15 best action movies of 2023: the ultimate guide to blockbuster hits
2023 delivered an exceptional slate of action films that pushed boundaries and thrilled audiences worldwide. From high-octane stunts to groundbreaking special effects, these movies set new standards for the genre while delivering compelling narratives and unforgettable performances.
Top-rated action films of 2023
Leading the pack in 2023 was John Wick: Chapter 4, which garnered universal acclaim for its exceptional action sequences and Keanu Reeves’ commanding performance. The film masterfully balanced intense fight choreography with a compelling narrative about revenge and redemption, earning its place as one of the year’s most impressive action offerings.
Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One continued Tom Cruise’s legacy of death-defying stunts and complex espionage storytelling. The film, directed by Christopher McQuarrie, showcased some of the most ambitious action sequences ever attempted in cinema, including a spectacular train sequence that left audiences breathless.
- John Wick: Chapter 4 – Directed by Chad Stahelski, featuring Keanu Reeves
- Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One – Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, starring Tom Cruise
- The Covenant – Directed by Guy Ritchie, featuring Jake Gyllenhaal
- Fast X – Directed by Louis Leterrier, starring Vin Diesel
- Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny – Directed by James Mangold, featuring Harrison Ford
Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant emerged as a surprising contender, delivering intense action sequences while exploring themes of loyalty and sacrifice. The film’s gritty realism and Jake Gyllenhaal’s powerful performance earned it significant critical acclaim.
Another standout was The Equalizer 3, which saw Denzel Washington return as Robert McCall in what critics praised as a fitting conclusion to the trilogy. The film’s blend of character-driven storytelling and brutal action sequences demonstrated the continuing evolution of the action genre.
For fans of martial arts action, Ballerina offered a fresh perspective with its stylish visuals and compelling revenge narrative. The South Korean film showcased innovative fight choreography while maintaining a gripping storyline that kept audiences engaged throughout.
Rounding out the year’s highlights was Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre, which combined Jason Statham’s signature action style with witty dialogue and sophisticated espionage elements, proving that the action genre continues to find new ways to entertain and surprise audiences.
Box office success and audience reception
2023 proved to be a remarkable year for action films at the UK box office, with several blockbusters achieving significant commercial success and widespread audience acclaim. The year’s standout performances demonstrated the continued appeal of high-octane action entertainment among British moviegoers.
Top box office performers
Leading the pack was Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, which secured an impressive £26.5 million at the UK box office, making it the 8th highest-grossing film of 2023. Tom Cruise’s latest outing as Ethan Hunt resonated strongly with British audiences, continuing the franchise’s track record of commercial success.
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny also performed admirably, accumulating £20.3 million in UK ticket sales. This final chapter in Harrison Ford’s tenure as the iconic archaeologist secured the 10th position among 2023’s highest-grossing films, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the franchise.
Critical and audience response
Beyond box office numbers, several action films garnered exceptional critical acclaim. John Wick: Chapter 4 emerged as a standout success, earning universal praise for its innovative action sequences and Keanu Reeves’ compelling performance. Critics particularly commended the film’s ability to maintain momentum throughout its extended runtime while delivering spectacular set pieces.
The Equalizer 3, starring Denzel Washington, received strong audience support for its intense action sequences and compelling narrative. Meanwhile, Fast X continued the franchise’s tradition of drawing large audiences, though critical reception was more mixed compared to its predecessors.
Market trends and audience preferences
The UK action film market in 2023 showed a clear preference for established franchises and star-driven vehicles. This trend was evident in the success of Mission: Impossible and Indiana Jones installations, which benefited from strong brand recognition and loyal fan bases.
Notably, the year also saw increased audience interest in diverse action subgenres, from spy thrillers to martial arts spectacles. This diversity in successful releases suggests an evolving market that rewards both traditional blockbusters and more specialized action offerings.
- Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (£26.5M)
- Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (£20.3M)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (£36.7M)
The overall box office performance of action films in 2023 demonstrated a 20% increase compared to the previous year, indicating a robust recovery in cinema attendance and suggesting a bright future for the genre in the UK market.
Best action movies by genre
2023 delivered an impressive array of action films across different subgenres, each offering unique thrills and cinematic experiences. Let’s explore the standout releases categorized by their primary genre focus.
Spy and espionage action
Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One leads this category with Tom Cruise’s return as Ethan Hunt. The film masterfully combines high-stakes espionage with breathtaking action sequences, including death-defying stunts that have become a hallmark of the franchise. Another notable entry is Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre, featuring Jason Statham as an elite spy in a fast-paced narrative filled with international intrigue.
Crime and thriller action
John Wick: Chapter 4 dominates this category, expanding its noir-tinged universe with stunning fight choreography and world-building. The film raised the bar for action choreography while maintaining the series’ signature style. The Equalizer 3, starring Denzel Washington, brings a gritty, character-driven approach to its action sequences, focusing on intense personal conflicts in the criminal underworld.
Martial arts and combat-focused action
Ballerina stands out as a compelling martial arts thriller, featuring Jeon Jong-seo in a revenge-driven narrative that showcases impressive fight sequences. The film’s blend of traditional martial arts with modern action cinematography creates a unique viewing experience.
Superhero and comic book action
Fast X continues the larger-than-life action of the Fast & Furious franchise, delivering spectacular vehicular combat and ensemble action sequences. While not strictly superhero-focused, the film’s approach to action often ventures into superhuman territory with its ambitious stunts and set pieces.
Historical and period action
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny marks Harrison Ford’s final outing as the legendary archaeologist, combining classic adventure elements with modern action sensibilities. The film pays homage to its roots while incorporating contemporary special effects and action sequences that appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers.
Each of these films brings something unique to their respective subgenres, whether it’s innovative action choreography, compelling narratives, or groundbreaking special effects. This diversity in action filmmaking helped make 2023 a standout year for the genre, offering something for every type of action movie enthusiast.
Special effects and innovation in 2023’s action cinema
The action films of 2023 showcased remarkable advancements in special effects and innovative filmmaking techniques, setting new standards for the genre. From groundbreaking CGI to revolutionary stunt choreography, these films pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in action cinema.
Cutting-edge visual effects
2023’s action blockbusters demonstrated exceptional achievements in visual effects technology. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One particularly stood out for its seamless integration of practical and digital effects, creating some of the most spectacular action sequences ever filmed, including the much-discussed train crash sequence and motorcycle cliff jump.
Films like John Wick: Chapter 4 elevated the genre with innovative visual approaches, including a remarkable top-down shootout sequence that borrowed from video game aesthetics while maintaining cinematic excellence. The integration of ”Dragon’s Breath” ammunition effects created visually stunning firefights that hadn’t been seen before in action cinema.
Revolutionary stunt choreography
The year marked significant evolution in stunt work and action choreography. The Equalizer 3 showcased intricate hand-to-hand combat sequences that emphasized realistic brutality while maintaining cinematic flair. Meanwhile, Extraction 2 pioneered new approaches to long-take action sequences, with elaborate ”oners” that pushed the boundaries of both practical and digital stunt work.
Technological innovations
Several productions embraced cutting-edge filmmaking technology to enhance their action sequences. The implementation of advanced camera systems and virtual production techniques allowed for more dynamic and immersive action scenes. Ballerina utilized innovative tracking shots and stabilization technology to create fluid, ballet-like action sequences that merged graceful movement with intense combat.
- Advanced motion capture technology for more realistic fight scenes
- Implementation of LED wall technology for dynamic backgrounds
- Enhanced practical effects combined with CGI
- Innovative camera rigs for complex action sequences
These technological advances not only improved the visual quality of action sequences but also allowed filmmakers to create more ambitious and complex scenes while maintaining safety standards for the cast and crew.
Action movie recommendations by type
2023 delivered an impressive array of action films across different subgenres. Here’s a curated guide to help you find the perfect action movie based on your preferences:
Martial arts and combat action
John Wick: Chapter 4 stands as the pinnacle of martial arts action in 2023, featuring meticulously choreographed fight sequences and stunning cinematography. The film showcases Keanu Reeves at his best, alongside martial arts legend Donnie Yen, delivering some of the most innovative combat scenes in recent memory.
For fans of Asian martial arts cinema, Ballerina offers a fresh take on the revenge thriller genre, with Jeon Jong-seo delivering a powerful performance through intensely choreographed fight sequences.
Spy and espionage thrillers
Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One continues the franchise’s tradition of high-stakes espionage action. Tom Cruise’s dedication to practical stunts creates genuinely breathtaking sequences, while the intricate plot keeps viewers engaged throughout.
Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre combines Jason Statham’s action prowess with Guy Ritchie’s signature style, offering a sophisticated blend of espionage and humor.
Gritty crime action
The Equalizer 3 showcases Denzel Washington’s commanding presence in a hard-hitting crime thriller. The film’s Sicily setting provides a fresh backdrop for intense action sequences and compelling character development.
Science fiction action
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts brings a fresh perspective to the franchise, combining nostalgic 90s elements with cutting-edge visual effects. The addition of the Maximals and Terrorcons expands the universe while delivering spectacular robot-on-robot action sequences.
Classic adventure action
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny offers a fitting send-off to Harrison Ford’s iconic character. The film balances nostalgia with modern action sequences, making it accessible to both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.
Fast X continues the franchise’s tradition of over-the-top action sequences and family-themed storytelling, with Jason Momoa’s villain adding a fresh dynamic to the established formula.
Independent and international action
Polite Society stands out as a unique British action comedy, blending martial arts with cultural commentary and humor. Its fresh approach to the genre makes it particularly appealing for viewers seeking something different from mainstream action offerings.
The innovative blend of genres and diverse international offerings in 2023’s action films demonstrates the continuing evolution of the genre, providing something for every type of action movie enthusiast.