If you enjoyed the action-packed thriller 'Hitman' (2007) and are looking for similar movies or shows, you're in the right place. This article explores 10 gripping titles that share the same high-stakes espionage, intense action sequences, and shadowy underworld intrigue. Whether you're a fan of stealthy assassins or complex spy plots, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Bourne Identity (2002)
Description: Features a highly skilled protagonist with a mysterious past, engaging in intense action sequences and espionage. The film's gritty realism and focus on a lone operative navigating a dangerous world align closely with the themes of covert operations and survival.
Fact: The film was shot in multiple European locations, including Paris and Prague, adding to its authentic international espionage feel. It was based on a 1980 novel of the same name by Robert Ludlum.


The Transporter (2002)
Description: Centers on a professional driver who transports dangerous goods and people, often finding himself in violent confrontations. The protagonist's strict code and combat skills mirror the discipline and lethality of a trained operative.
Fact: Jason Statham performed most of his own stunts, including driving sequences. The film's action choreography was heavily influenced by Hong Kong cinema.


The Equalizer (2014)
Description: Depicts a retired black-ops operative who returns to action to protect the innocent, employing meticulous planning and brutal efficiency. The protagonist's methodical approach to dispatching enemies reflects the precision of a trained assassin.
Fact: The film is loosely based on a 1980s TV series of the same name. Denzel Washington performed many of his own stunts, including the climactic hardware store fight scene.


Wanted (2008)
Description: Focuses on a disillusioned office worker recruited into a secret society of assassins, featuring over-the-top action and a focus on precision killing. The film's stylized violence and themes of hidden identities align with the world of professional hitmen.
Fact: The film's 'curving bullets' concept was inspired by the physics-defying stunts in 'The Matrix.' It is loosely based on a comic book series by Mark Millar.


Shooter (2007)
Description: Follows a retired Marine sniper framed for assassination, using his expert marksmanship to clear his name. The film's emphasis on tactical combat, survival, and a lone protagonist against powerful enemies mirrors the life of a skilled operative.
Fact: Mark Wahlberg trained with real-life snipers to prepare for the role. The film's plot was inspired by the novel 'Point of Impact' by Stephen Hunter.


Taken (2008)
Description: Follows a former CIA operative using his specialized skills to rescue his daughter from human traffickers. The film emphasizes tactical combat, resourcefulness, and a relentless pursuit of justice, much like a lone operative on a mission.
Fact: The film's iconic phone monologue was improvised by Liam Neeson. It was shot in Paris and became a surprise box office hit, spawning a franchise.


Salt (2010)
Description: Follows a CIA officer accused of being a Russian sleeper agent, leading to a series of high-octane escapes and confrontations. The film's themes of deception, survival, and elite combat skills resonate with the life of a covert operative.
Fact: The role was originally written for a male protagonist, with Tom Cruise considered before Angelina Jolie was cast. The film's plot was inspired by real-life Cold War spy cases.


The Accountant (2016)
Description: Depicts a forensic accountant with lethal combat skills, blending cerebral problem-solving with brutal action. The protagonist's dual life as a math savant and assassin highlights the duality often seen in covert operatives.
Fact: Ben Affleck trained in martial arts and weapons handling for the role. The film's script was on the 'Black List' of best unproduced screenplays for years before being made.


Atomic Blonde (2017)
Description: Features a cold-war era spy engaging in high-stakes espionage with intense, visceral action sequences. The film's stylish yet gritty aesthetic and focus on a lone operative navigating betrayal align with themes of covert missions and survival.
Fact: The film's famous stairwell fight scene was shot in a single take. It is based on the graphic novel 'The Coldest City' by Antony Johnston.


John Wick (2014)
Description: Centers around a retired assassin forced back into the criminal underworld, showcasing brutal, stylized action and a focus on precision combat. The protagonist's expertise in hand-to-hand combat and firearms mirrors the lethal efficiency of a professional operative.
Fact: The film's action sequences were heavily influenced by Hong Kong action cinema and Japanese samurai films. Keanu Reeves underwent extensive training in judo and jiu-jitsu for his role.
