Action movies often dominate the box office and captivate audiences with their adrenaline-fueled sequences, larger-than-life heroes, and explosive set pieces. However, amidst the blockbusters that make headlines, there are hidden gems that slip through the cracks—movies that deliver the same thrills, emotional depth, and gripping narratives but remain underappreciated.
This list is a tribute to those underrated action films of the last decade—stories that brought fresh perspectives, inventive action choreography, and unforgettable moments to the genre. These movies may not have received the spotlight they deserved, but they stand as a testament to the brilliance that thrives on the fringes of mainstream cinema. Starting from number 15, we dive into two films that blend style and substance in extraordinary ways.
15. The Villainess (2017)
Director: Jung Byung-gil
Cast: Kim Ok-bin, Shin Ha-kyun, Sung Joon
Why It’s Underrated: Dazzling Action and Emotional Storytelling
South Korea has produced some of the most inventive action films in recent years, and The Villainess is a prime example. The movie opens with an unforgettable, jaw-dropping sequence—a single-take fight scene filmed in a first-person perspective that plunges viewers directly into the chaos. Kim Ok-bin stars as Sook-hee, a trained assassin seeking vengeance for the murder of her father while grappling with the complexities of her double life as a mother and a killer.
What sets The Villainess apart is its seamless fusion of intense, innovative action choreography with a deeply emotional narrative. The film’s stylish cinematography and intricate plot twists elevate it beyond a typical revenge thriller. Despite its critical acclaim, The Villainess didn’t garner the widespread recognition it deserved. For fans of action that packs a visceral and emotional punch, this is a must-watch.
14. Haywire (2011)
Director: Steven Soderbergh
Cast: Gina Carano, Ewan McGregor, Michael Fassbender, Channing Tatum
Why It’s Underrated: Sleek, Realistic Action with a Star-Making Performance
Steven Soderbergh ventured into the action genre with Haywire, crafting a sleek and grounded spy thriller that showcased MMA fighter Gina Carano in her breakout role. Carano plays Mallory Kane, a highly skilled black-ops agent betrayed by her team and hunted by her former employers. As she pieces together the conspiracy against her, Mallory fights her way through a gauntlet of high-stakes encounters, each executed with precision and brutal realism.
What makes Haywire unique is its commitment to authenticity. The action scenes—whether hand-to-hand combat or high-octane chases—eschew flashy effects in favor of raw, visceral choreography. The film boasts an all-star supporting cast, including Ewan McGregor, Michael Fassbender, and Channing Tatum, but Carano’s commanding presence steals the show. Haywire may have flown under the radar upon its release, but it remains a polished, intelligent entry in the action genre, deserving of far more recognition than it received.
13. Greenland (2020)
Director: Ric Roman Waugh
Cast: Gerard Butler, Morena Baccarin, Roger Dale Floyd
Why It’s Underrated: A Disaster Film with a Heartfelt Emotional Core
Unlike typical disaster movies that focus solely on spectacle, Greenland blends large-scale destruction with a deeply personal narrative. The film follows John Garrity (Gerard Butler) and his estranged wife, Allison (Morena Baccarin), as they race against time to secure a spot in a bunker before a planet-destroying comet impacts Earth.
What sets Greenland apart is its emphasis on human drama. The tension is palpable as John and his family face moral dilemmas, emotional reunions, and the raw fear of survival. Gerard Butler delivers one of his most grounded performances, showing vulnerability amidst the chaos. Though it didn’t dominate the cultural conversation like other disaster movies, Greenland earned a loyal fanbase for its mix of gripping action and emotional resonance.
12. Atomic Blonde (2017)
Director: David Leitch
Cast: Charlize Theron, James McAvoy, Sofia Boutella
Why It’s Underrated: High-Octane Action with Slick, Stylish Visuals
Atomic Blonde is a neon-soaked Cold War spy thriller that cemented Charlize Theron’s status as one of the finest action stars of her generation. Set in 1989 Berlin, Theron plays Lorraine Broughton, an MI6 agent tasked with retrieving a stolen list of undercover operatives while navigating a web of double agents and betrayals.
The movie is a visual feast, with its moody lighting and stylish cinematography capturing the chaotic energy of Berlin on the brink of revolution. What truly stands out, however, is the action. The long-take staircase fight scene is one of the most brutal and technically impressive sequences ever put to film, showcasing Theron’s physical dedication to the role. While Atomic Blonde garnered critical acclaim, it remains somewhat overlooked compared to other films from its director, David Leitch (John Wick). It’s a stylish masterpiece that deserves more attention.
11. Shadow (2018)
Director: Zhang Yimou
Cast: Deng Chao, Sun Li, Zheng Kai
Why It’s Underrated: A Stunning Fusion of Martial Arts and Artful Cinematography
Chinese director Zhang Yimou is no stranger to creating visually breathtaking films, and Shadow is no exception. This wuxia epic explores themes of power, identity, and deception in a kingdom on the brink of war. The story follows a cunning commander who uses a lookalike “shadow” to manipulate events from behind the scenes.
The film is a masterclass in style, with its black-and-white aesthetic evoking ink-wash paintings. The action scenes are choreographed like a dance, blending artistry with intensity, particularly during the iconic umbrella-blade battles. Despite its critical acclaim and festival success, Shadow flew under the radar for many Western audiences, making it a true hidden gem for fans of martial arts cinema.
10. Wheelman (2017)
Director: Jeremy Rush
Cast: Frank Grillo, Caitlin Carmichael, Garret Dillahunt
Why It’s Underrated: A Pulse-Pounding Thriller That Never Lets Up
Frank Grillo shines in Wheelman, a high-octane thriller that unfolds almost entirely from the confines of a getaway car. Grillo plays a driver who gets caught in a double-cross during a bank heist and must outwit his pursuers to protect his family.
The film’s claustrophobic setting creates relentless tension, immersing the audience in the driver’s point of view. Grillo delivers a powerhouse performance, balancing grit and vulnerability, while the film’s lean runtime ensures there’s never a dull moment. Despite its inventive approach and tight execution, Wheelman didn’t receive the attention it deserved, making it a must-watch for action enthusiasts.
9. Hardcore Henry (2015)
Director: Ilya Naishuller
Cast: Sharlto Copley, Danila Kozlovsky, Haley Bennett
Why It’s Underrated: A First-Person Action Spectacle Unlike Anything Else
Hardcore Henry is a bold experiment in filmmaking, shot entirely from a first-person perspective, immersing viewers directly into the chaos. The story follows Henry, a man brought back to life as a cyborg who must rescue his wife from a telekinetic warlord. Along the way, he battles mercenaries, uncovers secrets about his identity, and teams up with the enigmatic Jimmy (Sharlto Copley).
The movie’s relentless pace, creative action choreography, and innovative cinematography make it a visceral experience. Sharlto Copley’s varied performances as multiple versions of Jimmy add a quirky charm to the film. While its unconventional style might not appeal to everyone, Hardcore Henry is a must-see for fans of adrenaline-fueled cinema looking for something fresh and groundbreaking.
8. Bushwick (2017)
Directors: Cary Murnion, Jonathan Milott
Cast: Dave Bautista, Brittany Snow, Angelic Zambrana
Why It’s Underrated: A Tense Urban Survival Thriller with a Unique Concept
Bushwick plunges viewers into the chaos of a sudden invasion in Brooklyn, New York. The film follows Lucy (Brittany Snow), a young woman navigating her way through a war-torn neighborhood with the help of Stupe (Dave Bautista), a battle-hardened ex-marine.
What sets Bushwick apart is its immersive single-take style, which places viewers right in the middle of the action. The film’s grounded performances and raw intensity make it a compelling watch, while its commentary on societal divides adds a layer of depth. Despite its innovative execution and timely themes, Bushwick didn’t gain widespread recognition, but it remains a gem for action and thriller enthusiasts.
7. Free Fire (2016)
Director: Ben Wheatley
Cast: Brie Larson, Cillian Murphy, Armie Hammer
Why It’s Underrated: A Darkly Comedic Shootout That Redefines the Action Genre
Free Fire is a wickedly entertaining film that turns a single location into a battleground of chaos. Set in 1970s Boston, the story revolves around an arms deal gone horribly wrong, trapping two criminal factions in an epic warehouse shootout.
The film’s humor, sharp dialogue, and quirky characters make it stand out in the action genre. Brie Larson, Cillian Murphy, and Armie Hammer deliver fantastic performances, each bringing charm and wit to their roles. The shootout sequences are both tense and absurdly funny, maintaining a perfect balance of action and comedy. Free Fire is a hidden gem that showcases how much creativity can come from a simple premise.
6. The Foreigner (2017)
Director: Martin Campbell
Cast: Jackie Chan, Pierce Brosnan, Charlie Murphy
Why It’s Underrated: Jackie Chan’s Grittiest Performance in Years
The Foreigner sees Jackie Chan stepping away from his usual comedic action roles to deliver a deeply emotional and intense performance. Chan plays Quan, a father seeking justice for his daughter’s death in a terrorist attack. His pursuit leads him to Liam Hennessy (Pierce Brosnan), a government official with a murky past tied to the incident.
The movie blends explosive action with a gripping political thriller narrative. Jackie Chan brings a raw vulnerability to his role, showing a side of him rarely seen on screen. Martin Campbell’s direction ensures that the tension never wanes, and the interplay between Chan and Brosnan is electrifying. While it received some attention, The Foreigner deserves a spot among the decade’s most compelling action dramas.
5. The Night Comes for Us (2018)
Director: Timo Tjahjanto
Cast: Joe Taslim, Iko Uwais, Julie Estelle
Why It’s Underrated: Brutal, Stylish, and One of the Most Visceral Action Movies Ever
The Night Comes for Us is an unapologetically violent and visually stunning martial arts thriller. The film follows Ito (Joe Taslim), a former Triad enforcer who turns against his own syndicate to protect a young girl. This decision sparks a blood-soaked war as Ito faces relentless assassins, including his old friend Arian (Iko Uwais).
The movie’s intense fight choreography and unrelenting action sequences are second to none, showcasing a mix of traditional martial arts and gritty, street-style brawling. The emotional stakes add depth to the relentless carnage, and Timo Tjahjanto’s direction ensures every moment is charged with tension. While it may not be for the faint of heart, The Night Comes for Us is a masterpiece for action fans seeking a visceral cinematic experience.
4. Upgrade (2018)
Director: Leigh Whannell
Cast: Logan Marshall-Green, Betty Gabriel, Harrison Gilbertson
Why It’s Underrated: A Clever Blend of Sci-Fi and Action That Packs a Punch
Upgrade is a dark, futuristic revenge story with a brilliant twist. Logan Marshall-Green stars as Grey Trace, a man left paralyzed after a mugging that kills his wife. He’s given a second chance at life through an experimental AI implant called STEM, which enhances his physical abilities and aids his quest for vengeance.
What makes Upgrade so compelling is its seamless fusion of high-octane action and thought-provoking sci-fi themes. The fight scenes are choreographed with precision, utilizing STEM’s AI abilities to create a unique, almost robotic combat style. Leigh Whannell’s direction keeps the film taut, while its exploration of technology’s darker side gives it lasting relevance. Despite its critical acclaim, Upgrade remains criminally underappreciated and deserves a broader audience.
3. Copshop (2021)
Director: Joe Carnahan
Cast: Gerard Butler, Frank Grillo, Alexis Louder
Why It’s Underrated: A Tightly Wound, Character-Driven Action Thriller
Copshop takes the classic cat-and-mouse formula and flips it into a sharp, character-driven action film. The story revolves around a con artist (Frank Grillo) who intentionally gets arrested to evade a hitman (Gerard Butler), only to find himself locked up with the assassin. Rookie cop Valerie Young (Alexis Louder) becomes an unwitting participant in the chaos as a deadly standoff unfolds in the police station.
The film’s witty dialogue, gripping tension, and standout performances elevate it above standard action fare. Alexis Louder steals the show as the resourceful and tough-as-nails cop, while Gerard Butler and Frank Grillo bring depth and charisma to their morally ambiguous roles. With its claustrophobic setting and unexpected twists, Copshop is a masterclass in how to do more with less—a must-watch for fans of stylish thrillers.
2. Extraction (2020)
Director: Sam Hargrave
Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Rudhraksh Jaiswal, Randeep Hooda
Why It’s Underrated: A Relentless Action Thriller with an Unmatched Sense of Intensity
Extraction stars Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake, a mercenary tasked with rescuing the son of an international crime lord. What begins as a simple extraction mission turns into a battle for survival across the slums of Dhaka, Bangladesh, as Tyler faces betrayal, overwhelming odds, and a relentless fight to protect the young boy.
The film’s standout feature is its expertly choreographed action, particularly the groundbreaking long-take sequences that put viewers directly in the heart of the chaos. The fight scenes are brutal and raw, reflecting the desperation of its characters. While it may not be seen as a masterpiece in terms of its narrative depth, Extraction more than compensates with its visceral action and emotional gravitas. Chris Hemsworth proves he is more than just a Marvel hero—he’s a fierce, emotionally complex action lead, making this film a must-watch for thrill-seekers.
1. The Raid 2 (2014)
Director: Gareth Evans
Cast: Iko Uwais, Arifin Putra, Donny Alamsyah
Why It’s Underrated: The Ultimate Martial Arts Action Epic That Raises the Bar for the Genre
The Raid 2 is an action film that redefined what audiences expect from an action movie. Serving as a direct sequel to its predecessor, The Raid 2 expands on the story of Rama (Iko Uwais), a cop who goes undercover in a brutal criminal underworld. The film is an intricate tale of loyalty, betrayal, and survival, while still delivering some of the most jaw-dropping action sequences ever committed to film.
The movie takes a more cinematic approach, blending deep character development with its trademark action, and features some of the most exhilarating martial arts battles you’ll ever witness. The choreography is stunning, with fights that seem to go on forever, each one topping the last. Gareth Evans manages to build a world that feels dangerous and alive, with intense emotional stakes driving every punch. The Raid 2 is a defining moment in modern action cinema and a must-see for any fan of the genre.
Conclusion:
The Top 10 Most Underrated Action Movies of the Last Decade showcase a wide range of talents and storytelling techniques that have often flown under the radar of mainstream audiences. From pulse-pounding action to innovative filmmaking and unforgettable performances, these movies are proof that great action can come in many forms.
While films like The Raid 2 and Extraction may not always make it onto the top of everyone’s lists, their contributions to the genre are undeniable. Each one deserves to be celebrated for its ability to entertain, provoke, and, most importantly, leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
Honorable Mentions:
- Mile 22 (2018)
- Dredd (2012)
- The Guest (2014)
- A Walk Among the Tombstones (2014)
- Killer Elite (2011)
- Nerve (2016)
- The Equalizer 2 (2018)
- Seized (2020)
These honorable mentions further prove that the last decade has been brimming with hidden gems in the action genre. Whether they’re packed with impressive fight choreography, psychological twists, or unexpected emotional depth, they’re all deserving of a second look. If you’re an action fan, don’t miss these incredible films!
