Amid 'Kill' Release, A Look At Top Indian And International Action Films
Amid the release of Lakshya and Raghav Juyal's 'Kill', here's a look at some of the best Indian and international action films.
The Indian audience cannot stop raving about the recently-released Hindi action film 'Kill'. Nikhil Nagesh Bhat has directed the new Hindi movie and it has been bankrolled by Karan Johar, Guneet Monga, Apoorva Mehta, and Achin Jain. The newly released Hindi film stars Lakshya, Raghav Juyal, Ashish Vidyarthi, Harsh Chhaya, and Tanya Maniktala. 'Kill' was finally released in India after premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival last year, where it was first runner-up for the People's Choice Award: Midnight Madness.
For the unversed, the film's plot revolves around an army commando named Amrit (Lakshya). He ends up discovering that his true love Tulika (Tanya Maniktala) has been engaged against her will. It is then that he boards a train to derail the arranged marriage. However, things take a turn for the worse after a gang of knife-wielding thieves led by the ruthless Fani (Raghav Juyal) begins to terrorise passengers on the train. It is then that Amrit goes on a killing spree to save people around him.
The grand reception to 'Kill' has once again proved that there is a wide audience for the action genre, and if done right, people will time and time again tune in to watch bloodshed on the biggest screen possible. When one talks about Indian cinema, it has a rich and diverse history, and over the years, action films have played a significant role in its evolution. With growing technology and VFX, the genre in India has seen remarkable growth and filmmakers have managed to mix unique storytelling with high-octane stunts and special effects.
Coming to Hollywood, the film industry in the West has a long history of producing some of the most exhilarating and influential action films that have set the standard for the genre worldwide. These movies are known for their high-octane sequences, memorable characters, and groundbreaking special effects.
In this article, we will be talking about some of the best Indian and international films. We highly recommend that you check out this list.
So without further ado, the list is as follows:
Indian Films
Sholay (1975)
Regarded as one of the greatest Indian films of all time, 'Sholay' is an epic action-adventure film directed by Ramesh Sippy. The story revolves around two ex-convicts, Jai and Veeru, hired by a retired police officer to capture a ruthless dacoit, Gabbar Singh. The film's action sequences, dialogue, and characters have achieved legendary status in Indian cinema. The film stars Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, and Amjad Khan.
Don (2006) and Don 2 (2011)
A remake of the 1978 classic, 'Don' redefined the action genre with its stylish presentation and thrilling narrative. The film, directed by Farhan Akhtar, and starring Shah Rukh Khan, follows the story of a criminal mastermind, Don, and his doppelganger, Vijay, who is placed by the police to infiltrate Don’s gang. The film is celebrated for its slick action sequences, fast-paced storyline, and Shah Rukh Khan's charismatic performance. The sequel, Don 2 (2011), continued the high-octane action and further solidified the franchise's status in Indian cinema. The twist in 2006's 'Don' blew everyone's minds, and this is the reason, why several critics place this a level above the original that was released in 1978.
Ghajini (2008)
Aamir Khan's Ghajini, directed by AR Murugadoss, is an action-packed psychological thriller that tells the story of a man suffering from short-term memory loss who seeks revenge for his fiancee’s murder. The film is noted for its intense action scenes and Khan's physical transformation for the role. The climax, in particular, features some of the most gripping hand-to-hand combat sequences seen in Indian films.
Singham (2011)
Directed by Rohit Shetty, Singham stars Ajay Devgn as an honest and fearless police officer, Bajirao Singham, who takes on a powerful and corrupt politician. The film is known for its high-energy action scenes, including car chases, hand-to-hand combat, and explosive stunts. The film's success led to a franchise with sequels like 'Singham Returns' (2014). 'Singham Again' is slated to release on Diwali 2024, and the film boasts of an impressive star cast, including Ajay Devgn, Ranveer Singh, Akshay Kumar, Deepika Padukone, Kareena Kapoor, Tiger Shroff, Arjun Kapoor and Jackie Shroff.
Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) and Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017)
Directed by SS Rajamouli, the Baahubali series set new standards for Indian action films. With a staggering budget and groundbreaking visual effects, the films narrate the saga of two brothers, Baahubali (Prabhas) and Bhallaladeva (Rana Daggubati), and their struggle for the throne of Mahishmati. The film series is known for its grand battle sequences, especially the war scenes that rival Hollywood productions in scale and execution.
Vikram Vedha (2017)
An action thriller directed by Pushkar-Gayathri, the film stars R Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi in the lead roles. The film is inspired by the Indian folktale of Vikram and Betaal, and it follows a police officer’s quest to capture a notorious gangster. The film's action scenes are gritty and realistic. Vikram Vedha was critically acclaimed and commercially successful, praised for its performances and storytelling.
KGF: Chapter 1 (2018) and KGF: Chapter 2 (2022)
The 'KGF' series, directed by Prashanth Neel, has become a phenomenon in Indian cinema. The films chronicle the rise of Rocky, played by Yash, from the streets to becoming the king of a gold mining empire in Karnataka. Known for their grandiose action sequences, stylish cinematography, and compelling narrative, both films have set box office records. The larger-than-life portrayal of the protagonist has made KGF a landmark in action cinema.
War (2019)
Directed by Siddharth Anand and produced by Yash Raj Films, 'War' features Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff in lead roles. The film is a high-octane action thriller that revolves around an Indian soldier assigned to eliminate his former mentor, who has gone rogue. The movie is packed with adrenaline-pumping action sequences, including car chases, aerial combat, and hand-to-hand fights, set against exotic locations around the world.
International Films
Die Hard (1988)
Directed by John McTiernan and starring Bruce Willis, 'Die Hard' is often hailed as one of the greatest action films ever made. The story follows NYPD officer John McClane as he battles a group of terrorists who have taken hostages in a Los Angeles skyscraper. The film is celebrated for its intense action scenes, clever plot, and Willis's charismatic performance.
Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
Directed by James Cameron, 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day' is a landmark action film that combines groundbreaking special effects with a compelling storyline. Arnold Schwarzenegger returns as the Terminator, this time reprogrammed to protect John Connor, the future leader of the human resistance. The film’s action scenes, including the famous highway chase and the battle at the steel mill, are masterfully executed and have set a high bar for the genre.
The Matrix (1999)
Directed by the Wachowskis, The Matrix is a sci-fi action film that has had a profound impact on both genres. The story follows Neo, played by Keanu Reeves, as he discovers the truth about reality and leads a rebellion against a race of machines. The film is renowned for its innovative visual effects, particularly the “bullet time” slow-motion sequences. The action scenes, including the lobby shootout and the rooftop fight, enjoy a different fanbase altogether.
Gladiator (2000)
Directed by Ridley Scott, Gladiator is a historical action film that tells the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a betrayed Roman general who seeks revenge against the corrupt emperor Commodus. Starring Russell Crowe in an Oscar-winning performance, the film features epic battle scenes and gladiatorial combat. The Coliseum scenes are particularly impressive, showcasing Scott’s ability to blend action with dramatic storytelling.
The Raid (2011)
An Indonesian action thriller film written and directed by Gareth Evans, the film stars Iko Uwais, Joe Taslim, Donny Alamsyah, Ray Sahetapy and Yayan Ruhian. The film follows an Indonesian National Police tactical squad deployed to raid a ruthless drug lord's apartment block in the slums of Jakarta. However, things take a turn when they are encircled by the criminals, forcing them to fight their way through the complex.
John Wick (2014)
Directed by Chad Stahelski and starring Keanu Reeves, John Wick is a modern action classic known for its stylised violence and intricate fight choreography. The film follows a retired hitman who seeks vengeance for the death of his dog, a final gift from his deceased wife. The movie’s action scenes, particularly the nightclub shootout and the house invasion, are meticulously crafted and have set a new standard for action filmmaking.
Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Directed by George Miller, Mad Max: Fury Road is a post-apocalyptic action film that redefined the genre with its relentless pace and stunning visuals. The movie follows Max Rockatansky, played by Tom Hardy, and Imperator Furiosa, played by Charlize Theron, as they escape from a tyrannical warlord in a high-speed chase across a desert wasteland. The movie is regarded as one of the best action films ever made.
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