If you're a fan of gritty, revenge-driven action films like 'The Exterminator' (1980), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that deliver the same raw intensity, vigilante justice, and urban chaos. Whether you love the dark atmosphere or the relentless protagonist, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Billy Jack (1971)
Description: A hybrid of action and social drama, featuring a half-Native American ex-Green Beret who fights for justice in a corrupt town.
Fact: The film was initially rejected by studios but became a surprise hit due to grassroots marketing and word-of-mouth.
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Walking Tall (1973)
Description: A story of one man's fight against corruption and crime in his hometown, emphasizing justice outside the legal system.
Fact: Based loosely on the life of Sheriff Buford Pusser, who became a folk hero for his stand against organized crime.
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Death Wish (1974)
Description: A vigilante film where an ordinary man takes the law into his own hands after a personal tragedy, showcasing urban decay and moral ambiguity.
Fact: The film was controversial for its depiction of vigilantism and inspired several sequels and a 2018 remake.
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The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Description: A Western revenge tale where a man seeks vengeance for the murder of his family, blending action with themes of redemption and survival.
Fact: Clint Eastwood both directed and starred in the film, which is considered one of the best Westerns of the 1970s.
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Taxi Driver (1976)
Description: A gritty urban drama about a loner who descends into violent vigilantism, driven by disillusionment with society.
Fact: The film's iconic line 'You talkin' to me?' was improvised by Robert De Niro.
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Rolling Thunder (1977)
Description: A revenge thriller where a war veteran seeks vengeance after a brutal attack on his family, blending psychological depth with brutal action.
Fact: The screenplay was co-written by Paul Schrader, who also wrote 'Taxi Driver.'
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Falling Down (1993)
Description: A psychological thriller about a man's violent rampage through Los Angeles, driven by societal pressures and personal breakdown.
Fact: The film's iconic scene with the fast-food restaurant was inspired by real-life frustrations with customer service.
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Man on Fire (2004)
Description: A brutal revenge story where a former operative unleashes his skills to rescue a kidnapped girl, blending emotional depth with intense action.
Fact: The film's distinctive visual style includes rapid cuts and a bleached color palette to emphasize the gritty tone.
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The Equalizer (2014)
Description: A retired operative returns to action to protect the innocent, combining methodical violence with a sense of moral justice.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the 1980s TV series of the same name but takes a much darker and more violent approach.
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The Brave One (2007)
Description: A modern take on vigilante justice, following a woman who turns to violence after a traumatic event, exploring themes of grief and retribution.
Fact: Jodie Foster's performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress.
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