Ranking The Best Action Movies Of All Time
2. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
“Terminator 2: Judgment Day” is a 1991 science fiction action film directed by James Cameron. The movie stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as a reprogrammed Terminator cyborg, who is sent back in time to protect John Connor (Edward Furlong), a young boy who is destined to become the leader of a future human resistance against the machines.
The movie begins with a new, more advanced Terminator model, the T-1000 (Robert Patrick), being sent back in time to kill John before he can fulfill his destiny. The T-1000 is a shape-shifting machine made of liquid metal, which makes it nearly impossible to stop.
John is living with his foster parents when the two Terminators arrive from the future, and he is forced to flee with the help of the reprogrammed Terminator from the first film, who has been sent back in time to protect him. Together, they embark on a mission to prevent the T-1000 from killing John and altering the future.
The movie is known for its groundbreaking visual effects, including the seamless integration of computer-generated imagery with live-action footage. It also features thrilling action sequences, including car chases and shootouts, and a strong emotional core, as John develops a bond with the Terminator and learns the importance of sacrifice and responsibility.
“Terminator 2: Judgment Day” was a critical and commercial success and is widely regarded as one of the best action movies of all time. It won four Academy Awards and has since become a cultural icon, influencing countless other movies, TV shows, and video games.
1. Die Hard (1988)
“Die Hard” is a 1988 action film directed by John McTiernan. The movie stars Bruce Willis as John McClane, a New York City police officer who becomes trapped in a Los Angeles skyscraper during a terrorist attack led by the ruthless Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman).
The movie begins with McClane arriving in Los Angeles to reconcile with his estranged wife, Holly (Bonnie Bedelia), who works in the Nakatomi Corporation building. While attending a Christmas party on the building’s 30th floor, McClane becomes aware of the terrorist plot when Gruber and his men storm the building and take everyone hostage.
McClane, who is separated from the other hostages, sets out to stop the terrorists and rescue his wife. He uses his police training and quick thinking to outsmart the terrorists and cause as much chaos as possible, while also trying to avoid being killed himself.
The movie is known for its intense action sequences, including McClane’s explosive battles with the terrorists and his death-defying stunts. It also features a strong supporting cast, including Reginald VelJohnson as a sympathetic police officer who tries to help McClane from outside the building, and Paul Gleason as an inept deputy police chief who initially dismisses McClane’s claims of a terrorist attack.
“Die Hard” was a critical and commercial success and has since become a classic of the action genre. It has spawned four sequels and is widely regarded as one of Willis’s best roles. The movie has been praised for its thrilling action, sharp writing, and iconic performances, particularly Rickman’s portrayal of Gruber as a charismatic and intelligent villain.
As we come to the end of our journey through the best action movies of all time, it’s clear that this genre has a special place in the hearts of movie-goers. From the adrenaline-pumping chases and explosions to the heart-stopping fights and daring stunts, action movies have always had the power to transport us to another world and leave us breathless.
Whether you’re a fan of classic action flicks like Die Hard and Terminator 2: Judgment Day, or more recent entries like Mad Max: Fury Road and John Wick, the best action movies have always pushed the boundaries of what’s possible on the big screen.
