10 Movies and Shows Similar to Mission: Impossible II (2000)

Description: Similar to 'Mission: Impossible II', 'The Bourne Identity' is a high-octane action thriller featuring a skilled protagonist with a mysterious past. Both films involve espionage, intense hand-to-hand combat, and high-stakes chases. The protagonist's resourcefulness and ability to outsmart adversaries are central to both stories.

Fact: The film is based on Robert Ludlum's novel of the same name. Matt Damon trained extensively in parkour, boxing, and firearms for the role. The movie's success spawned a highly popular franchise.

Description: Like 'Mission: Impossible II', 'Casino Royale' is a sleek, action-packed spy film with a charismatic lead. Both movies feature elaborate stunts, exotic locations, and a mix of physical and intellectual challenges. The themes of trust, betrayal, and personal vendettas are prominent in both.

Fact: Daniel Craig's first outing as James Bond. The parkour chase scene in Madagascar was inspired by real free-running techniques. The film marked a grittier, more realistic reboot of the Bond franchise.

Description: Like 'Mission: Impossible II', 'The Equalizer' features a protagonist with a particular set of skills who takes on powerful adversaries. Both films balance intense action with a moral storyline about justice and redemption. The action is brutal and precise, with a focus on the protagonist's strategic thinking.

Fact: Denzel Washington trained in martial arts for the role. The film is loosely based on the 1980s TV series. The Home Depot scene was inspired by Washington's own visits to the store.

Description: Similar to 'Mission: Impossible II', 'Jack Reacher' stars a lone wolf protagonist with exceptional combat and investigative skills. Both films involve unraveling conspiracies and feature meticulously choreographed action scenes. The tone is gritty, with a focus on realism in the fight sequences.

Fact: Tom Cruise played Jack Reacher despite being much shorter than the character in the books. The film is based on Lee Child's novel 'One Shot'. The car chase scene was praised for its realism and lack of CGI.

Description: 'Taken' shares with 'Mission: Impossible II' a focus on a relentless protagonist using their skills to achieve a personal mission. Both films feature high-stakes scenarios, with the hero facing overwhelming odds. The action is fast-paced, with a mix of hand-to-hand combat and tactical thinking.

Fact: Liam Neeson's performance revitalized his career as an action star. The film's famous phone monologue was ad-libbed. The movie was shot in just 35 days.

Description: 'Salt' mirrors 'Mission: Impossible II' in its focus on a highly skilled operative navigating a world of deception and danger. Both films feature protagonists who must use their wits and physical prowess to uncover the truth and survive. The action is relentless, with a strong emphasis on chase sequences and combat.

Fact: The role was originally written for a male lead, with Tom Cruise considered. Angelina Jolie did many of her own stunts. The film's plot twists were inspired by real-life spy cases.

Description: As part of the same franchise, 'Ghost Protocol' shares the same DNA as 'Mission: Impossible II', with Ethan Hunt's daring missions, high-tech gadgets, and death-defying stunts. The film continues the tradition of blending espionage with spectacular action sequences.

Fact: Tom Cruise performed the Burj Khalifa climb stunt himself. The film was the first in the series to be shot in IMAX. Brad Bird, known for animated films like 'The Incredibles', made his live-action debut as director.

Description: This film shares with 'Mission: Impossible II' a blend of espionage, stylish action, and a retro vibe. Both movies feature charismatic leads working against a ticking clock to prevent global catastrophe. The emphasis on teamwork and gadgetry is another common thread.

Fact: The film is based on the 1960s TV series of the same name. Henry Cavill and Armie Hammer performed most of their own stunts. The soundtrack heavily features 1960s-inspired music to match the period setting.

Description: 'Atomic Blonde' and 'Mission: Impossible II' both showcase a cool, collected protagonist in a world of spies and double-crosses. The films are known for their stylish action sequences, particularly hand-to-hand combat and chase scenes. The Cold War backdrop adds a layer of intrigue similar to the shadowy organizations in 'Mission: Impossible'.

Fact: Charlize Theron trained for months in fight choreography. The film features a nearly 10-minute-long single-take action sequence. It's based on the graphic novel 'The Coldest City'.

Description: Both 'John Wick' and 'Mission: Impossible II' center around a highly skilled protagonist pulled back into a life of violence. The films are renowned for their expertly choreographed action sequences and stylized violence. The underworld settings and themes of revenge are also similar.

Fact: Keanu Reeves underwent extensive firearms and martial arts training. The film's action is inspired by Hong Kong cinema and Westerns. The 'gun-fu' style was developed specifically for the movie.