Sometimes you just wanna watch some tough guys kick butt and take names. Netflix has got you covered with some high-octane action movies that really get the blood pumping.
If you find yourself slouched on the couch without energy, it’s about time you treated yourself to a lineup of films that will get your heart racing and palms sweating.
Here’s our list of the best adrenaline rush movies on Netflix.
Our list features movies on Netflix U.S. only. Some films may not be available on international Netflix platforms. We frequently update this article to remove and replace action films that are currently on Netflix.
1. The Karate Kid (1984)
IMDb: 7.3/10
A legendary classic, this fun movie is ideal for those who want a trip down memory lane or call themselves adrenaline junkies. The Karate Kid has probably been seen by everyone (except maybe Gen Z), but now’s the time to relive it on Netflix and enjoy all the martial arts goodness it has to offer.
2. The Flash (2023)
IMDb: 6.7/10
The Flash may be crammed with action and adventure, but there’s always room for some drama in a movie like this. Ezra Miller does a perfect job in the role of the uber-powerful DC hero The Flash throughout this epic DCEU movie. Barry Allen uses his super speed powers in the race for his life as he travels to the past to save his family. It’s so fun, we’re all sitting here tapping our foot, waiting for the next opus. Make it a must-watch on your Netflix list today!
3. Anon (2018)
IMDb: 6.1/10
In a near future, the government has put a system in place that records people’s memories, a procedure that has reduced crime to nearly 0%. In this ‘ideal’ society, a detective must face a series of crimes that prove this system has a flaw. This tense, ambitious thriller is the perfect adrenaline provider for a cozy night in, and a puzzle you’ll be eager to solve just as much as the protagonists!
4. Non-Stop (2014)
IMDb: 6.8/10
Liam Neeson and Julianne Moore star in this action thriller where an air marshal is forced to take drastic and life-saving action. Bill Marks receives text messages demanding $150 million – or else someone on board the flight will die every 20 minutes. Indeed, it’s as heart-racing as it sounds. What more could you want when looking for a Netflix movie to stream?
5. Gun City (2018)
IMDb: 6.3/10
This tense, dark Spanish crime action movie is set in 1921 and tells the story of a cop heading to Barcelona to investigate the theft of military weapons. Gritty and filled with raw talent, this film will transport you into a whole other time and make you shudder at every turn. Although it’s in another language, Gun City is truly one of the best action movies on Netflix right now.
6. Extraction (2020)
IMDb: 6.8/10
Starring Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake, book-turned-movie, Extraction tells the story of a mercenary who’s hired to save the kidnapped son of an Indian drug lord. Action cliches and manic sequences, this original Netflix action movie offers that adrenaline rush you’re craving to wake up on a Friday evening.
7. The Nice Guys (2016)
IMDb: 7.3/10
No one ever imagined Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe in the same movie together, but this odd pairing actually works. The Nice Guys is a lighthearted and fun action movie that sees the Hollywood duo take on roles of private detectives, investigating the case of a missing girl and death of a porn star. Set in the 1970s, this cool adrenaline rush movie on Netflix is a must-watch among the many blockbusters it has to offer.
8. I Am Mother (2019)
IMDb: 6.7/10
In this latest post-apocalyptic thriller, a teenage girl was raised alone by a motherly robot to repopulate the Earth, but their bubble is threatened by the arrival of a wounded woman, the first human being the ‘daughter’ has ever seen. This tense, minimalist but gripping blockbuster is by far one of the best things Netflix has given us, and every second of it is worth your time.
9. Godzilla Minus One (2023)
IMDb: 7.7/10
Winner of the Oscar for Best Visual Effects, Godzilla Minus One is intense enough to keep you glued to your screen until the end credits start rolling. This more recent version of the monster classic puts the famous Godzilla at center stage in post-war Japan. This is an unforgettable action movie with a plot that keeps you at the edge of your seats.
10. Captain Phillips (2013)
IMDb: 7.8/10
This incredible action flick is right up your sleeve when in need of an epic adrenaline rush. Tom Hanks stars as Richard Phillips, captain of the MV Maersk Alabama cargo ship, which is hijacked by Somali pirates. Based on the true story of the 2009 hijacking incident, this tension-driven film is a highly riveting watch that shouldn’t be missed.
11. The Gentlemen (2019)
IMDb: 7.8/10
When a marijuana kingpin tries to cash out of the drug empire he built, questionable characters immediately try to take over his “land.” With a stellar cast lead by Hugh Grant and an energetic, fun plot that keeps you hooked until the end, The Gentlemen is one more Guy Ritchie ride you’ll be happy to hop on.
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12. The Old Guard (2020)
IMDb: 6.7/10
A Netflix original that offers a pure adrenaline boost in the form of great action, adventure and fantasy. Charlize Theron is Andy, the lead warrior of a group of immortal mercenaries who must fight against their latest threat. A 2020 movie that will give any viewer some entertainment during quarantine and lockdown.
13. Heart of Stone (2023)
Gal Galdot is another kind of Wonder Woman in this new top action movie on Netflix. Playing the role of an intelligence operative who works for a peacekeeping agency, Rachel Stone does all she can to stop a threatening hacker from stealing a dangerous weapon. It’s a Netflix original that action fans are bound to delight in and it’ll keep the adrenaline in you pumping.
14. Triple Frontier (2019)
IMDb: 6.4/10
Wondering what good action movie to watch on Netflix? Action blockbuster, Triple Frontier has an all-star cast as well as an A-star story. Available on Netflix only, this 2019 film observes the tale of five friends and operatives who plan a heist in South America. Things take an unexpected turn and get out of hand, forcing the men to question their friendship, skills and morals.
15. Bright (2017)
IMDb: 6.3/10
Ever watched a movie taking place in a contemporary society where fairies and other mythological creatures are hanging out with humans? No? Same here. Well, if that’s the type of strange, interesting universe you’re looking for, Bright definitely has it all. What’s more? Will Smith is here to lead the story as a cop working with an orc to protect a young elf. He’ll make you laugh at every turn and you’ll definitely thank us!
16. Drive (2011)
IMDb: 7.8/10
A movie that will take you on a drive with pounding action and hard core violence. Starring Ryan Gosling as ‘Driver’, this mysterious man acts as a Hollywood stuntman who moonlights as a getaway driver on the side. When he’s tasked to help his neighbors out, Driver finds himself twisted in a tale of trouble and love. It’s certainly the adrenaline rush film you’ve been looking for.
17. 6 Underground (2019)
IMDb: 6.1/10
Ryan Reynolds leaves behind his iconic character of Deadpool, and takes on the roll of another kind of action hero named One. Six individuals who want to forget their pasts and change the future set out on a challenging mission full of car chases, heists and great action choreography. Although this movie isn’t exactly Oscar-worthy, you should still press play for some downright entertainment and pumping adrenaline.
18. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2018)
IMDb: 8.6/10
One of the few Spider-Man movies on Netflix, and certainly one of the greatest. This animated rendition of our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man is superb for those who want a cheeky and lighthearted adrenaline rush. Fans of the superhero and lovers of all things cartoon will relish in this blockbuster Netflix is proud to offer.
19. The Adam Project (2021)
IMDb: 6.7/10
Another Netflix original that might give you that adrenaline rush you’ve been craving. Put this action flick on your watchlist and tag along with its all-star cast including Ryan Reynolds, Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Garner and Zoe Saldana. With hints of comedy, this sci-fi movie includes time-travel fun, chronicling the story of Adam as he teams up with his younger self and his late father for a secret mission.
20. World War Z (2013)
IMDb: 7.0/10
Brad Pitt steps into the shoes of Gerry Lane, a former United Nations investigator who’s on a mission to end a zombie apocalypse. This is a great pick if you’re struggling and scrolling through adrenaline rush movies on Netflix.
21. 21 Bridges (2019)
IMDb: 6.6/10
Starring the late Chadwick Boseman, this action thriller now available on Netflix follows a NYPD detective on the hunt for two cop killers. Eventually, he uncovers a surprising conspiracy that places his fellow police officers in a criminal empire. Before he knows it, Manhattan is completely locked down, closing all 21 bridges in the city. The Black Panther actor impresses here, and is joined by the likes of Sienna Miller and J.K. Simmons.
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22. Army of the Dead (2021)
IMDb: 7.5/10
Zack Snyder’s latest blockbuster promises a thrill, blending action, crime and horror all into one. There’s a zombie outbreak in Vegas, but that doesn’t stop a daring group of mercenaries who want to pull of a major heist – in a casino. Yeah, it’s as whopping mad as it sounds, but it’s a treat to feast your eyes on. A great option out of the many adrenaline rush movies on Netflix now!
23. Red Notice (2021)
IMDb: 7.1/10
This action flick is a must-watch among the many blockbusters Netflix has to offer. Why? Firstly, it features a star-studded cast (Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot) and it’s said to promise some kick-ass fun about an Interpol agent who heads out to track down the world’s most wanted art thief. Great for adrenaline junkies.
24. White House Down (2013)
IMDb: 6.3/10
One of Channing Tatum’s best roles, this high adrenaline movie also starring Jamie Foxx will get hearts pumping and palms sweating. It’s a gripping action blockbuster about a policeman trying to save his child and protect the president from invaders in the White House.
25. Back to the Future (1985)
IMDb: 8.5/10
If you’re craving some lighthearted action with a touch of adventure and a whirlwind down memory lane, tuck into Back to the Future. This classic 80s movie tells the iconic story of Marty McFly who’s accidentally sent back to the past to make sure his parents fall in love, or otherwise he’ll cease to exist. This is an action flick that promises an adrenaline rush you don’t need to take too seriously, and what’s more, the entire movie series is available on Netflix, too!
Those are our top picks for some edge-of-your-seat action with a few laughs and thrills thrown in for good measure.
The platform’s offerings are changing all the time, so watch these adrenaline rush movies on Netflix while you can!
If you see something new or you have a favorite we didn’t mention in our list, feel free to tell us in the comments below.
Originally published in September 2015.
