Looking to inject some intense thrills into your Netflix lineup? Whether you favor adventurous Westerns, clever detectives, daring superheroes, hungry zombies, boisterous criminals, or fierce heroines, Netflix has just the flick for every action enthusiast. We recognize that sifting through the streaming service can become tiresome when all you want is to settle in and enjoy a movie. Thus, we’ve simplified the process by showcasing the most explosive, combat-driven, high-octane films offered on the platform.
Here are the 24 top action films currently available for streaming on Netflix.
25. The Departed
If gangsters are what you seek in your action-thriller, Martin Scorsese’s The Departed will not disappoint. This English-language adaptation of the 2002 Hong Kong film Infernal Affairs features Jack Nicholson as Irish mobster Frank Costello, who rules Boston with a blend of charisma and an iron grasp. Leonardo DiCaprio co-stars as Billy Costigan, a rookie officer going undercover to take him down. In a realm filled with secrets, who will make it out alive? Witnessing this crime and murder web unravel is a twisted delight. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor
How to watch: The Departed is now streaming on Netflix.
24. Train to Busan
If you prefer your action laced with horror, Train to Busan is perfect for you. This South Korean horror thriller envisions a zombie outbreak on a train packed with everyday passengers. Directed by Yeon Sang-ho, it tracks a workaholic father and his young daughter journeying to Busan. As travelers morph into flesh-hungry monsters, the action sequences escalate to hair-raising intensity. You’ll never view a train the same way again. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor
How to watch: Train to Busan is now streaming on Netflix.
23. Fast Five
Netflix features several entries in the Fast and Furious franchise, but Fast Five is where it truly became a must-see film series. Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel) and his crew clash with a menacing crime lord and an unyielding U.S. Diplomatic Security Service agent portrayed by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Their showdown sets the stage for future sequels. Catch them all and feel the adrenaline surge. — K.P.
How to watch: Fast Five is now streaming on Netflix.
22. Upgrade
Logan Marshall-Green stars as Grey, an auto mechanic turned formidable super-soldier after an accident leaves him paralyzed. With a computer chip implanted in him, Grey’s mind links with the tech, resulting in thrilling action sequences. — Jason Adams, Contributing Writer
How to watch: Upgrade is now streaming on Netflix.
21. Land of Bad
Land of Bad appears common at first, with soldiers trapped behind enemy lines in the Philippines. Nevertheless, it’s a solid B-movie action flick directed by William Eubank, renowned for 2020’s Underwater. The film efficiently packs in action and excitement. — J.A.
How to watch: Land of Bad is now streaming on Netflix.
20. The Man From U.N.C.L.E.
Guy Ritchie’s 2015 spy caper stars Henry Cavill as C.I.A. agent Napoleon Solo, partnering with KGB agent Illya Kuryakin (Armie Hammer). The narrative is intricate, yet Ritchie revels in the enjoyment. The film echoes the vibrant escapades of superspies, offering a unique cinematic experience. — J.A.
How to watch: The Man From U.N.C.L.E. is now streaming on Netflix.
19. Kraven the Hunter
Despite its modest Rotten Tomatoes rating, Kraven the Hunter provides wild entertainment and intense action. The Spider-Man spinoff revolves around Kraven the Hunter (Aaron Johnson) as a vigilante. The movie features fight scenes so brutal that they are definitely worth viewing. — K.P.
How to watch: Kraven the Hunter is now streaming on Netflix.
18. The Union
Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry join forces for an action-comedy that proves surprisingly endearing. Wahlberg portrays a Boston everyman, while Berry plays a globe-trotting secret agent. Together, they collaborate for The Union, meshing espionage action with romantic comedy chemistry. — K.P.
How to watch: The Union is now streaming on Netflix.
17. Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F
Eddie Murphy reprises his role as Axel Foley in this fourth chapter of the comedic crime-solving saga. The movie successfully rejuvenates the character while preserving the outrageous humor that fans adore. — K.P.
How to watch: Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F is now streaming on Netflix.
16. Jaws
Steven Spielberg’s legendary creature feature depicts a trio battling a man-eating great white shark. Although it may not be as action-filled as contemporary blockbusters, Jaws remains an anxiety-inducing classic. — K.P.
How to watch: Jaws is now streaming on Netflix.
15. Bad Boys