘RED 2’ offers plenty of entertainment with its over-the-top antics and charismatic performances.
17. Game Night 2018，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 257843, ID: 2704998
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‘Game Night’ is a brilliantly crafted comedy that keeps you on the edge of your seat with its clever plot and hilarious twists. Jason Bateman and Rachel McAdams lead a talented cast in this darkly comedic thriller. The film’s unique blend of humor and suspense, along with its engaging storyline, makes it a standout in the genre. It’s a must-watch for anyone looking for a fun and thrilling movie night.
18. The Heat 2013，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 182204, ID: 2404463
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The Heat is a delightful blend of comedy and action, driven by the dynamic chemistry between Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy. Their performances elevate this buddy cop film, making it both hilarious and engaging. While the plot may be predictable, the humor and character interactions keep it fresh and entertaining. It’s a fun watch that showcases the strength of its leads.
19. The Long Kiss Goodnight 1996，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 86274, ID: 0116908
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The Long Kiss Goodnight is an exhilarating action thriller with Geena Davis delivering a standout performance as a suburban mom turned lethal assassin. The film’s blend of sharp wit, intense action sequences, and a compelling storyline makes it a must-watch. Samuel L. Jackson’s role adds a layer of humor and charm, making this film a hidden gem in the action genre.
20. The Nice Guys 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 378968, ID: 3799694
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The Nice Guys is a brilliant neo-noir action-comedy that pairs Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe in an unexpectedly perfect duo. Set in the 1970s, the film’s witty script, stylish direction, and impeccable comedic timing make it a standout. The chemistry between the leads and the clever plot twists ensure a thoroughly enjoyable experience.