If you loved the high-octane, over-the-top action and gritty grindhouse style of 'Machete' (2010), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that deliver the same explosive mix of violence, dark humor, and unapologetic badassery. Whether you're a fan of Danny Trejo's iconic character or just crave more adrenaline-pumping entertainment, these picks will satisfy your thirst for chaos.

Desperado (1995)
Description: A high-octane action film featuring a guitar case full of weapons, intense shootouts, and a revenge-driven protagonist. The blend of stylish violence, dark humor, and Latin influences creates a similar tone.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be a sequel to 'El Mariachi' but evolved into a standalone story. Antonio Banderas learned to play guitar for his role.


From Dusk Till Dawn (1996)
Description: A genre-bending film that starts as a crime thriller and shifts into a full-blown vampire horror. The over-the-top action, dark humor, and sudden tonal shifts mirror the chaotic energy of the reference.
Fact: The screenplay was written by Quentin Tarantino in just two weeks. The iconic bar scene was filmed in a single take lasting over 10 minutes.


The Boondock Saints (1999)
Description: A cult action film about vigilante brothers with a distinctive visual style and dark humor. The film's mix of brutal violence, religious undertones, and quirky characters creates a similar tone.
Fact: The film was nearly lost when the production company went bankrupt. It gained popularity through word of mouth and DVD sales.


Sin City (2005)
Description: A neo-noir crime film with stylized violence and a distinctive black-and-white visual aesthetic. The film's hard-boiled dialogue, graphic novel roots, and morally ambiguous characters create a similar atmosphere.
Fact: The film was shot entirely against green screen. Mickey Rourke spent 4 hours daily in makeup for his role as Marv.


Shoot 'Em Up (2007)
Description: A non-stop action film that pushes the boundaries of plausibility with its relentless gunfights and creative kills. The film's self-aware humor and cartoonish violence create a similar tone.
Fact: The film features over 1000 bullet hits. Clive Owen performed many of his own stunts, including sliding down a banister while shooting.


Crank (2006)
Description: A frenetic action film with a unique premise that keeps the protagonist constantly moving. The film's breakneck pace, stylized violence, and dark humor create a similar adrenaline-fueled experience.
Fact: The entire film was shot handheld to create a sense of urgency. Some scenes were improvised on the spot to maintain energy.


Death Proof (2007)
Description: A homage to 70s car chase films with intense vehicular action and strong female protagonists. The film's gritty aesthetic and focus on practical stunts create a visceral experience.
Fact: All car stunts were performed practically without CGI. The film features one of the longest continuous car chase sequences in cinema history.


Planet Terror (2007)
Description: A grindhouse-style horror-action film featuring exaggerated violence, a badass female lead with a machine gun leg, and a campy, over-the-top aesthetic. The film embraces its B-movie roots with gusto.
Fact: The film was originally released as part of a double feature with 'Death Proof'. The missing reel gag was intentionally added to mimic old grindhouse films.


Crank: High Voltage (2009)
Description: A sequel that doubles down on the outrageous action and dark humor of the original. The film's over-the-top scenarios and video game-like logic create a similar chaotic energy.
Fact: The film features over 2000 visual effects shots. Some scenes were inspired by classic video games like 'Mortal Kombat'.


The Expendables (2010)
Description: An ensemble action film celebrating 80s and 90s action movie tropes with exaggerated violence, one-liners, and larger-than-life characters. The film revels in its machismo and over-the-top action sequences.
Fact: The film brought together action stars from different generations for the first time. Sylvester Stallone performed many of his own stunts despite being in his 60s.
