10 Action Movie Star Duos We Envisioned in Our Dreams

While some collaborations between well-known action stars seem obvious, they have not yet happened or never will. However, that does not stop fans from imagining what it would be like if two legendary action movie stars were to team up, even if one of them has retired or passed away.

There are common and popular dynamics between leading duos or supporting characters in action movies. The buddy-cop relationship between a seasoned professional and a reckless rookie is a classic, while a grumpy mentor and an energetic student typically push each other’s character development. Additionally, the dynamic between two adventure-savvy characters who either work well together or conflict with each other creates interesting tension. Based on these typical pairs and their past roles, it is possible to envision how certain action stars would complement each other on screen.

Emily Blunt & Keanu Reeves

Best known for Edge of Tomorrow (2014) | Best known for The Matrix (1999) and John Wick (2014).

Split image of Emily Blunt in Edge of Tomorrow and Keanu Reeves in The Matrix Resurrections - Best known for Edge of Tomorrow (2014) | Best known for The Matrix (1999) and John Wick (2014). - Emily Blunt & Keanu Reeves

One only needs to imagine Blunt in the role of Trinity, or Reeves as Cage.

Sean Connery and Chris Pratt have also shared the spotlight in action-packed films. Connery's iconic roles as James Bond and Indiana Jones' father showcase his ability to portray suave and sophisticated action heroes. On the other hand, Pratt has made a name for himself in the action genre with his roles in blockbuster franchises like "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "Jurassic World." Both actors bring charisma and charm to their characters, making them fan favorites in the world of action-adventure movies.

Best known for Dr. No (1962) | Best known for Guardians of the Galaxy (2014).

Split image of Sean Connery in Indian Jones and Christ Pratt in Jurassic World - Best known for Dr. No (1962) | Best known for Guardians of the Galaxy (2014). - Sean Connery & Chris Pratt

Alan Rickman & Bella Ramsey

While he is known for originating the role of 007, Sean Connery was excellent as the father figure character in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. He worked well with Harrison Ford for some hilarious and heartfelt scenes. Connery likely could have created equally entertaining dynamics with action stars who rose to fame later, such as Chris Pratt. Connery notably turned down the role of John Hammond in Jurassic Park, while Pratt would go on to star in the same franchise. Pratt is not the only actor who would have been an excellent co-star for Connery, who passed away in 2020.

Best known for Die Hard (1988) and Harry Potter and the Death Hallows: Part 2 (2011) | Best known for The Last of Us (2023-Present).

Bella Ramsey as Ellie in The Last of Us looking down - Best known for Die Hard (1988) and Harry Potter and the Death Hallows: Part 2 (2011) | Best known for The Last of Us (2023-Present). - Alan Rickman & Bella Ramsey

Bruce Willis & Christian Bale

In 2016, the same year that Alan Rickman passed away, Bella Ramsey made their first appearance in Game of Thrones. As Ramsey's star continues to rise, one can only imagine the potential for a dynamic on-screen pairing between them and Rickman. Perhaps Rickman could have portrayed a grumpy mentor to Ramsey's feisty student, or Ramsey could have excelled as a hero standing up against Rickman in the style of a Hans Gruber-like villain. The possibilities for their collaboration were endless, but sadly, they never had the opportunity to work together.

Best known for Die Hard (1988) and Pulp Fiction (1994) | Best known for The Dark Knight (2008).

Split image of Bruce Willis in Pulp Fiction and Christian Bale in The Dark Knight - Best known for Die Hard (1988) and Pulp Fiction (1994) | Best known for The Dark Knight (2008). - Bruce Willis & Christian Bale

Linda Hamilton and Ana de Armas both have a strong presence on screen, with their own unique styles and talents that set them apart in the world of acting. Hamilton is best known for her iconic role as Sarah Connor in the Terminator franchise, portraying a tough and resilient character who evolves into a fierce warrior. On the other hand, de Armas has made a name for herself with versatile performances in films like Blade Runner 2049 and Knives Out, showcasing her range as an actress. Both actresses have the ability to command attention and bring depth to their roles, making them a captivating pair to watch on screen.

Best known for The Terminator (1984) | Best known for No Time to Die (2021).

Linda Hamilton Sarah Connor in the desert with an assault rifle in Terminator 2 Judgment Day - Best known for The Terminator (1984) | Best known for No Time to Die (2021). - Linda Hamilton & Ana de Armas

Linda Hamilton solidified her reputation as a legendary action star through her portrayal of Sarah Connor, a role that has become iconic. In the 2019 film Terminator: Dark Fate, Hamilton reprised her role as Sarah, who is now depicted as a seasoned and tough action hero. In the movie, she teams up with the characters played by Mackenzie Davis and Natalia Reyes.

Dark Fate highlights Hamilton's potential for engaging in a buddy-cop or mentor-student dynamic, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Ana de Armas, another up-and-coming action star, has made a mark with her impressive performance in a brief sequence in No Time to Die and her upcoming role in the John Wick spinoff Ballerina. It is hoped that these two talented actresses will collaborate in the future to create a fresh and original action movie.

Will Smith & Patrick Swayze

Smith: Best known for Independence Day (1996) and Men in Black (1997) | Swayze: Best known for Road House (1989) and Point Break (1991).

Split image of Will Smith in Men in Black and Patrick Swayze in Point Break - Smith: Best known for Independence Day (1996) and Men in Black (1997) | Swayze: Best known for Road House (1989) and Point Break (1991). - Will Smith & Patrick Swayze

Will Smith and Patrick Swayze, both iconic action stars from the 1990s, never had the opportunity to share the screen together. It's intriguing to think about the potential dynamic they could have had, especially considering Smith was initially considered for a role that Swayze's Point Break co-star Keanu Reeves eventually portrayed. Both actors have proven themselves in a variety of action genres and have showcased their versatility in comedic and intense action films such as Men in Black and Road House. Sadly, Swayze passed away in 2009.

Gal Gadot & Millie Bobby Brown

Best known for Wonder Woman (2017) | Best known for Stranger Things (2016-2025).

Split image of Gal Gadot in Wonder Woman and Millie Bobby Brown in Damsel - Best known for Wonder Woman (2017) | Best known for Stranger Things (2016-2025). - Gal Gadot & Millie Bobby Brown

Gal Gadot and Millie Bobby Brown have the potential to form a dynamic mentor-student duo. If Netflix were to create a simple espionage movie, these talented actresses would undoubtedly bring it to life with their acting abilities.

Sigourney Weaver & Matt Smith

Unfortunately, the cancellation of Wonder Woman 3 means the likelihood of Gal Gadot taking on a mentor role for a protégée is slim. Known for her adventurous and skilled characters like Diana Prince and Gisele, Gadot has yet to portray a mentor figure guiding a younger woman. A potential pairing with Millie Bobby Brown could create a compelling mentor-student dynamic, especially in a straightforward espionage film that Netflix could develop for them to showcase their talents.

Best known for Alien (1979) and Avatar (2009) | Best known for Doctor Who (2010) and House of the Dragon (2022-Present).

Sigourney Weaver as Ellen Ripley Looking Concerned in Alien - Best known for Alien (1979) and Avatar (2009) | Best known for Doctor Who (2010) and House of the Dragon (2022-Present). - Sigourney Weaver & Matt Smith

Oscar Isaac and Florence Pugh have both portrayed versatile and compelling characters. Whether Isaac is embodying a conflicted hero or Pugh is depicting a complex anti-heroine, they both exhibit a depth of emotion and range in their performances. Isaac and Pugh could effortlessly bring to life a dynamic duo on screen, showcasing their chemistry and talent in a variety of roles. From partners in crime to romantic leads, they could captivate audiences with their on-screen presence and authenticity. Additionally, they could also take on the challenge of playing adversaries, engaging in a battle of wits and skill that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Best known for Star Wars: The Force Awaken (2015) | Best known for Black Widow (2021).

Split image of Oscar Isaac in Star Wars and Florence Pugh in Black Widow - Best known for Star Wars: The Force Awaken (2015) | Best known for Black Widow (2021). - Oscar Isaac & Florence Pugh

Dwayne Johnson and Michael B. Jordan share a loose connection through their successful acting careers, although they have not yet collaborated on screen. Both actors have proven their ability to lead in blockbuster action films, with Johnson starring in numerous successful franchises and Jordan making a name for himself in the Creed and Black Panther movies. It's intriguing to imagine Johnson as a fellow superhero alongside Jordan in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, perhaps as a mentor figure or rival. With their talent and popularity, it's entirely possible that Johnson could join the MCU or Jordan could enter a franchise like Fast & Furious, leading to exciting on-screen interactions between the two stars in the future.

Best known for Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019) | Best known for Creed (2015) and Black Panther (2018).

Michael B. Jordan as Adonis "Donnie" Creed in the ring in Creed. - Best known for Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019) | Best known for Creed (2015) and Black Panther (2018). - Dwayne Johnson & Michael B. Jordan

Dwayne Johnson and Michael B. Jordan are known for their contrasting character archetypes, making it intriguing to imagine them sharing the screen. Jordan's focused persona and Johnson's comedic charm would create a dynamic clash on screen. Despite their differences, both actors have delivered impressive performances in action sequences, raising anticipation for a potential collaboration. In particular, Jordan could seamlessly take on the role of the next antagonist turned ally in the Fast & Furious franchise. As a result, Johnson and Jordan stand out as a promising action duo with the potential to captivate audiences in future projects.

Editor's P/S:

This article is a captivating exploration of potential action movie collaborations between legendary and up-and-coming stars. It highlights the intriguing dynamics and chemistry that could be created on screen, leaving readers yearning for these collaborations to become a reality. The hypothetical pairings are well-conceived, showcasing the versatility and range of the actors involved. The article successfully evokes a sense of excitement and anticipation for the potential of these collaborations, leaving readers eager to see them come to life.

One particularly intriguing aspect of the article is the inclusion of actors who have passed away, such as Alan Rickman. While it is saddening to imagine what could have been, it also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy and impact of these legendary performers. Their presence in the article highlights the timeless appeal of action movies and the enduring connections they forge with audiences. Overall, this article is a thought-provoking and entertaining read that celebrates the genre and its iconic stars, while also inspiring fans to dream of the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.