If you loved the high-octane action and prison-break thrills of Escape Plan: The Extractors (2019), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 gripping movies and shows that deliver the same adrenaline-pumping intensity, strategic escapes, and relentless heroics. Whether you're a fan of Sylvester Stallone's gritty performance or the film's nail-biting tension, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Rock (1996)
Description: A high-octane action thriller featuring a group of elite operatives attempting to infiltrate a heavily fortified location, filled with intense combat sequences and strategic planning.
Fact: The film was initially conceived as a sequel to 'The Abyss' but evolved into a standalone project. It was one of the first movies to be shot on Alcatraz Island after its closure as a prison.


Con Air (1997)
Description: A gripping action film centered around a prison break scenario, showcasing a mix of brutal combat, high-stakes tension, and a protagonist with a strong moral code.
Fact: The movie's iconic plane, the 'Jailbird,' was a real C-123 Provider aircraft. The film's soundtrack includes a memorable rendition of 'How Do I Live' by Trisha Yearwood.


Face/Off (1997)
Description: A high-concept action film with a focus on identity swapping, featuring elaborate fight scenes, undercover operations, and a blend of psychological and physical conflict.
Fact: The film's special effects team used groundbreaking techniques to make the face-swapping scenes believable. It was one of the first major Hollywood films to extensively use digital compositing.


The Equalizer (2014)
Description: A vigilante action film featuring a highly skilled protagonist who methodically takes down criminals, with a focus on justice, revenge, and meticulous planning.
Fact: The film is loosely based on a 1980s TV series of the same name. The protagonist's use of everyday objects as weapons became a signature element of the movie.


Taken (2008)
Description: A high-intensity action thriller centered around a rescue mission, with a protagonist using his specialized skills to track down and eliminate threats in a race against time.
Fact: The film's iconic phone monologue was improvised by Liam Neeson. It became a surprise hit and spawned a successful franchise.


The Expendables (2010)
Description: A star-studded action movie that emphasizes teamwork, explosive set pieces, and a mission to rescue someone from a dangerous location, mirroring the themes of tactical extraction.
Fact: The film was intended as a throwback to 1980s and 1990s action movies, featuring many iconic action stars. The script was written with specific actors in mind, leading to their casting.


Dredd (2012)
Description: A gritty, violent action film set in a dystopian future, focusing on a law enforcement officer battling through a high-rise fortress filled with criminals.
Fact: The film was shot in 3D, with many scenes specifically designed to enhance the immersive experience. Despite its cult following, it underperformed at the box office initially.


Olympus Has Fallen (2013)
Description: A high-stakes action thriller where a lone hero must navigate a heavily guarded stronghold to rescue hostages and neutralize threats, featuring intense combat and strategic maneuvering.
Fact: The White House set was meticulously recreated to match the real building's layout. The film's release coincided with another similar movie, leading to a minor box office rivalry.


White House Down (2013)
Description: A fast-paced action film with a focus on a siege scenario, blending elements of political intrigue, close-quarters combat, and a race against time to save lives.
Fact: The film's production involved extensive use of practical effects and stunts. It was one of the few movies to depict a full-scale attack on the White House in real-time.


John Wick (2014)
Description: A stylish, relentless action film with a protagonist who uses his combat skills to navigate a world of assassins and criminals, emphasizing precision and tactical execution.
Fact: The film's action sequences were heavily influenced by martial arts and gun-fu techniques. It revitalized Keanu Reeves' career as an action star.
