Dungeons have always been a staple setting for action films, providing a backdrop for intense battles, daring escapes, and mysterious adventures. This curated list dives into the heart of the underground, showcasing films where heroes and villains clash in the dark, labyrinthine corridors of dungeons. Whether you're a fan of high-octane action or intricate plots, these movies will take you on an unforgettable journey beneath the surface.

The Mummy (1999)
Description: An adventurer leads a group into an ancient Egyptian tomb, accidentally awakening an evil mummy. The film's action sequences take place in the labyrinthine catacombs beneath the desert sands.
Fact: The film was a major box office success, leading to two sequels and a spin-off.


The 13th Warrior (1999)
Description: An Arab ambassador joins a group of Viking warriors to battle a mysterious enemy in an underground lair. The film's action sequences are set in dark, underground settings.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Eaters of the Dead," based on Michael Crichton's novel of the same name.


The Scorpion King (2002)
Description: A warrior leads a rebellion against an evil ruler, with many scenes set in underground dungeons and caves. This prequel to "The Mummy" focuses on the action and adventure elements of the franchise.
Fact: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's first starring role in a feature film.


Underworld (2003)
Description: In a world where vampires and werewolves are at war, much of the action takes place in the underground lairs and dungeons of these ancient enemies.
Fact: The film's unique visual style was inspired by the gothic aesthetics of "Blade" and "The Matrix."


The Cave (2005)
Description: A team of divers explores an underwater cave system in Romania, only to discover it's inhabited by a deadly species of creatures. The film combines action with horror, making the underground setting a key element of the plot.
Fact: The underwater scenes were filmed in a large tank in Romania, with the cave system created using a combination of real locations and sets.


The Descent (2005)
Description: A group of women go on a spelunking adventure in a cave system, only to find themselves trapped with bloodthirsty creatures. The claustrophobic setting of the cave system adds to the tension and horror, making it a unique entry in this action-packed list.
Fact: The film was shot in a real cave in Scotland, which added to the authenticity of the setting.


The Descent: Part 2 (2009)
Description: A rescue team enters the cave system to find survivors from the first film, leading to more intense action and horror in the depths.
Fact: The sequel was filmed in the same cave system as the original, maintaining the claustrophobic atmosphere.


The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
Description: Bilbo Baggins and his companions journey through the Lonely Mountain, encountering dungeons and traps set by the dragon Smaug.
Fact: The film was shot in 3D, enhancing the depth and scale of the underground scenes.


Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023)
Description: A charming thief and a band of unlikely adventurers undertake an epic heist to retrieve a lost relic, but things go dangerously awry when they run afoul of the wrong people. The film's setting includes dungeons and underground lairs, making it a perfect fit for this list.
Fact: The movie is based on the iconic role-playing game, Dungeons & Dragons, and features a mix of practical effects and CGI to bring the fantasy world to life.


The Lost City of Z (2016)
Description: While not strictly an action film, this adventure drama features exploration of ancient ruins and underground chambers, providing a thrilling backdrop for the story.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of British explorer Percy Fawcett.
