Bangkok, with its bustling streets, vibrant nightlife, and a touch of danger, has become a favorite setting for action-packed thrillers. These films not only deliver high-octane action but also immerse viewers in the unique atmosphere of this Southeast Asian metropolis. Whether you're a fan of martial arts, gunfights, or intense chase scenes, this curated list of 10 action films set in Bangkok will take you on a thrilling ride through the city's underbelly.

The Man with the Iron Fists (2012)
Description: While not entirely set in Bangkok, the film's climax takes place in the city, involving a blacksmith, played by RZA, who must defend his village from mercenaries. The action sequences are heavily influenced by Asian cinema.
Fact: The movie was co-written by RZA and Eli Roth, with Quentin Tarantino serving as an executive producer.


Outcast (2014)
Description: Set in medieval times, this film features a warrior who must protect a young prince from assassins, with part of the story unfolding in a fictionalized version of ancient Bangkok.
Fact: The film stars Nicolas Cage and Hayden Christensen, blending historical drama with action.


Skin Trade (2014)
Description: Dolph Lundgren stars as a New York cop who travels to Bangkok to hunt down a human trafficking ring. The film blends action with a gritty portrayal of the city's darker corners.
Fact: The movie was shot in Thailand, with Bangkok serving as a key location for its action sequences.


The Raid 2 (2014)
Description: Although primarily set in Jakarta, the film features a significant portion in Bangkok, where the protagonist goes undercover to infiltrate a criminal organization. The action is relentless and inventive.
Fact: The film was shot in both Indonesia and Thailand, with some scenes filmed in Bangkok's Chinatown.


Bangkok Dangerous (2008)
Description: Nicolas Cage plays a hitman who finds himself in Bangkok for a series of assassinations, only to get entangled in local affairs. The film captures the neon-lit, chaotic essence of Bangkok's nightlife.
Fact: This is a remake of the 1999 Thai film of the same name, directed by the Pang Brothers.


A Prayer Before Dawn (2017)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a British boxer who ends up in a Thai prison, where he must fight to survive. The setting in Bangkok's notorious prison system adds to the film's intense atmosphere.
Fact: The film was shot in real Thai prisons, providing an authentic and harrowing experience.


Triple Threat (2019)
Description: A group of mercenaries converge in Bangkok for a high-stakes mission, leading to a series of intense confrontations. The film boasts an impressive cast of martial arts stars.
Fact: The film was produced by and stars Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, and Scott Adkins, making it a must-watch for action fans.


The Protector (2005)
Description: Tony Jaa stars as a young fighter who travels to Bangkok to retrieve his stolen elephants, leading to a series of breathtaking martial arts sequences. This film showcases Bangkok's gritty side with its intense fight choreography.
Fact: The film was a major international breakthrough for Tony Jaa, and it features one of the longest continuous takes in action cinema history.


Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior (2003)
Description: Another Tony Jaa classic, this film follows a young man's journey from a rural village to Bangkok to retrieve a stolen Buddha statue, featuring some of the most impressive Muay Thai fight scenes ever filmed.
Fact: The film was shot in real locations in Bangkok, providing an authentic backdrop to the action.


The Lost City of Gold (2016)
Description: This action-adventure film takes viewers on a treasure hunt through Bangkok, featuring high-speed chases and martial arts. The city's diverse landscapes are beautifully showcased.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life urban legends about hidden treasures in Bangkok.
