If you're a fan of high-stakes action, intricate plots, and the shadowy world of professional killers, this curated list of assassin thrillers is just for you. These films delve into the lives of hitmen and hitwomen, showcasing their deadly skills, moral dilemmas, and the thrilling cat-and-mouse games they play. From classic tales to modern masterpieces, each movie offers a unique take on the assassin genre, making this collection a must-watch for any thriller enthusiast.

The Day of the Jackal (1973)
Description: A professional assassin, known only as The Jackal, is hired to kill French President Charles de Gaulle, leading to a tense cat-and-mouse game with the authorities.
Fact: The film was based on Frederick Forsyth's novel, and its meticulous detail and suspenseful pacing made it a benchmark for political thrillers. The Jackal's identity remains a mystery throughout the film.


Nikita (1990)
Description: A young woman, sentenced to life in prison for murder, is given a chance at freedom by becoming an assassin for a secret government agency.
Fact: The film inspired an American remake titled "Point of No Return" and a TV series. Luc Besson's direction and Anne Parillaud's performance made it a cult classic.


The Professional (1994)
Description: This film tells the story of Léon, a hitman with a heart of gold, who takes in a young girl named Mathilda after her family is killed. Their unlikely partnership leads to a thrilling journey of revenge and redemption.
Fact: The role of Mathilda was originally offered to Liv Tyler, but Natalie Portman's audition won over director Luc Besson. Also, the film was initially rated NC-17 due to its violent content but was edited to secure an R rating.


The Bourne Identity (2002)
Description: Jason Bourne, a man with no memory, discovers he's a highly trained assassin. His quest for identity leads him on a global chase, dodging assassins and uncovering a conspiracy.
Fact: The film was based on Robert Ludlum's novel, but the screenplay took significant liberties with the source material. Also, Matt Damon was not the first choice for the role; Brad Pitt and Russell Crowe were considered before him.


Collateral (2004)
Description: A taxi driver unwittingly becomes the accomplice of a hitman on a night-long killing spree in Los Angeles. The film explores themes of fate, morality, and the randomness of life.
Fact: Tom Cruise, known for playing heroic roles, took on the part of the villainous hitman, Vincent. Also, the film was shot in sequence to capture the real-time feel of the night.


The Mechanic (2011)
Description: Arthur Bishop, a master assassin, takes on an apprentice, leading to a complex relationship filled with betrayal and revenge.
Fact: This film is a remake of the 1972 film of the same name, starring Charles Bronson. Jason Statham's character was originally played by Bronson.


The American (2010)
Description: An assassin hiding out in Italy tries to escape his past life, but his attempt at retirement is short-lived as he's drawn back into the world of killing.
Fact: The film was shot in Italy, and George Clooney learned to speak Italian for his role. It's based on the novel "A Very Private Gentleman" by Martin Booth.


John Wick (2014)
Description: After his car is stolen and his dog killed, retired hitman John Wick goes on a rampage against the Russian mob, showcasing his lethal skills in a stylish, action-packed narrative.
Fact: The film was initially conceived as a low-budget action flick, but its unique world-building and Keanu Reeves' performance turned it into a franchise. The dog in the film was actually a rescue dog.


The Killer (1989)
Description: A hitman, after accidentally blinding a singer during a job, tries to make amends by funding her eye surgery, leading to a series of events that blur the lines between right and wrong.
Fact: Directed by John Woo, this film helped define the "heroic bloodshed" genre in Hong Kong cinema. It's also known for its balletic gunplay and emotional depth.


Mr. Brooks (2007)
Description: Earl Brooks, a successful businessman, has a dark secret: he's a serial killer. His life spirals out of control when he's blackmailed by a witness to one of his murders.
Fact: Kevin Costner's character was originally written for Clint Eastwood, but Costner's portrayal added a unique layer of complexity to the role.
