After a year and change of lockdown, a genre that hinges on acts of fearlessness reminded us why moviegoing matters. So, grab some popcorn and strap in, because here, without adieu, are the 20 best action films of 2021, ranked.
The 20 Best Action Movies Of 2021 Ranked
After a year and change of lockdown, a genre that hinges on acts of fearlessness reminded us why moviegoing matters. So, grab some popcorn and strap in, because here, without adieu, are the 20 best action films of 2021, ranked.
From futuristic post-apocalyptic dystopias to galaxies far, far away, from the crime-riddled streets of Gotham City to sleepy Sandford, Gloucestershire, we've got all the high-octane action, screeching tires, gunfire (both traditional and alien) and fisticuffs you can shake a lightsaber at. In these films, bullet holes heal just as quickly as bruises, and the bad guys can only be stopped in the very final act.
Some personal favorites barely missed the final cut (sorry, "The French Dispatch") and the biggest movie of 2021 put up a valiant effort but couldn't quite squeeze its way into the final conversation (apologies to "Spider-Man: No Way Home"). But even with [INSERT YOUR TITLE OF CHOICE HERE] missing, this list makes one thing clear: even in pandemic times, movies are good. Or rather, they're great. This list is proof.
In the midst of so much Marvel, it was also one of the most inconsistent years for the brand, with hits and misses across the board. The following 14 productions —whether they be movies, shows, or video games associated with the MCU or not— brought out both the best and worst of the House of Ideas in 2021.
There may still be a long way for the horror genre to go in terms of visibility, however, which is why we've decided to make the list below, which honors a dozen of our favorites and highlights some of the year's best horror gems — whether they lean more towards the commercial, the independent, or just flat-out B-movie greatness.