In an era dominated by multi-billion dollar franchises that overwhelm both theaters and home screens, it’s not uncommon for exceptional films to get lost amid the chaos. Each year, a select few action movies emerge, often receiving lukewarm receptions or scant promotion, leading them to be overlooked at the box office or misunderstood by reviewers. However, every film has its dedicated fanbase, whether drawn in by the film’s imaginative storytelling or its breathtaking action sequences. Though their initial releases might not have made the loudest splashes, these films possess enduring qualities that cultivate a loyal following over time.

Here, we explore some of the most underrated action films from the last five years that possess the potential to evolve into cult classics. Whether they represent bold genre explorations, character-driven thrillers, or stylish spectacles of chaos, each of these films offers something unique and memorable. These are the kind of action movies that will likely dominate streaming charts and become popular topics of conversation among friends for years to come.

9
‘Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins’ (2021)

Directed by Robert Schwentke

Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins introduces audiences to a solitary drifter known only as Snake Eyes (Henry Golding), who saves the life of a Japanese heir and becomes entangled with the ancient Arashikage clan, an enigmatic ninja organization. As he undergoes rigorous training and gradually earns the clan’s trust, he seizes the opportunity to pursue his father’s murderer. Along this journey, he finds a steadfast ally in Tommy (Koji Yakusho), who supports his initiation into the Arashikage.

This film revitalizes the G.I. Joe universe with a character-driven origin story that resonates more as a samurai epic than a typical franchise alignment. Despite its appealing visuals and fresh perspective on the toy-inspired franchise, Snake Eyes was often overlooked by viewers. Critics remained lukewarm in their assessments, and many audience members felt the film barely skimmed the surface of the expansive lore found in the original material. The talented ensemble cast, including Samara Weaving, Iko Uwais, and Money Heist‘s Úrsula Corberó, was not given sufficient material to flesh out their roles. If it weren’t tied to the G.I. Joe brand, this could have been a standout action drama featuring impressive production and gripping set pieces. The film’s unique fusion of Eastern and Western action styles, along with Yakusho’s standout performance, should provide ample momentum for its future.

8
‘Plane’ (2023)

Directed by Jean-François Richet

Plane follows Brodie Torrance (Gerard Butler), who pilots a commercial flight on a routine New Year’s Eve journey from Singapore to Honolulu. When a ferocious lightning storm renders the aircraft inoperable, Brodie is forced to execute an emergency landing on a remote Philippine island, which is under the control of anti-government militias. With no assistance in sight and the lives of passengers hanging in the balance, Brodie must join forces with Louis Gaspare (Mike Colter), a mysterious fugitive being extradited aboard the flight, to safeguard the group and devise a plan for escape.

Although Plane did not create a significant stir at the box office, it embodies the essence of a tight, no-frills action film that resonates with audiences. Critics offered surprisingly favorable reviews for an action film with such a straightforward title. The film trades grandiose spectacle for raw tension, featuring grounded sequences and a heartfelt performance from Butler that strays from his typical tough-guy persona. Colter matches this energy, providing unpredictability to his ex-con character. With its straightforward storytelling, the film’s emphasis on minimalist action and character-driven decisions recalls the ’90s action thrillers that eventually gained cult status. The Plane franchise is poised to expand with the upcoming sequel, Ship.

7
‘Gunpowder Milkshake’ (2021)

Directed by Navot Papushado

Gunpowder Milkshake tells the story of Sam (Karen Gillan), a skilled assassin who was raised by The Firm, a criminal organization that abandoned her mother, Scarlet (Lena Headey), a legendary hitwoman now living in hiding. When Sam is assigned to eliminate a target but chooses instead to protect the target’s young daughter, she finds herself pursued by her employers. With no one else to turn to, she rekindles her relationship with Scarlet and a fierce group of assassins known as The Librarians, which includes Angela Bassett, Michelle Yeoh, and Carla Gugino.

Despite the potential for Gunpowder Milkshake to be a breakout hit, featuring a stellar female-led cast with impressive experience in blockbuster films and vibrant, kinetic action sequences, it slipped under the radar due to a subdued streaming release. For fans of the action genre, the film resonates with those who appreciate a hyper-stylized aesthetic reminiscent of Kill Bill and John Wick. The cast clearly enjoys the material, particularly Gillan and Headey, who anchor the film’s poignant mother-daughter relationship. The inclusion of Yeoh, Bassett, and Gugino enhances the film’s appeal. Given enough support, Gunpowder Milkshake has the potential to evolve into a beloved cult classic.

6
‘Boy Kills World’ (2024)

Directed by Moritz Mohr

Set against a dystopian backdrop where authority is wielded through gruesome televised executions, Boy Kills World follows a deaf-mute boy who witnesses the slaughter of his entire family by the oppressive Van Der Koy family, the ruling regime. Rescued by a mysterious shaman, played by The Raid‘s Yayan Ruhian, he undergoes martial arts training. As he matures into a man, portrayed by Bill Skarsgård, he becomes resolute in his quest for vengeance against the Van Der Koy empire.

Boy Kills World lives up to its title by delivering an abundance of extreme violence and relentless action. Director Moritz Mohr aims to capture the absurdity of comic book aesthetics and successfully achieves this vision. Alongside its impressive cast, Skarsgård immerses himself in the character, executing all his stunts and conveying nuanced emotion through body language. A comedic inner voice, voiced by renowned actor H. Jon Benjamin, enhances the character’s development. Some critics have labeled it incoherent or overly stylized, focusing on shock value over substantive storytelling. However, this does not detract from the fact that the film is a wild mash-up of Oldboy and Scott Pilgrim vs the World, offering unrelenting action. Over time, Boy Kills World could be hailed as a cult classic for action films that embrace being loud, eccentric, and completely unhinged.