25 Gripping Movies Like 'Taken'

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94%

72

8.2

In the iconic action classic "Die Hard," NYPD officer John McClane battles terrorists in a Los Angeles skyscraper on Christmas Eve. Bruce Willis delivers a memorable performance, blending wit with raw determination. The film's innovative action sequences and unforgettable villain, played by Alan Rickman, have made it a staple in the action genre. Its blend of humor, suspense, and explosive moments has solidified "Die Hard" as not just a great action movie, but also a beloved Christmas film for many.

CAST

Bruce Willis

Alan Rickman

Alexander Godunov

Bonnie Bedelia

Reginald VelJohnson

Paul Gleason

De'voreaux White

William Atherton

Hart Bochner

James Shigeta

Directed by John McTiernan

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84%

68

7.8

Jason Bourne, a man suffering from amnesia, embarks on a quest to rediscover his identity while being hunted by assassins. As he unravels the mystery of his past, high-octane chase scenes and gripping hand-to-hand combat ensue. "The Bourne Identity" redefined the spy thriller genre with its gritty realism and Matt Damon's compelling performance. Its intricate plot, combined with masterful action choreography, offers a refreshing take on the espionage narrative.

CAST

Matt Damon

Franka Potente

Chris Cooper

Clive Owen

Brian Cox

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje

Gabriel Mann

Julia Stiles

Walton Goggins

Josh Hamilton

Directed by Doug Liman

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86%

68

7.4

When retired hitman John Wick's dog, a final gift from his deceased wife, is killed by Russian gangsters, he embarks on a relentless quest for vengeance. Keanu Reeves shines in this stylish neo-noir action film, showcasing breathtaking stunts and fluid combat sequences. "John Wick" stands out for its unique world-building, introducing audiences to a captivating underworld of assassins with its own set of rules. Its blend of emotional depth and action prowess has made it a modern classic.

CAST

Keanu Reeves

Michael Nyqvist

Ian McShane

John Leguizamo

Willem Dafoe

Alfie Allen

Dean Winters

Adrianne Palicki

Lance Reddick

Bridget Moynahan

Directed by Chad Stahelski

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61%

57

7.2

Denzel Washington stars as Robert McCall, a former black ops operative who seeks justice for the oppressed and wronged. When he decides to help a young girl harassed by Russian gangsters, a violent and methodical showdown begins. "The Equalizer" is a masterclass in tension-building, with Washington delivering a performance that's both nuanced and intense. The film's meticulous action scenes and its portrayal of a hero's unwavering sense of justice make it a standout in the vigilante genre.

CAST

Denzel Washington

Marton Csokas

Chloë Grace Moretz

David Harbour

Haley Bennett

Bill Pullman

Melissa Leo

David Meunier

Johnny Skourtis

Alex Veadov

Directed by Antoine Fuqua

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78

7.3

In this high-octane thriller, Keanu Reeves stars as Jack Traven, an LAPD cop who finds himself in a deadly game of cat and mouse with a vengeful bomber. When a city bus is rigged to explode if its speed drops below 50 mph, Jack must think fast and act faster. Sandra Bullock shines as the gutsy passenger who becomes an unexpected ally. Speed is a masterclass in tension, seamlessly blending relentless action with a gripping plot. Its innovative premise and stellar performances make it a standout in the action genre, ensuring you're glued to your seat from start to finish.

CAST

Keanu Reeves

Dennis Hopper

Sandra Bullock

Jeff Daniels

Joe Morton

Alan Ruck

Glenn Plummer

Richard Lineback

Beth Grant

Hawthorne James

Directed by Jan de Bont

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74%

64

8.5

In the heart of New York City, Léon (Jean Reno), a solitary hitman with a strict code, finds his life intertwined with Mathilda (Natalie Portman), a young girl seeking revenge for her family's murder. As their bond deepens, Léon becomes her unlikely protector and mentor. Luc Besson's Léon: The Professional is a poignant tale of redemption and connection, wrapped in a cloak of thrilling action and suspense. The film's strength lies not just in its riveting sequences, but in the depth of its characters, making it a timeless classic that resonates emotionally.

CAST

Jean Reno

Natalie Portman

Gary Oldman

Danny Aiello

Peter Appel

Michael Badalucco

Ellen Greene

Elizabeth Regen

Carl J. Matusovich

Eric Challier

Directed by Luc Besson

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54%

51

6.8

Jason Statham delivers a knockout performance as Frank Martin, a meticulous mercenary driver with a strict set of rules. But when a job goes awry, and he discovers a kidnapped woman in his trunk, those rules begin to blur. Set against the backdrop of the French Riviera, The Transporter is a rollercoaster of high-speed chases and hand-to-hand combat. The film brilliantly marries European elegance with raw, unfiltered action, showcasing Statham's undeniable charisma and physical prowess. It's a stylish, adrenaline-pumping ride that redefines the action genre.

CAST

Jason Statham

Shu Qi

François Berléand

Matt Schulze

Ric Young

Doug Rand

Didier Saint Melin

Tonio Descanvelle

Laurent Desponds

Matthieu Albertini

Directed by Corey Yuen

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65

6.4

Evelyn Salt (Angelina Jolie) is a respected CIA officer, but when she's accused of being a Russian spy, her loyalty is put to the ultimate test. As she goes on the run to clear her name, a web of intrigue and deception unravels. Salt is a mesmerizing espionage thriller that keeps you guessing at every twist and turn. Angelina Jolie's magnetic performance, combined with the film's razor-sharp narrative, makes it a standout. It's a testament to the power of a strong female lead, delivering action and depth in equal measure.

CAST

Angelina Jolie

Liev Schreiber

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Daniel Olbrychski

August Diehl

Daniel Pearce

Hunt Block

Andre Braugher

Olek Krupa

Cassidy Hinkle

Directed by Phillip Noyce

2 degrees of seperation (similar to Salt)

from /25 Best Movies Like Salt: A Cinematic Journey into Espionage and Action Thrills

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In the neon-lit streets of Los Angeles, a meticulous hitman, Vincent, forces the unsuspecting cab driver, Max, to be his chauffeur for a night of assassinations. "Collateral" is a masterclass in tension, directed by the visionary Michael Mann. With Tom Cruise's chilling performance and Jamie Foxx's relatable portrayal, the film brilliantly juxtaposes the mundane with the menacing. Its atmospheric cinematography and sharp dialogue make it a standout in the crime-thriller genre.

CAST

Tom Cruise

Jamie Foxx

Jada Pinkett Smith

Mark Ruffalo

Javier Bardem

Barry Shabaka Henley

Bruce McGill

Irma P. Hall

Richard T. Jones

Directed by Michael Mann

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82%

78

8.4

After being mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years, Dae-su is released and sets out on a relentless quest for vengeance. Directed by Park Chan-wook, "Oldboy" is a visceral exploration of human psyche and revenge. Its intricate plot, combined with masterful direction and unforgettable performances, has cemented its place as a modern classic in world cinema. The film's raw emotion and shocking twists leave an indelible mark on viewers.

CAST

Choi Min-sik

Yoo Ji-tae

Kang Hye-jung

Kim Byeong-ok

Ji Dae-han

Oh Dal-su

Lee Seung-shin

Yoon Jin-seo

Oh Tae-kyung

Yoo Yeon-seok

Directed by Park Chan-wook

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39%

47

7.7

In a tale of redemption and revenge, former assassin John Creasy finds a purpose in protecting young Pita Ramos in Mexico City. When she's kidnapped, Creasy's fiery wrath is unleashed. "Man on Fire" is a gripping narrative enriched by Tony Scott's dynamic direction. Denzel Washington delivers a powerhouse performance, blending vulnerability with ferocity. The film's poignant character development and intense action sequences make it a memorable experience.

CAST

Denzel Washington

Dakota Fanning

Christopher Walken

Radha Mitchell

Marc Anthony

Giancarlo Giannini

Mickey Rourke

Rachel Ticotin

Roberto Sosa

Jesús Ochoa

Directed by Tony Scott

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63%

50

7

When a sniper kills five random victims, all evidence points to one suspect. But when he asks for Jack Reacher, a former military investigator, a deeper conspiracy unravels. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, "Jack Reacher" is a smart, no-nonsense thriller that showcases Tom Cruise's charisma and action prowess. With its meticulously crafted action scenes and compelling mystery, the film is a testament to the allure of classic detective tales in modern cinema.

CAST

Tom Cruise

Rosamund Pike

Richard Jenkins

David Oyelowo

Jai Courtney

Robert Duvall

Vladimir Sizov

Joseph Sikora

Nicole Forester

Directed by Christopher McQuarrie

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51

6.7

In this iconic '80s action classic, retired elite commando John Matrix (Arnold Schwarzenegger) embarks on a relentless mission to rescue his kidnapped daughter from mercenaries. Packed with explosive stunts and memorable one-liners, "Commando" is a testament to Schwarzenegger's unparalleled on-screen charisma. Its straightforward plot, combined with adrenaline-pumping action sequences, makes it a timeless favorite for fans of pure, unadulterated action cinema.

CAST

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Rae Dawn Chong

Dan Hedaya

Vernon Wells

James Olson

David Patrick Kelly

Alyssa Milano

Bill Duke

Drew Snyder

Sharon Wyatt

Directed by Mark L. Lester

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70%

67

7.2

"Ronin" is a masterclass in tension and intrigue, weaving a tale of mercenaries in Europe hired to retrieve a mysterious briefcase. With Robert De Niro leading a stellar cast, the film stands out for its intricate plot and some of the most exhilarating car chase sequences ever filmed. Its blend of espionage, loyalty, and betrayal showcases the art of action storytelling at its finest.

CAST

Robert De Niro

Jean Reno

Natascha McElhone

Stellan Skarsgård

Skipp Sudduth

Jonathan Pryce

Sean Bean

Michael Lonsdale

Féodor Atkine

Katarina Witt

Directed by John Frankenheimer

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66%

55

7

Jackie Chan delivers a riveting performance in "The Foreigner" as a grieving father seeking vengeance after his daughter's tragic death in a terrorist attack. This intense thriller, directed by Martin Campbell, showcases Chan in a more dramatic light, proving his versatility as an actor. The film masterfully intertwines political intrigue with personal revenge, offering both heart-pounding action and emotional depth.

CAST

Pierce Brosnan

Jackie Chan

Rory Fleck-Byrne

Ray Fearon

Charlie Murphy

Orla Brady

Michael McElhatton

Lia Williams

Dermot Crowley

Stephen Hogan

Directed by Martin Campbell

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68%

57

6.5

Liam Neeson stars as Matt Scudder, an unlicensed private detective hired to uncover the truth behind a series of grisly murders. Set against the gritty backdrop of 1990s New York City, this film is a dark and atmospheric neo-noir thriller. Neeson's compelling performance, combined with the movie's intricate storytelling and moody cinematography, makes it a must-watch for fans of suspenseful crime dramas.

CAST

Liam Neeson

Dan Stevens

David Harbour

Boyd Holbrook

Ólafur Darri Ólafsson

Astro

Mark Consuelos

Adam David Thompson

Sebastian Roché

Laura Birn

Directed by Scott Frank

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55%

55

6.6

Mel Gibson returns to the screen with a vengeance in "Edge of Darkness", playing a detective who dives deep into a world of conspiracy and corruption after the murder of his activist daughter. Directed by Martin Campbell, this film is a gripping blend of mystery and action. Gibson's raw and emotional performance, coupled with the movie's intricate plot twists, makes it a standout in the revenge-thriller genre.

CAST

Mel Gibson

Ray Winstone

Danny Huston

Bojana Novaković

Shawn Roberts

David Aaron Baker

Jay O. Sanders

Denis O'Hare

Damian Young

Caterina Scorsone

Directed by Martin Campbell

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89%

66

6.4

Mel Gibson shines in "Blood Father" as an ex-con trying to protect his estranged daughter from relentless drug dealers. Set against a dusty American backdrop, this film is a roller-coaster of chase sequences and gunfights. Beyond its action-packed exterior, it offers a touching narrative on redemption and familial bonds, proving Gibson's prowess in both action and drama.

CAST

Mel Gibson

Erin Moriarty

William H. Macy

Michael Parks

Thomas Mann

Diego Luna

Dale Dickey

Miguel Sandoval

Lori Dillen

Richard Cabral

Directed by Jean-François Richet

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100%

7.7

South Korean cinema's gem, "The Man from Nowhere", follows a reclusive pawnshop owner with a dark past as he sets out to save a young girl from a life of crime. This film is a masterful blend of heart-wrenching drama and high-octane action. Its beautifully choreographed fight scenes and the deep emotional connection between the lead characters make it a standout in international action cinema.

CAST

Won Bin

Kim Sae-ron

Kim Tae-hun

Kim Hee-won

Kim Sung-oh

Thanayong Wongtrakul

Kwak Do-won

Kim Hyo-seo

Jo Jae-yun

Song Young-chang

Directed by Lee Jeong-beom

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90%

79

7.1

Vince Vaughn delivers a career-defining performance in "Brawl in Cell Block 99" as a former boxer-turned-drug runner who ends up in a brutal prison showdown. This gritty and violent drama, directed by S. Craig Zahler, is not for the faint-hearted. Its unflinching portrayal of prison life, combined with Vaughn's intense performance, offers a raw and visceral cinematic experience that's both thrilling and thought-provoking.

CAST

Vince Vaughn

Jennifer Carpenter

Don Johnson

Udo Kier

Dion Mucciacito

Geno Segers

Mustafa Shakir

Marc Blucas

Tom Guiry

Fred Melamed

Directed by S. Craig Zahler

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41%

41

7.3

In this gritty, fast-paced thriller, Joey Gazelle, a low-ranking mobster, finds himself in a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game after a gun linked to a cop killing ends up in the wrong hands. As Joey races against time, the film masterfully weaves a tale of crime, loyalty, and redemption. Its intense narrative, combined with visually striking sequences, makes "Running Scared" a standout, showcasing director Wayne Kramer's unique storytelling prowess.

CAST

Paul Walker

Cameron Bright

Vera Farmiga

Chazz Palminteri

Karel Roden

Johnny Messner

Ivana Miličević

Alex Neuberger

Michael Cudlitz

Bruce Altman

Directed by Wayne Kramer

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81%

60

6.9

Mel Gibson shines in "Get the Gringo" as a seasoned criminal who, after a heist goes awry, finds himself in a notorious Mexican prison. Inside this lawless place, he forms an unlikely alliance with a young boy. The film brilliantly blends dark humor with riveting action, offering a fresh take on the crime genre. Its sharp dialogue and Gibson's charismatic performance make it a must-watch.

CAST

Mel Gibson

Kevin Hernandez

Daniel Giménez Cacho

Peter Stormare

Jesús Ochoa

Roberto Sosa

Dolores Heredia

Mario Zaragoza

Peter Gerety

Bob Gunton

Directed by Adrian Grünberg

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44

6.4

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson delivers a powerful performance in "Faster" as an ex-con hell-bent on avenging his brother's death. As he embarks on a relentless quest for revenge, the film unfolds with raw energy and emotion. "Faster" stands out for its compelling characters, gripping storyline, and Johnson's intense portrayal, making it a memorable addition to the action-revenge genre.

CAST

Dwayne Johnson

Billy Bob Thornton

Oliver Jackson-Cohen

Maggie Grace

Carla Gugino

Tom Berenger

Matt Gerald

Jeff Daniel Phillips

Aaron Behr

Jan Hoag

Directed by George Tillman Jr.

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Jamie Foxx stars in "Sleepless" as a morally ambiguous Las Vegas cop, Vincent Downs, who finds himself in a race against time when his son is kidnapped by a vengeful mobster. Set over one tension-filled night, the film is a rollercoaster of twists and turns. Its intricate plot, combined with Foxx's dynamic performance, ensures "Sleepless" is more than just your average action flick—it's a suspenseful journey into the city's dark underbelly.

CAST

Jamie Foxx

Michelle Monaghan

Dermot Mulroney

Scoot McNairy

David Harbour

T.I.

Gabrielle Union

Octavius J. Johnson

Inder Kumar

Sala Baker

Directed by Baran bo Odar

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47%

49

6.1

In this stylish British crime thriller, detective Max Lewinsky is given one last shot at catching his long-time nemesis when the latter resurfaces in London. The film is a masterclass in tension, with its sleek cinematography and tight pacing. "Welcome to the Punch" is not only a gripping tale of crime and revenge but also a showcase of director Eran Creevy's flair for creating atmospheric, visually arresting cinema.

CAST

James McAvoy

Mark Strong

David Morrissey

Peter Mullan

Daniel Mays

Andrea Riseborough

Daniel Kaluuya

Ruth Sheen

Jason Flemyng

Elyes Gabel

Directed by Eran Creevy