If you enjoyed the gritty action and intense drama of 'Acts of Violence' (2018), you're in for a treat. This article highlights 10 similar movies and shows that deliver the same adrenaline-pumping thrills, revenge plots, and high-stakes action. Whether you're a fan of crime thrillers or hard-hitting dramas, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Man on Fire (2004)
Description: A dark, emotionally charged revenge tale where a burned-out operative finds new purpose in protecting a child, then unleashes hell when she's kidnapped.
Fact: The film's distinctive visual style uses a bleach bypass process and jump cuts to create a raw, visceral feel. It's set in Mexico City but was primarily filmed in nearby locations due to security concerns.


A Walk Among the Tombstones (2014)
Description: A dark, atmospheric crime thriller about a haunted investigator tracking brutal criminals through the urban underworld, with a strong noir influence.
Fact: Based on Lawrence Block's popular novel series. The production used real New York locations extensively to create an authentic gritty atmosphere.


The Equalizer (2014)
Description: Features a mysterious protagonist with a violent past who emerges from retirement to protect the innocent, employing precise, methodical violence against organized crime.
Fact: The movie is loosely based on a 1980s TV series but significantly updates the concept. The lead actor performed many of his own stunts despite being in his 60s during filming.


The Mechanic (2011)
Description: A professional assassin narrative focusing on precision kills and the mentor-protege relationship in the criminal underworld, with elaborate action set pieces.
Fact: This is a remake of the 1972 Charles Bronson film. The production faced challenges filming in New Orleans during hurricane season.


Taken (2008)
Description: A relentless pursuit story where a highly skilled protagonist uses his particular set of skills to rescue a loved one from dangerous criminals, showcasing brutal efficiency in combat.
Fact: The film's famous phone monologue was ad-libbed and became one of the most quoted movie lines of the 2000s. It unexpectedly became a cultural phenomenon despite modest expectations.


Death Wish (2018)
Description: A vigilante justice story where an ordinary man transforms into a ruthless avenger after his family is attacked, taking the law into his own hands in an urban setting.
Fact: This is a remake of the 1974 classic that sparked controversy for its portrayal of urban violence. The production faced challenges due to its sensitive subject matter in contemporary times.


Law Abiding Citizen (2009)
Description: A cerebral revenge thriller where a brilliant protagonist takes extreme measures against a flawed justice system, featuring elaborate traps and moral ambiguity.
Fact: The original ending was significantly altered after test screenings. The prison cell sets were built on hydraulic platforms to allow for dramatic camera movements.


The Foreigner (2017)
Description: A story of relentless pursuit where a seemingly ordinary man reveals extraordinary skills in his quest for vengeance against shadowy terrorists.
Fact: The film marks a return to hard-hitting action for its star after a long hiatus from the genre. It's based on the novel 'The Chinaman' but changed the title to avoid offense.


The Accountant (2016)
Description: Blends action with psychological drama, featuring an autistic mathematical genius who uses his skills for both legitimate accounting and lethal violence when necessary.
Fact: The filmmakers consulted with autism experts to accurately portray the protagonist's condition. The action sequences were designed to reflect his unique way of processing information.


John Wick (2014)
Description: A high-octane action thriller centered around a retired assassin seeking vengeance for a personal loss, featuring intense fight sequences and a gritty underworld setting.
Fact: The film's iconic 'gun-fu' combat style was inspired by Hong Kong action cinema and required extensive training for the lead actor. It revitalized the career of its star and spawned a successful franchise.
