If you loved the gritty action and vigilante justice of Death Wish 4: The Crackdown (1987), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that deliver the same adrenaline-pumping revenge plots, explosive action, and morally complex protagonists. Whether you're a fan of Charles Bronson's iconic role or just crave more hard-hitting thrillers, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Dirty Harry (1971)
Description: A gritty crime drama featuring a tough cop who bends the rules to take down criminals, highlighting themes of moral ambiguity and urban violence.
Fact: The character's .44 Magnum became iconic, and the film spawned several sequels.


Death Wish (1974)
Description: A vigilante action film where the protagonist takes the law into his own hands after a personal tragedy, embodying themes of revenge and urban decay.
Fact: The film was controversial for its depiction of vigilantism and sparked debates about crime and justice in America.


Payback (1999)
Description: A neo-noir action film about a criminal seeking revenge against those who betrayed him, characterized by its dark humor and brutal violence.
Fact: The film was originally shot with a different ending, which was later changed after test audiences reacted negatively.


Man on Fire (2004)
Description: A brutal revenge story where a former operative goes on a rampage to save a kidnapped girl, showcasing extreme violence and emotional depth.
Fact: The film's distinctive visual style includes shaky camerawork and rapid editing to heighten the intensity.


A History of Violence (2005)
Description: A crime thriller that explores the duality of a man's peaceful life and his violent past, focusing on the consequences of hidden brutality.
Fact: The film was adapted from a graphic novel of the same name, though it significantly deviates from the source material.


The Equalizer (2014)
Description: Features a retired operative who uses his skills to help the helpless, blending action with a moralistic approach to justice.
Fact: The movie is based on a 1980s TV series of the same name, but with a darker and more violent tone.


The Brave One (2007)
Description: A psychological thriller about a woman who becomes a vigilante after a traumatic event, exploring themes of grief and retribution.
Fact: The film was initially conceived as a male-led story but was reworked with a female protagonist.


Taken (2008)
Description: A high-octane thriller about a father who uses his particular set of skills to rescue his daughter, emphasizing relentless pursuit and brutal justice.
Fact: The film's famous line 'I will find you, and I will kill you' became a cultural phenomenon.


Law Abiding Citizen (2009)
Description: A revenge drama where a man orchestrates elaborate acts of vengeance against the justice system that failed him, blending thriller elements with moral dilemmas.
Fact: The film's climax was reshot multiple times due to disagreements over the ending.


John Wick (2014)
Description: A stylish action film centered around a retired hitman seeking vengeance, known for its intense fight sequences and underworld lore.
Fact: The film's intricate world-building includes a secret society of assassins with its own currency and rules.
