If you loved the high-octane action and emotional depth of 'Unleashed' (2005), starring Jet Li, you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 gripping movies and shows that deliver similar themes of redemption, brutal combat, and heart-wrenching drama. Whether you're a fan of martial arts or compelling storytelling, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Bourne Identity (2002)
Description: A highly trained amnesiac operative uncovers his past while evading enemies, featuring realistic and gritty action sequences.
Fact: The film popularized the 'shaky cam' technique for action scenes. Matt Damon trained in boxing, fencing, and Kali for the role.


The Transporter (2002)
Description: A professional driver with a strict code gets entangled in dangerous situations, leading to high-energy fight sequences and car chases.
Fact: Jason Statham did most of his own driving stunts. The film's fight choreography was inspired by Hong Kong action cinema.


Man on Fire (2004)
Description: A former assassin becomes a bodyguard and seeks brutal revenge when his charge is kidnapped, blending emotional depth with violent retribution.
Fact: The film is based on a novel of the same name. Director Tony Scott used a distinctive visual style with rapid cuts and saturated colors.


The Equalizer (2014)
Description: A retired operative with a mysterious past returns to action to protect the innocent, showcasing brutal and calculated fight scenes.
Fact: Denzel Washington trained in Krav Maga for his role. The film is loosely based on a 1980s TV series of the same name.


Taken (2008)
Description: A former CIA operative uses his lethal skills to rescue his kidnapped daughter, featuring fast-paced action and a relentless pursuit.
Fact: Liam Neeson performed many of his own stunts. The film's famous phone call scene was improvised by Neeson.


Dredd (2012)
Description: A dystopian action film featuring a relentless law enforcer dispensing justice with brutal efficiency.
Fact: The film uses slow-motion sequences to highlight the effects of a fictional drug. It was shot in 3D to enhance the visual experience.


The Man from Nowhere (2010)
Description: A quiet and skilled former operative embarks on a violent quest to rescue a kidnapped girl, with emotional depth and intense action.
Fact: The film won several awards in South Korea. The lead actor trained extensively in martial arts for the role.


Atomic Blonde (2017)
Description: A spy thriller with a fierce female lead engaging in brutal hand-to-hand combat and high-stakes espionage.
Fact: Charlize Theron performed many of her own stunts, including a one-take fight scene. The film is based on a graphic novel.


John Wick (2014)
Description: A high-octane action film featuring a skilled and relentless protagonist who seeks vengeance, with intense hand-to-hand combat and gunplay sequences.
Fact: The film's iconic pencil scene was inspired by a real-life incident where a hitman used a pencil as a weapon. Keanu Reeves underwent extensive firearms and martial arts training for the role.


Nobody (2021)
Description: A seemingly ordinary man reveals his deadly skills when his family is threatened, delivering intense and visceral action.
Fact: Bob Odenkirk trained for two years to perform his own stunts. The film was written by the same writer as 'John Wick'.
