Theo James has quietly become one of the most reliable action stars in Hollywood, and his latest film is proving it in a big way. Fuze, a 2026 crime thriller that teams James with Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Sam Worthington, has now spent more than 100 days in the top 10 on Apple TV's VOD charts. That's a rare feat for any film in today's crowded streaming landscape, and it signals that audiences are still discovering this under-the-radar gem.
James's career has been on a steady upward trajectory for years. He first caught mainstream attention as Four in the Divergent trilogy, a trio of sci-fi films released in consecutive years from 2014 to 2016—a scheduling feat that feels almost impossible in today's franchise landscape. More recently, he's delivered memorable turns in The White Lotus Season 2 and the horror hit The Monkey, and he voices Bastion in Marvel's animated series X-Men '97. He also leads Guy Ritchie's crime drama The Gentlemen on Netflix, which remains one of the platform's most-watched shows worldwide.
But Fuze might be his most impressive streaming success yet. The film has been a fixture in HBO Max's top 10 in America for over a week, and its 100-day run on Apple TV puts it in elite company. According to Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 72% critics score and a 78% audience score—solid numbers that suggest word-of-mouth is driving its longevity. For fans of tense, twisty thrillers, it's a must-watch. If you're looking for more pulse-pounding recommendations, check out the best thrillers of the last five years.
What Is Fuze About?
The official synopsis sets the stage: "Set in contemporary London, Fuze unfolds after an unexploded World War II bomb is unearthed at a busy construction site, forcing a massive citywide evacuation. Amid the escalating tension and chaos, a daring criminal operation is set in motion—one that uses the evacuation as cover for a meticulously planned heist. As authorities race against time to contain the crisis, alliances blur and moral boundaries are crossed, the film deftly propels audiences through a series of calculated twists delivering a wildly entertaining ride."
Directed by David Mackenzie, who previously helmed Taylor Sheridan's Hell or High Water, the film boasts a script by Ben Hopkins. Mackenzie's knack for gritty, character-driven tension is on full display here, and the cast—including Taylor-Johnson, fresh off Kraven the Hunter, and Worthington, who appears in Avatar: Fire and Ash—elevates the material. It's the kind of mid-budget thriller that used to dominate theaters but now finds new life on streaming.
For those who appreciate a good heist story, Fuze joins a rich tradition. If you're hungry for more, our list of thriller books that grab you instantly might tide you over between viewings. And if you're a Sam Worthington fan, you'll want to keep an eye on his upcoming Hulu spy thriller, The Parsifal Mosaic.
Why Fuze Is Connecting With Audiences
Part of Fuze's appeal is its high-concept premise: a WWII bomb forcing an evacuation while criminals exploit the chaos. It's a setup that promises both ticking-clock suspense and moral complexity, and the film delivers on both fronts. The 100-day streak on Apple TV suggests that viewers are not just watching it once but recommending it to others—a sign of genuine staying power.
In a year packed with action releases, Fuze has carved out a niche by being smart, tense, and well-acted. It's a reminder that Theo James is more than just a handsome face; he's a bona fide leading man who can anchor a film. As he continues to build an impressive filmography, Fuze stands as a testament to his growing star power.
You can stream Fuze now on HBO Max in the U.S., and it's also available for rent or purchase on Apple TV. With its impressive chart run and strong audience scores, it's well worth your time. Stay tuned for more updates on Theo James's upcoming projects.
