The Best Action Films of 2022 in English: A Thrilling Retrospective

Nov 15, 2025 by recoveryshake.com 135 views

The Best Action Films of 2022 in English: A Thrilling Retrospective

2022 was a banner year for action films, delivering a diverse range of cinematic experiences for adrenaline junkies. From superhero spectacles to gritty thrillers, there was something for every action enthusiast. This article delves into the best action films of 2022 in English, providing a retrospective look at the year’s most memorable explosions, fight sequences, and heroic feats. Get ready to revisit the high-octane thrills and discover some hidden gems you might have missed.

Superhero Domination: A Look at Marvel and DC’s Offerings

Superhero films continued to dominate the box office in 2022, and the action was bigger and bolder than ever. Marvel Studios delivered two major entries: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and Thor: Love and Thunder. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness plunged viewers into a mind-bending journey through alternate realities, featuring stunning visual effects and intense action sequences. Benedict Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Doctor Strange reached new heights as he battled interdimensional threats and confronted his own inner demons. The film’s inventive fight choreography and the sheer scale of its multiversal conflict made it a standout action film of the year. Meanwhile, Thor: Love and Thunder brought back Chris Hemsworth as the God of Thunder, this time teaming up with Natalie Portman’s Jane Foster as the Mighty Thor. The film’s vibrant visuals, comedic tone, and high-energy action set pieces made it a crowd-pleaser, despite some criticisms of its narrative choices. Christian Bale’s portrayal of the villain Gorr the God Butcher added a menacing presence to the film, and his battles with Thor were among the most memorable action sequences of the year. The blend of humor and heart, coupled with the impressive special effects and large-scale battles, solidified its place as a key player in the action film landscape of 2022. Examining the nuanced performances amidst the chaos, one can appreciate the careful balance the directors attempted to strike between character development and pure adrenaline-fueled excitement. Whether it was the creative use of Mjolnir or the visually stunning battles against otherworldly creatures, Thor: Love and Thunder succeeded in delivering a satisfying dose of superhero action to audiences worldwide. The movie also masterfully integrated supporting characters into the fray, enriching the overall narrative tapestry and amplifying the emotional stakes of each encounter. The film’s dedication to both spectacle and emotional resonance underscores its position as a prominent action film of 2022, leaving a lasting impression on fans and critics alike. Ultimately, its capacity to meld levity with gravitas within the framework of a superhero narrative is what distinguishes it from its contemporaries. The action, though abundant, never overshadows the underlying themes of love, loss, and redemption, ensuring that the viewing experience remains both thrilling and deeply affecting.

DC, on the other hand, offered The Batman, a dark and gritty take on the iconic character. Directed by Matt Reeves and starring Robert Pattinson as the Caped Crusader, The Batman focused on detective work and psychological suspense, but it also delivered some intense and grounded action sequences. The film’s rain-soaked Gotham City provided a bleak and atmospheric backdrop for Batman’s pursuit of the Riddler, and the fight choreography was brutal and realistic. This departure from the more fantastical elements often associated with superhero films resonated with audiences seeking a more realistic and gritty depiction of vigilantism. The strategic use of shadows and close-quarters combat intensified the action, making each punch and grapple feel visceral and impactful. Moreover, the film’s commitment to exploring the psychological toll of being Batman added depth to the character’s motivations, enriching the overall viewing experience. Unlike many superhero flicks, The Batman prioritized character development and world-building, resulting in a richer and more immersive cinematic universe. The strategic use of practical effects over CGI in many of the action sequences lent the film a sense of authenticity that further enhanced its gritty realism.

Beyond Superheroes: Exploring Other Action Genres

While superheroes dominated, 2022 also saw the release of several outstanding action films outside the superhero genre. Top Gun: Maverick was a massive success, bringing back Tom Cruise as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell in a high-flying sequel that delivered breathtaking aerial sequences. The film’s practical effects and stunning cinematography made it a must-see for action fans, and Cruise’s dedication to performing his own stunts added to the film’s authenticity. The sheer thrill of watching fighter jets soar through the skies, coupled with the nostalgic callbacks to the original Top Gun, created a cinematic experience that resonated with audiences of all ages. Beyond the impressive visuals, Top Gun: Maverick excelled in crafting compelling characters and narratives that enriched the emotional core of the film. The film’s exploration of themes such as legacy, sacrifice, and the passage of time gave the action a profound and lasting impact. Bullet Train was another notable release, a stylish and quirky action comedy directed by David Leitch. The film featured Brad Pitt as an assassin who finds himself on a bullet train filled with other deadly killers, leading to a series of chaotic and hilarious confrontations. Its ensemble cast, comprised of notable actors each portraying eccentric assassins, brought an added layer of intrigue to the already frenetic proceedings. The movie’s rapid-fire dialogue and intricately choreographed fight scenes seamlessly blended humor and mayhem. The dynamic interplay between the characters and the unpredictable plot twists maintained a captivating tempo throughout the entire duration. The success of Bullet Train highlights the continuing demand for action films that deviate from conventional narratives, showcasing the genre’s capacity for inventiveness and originality. The film cleverly subverted genre tropes, injecting moments of dark humor and self-awareness into its high-octane sequences, further distinguishing it from its peers. The film’s emphasis on character-driven storytelling, despite the overarching action, allowed audiences to connect with the characters and their individual motivations, adding emotional weight to the narrative. In essence, Bullet Train stands as a testament to the potential of action films to transcend mere spectacle, offering a deeply engaging cinematic experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Underrated Gems and Hidden Surprises

Not all great action films receive the widespread attention they deserve. Violent Night, a dark comedy action film starring David Harbour as Santa Claus battling a group of mercenaries, was a surprisingly entertaining and bloody affair. The film’s inventive premise and over-the-top violence made it a unique and memorable entry in the action genre. It was a delightful twist on the traditional Christmas narrative, offering a refreshing blend of holiday cheer and brutal action. Harbour’s portrayal of a disgruntled Santa was both hilarious and surprisingly poignant, adding depth to what could have been a purely superficial character. The film’s creative use of Christmas-themed weaponry and festive settings further amplified its unique appeal. The Northman, directed by Robert Eggers, was a Viking revenge saga that blended historical accuracy with brutal action. Alexander Skarsgård delivered a ferocious performance as Amleth, a Viking prince seeking vengeance for his father’s murder. The film’s stark visuals, intense violence, and compelling performances made it a standout action film for those seeking a more serious and visceral experience. Its unrelenting brutality and commitment to historical authenticity set it apart from more conventional action films, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable cinematic experience. The film’s exploration of themes such as fate, vengeance, and the cyclical nature of violence added a layer of intellectual depth to the already visually stunning and emotionally charged narrative. Ultimately, The Northman stands as a testament to the enduring power of the action genre to explore complex themes and deliver profoundly affecting cinematic experiences.

The Future of Action Films

Looking ahead, the future of action films looks bright. With advancements in technology and the continued creativity of filmmakers, we can expect even more innovative and thrilling action experiences in the years to come. The success of films like Top Gun: Maverick demonstrates that audiences still crave practical effects and real stunts, while the popularity of films like Bullet Train shows that there is a demand for action films with a unique and quirky sensibility. Whether it’s superhero spectacles, grounded thrillers, or unexpected surprises, the action genre will continue to evolve and entertain audiences around the world. As audiences increasingly seek out immersive and visceral cinematic experiences, the action film genre will likely continue to push the boundaries of visual effects, stunt work, and storytelling, providing audiences with unforgettable thrills. The ongoing development of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies could potentially revolutionize the way action films are experienced, allowing viewers to step into the action themselves. The fusion of technology and creativity promises to deliver even more immersive and engaging action film experiences in the future.