The Top Action Movies Currently Streaming on Netflix

Need a thrilling boost while watching Netflix? No worries, we have got you covered. Take a look at our handpicked selection of the top-notch action movies available on Netflix. Whether you prefer adventurous flicks, blockbuster superhero films, or classic kung fu movies, we have it all. Say goodbye to the usual and discover an exciting variety of action films that will add some excitement to your evening.

In search of a unique viewing experience? Explore our collection of the finest fantasy and horror movies on the platform, or browse through our recommendations for the best films from all genres available on Netflix.

Disclaimer: These titles are available on US Netflix.

Editor's note: This article was updated November 2023 to include Ballerina.

Extraction (2020)

Image via Netflix

Run Time: 1 hr 56 min | Director: Sam Hargrave

Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Rudhraksh Jaiswal, Randeep Hooda, Golshifteh Farahani, Pankaj Tripathi, and David Harbour

It's no surprise that the action found in Extraction, a Netflix original film, is absolutely breathtaking. Director Sam Hargrave's impressive background as the stunt coordinator for films like Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Endgame undoubtedly contributes to the film's spectacular sequences. Extraction, written by co-director of Endgame, Joe Russo, is a gritty and violently intense action-packed film that follows a disillusioned mercenary's mission to guide a young kidnapped boy out of Dhaka, Bangladesh. Along the way, a strong bond forms between the mercenary and the boy, as he embraces his role as a protector. With Chris Hemsworth delivering a compelling lead performance and Hargrave showcasing his creative camera work, the action in this film is simply mind-blowing. Filled with rawness and graphic visuals, Extraction guarantees to pump your adrenaline. - Adam Chitwood

Ballerina (2023)

Image via Netflix

Run Time: 1 hr 32 min | Director: Chung-Hyun Lee

Cast: Kefas Brand, Kim Ji-hoon, Jeon Jeong-seo

Ballerina is an electrifying tale of relentless vengeance, chronicling the journey of a former bodyguard seeking retribution in honor of her recently deceased best friend. Unapologetically raw and explosive, this gripping film fearlessly delves into the dark and haunting realities of sexual slavery. Crafted by the talented Chung-Hyun Lee, Ballerina exudes sophistication through its captivating script and visually stunning cinematography. Balancing heart-stopping action with moments of respite, this adrenaline-fueled adventure caters to every action enthusiast, offering a diverse range of thrilling encounters, from intense shoot-outs to meticulously choreographed fight sequences. Embark on this exhilarating ride, as Ballerina emerges as an action aficionado's ultimate dream. - Jake Hodges

Heart of Stone (2023)

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Run Time: 2 hr 2 min | Genre: Crime, Thriller | Director: Tom Harper

Cast: Gal Gadot, Jamie Dornan, Alia Bhatt

Director Tom Harper (The Aeronauts) teams up with Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman) and Jamie Dornan (Fifty Shades of Grey) for a thrilling spy movie inspired by the hugely successful Mission: Impossible franchise. Heart of Stone, the film's central McGuffin, revolves around the highly debated subject of Artificial Intelligence. Gadot portrays Rachel Stone, an intelligence agent for The Charter, tasked with safeguarding a powerful AI. In Heart of Stone, Gadot showcases her acting skills as she embodies a witty and determined agent who confronts seemingly insurmountable challenges. - Tauri Miller

Extraction 2 (2023)

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Run Time: 2 hr 2 min | Director: Sam Hargrave

Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Golshifteh Farahani, Adam Bessa

Writer Joe Russo and director Sam Hargrave join forces once more to deliver a gripping action thriller filled with intense gunfire, brutal combat, and jaw-dropping set pieces. Prepare to have your arm worked to the bone as you pump your fists in excitement. Chris Hemsworth reprises his role as Tyler Rake, injecting the performance with limitless charm. In this second installment, he delves deeper into the character, exploring the emotional and physical strain of being a black ops mercenary and the aftermath of his near-death experience. This film surpasses its predecessor in every aspect, guaranteeing delight for fans of the franchise. – Tauri Miller

The Mother (2023)

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Run Time: 1 hr 57 min | Director: Niki Caro

Cast: Jennifer Lopez, Joseph Fiennes, Paul Raci, Gael García Bernal

The Mother, directed by Niki Caro, is an enthralling drama that artfully blends tender emotional moments, thrilling action sequences, and captivating fight choreography. Combining elements of Taken and Hanna, this film centers around Jennifer Lopez as a skilled assassin with a military background who is compelled to come out of hiding in order to safeguard her estranged daughter. Opposite Lopez, Gael García Bernal and Joseph Fiennes (known for their roles in The Handmaid's Tale) deliver powerful performances as menacing villains, providing an opportunity for Lopez to demonstrate both her physical strength and emotional vulnerability. The Mother fearlessly delves into intense dramatic scenes, allowing Lopez to seamlessly transition from heart-wrenching moments to action-packed stunts. – Yael Tygiel

The Woman King (2022)

Image via Sony Pictures

Run Time: 2 hrs 15 min | Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood

Cast: Viola Davis, Thuso Mbedu, Lashana Lynch, Sheila Atim, John Boyega

The Woman King, directed by the incomparable Gina Prince-Bythewood, is a masterpiece of perseverance and passion. It is a film that draws inspiration from a historical elite all-female warrior unit in West Africa during the 17th century. Crafted from a glorious screenplay by Dana Stevens, The Woman King features Viola Davis as General Nanisca, the leader of the Agojie. She not only liberates captured civilians who were abducted and trafficked but also trains young women to join her team. The film showcases a breakout performance from Thuso Mbedu, who impressively holds her own alongside heavy hitters like Davis and Lashana Lynch. The Woman King has received praise for its remarkable action choreography and a touching story. – Yael Tygiel

Bullet Train (2022)

Run Time: 2 hrs 7 min | Director: David Leitch

Cast: Brad Pitt, Joey King, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Brian Tyree Henry, Andrew Koji

Bullet Train is a visually stunning masterpiece, filled with breathtaking stunts, captivating use of colors, and exhilarating physical action. Helmed by the brilliant director David Leitch (known for Deadpool 2), Bullet Train boasts an extraordinary ensemble cast, featuring the likes of Brad Pitt, Brian Tyree Henry (of Eternals fame), Joey King, Aaron Taylor-Johnson (from The King's Man), and Andrew Koji. The film presents a captivating narrative that intricately weaves together the journeys of diverse characters, unearthing unexpected twists and unveiling intriguing secrets. Bullet Train goes beyond mindless action, as Leitch skillfully incorporates delightful celebrity cameos, including the sensational Bad Bunny and the remarkable Sandra Bullock (known for her role in The Lost City). – Yael Tygiel

Close (2019)

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Run Time: 1 hr 34 min | Director: Vicky Jewson

Cast: Noomi Rapace, Olivia Jewson, Abdellatif Chaouqi, Sophie Nélisse

Close, directed by Vicky Jewson and co-written by Rupert Whitaker, stars Noomi Rapace in an awe-inspiring performance as Sam Carlson, a bodyguard safeguarding an heiress from assassins in Sudan. Drawing inspiration from renowned bodyguard Jacquie Davis, Close combines electrifying action akin to Jason Bourne, Taken, and the Mission: Impossible series with a unique twist. The predictable narrative does not overshadow the captivating stunts and intricate fight choreography, making Close an exhilarating and captivating watch. – Yael Tygiel

Kate (2021)

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Run Time: 1 hr 46 min | Director: Cedric Nicolas-Troyan

Cast: Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Woody Harrelson, Miku Patricia Martineau, Michiel Huisman

Written in the style of a thrilling Jason Statham movie, Kate stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Birds of Prey) as a meticulous and highly skilled assassin racing against time to uncover the identity of the person who poisoned her, seeking vengeance before her life slips away. In typical fashion, the film is filled with exhilarating and pulse-pounding fight sequences, as director Cedric Nicolas-Troyan injects a burst of color and excitement into the traditionally male-dominated action genre. Crafted by screenwriter Umair Aleem, Kate showcases an array of action-packed moments, encompassing hand-to-hand combat, intense gunfights, thrilling car chases, and, of course, epic sword battles. With a vibrant cinematographic palette, Nicolas-Troyan unveils a captivating and visually stunning narrative that intertwines futuristic technology and the captivating backdrop of modern-day Japan. – Yael Tygiel

The Gray Man (2022)

Run Time: 2 hr 9 min | Director: Russo Brothers

Cast: Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans, Ana de Armas

The Gray Man, with a staggering budget of $200 million, stands out as one of Netflix's most expensive films to date. This is evident in its top-tier cast, global set pieces, and high-octane action sequences. At the heart of the movie lies Six (Ryan Gosling), a CIA black ops assassin, and his counterpart Dani (Ana de Armas), a fellow agent, who find themselves relentlessly pursued by Lloyd Hansen (Chris Evans), a psychopathic former CIA agent. From unraveling dark secrets within the agency to nerve-wracking hostage situations, The Gray Man delivers everything you could hope for in a film of this genre. – Taylor Gates

6 Underground (2019)

Image via Netflix

Run Time: 2 hr 8 min | Director: Michael Bay

Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Mélanie Laurent, Corey Hawkins, Adria Arjona, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Ben Hardy

6 Underground is undoubtedly the most outrageous offering from Michael Bay’s extensive filmography. And that’s saying something. Who could have imagined that Bay, after directing the explosive Transformers and Bad Boys movies, would be able to push the boundaries even further? Well, Netflix clearly did. This globe-trotting action flick is so chaotic that it borders on being incomprehensible, but let’s be honest, nobody watches a Bay film for its intricate plot. If you are craving the ultimate dose of “Bayhem,” 6 Underground delivers it with gusto. Thanks to the creative genius of Deadpool screenwriters Paul Wernick and Rheet Reese, Ryan Reynolds spews out an array of outrageously absurd one-liners that perfectly complement the mind-boggling spectacle. - Liam Gaughan

Ava (2020)

Image via Vertical Entertainment

Run Time: 1 hr 36 min | Director: Tate Taylor

Cast: Jessica Chastain, John Malkovich, Common, Geena Davis, Colin Farrel, Diana Silvers

Ava is a captivating film that follows the journey of Ava (Jessica Chastain), a former soldier who has transitioned into an assassin. Assigned missions by her trusted handler/mentor Duke (John Malkovich), Ava strives to balance her deadly profession with her desire to reconnect with her estranged family. Approaching retirement, Ava faces opposition from her fellow agency members who are reluctant to let her go. As she grapples with the complexities of her personal life and the constant threat of her former colleagues hunting her down, Chastain delivers an exceptional performance, seamlessly portraying Ava's strength and competence as an assassin as well as her genuine care for her loved ones. In an industry dominated by male assassins and spies such as John Wick, Jason Bourne, and James Bond, the addition of Ava to the league of powerful female agents on screen is truly inspiring. - Brynna Arens

Gunpowder Milkshake (2021)

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Run Time: 1 hr 54 min | Director: Navot Papushado

Cast: Karen Gillan, Lena Headey, Chloe Coleman, Carla Gugino, Michelle Yeoh, Angela Bassett, Paul Giamatti

Gunpowder Milkshake, starring a female-led cast, is not just an action film but also a poignant drama exploring the reconciliation between a mother and daughter after a past abandonment. In the movie, when a crime syndicate targets a child (Chloe Coleman), Sam (Karen Gillan), a dangerous hitwoman, teams up with her estranged mother (Lena Headey) to safeguard the child. Alongside them, an army of skilled assassins, including Angela Bassett, Carla Gugino, and Michelle Yeoh, join forces in the fight. Gunpowder Milkshake enchants viewers with its distinct cinematography and astounding fight choreography, creating a visually thrilling experience. - Meredith Loftus

The Old Guard (2020)

Image via Netflix

Run Time: 2 hr 5 min | Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood

Cast: Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, Marwan Kenzari, Luca Marinelli, Harry Melling, Veronica Ngo, Matthias Schoenaerts, Chiwetel Ejiofor

Charlize Theron, a remarkable action star of our time, has mesmerized audiences with her formidable physical abilities and piercing glares in movies like Mad Max: Fury Road and Atomic Blonde. In Netflix's The Old Guard, Theron gets the opportunity to exhibit these talents once again in a captivating adaptation of a comic book. She portrays the ancient leader of a group of immortal assassins. Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, known for her work in Love & Basketball and Beyond the Lights, this blockbuster action film offers more than just explosive action sequences and dynamic fight scenes (although it definitely delivers on those fronts). It delves deeper into the genre, recognizing the brutal and repugnant nature of violence and killing, and acknowledging the toll it takes on the individuals involved. In essence, it is infused with humanity and empathy, adding a weightiness to the exhilarating thrills without detracting from your enjoyment. And yes, I must confess, I also appreciate Theron's captivating portrayal of a fierce warrior. It's a delicate balance to achieve, but Bythewood manages it effortlessly, even infusing her signature touch for romance into the narrative.

The Harder They Fall (2021)

Image via Netflix

Run Time: 2 hours and 19 minutes | Directed by Jeymes Samuel, also known as The Bullitts

Starring: Jonathan Majors, Idris Elba, Zazie Beetz, Regina King, Delroy Lindo, Lakeith Stanfield, RJ Cyler, Danielle Deadwyler, Edi Gathegi, and Deon Cole

The Harder They Fall, a Revisionist Western film, tells the story of Nat Love, a cowboy whose parents are tragically killed by an outlaw. After the outlaw is released from prison, Love joins forces with his gang to seek revenge on his mortal enemy. The movie boasts an exceptional ensemble cast, with many characters drawing inspiration from real-life individuals of the 19th century. Whether you're a fan of the western genre or not, this meticulously crafted narrative is sure to fulfill your craving for exhilarating action! - Remus Noronha

The Night Comes for Us (2018)

Image via Netflix

Run Time: 2 hr 1 min | Director: Timo Tjahjanto

Cast: Joe Taslim, Iko Uwais, Julie Estelle, Zack Lee, Sunny Pang, Hannah Al Rashid

The Night Comes for Us, directed by Timo Tjhajanto, offers a fresh perspective on the art of the splatter fight scene. This Netflix action film is a relentless display of bloody and brutal combat, making it Tjahjanto's best feature film to date. The story follows a criminal turned war criminal seeking redemption, providing a solid foundation for the intense action and carnage. With a cast filled with familiar faces for action enthusiasts, including Joe Taslim, Julie Estelle, Zack Lee, and the incredible Iko Uwais in a supporting role, fans of The Raid films will not be disappointed. The film excels in delivering captivating fight scenes that will leave audiences breathless and thoroughly entertained. While the shared cast with The Raid will undoubtedly attract attention, The Night Comes for Us stands impressively on its own. -- Haleigh Foutch

Red Notice (2021)

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Run Time: 1 hr 58 min | Director: Rawson Marshall Thurber

Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, Gal Gadot, Ritu Arya, and Chris Diamantopoulos

One of the most popular Netflix movies of recent times is Red Notice, which can be described as nothing short of awesome! While the plot may not reach the level of Ocean's Eleven, this heist film definitely earns points for its humor and the exceptional performances by the lead actors. Ryan Reynolds takes on the role of Nolan Booth, the world's second-best art thief, who is coerced into joining forces with FBI profiler John Hartley (played by Dwayne Johnson) after they both fall victim to a framing orchestrated by the world's greatest art thief, a mysterious woman known as the Bishop (portrayed by Gal Gadot). What follows is an exhilarating global cat-and-mouse chase, as Booth and Hartley find themselves in a race against the Bishop to retrieve a priceless artifact. Red Notice is a thoroughly entertaining movie that delivers impressive action sequences and a plethora of side-splitting moments, and it already has two sequels underway. - Remus Noronha

Avengement (2019)

Image via Samuel Goldwyn Films

Run Time: 1 hr 28 min | Director: Jesse V. Johnson

Cast: Scott Adkins, Craig Fairbrass, Thomas Turgoose, Nick Moran, Kiersten Wareing

The primary attraction here lies in observing Scott Adkins engage in various brawls. Whether it be bar brawls, prison brawls, or any kind of brawl really, Adkins never fails to deliver. If this appeals to you, then prepare yourself for Avengement, the latest collaboration between Adkins, the champion of DTV action, and his Savage Dog and Accident Man director, Jesse V. Johnson. In this particular film, Adkins and Johnson clearly draw inspiration from the British crime thrillers of Guy Ritchie and Matthew Vaughn, infused with an abundance of roundhouse kicks. Initially perplexing yet ultimately gratifying, the film's structure follows Adkins' character, Cain Burgess, who has recently been released from prison, as he holds those responsible for his horrific incarceration hostage in a local pub, journeying through a series of flashbacks while gripping them at gunpoint. Adkins' physical prowess is unrivaled among action performers, and together with the seasoned stuntman Johnson, he is afforded ample opportunities to showcase his skills through meticulously filmed scenes, montages, and set-pieces. For enthusiasts of DTV action films, this one is truly a gem, containing genuinely unexpected moments of violence. — Haleigh Foutch

Triple Frontier (2019)

Image via Netflix

Run Time: 2 hr 5 min | Director: J.C. Chandor

Cast: Ben Affleck, Oscar Isaac, Charlie Hunnam, Pedro Pascal, Garrett Hedlund

If your dad hasn't seen Triple Frontier yet, then it's safe to say that it isn't his favorite movie. Triple Frontier, directed by J.C. Chandor (known for A Most Violent Year), and co-written by Mark Boal (of Zero Dark Thirty fame), is like the ultimate man-cave experience. It brings together elements of military drama, action-packed heists, and a bond of brotherly love between its male characters. Starring Oscar Isaac as Santiago "Pope" Garcia, a DEA agent who reunites his former Special Forces team to carry out a robbery at a drug lord's jungle hideout. Isaac is joined by a formidable crew consisting of Ben Affleck, Charlie Hunnam, Pedro Pascal, and Garrett Hedlund. What sets Triple Frontier apart is that it isn't just about explosions and helicopters; it delves into the aftermath of violence, exploring the lives of men who were trained to be warriors once the guns fall silent. - Vinnie Mancuso

Beyond Skyline (2017)

Image via Vertical Entertainment

Run Time: 1 hr 46 min | Director: Liam O’Donnell

Cast: Frank Grillo, Jonny Weston, Bojana Novakovic, Iko Uwais, Yayan Ruhian, Antonio Fargas, Lindsey Morgan, Betty Gabriel

Beyond Skyline is an incredible revelation. Who would have thought that the much-maligned 2010 sci-fi film Skyline could birth a successful franchise? And yet, its follow-up, Beyond Skyline, defies all expectations, delivering an exhilarating, action-packed thrill ride across the globe. This proud, pulp B-movie showcases aliens that gruesomely extract brains, with Frank Grillo starring as a cop locked in a conflict with his son (Jonny Weston) amidst an alien invasion. As the film unfolds, it hurtles through various locations and introduces a plethora of characters, packing enough sci-fi insanity for an entire book series into one feature film. From subterranean tunnels to the desolate wasteland of Los Angeles, and even on to an alien ship and the far reaches of Laos, Mark joins forces with rebel fighters to combat the extraterrestrial menace. With Frank Grillo taking on the role of an action hero juggling a baby in one hand and a space-blaster in the other, Antonio Fargas portraying a Vietnam vet who throws around the term "bitch," Iko Uwais and Yaya Ruhain engaging in epic battles against colossal aliens, and a bona fide Kaiju showdown, Beyond Skyline may not cater to everyone's tastes. However, for fans of outlandish B-movies, this feature debut from writer-director Liam O'Donnell checks all the right boxes. - Haleigh Foutch

Editor's P/S

As an action movie enthusiast, I am thrilled to see the diverse and exciting selection of films available on Netflix. From the intense and gritty Extraction, to the stylish and visually stunning Ballerina, there is something for every fan of the genre. Extraction, directed by Sam Hargrave, delivers non-stop action and adrenaline-pumping sequences that showcase Chris Hemsworth's impressive physicality and the director's creative camerawork. The film's raw and graphic visuals create a sense of realism and intensity that is sure to leave viewers on the edge of their seats.

On the other hand, Ballerina, directed by Chung-Hyun Lee, takes a more stylized and sophisticated approach to the action genre. The film follows a former bodyguard on a quest for vengeance, and features a diverse range of thrilling encounters, from intense shoot-outs to meticulously choreographed fight sequences. The film's captivating script and visually stunning cinematography create a dark and haunting atmosphere that will appeal to fans of action movies with a more artistic flair. Overall, I am excited to explore the top action movies currently streaming on Netflix and highly recommend them to anyone looking for an adrenaline rush.