If you loved the gritty, action-packed world of 'Bad City' (2022), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that deliver the same intense crime drama, brutal action, and dark underworld vibes. Whether you're craving more underground battles, corrupt power struggles, or stylish violence, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Oldboy (2003)
Description: A visceral revenge thriller with a twisted narrative, featuring brutal hand-to-hand combat and a protagonist driven by vengeance. The film's dark, psychological depth and unflinching violence make it a standout in the genre.
Fact: The famous hallway fight scene was shot in one continuous take, adding to the film's raw intensity. It won the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival.
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The Equalizer (2014)
Description: A vigilante action film about a retired black-ops operative who uses his skills to protect the innocent. The film's methodical violence and urban setting reflect themes of justice and retribution.
Fact: Denzel Washington trained extensively in martial arts for the role, performing many of his own stunts. The film is loosely based on the 1980s TV series of the same name.
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Dredd (2012)
Description: A gritty, violent action film set in a dystopian urban environment, featuring a relentless protagonist who dispenses justice with brutal efficiency. The film's dark tone and high-octane action sequences align closely with the themes of urban decay and vengeance.
Fact: The film was shot in 3D, with practical effects used extensively to enhance the visceral impact of the action scenes. It was based on the long-running 'Judge Dredd' comic series from 2000 AD.
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The Man from Nowhere (2010)
Description: A dark, emotionally charged action film about a mysterious loner who unleashes his lethal skills to rescue a kidnapped girl. The film's blend of brutal fight scenes and deep emotional stakes creates a compelling, violent redemption story.
Fact: The film's climactic knife fight scene is considered one of the most intense and well-choreographed in Korean cinema. It won several awards in South Korea for its action sequences and lead performance.
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Atomic Blonde (2017)
Description: A stylish, Cold War-era action thriller with a fierce female lead who navigates a world of espionage and betrayal. The film's neon-lit aesthetic and intense fight sequences create a visually striking and adrenaline-fueled experience.
Fact: The staircase fight scene was shot in a single take, showcasing the lead actress's physical prowess. The film is based on the graphic novel 'The Coldest City.'
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John Wick (2014)
Description: A stylish, high-energy action thriller centered around a retired assassin seeking revenge in a neon-lit underworld. The film's emphasis on hand-to-hand combat, gunplay, and a morally ambiguous protagonist mirrors the intense, urban crime narrative.
Fact: Keanu Reeves underwent extensive firearms and martial arts training for the role, contributing to the film's realistic action choreography. The movie revitalized the assassin genre with its unique world-building.
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Headshot (2016)
Description: A brutal action film featuring a amnesiac protagonist who must fight his way through waves of enemies to uncover his past. The film's relentless violence and urban setting align with the themes of identity and retribution.
Fact: The lead actor, Iko Uwais, is a renowned martial artist who also choreographed the film's fight scenes. The movie blends Indonesian martial arts with gritty, hard-hitting action.
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Upgrade (2018)
Description: A sci-fi action film about a man who gains enhanced abilities through technology, leading to brutal and inventive fight scenes. The film's blend of cyberpunk aesthetics and visceral violence aligns with themes of revenge and technological dystopia.
Fact: The film's unique camera work during action scenes simulates the protagonist's loss of control, adding a surreal quality to the fights. It was made on a modest budget but received critical acclaim for its creativity.
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The Villainess (2017)
Description: A high-octane action film with a female lead who is a trained assassin navigating a world of betrayal and violence. The film's kinetic fight scenes and morally complex storyline resonate with themes of revenge and survival.
Fact: The opening motorcycle chase scene was shot in a first-person perspective, creating an immersive and intense viewing experience. The film was praised for its innovative action choreography.
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Nobody (2021)
Description: A high-energy action film about an unassuming family man who reveals his deadly skills when pushed too far. The film's blend of dark humor and brutal action sequences creates a compelling narrative of redemption and vengeance.
Fact: The bus fight scene was inspired by classic action films and choreographed to emphasize the protagonist's raw, unfiltered combat style. The movie was written by the same screenwriter as 'John Wick.'
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