The 2020s have been a golden era for action cinema, with hits like Top Gun: Maverick and Everything Everywhere All at Once dominating both box offices and awards. But with so many explosive releases, some truly deserving action flicks have slipped through the cracks. Here are five action-packed movies from the decade that nobody remembers today—but absolutely should.
1. 'Gunpowder Milkshake' (2021)
This Netflix original stars Karen Gillan as Sam, a hitwoman who reunites with her estranged mother (Lena Headey) and a crew of deadly former colleagues (Carla Gugino, Angela Bassett, Michelle Yeoh) to protect a young girl from rival assassins. With a neon-drenched visual style, a straightforward but engaging plot, and a stellar cast, Gunpowder Milkshake delivers inventive action—especially its climactic shootout. It's the kind of simple, memorable entertainment that sticks with you long after the credits roll.
2. 'Blue Beetle' (2023)
Released during a major strike and DC's uncertain transition, Blue Beetle was a box-office disappointment but a hidden gem. Xolo Maridueña stars as Jaime Reyes, a recent college grad who bonds with an alien scarab, gaining superpowers. Unlike typical superhero fare, the film focuses on family, legacy, and self-discovery. With impressive visual effects and a heartfelt performance from Maridueña, it's one of the most underrated superhero movies of the decade. For more underrated gems, check out our list of tight, terrific movies under 80 minutes.
3. 'Boy Kills World' (2023)
Bill Skarsgård delivers a physically demanding performance as Boy, a deaf-mute man who trains for years to avenge his family's murder. Directed by Moritz Mohr, this film blends silly humor with brutal gore, featuring inner monologues voiced by H. Jon Benjamin. Skarsgård's mix of innocence and rage makes Boy surprisingly endearing, while the supporting cast—including Famke Jansen—adds depth. It's a deliriously entertaining actioner that deserves cult status.
4. 'Monkey Man' (2024)
Dev Patel pulls quadruple duty as director, co-writer, co-producer, and star in this revenge thriller. He plays Kid, an underground fighter who targets the corrupt leaders responsible for his mother's death. Patel's kinetic direction and confident performance make the brutal choreography feel natural, while the social commentary adds weight. Monkey Man is destined to become a cult classic. For more sci-fi adventures, see our top 10 sci-fi adventure movies of the last 25 years.
5. 'Novocaine' (2025)
Jack Quaid surprises as an unlikely action star in this adrenaline-fueled thriller. While details are scarce, early buzz suggests it's a fresh, inventive entry in the genre. It's always exciting when actors we don't expect to see in action roles dive in headfirst—and Quaid delivers. For more on the best of 2026 so far, check out 2026's best sci-fi movies.
These five films prove that the 2020s have been packed with action gems that deserve a second look. Whether you're into neon-lit shootouts, superhero family dramas, or brutal revenge tales, there's something here for every action fan.
