15 Action Movies You Must Stream on Peacock Right Now!

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There’s a certain knack to thriving as an underdog, and Peacock, frequently categorized among the secondary tier of streaming platforms, is excelling. While Netflix and Prime Video engage in a fierce battle over sheer content volume, and Max focuses on high-end prestige, Peacock has subtly amassed one of the most intriguing, slightly chaotic, and genuinely enjoyable selections of action movies currently available. Perhaps it’s because the service doesn’t feel pressured to establish itself as a trendsetter or a revolutionist; perhaps it’s because its algorithm avoids forced creation of the next big franchise. In any case, Peacock’s roster possesses the quirky appeal of a cherished DVD collection: a blend of timeless classics, lesser-known gems, and films that leave you questioning how they ever made it to production in the first place.

On the stage of high-octane cinema, Peacock’s collection stands out, offering a diverse range from intense military dramas to lighthearted flicks like ‘The Equalizer’ and ‘A Knight’s Tale’. Unlike platforms striving for Academy Award contenders, this one is a haven where such disparate titles coexist. Remarkably, the films here, assessed by Rotten Tomatoes, often carry a mixed bag of reviews. While it can serve as a symbol of prestige or criticism, this rating system overlooks the joy that action movies provide, particularly those that embrace their over-the-top elements, pushing boundaries in action, physics, energy, and even absurdity for sheer entertainment value.

Surprisingly, peacocks make an excellent spot to observe a wide range of colors in an unanticipated manner. Here, we present the top action movies available for streaming, ranked according to their Rotten Tomatoes ratings; however, it’s worth noting that sometimes, statistics can be misleading.

15
‘Only God Forgives’ (2013)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 41%

In a different phrasing, Nicolas Winding Refn’s movie “Only God Forgives” is not your typical action flick; instead, it presents as a dreamlike state immersed in neon and brutality. The narrative unfolds within the seedy underbelly of Bangkok’s criminal world, with Ryan Gosling portraying Julian, a drug smuggler forced by his overbearing mother (Kristin Scott Thomas) to seek vengeance for his brother’s murder. This vengeance, however, takes on the form of a gradual, introspective plunge into self-punishment rather than a clear-cut mission. Filmed with mesmerizing, artistic detail, “Only God Forgives” presents a gruesome dance of silence and savagery, bathed in blood-red light and punctuated by long, reflective pauses that suddenly escalate into violent outbursts. This film tends to polarize audiences—some finding it a mesmerizing work of art, while others view it as an overindulgent exploration of style over narrative depth.

Neon-Drenched Violence and the Art of Repression

The enduring quality of “Only God Forgives” isn’t solely due to its intense violence, but rather its defiance of the typical structure found in revenge thrillers. Ryan Gosling, who speaks very little, moves like a spirit through a world that resists making him the main character. Vithaya Pansringarm’s Lieutenant Chang, a seemingly all-powerful figure of retribution, challenges the usual action dynamic – the antagonist appears more composed than the supposed hero, and each violent act feels like an unavoidable verdict rather than a dramatic climax. Critics criticized the film for being cold and detached, but that’s exactly its strength. It strips down the common themes of action movies – revenge, masculinity, justice – to their most subtle and eerie versions. It doesn’t bring satisfaction; it lingers as a haunting presence.

14
‘Guns Akimbo’ (2019)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 53%

The movie titled “Guns Akimbo” straddles the border between amusingly stupid and simply stupid, and it does so with an unbridled enthusiasm. This film follows Miles (played by Daniel Radcliffe), a feeble game developer who ends up with weapons attached to his hands after mocking the wrong individuals online. Consequently, he’s compelled to participate in a lethal live-streamed competition. It’s a fusion of “Crank” and “Scott Pilgrim,” presented through the lens of a high-octane video game session, characterized by rapid cuts, vibrant neon lighting, and exaggerated violence. Director Jason Lei Howden appreciates the absurdity of the storyline and fully embraces it, creating a movie that seems tailor-made for today’s TikTok audience—fast-paced, snappy, and shamelessly excessive.

The Video Game Logic of Action Cinema, Taken Literally

The standout feature of the movie “Guns Akimbo” is its unique blend of celebrating and satirizing action movie tropes. It pushes the “reluctant hero” concept to its extreme limits – Miles isn’t merely unsuited for the role, he can’t even put his hands in his pockets or open a door without creating chaos. The film’s main asset is Daniel Radcliffe, whose post-Harry Potter roles have been intriguingly eccentric. He portrays Miles with a blend of annoyance and real fear, making him an exceptional action hero who is genuinely scared of his surroundings. Despite being generally panned by critics as immature nonsense, “Guns Akimbo” shines due to its own absurd consistency. It’s chaotic, but it’s a delightfully enjoyable chaos.

13
‘A Knight’s Tale’ (2001)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 59%

Without question, the film “A Knight’s Tale” demonstrates that the importance placed on historical accuracy can be greatly exaggerated. Written by Brian Helgeland, this unconventional adventure tale stars Heath Ledger as William Thatcher, a commoner who deceives his noble lineage to compete in a series of jousting tournaments, ultimately reshaping his fate through determination and strategically chosen Queen songs. The film breathes new life into the skeleton of a medieval sports movie by infusing it with infectious anachronistic energy, swapping the usual pomp and circumstance of period pieces for a soundtrack that features tracks like “We Will Rock You,” “Low Rider,” and “Golden Years.” Remarkably, this unexpected blend works flawlessly.

A Jousting Movie with a Rock-and-Roll Heart

The reason A Knight’s Tale is so remarkable is its ability to seamlessly merge the traditional with the contemporary. This movie recognizes that knight tournaments, at their heart, were medieval Europe’s equivalent of extreme sports, and it portrays them exactly as such. Heath Ledger delivers a captivating performance, striking the perfect balance between sincerity and self-confidence for his character, William. Paul Bettany’s depiction of Chaucer, yes, that Chaucer, brings a layer of absurd meta-humor to the storyline, and the entire supporting cast embraces the film’s lighthearted spirit. Although it may have puzzled critics initially, A Knight’s Tale has since garnered a loyal cult fanbase. It doesn’t merely defy conventions—it knocks them down with a grin on its face.

12
‘The Equalizer’ (2014)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 61%

There’s a satisfying feeling in observing an expert at work, particularly when that profession entails taking down entire criminal networks with calculated precision. The film The Equalizer brings back Robert McCall (played by Denzel Washington), a man who appears to lead a simple life, spending his days working at a hardware store and nights reading classic novels in a diner. However, when he encounters a young woman being viciously attacked by Russian gangsters, McCall’s exceptional abilities surface. Antoine Fuqua skillfully directs the movie, turning what could have been a routine revenge story into an elegant, systematic, and surprisingly poetic production. Unlike typical action scenes filled with chaotic shootouts, the action sequences in this film are more like strategic puzzles—McCall’s character, Washington, analyzes each situation like a chess player, considering every possible move before making a move.

The Art of Precise, Unapologetic Violence

The success of “The Equalizer” isn’t solely due to its intense action sequences; rather, it’s Denzel Washington’s performance that sets it apart. Unlike a typical cold-blooded assassin portrayal, Washington lends McCall a thoughtful compassion—he seems reluctant to engage in these activities, yet he understands his unique role. The quiet moments, such as when he’s engrossed in reading or carefully arranging his home, are just as impactful as the scenes where he uses unconventional weapons like nail guns and corkscrews to take down villains. While the film doesn’t revolutionize the action genre, it certainly raises its bar, demonstrating that powerful action movies need not rely on loudness to be effective.

11
‘300’ (2006)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 61%

In my opinion, not many movies have left an imprint on popular culture quite as profoundly as Zack Snyder’s epic masterpiece, 300. This cinematic marvel transformed Frank Miller’s graphic novel into a grandiose, testosterone-charged spectacle that I had the pleasure of supporting. The film narrates (in a heavily fictionalized manner) the Battle of Thermopylae, where King Leonidas (portrayed brilliantly by Gerard Butler) and his 300 Spartan warriors valiantly faced the colossal forces of the Persian Empire. However, 300 is not preoccupied with historical authenticity; instead, it offers a captivating visual journey, a slow-motion, hyper-stylized dance of violence that appears as if each frame has been painted meticulously. Snyder’s distinctive use of digital backdrops and vibrant color schemes imbues the film with a dreamlike essence, making it feel more like a timeless legend than a conventional war movie.

A Stylized Bloodbath That Redefined Action Cinema

300’s longevacy, despite criticism, stems from its unwavering devotion to its unique mythos. Each dialogue is spoken with dramatic fervor reminiscent of Shakespeare, while every fight scene is amplified for maximum impact. Butler’s portrayal of King Leonidas exudes raw masculinity – he’s less a historical character and more a living embodiment of warrior spirit. The film has been frequently lampooned and internet-meme’d (“This… Is… Sparta!”), yet its impact is indisputable. It redefined digital cinematography, sparked a trend of action movies heavy on slow motion, and demonstrated that at times, style truly embodies substance.

10
‘Snakes on a Plane’ (2006)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 69%

A movie like “Snakes on a Plane” truly delivers on its word. Before it even hit the screens, it was already popular online, with its title symbolizing a unique blend of action and horror that’s rarely seen in cinemas today. The storyline is straightforward: Samuel L. Jackson stars as an FBI agent who must transport a witness to trial, but due to preposterously silly circumstances, a villain unleashes numerous venomous snakes on the plane. The movie embraces its silliness wholeheartedly, balancing between camp and self-awareness.

The Purest Expression of B-Movie Genius

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I’d say the greatness of “Snakes on a Plane” isn’t solely about its outlandish plot; it’s all about how it wholeheartedly embodies every essence of a B-movie masterpiece while maintaining authentic suspense. The snake attacks are imaginatively gruesome, the actors strike the perfect balance between playing their roles seriously enough to avoid full-blown parody, and let’s not forget Jackson’s legendary line, which became iconic thanks to the incredible demand from the internet community. It’s a movie that gets the pure, raw excitement of a top-notch high-concept idea and runs with it. There are no unnecessary side stories, no heavy-handed messages—just a film that knows its identity inside and out and revels in every moment of it.

9
‘Hanna’ (2011)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 71%

Joe Wright’s movie titled “Hanna” is an exceptional action film that carries the feel of a fairy tale – blending espionage, maturity journey, and vivid dream-like sequences under one roof. The plot revolves around Hanna (Saoirse Ronan), a 16-year-old girl brought up in solitude by her former CIA agent father (Eric Bana). Trained to be an unmatched assassin, she’s eventually released into the world for more than just completing a mission; it’s about exploring the intricacies and wonders of civilization. What sets “Hanna” apart is its ability to harmonize harshness with purity – in one instance, Hanna effortlessly eliminates skilled operatives using graceful movements, while in another, she encounters camaraderie and music for the first time. Wright, renowned for his period dramas like “Pride & Prejudice” and “Atonement“, directs “Hanna” with an unforeseen yet powerful sense of tempo and style, creating an action film that flows as melodiously as music itself.

A Fairytale Wrapped in an Assassin’s Thriller

A significant portion of the movie’s success can be attributed to Ronan’s captivating acting, yet what truly distinguishes it is its enchanting, dream-like ambiance, fueled by The Chemical Brothers’ rhythmic and driving score. In contrast to typical action thrillers, Hanna shifts the focus from the mission to self-exploration—it delves into the impact when a character trained for violence encounters sensitivity for the first time. Cate Blanchett portrays the film’s villain, a chilling intelligence operative who pursues Hanna with cold precision, making her even more fearsome. Hanna leaves an impression—it’s stylish, peculiar, and emotionally impactful in ways that few action films dare to achieve.

8
‘Red’ (2010)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 72%

In contrast to traditional action films, it was believed that action heroes should never grow old. However, this notion was challenged by the film “Red”, which features a team of retired CIA operatives who, despite their advanced age, demonstrate they’re still top-notch in their field when thrown into an intense, action-packed mission. Bruce Willis plays Frank Moses, a former black ops agent whose peaceful retirement is disturbed by assassins. To stay alive, he reconnects with his old team, including Morgan Freeman, Helen Mirren, and John Malkovich, each portraying an over-the-top version of their familiar on-screen characters. Directed by Robert Schwentke, “Red” flips the action-thriller script, infusing it with humor and endearment rather than just more gunfire.

Aging Out of Retirement (With Heavy Weaponry)

Red is such a blast because it seamlessly combines intense action with self-deprecating humor. The action scenes are sleekly executed yet focus less on brutal violence and more on demonstrating how these veteran spies outsmart their younger, arrogant adversaries. Bruce Willis gives a steady performance, but it’s Judi Dench as a sophisticated yet merciless assassin that truly steals the spotlight. The movie knows its identity—it’s a stylish, humorous adventure where the cast clearly enjoys every moment. Although it doesn’t revolutionize the genre, Red offers an uncommon blend of action and comedy that honors both aspects, making it just as sharp and enjoyable as its talented actors.

7
‘Nobody’ (2021)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 84%

If “John Wick” portrays a stylish, high-end assassin in a fantasy world, then “Nobody” presents its grittier, suburban relative – less polished but equally brutal. Bob Odenkirk plays Hutch Mansell, an ordinary, low-key family man living a seemingly mundane life. However, a home invasion ignites something within him, revealing that Hutch isn’t merely an ordinary person – he’s a dormant, highly skilled killer fighting to stay away from his former life. Directed by Ilya Naishuller and co-created by Derek Kolstad of “John Wick”, “Nobody” redefines contemporary action cinema by humanizing its protagonist. Unlike the slick, invincible assassin, Hutch is a man who gets hurt, bleeds, and makes errors.

The Everyman as a Killing Machine

The unusual choice of Bob Odenkirk as the main character in “Nobody” is what sets this movie apart. Known for his comedic performances on “Mr. Show” and his dramatic role in “Better Call Saul,” Odenkirk delivers a vulnerability in Hutch that makes him one of the most intriguing action heroes in recent years. He fights with the intensity of a man rediscovering his abilities – messy but effective, brutal yet mortal. The film’s highlight, a fight on a public bus, is a testament to exceptional action choreography: it’s intense, exhausting, and strikingly real. “Nobody” recognizes that outstanding action films aren’t just about impressive kills – they’re about making the audience feel every blow, every injury, every outcome. It’s rare for an action film to not only excite but also surprise.

6
‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’ (2003)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 85%

Quentin Tarantino’s “Kill Bill: Volume 1” is an action movie that seems like a passionate, blood-written letter. Taking inspiration from grindhouse cinema, martial arts epics, and spaghetti Westerns, Tarantino creates a highly stylized revenge story that is as visually daring as it is physically gratifying. The plot centers around The Bride (Uma Thurman), a former assassin nearly killed on her wedding day, who embarks on a ruthless quest to track down those who betrayed her. What distinguishes “Kill Bill” – even within Tarantino’s carefully selected cinematic universe – is its raw energy. Each scene exudes cinematic references, while every action sequence is orchestrated with the finesse of a choreographed dance. The legendary House of Blue Leaves battle, where The Bride cuts through the Crazy 88 gang, is a violent ballet, presented in such stylish fashion that it surpasses brutality and becomes an awe-inspiring spectacle.

A Blood-Soaked, Hyper-Stylized Revenge Opera

In my opinion, “Kill Bill: Volume 1” isn’t merely about stunning fight sequences and melodramatic violence; it’s all about Uma Thurman. As The Bride, she delivers a powerful performance that is a blend of raw anger, tender vulnerability, and indomitable determination. She breathes life into what could have been a flat, one-dimensional character seeking revenge, instead crafting a figure with depth and essence, someone who fights not out of obligation, but out of necessity. Tarantino’s distinctive dialogue is used sparingly in this film, yet Thurman’s physicality speaks volumes. The outcome is an action movie that feels like a tribute to and a reimagining of the genre—stylish, relentless, and indelibly etched into memory.

5
‘Ip Man’ (2008)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 86%

The film titled Ip Man, set in 1930s Foshan, China amidst the Second Sino-Japanese War, masterfully combines exhilarating fight sequences with profound emotional substance. This movie is based on the life of Wing Chun master Ip Man, who would later become Bruce Lee’s mentor. Unlike many martial arts films that emphasize spectacular moves and competition-style narratives, Ip Man delves into themes of dignity and perseverance alongside combat. Director Wilson Yip infuses the fight scenes with a cinematic finesse, showcasing Donnie Yen’s exceptional martial arts prowess in sequences that are both graceful and fierce. Each fight scene is not merely a demonstration of skill, but a deeply intimate struggle—be it against an oppressive power or the pain of losing one’s home.

A Martial Arts Biopic That Redefines the Genre

In “Ip Man,” Donnie Yen’s portrayal of the titular character serves as the core, providing a solid foundation for the narrative with an understated yet unwavering sense of integrity. Unlike other martial arts film heroes who are brash or flashy, Yen plays Ip Man with a serene, almost contemplative demeanor. He fights not due to vanity, but out of necessity, and his self-restraint is as captivating as his martial art skills. The movie’s most memorable scene—a grueling one-versus-ten battle against Japanese soldiers—serves not just as a display of Yen’s talents, but as a profound moment of resistance. This martial arts film surpasses its genre by demonstrating that action can be equally impactful when it is rooted in emotion rather than merely spectacle.

4
‘Thelma & Louise’ (1991)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 86%

Ridley Scott’s “Thelma & Louise” is commonly labeled as a road movie, a feminist declaration, or a friendship drama; however, beneath its bright exterior and the Bonnie-and-Clyde-like story set in the American South, it fundamentally stands as an action film. The narrative revolves around Thelma (Geena Davis) and Louise (Susan Sarandon), two women who turn into fugitives after a violent incident. Initially, their escape morphs into something more significant – a demonstration of autonomy, a rejection of the influences that have molded their lives, eventually culminating in a journey towards self-determined freedom. The film’s rhythm is swift, its action scenes (ranging from high-speed pursuits to gunfights) are skillfully executed, and Scott’s direction imbues each scene with a sense of epic grandeur.

An Action Movie in Disguise

The reason Thelma & Louise continues to resonate isn’t just its thrilling plot; it’s because it challenges traditional expectations of action heroes by featuring women as the central characters. Typically, action films have been ruled by gun-wielding men, seeking revenge or casually strolling away from explosions unscathed. However, Thelma and Louise are not superheroes nor are they driven by vengeance. Instead, their journey from suburban housewives to fearless outlaws keeps viewers on the edge of their seats; every decision they make seems less like a rebellious act and more like a desperate struggle for survival. Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis deliver career-defining performances, imbuing their characters with wit, sorrow, and unwavering defiance. The film’s poignant conclusion remains one of the most memorable, heartbreaking endings in action cinema; when life offers no other choices, sometimes the only way forward is to keep moving.

3
‘Rush’ (2013)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 89%

In essence, some action films revolve around conflict or survival, but Rush, directed by Ron Howard, centers on something equally fundamental – the drive to succeed. This high-speed Formula 1 biopic delves into the intense rivalry between James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth), a dashing playboy, and Niki Lauda (Daniel Brühl), a methodical strategist, during the ’70s. Beyond being a sports drama, Rush portrays the inner struggle of pushing one’s physical limits and machinery to their maximum capacity. The cinematography is dynamic, placing viewers in the cockpit of some of history’s deadliest races, while the script (by Peter Morgan) transforms a seemingly conventional sports rivalry into an intense, psychological duel between two individuals who strive for greatness in starkly different manners.

The Thrill of Speed, Rivalry, and Reckless Perfection

The reason Rush excels isn’t solely due to its thrilling high-speed race scenes, but because it grasps that competition transcends merely winning; it’s about shaping one’s identity through strife. Hemsworth imbues Hunt with a reckless allure, while Brühl embodies Lauda as the epitome of precision, yet neither is portrayed as a hero or a villain. Instead, they are two powers in constant confrontation, fueling each other’s presence. Director Howard, known for grandiose displays, films Rush akin to a live concert—with thunderous engines, intense close-ups, and scenes of raw pain. However, amidst the speed and peril, the film’s exceptional quality resides in its ability to stir your emotions towards the men off the racetrack as much as the races themselves.

2
‘Zero Dark Thirty’ (2012)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 91%

If “Rush” explores the exhilarating sensation of speed, “Zero Dark Thirty” delves into the torturous aspect of waiting. In Kathryn Bigelow’s skilled portrayal of the decade-long hunt for Osama bin Laden, the film veers away from a typical action movie and leans more towards a detailed investigation or procedural, yet it maintains an intense, unyielding pace that makes it seem like one. The narrative revolves around Maya (Jessica Chastain), a CIA operative whose unwavering pursuit of bin Laden transforms into an all-consuming obsession. Through the painstaking process of intelligence-gathering, interrogation, and bureaucratic red tape, she tracks the slow, grueling progress that eventually led to the notorious raid in Abbottabad. Bigelow directs with a stark, factual accuracy, eschewing any romanticization of the mission while still making it captivatingly intriguing.

A Taut, Unflinching Chronicle of Modern Warfare

The strength of “Zero Dark Thirty” lies in its subtlety. Unlike other films that focus on victory or heroism, this one delves into the theme of relentless persistence and the toll it takes when a seemingly unattainable goal looms larger. The climactic raid scene, shot mostly in darkness with a chilling, almost robotic detachment, is as much about fate as it is about accomplishment. The captivating portrayal by Chastain as Maya is unlike other characters who have grand speeches or action-packed scenes. Instead, she conveys her turmoil through subtle signs such as glances, exhaustion, and silent moments, especially when all has come to an end. The film leaves a lasting impression because it avoids providing simple solutions.

1
‘Mud’ (2012)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 97%

It’s surprising to find a movie titled “Mud” among action films, as it doesn’t contain gunfights, high-octane stunts, or typical combat scenes. However, Jeff Nichols’ Southern gothic coming-of-age story resonates with the same intensity and dynamic energy found in top thrillers, even during its quieter moments. The movie revolves around two boys, Ellis (Tye Sheridan) and Neckbone (Jacob Lofland), who stumble upon a runaway named Mud (Matthew McConaughey) hiding on an island in the Mississippi River. As they become entwined in his life, assisting him in finding his lost love (Reese Witherspoon) while avoiding bounty hunters, the film delves into themes of loyalty, mythology, and the tales we create around love and endurance.

A Southern Gothic That Finds Action in Stillness

The compelling nature of “Mud” lies in how Nichols skillfully constructs action through silence. Tension from potential violence lurks constantly, subtly integrated into the movie instead of being directly shown. McConaughey delivers a remarkable performance, portraying his character as both captivating and damaged, towering yet distressingly human. The narrative progresses towards an unavoidable showdown, yet the true action occurs in the evolving relationships among the characters. “Mud” serves as evidence that exhilaration doesn’t always require explosions; sometimes, the most gripping narratives unfold in the tranquil spaces between conversations, in the moments preceding a weapon being drawn, in the choices guiding us towards or away from conflict.

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2025-03-23 00:06