By the Bel: All Time Top 5 Action Movies

Published May 1, 2012
Category: By the Bel, Columns

Top 5 best action films ~In my opinion anyway~

I’m not usually one for shoot ‘em up, kill ‘em all and huge explosions when I’m looking for a film; but occasionally I want an action film fix. Here are my top 5 list of the best action films ~in my opinion anyway~ in no particular order

#5 The Indiana Jones Series – Lucas Films has made a gazillion dollars on this franchise because it works. University professor and Tomb Raider Indiana Jones, has done some pretty out there things so far in this 4 movie series. He’s run from large boulders, survived an atomic blast by hiding in a refrigerator and has a strong dislike for snakes and spiders. He carries a whip and his hat almost always stays on his head. Harrison Ford (Indiana) isn’t all that bad to look at even in his aged state, and his leading ladies never disappoint.

I enjoy this one purely because there is a high level of humor, without which, the films would be just a big bunch of meh.

#4 Die Hard Series – Bruce Willis plays John McClean, New York cop, and hero when the bad guys come to town in this 4 film franchise. First in an office building, then in an airport, then they target the Federal Reserve in New York and finally the entire of the USA. He seems to always be Johnny on the spot and the catch phrases run this and fast.

The explosions are legendary, and some scenarios are very unbelievable. This really isn’t aimed at a female target audience, but it’s an okay bunch of films to watch every now and again.

#3 Gone in 60 Seconds – Originally made in 1974 but remade in 2000 this one hits all the right spots; between explosions, car chases, bad guys, hot smart chicks and the unobtainable goal. You tend to forget the highly illegal activities of a bunch of reformed car boosters, who have banded together to save the little brother of one of their own.

Angelina Jolie does what she does best and burns some serious rubber alongside Nicolas Cage. Turn the volume up if you’re a bit of a rev head to hear the engines roar.

#2 Top Gun – Tom Cruise plays Maverick, a fighter pilot… there’s jets, uniforms and a teacher to seduce. Little more need be said. *air guitar to the song Danger Zone*

#1 Fast and Furious Series – Sometimes there’s Vin Diesel, sometimes there’s not; but there is always fast cars and a race to be won. The sixth film in this franchise looks to be in the works and I haven’t seen Fast Five yet, but the other four films go a long way to cure the action film itch.

Quarter miles, drifting, stolen goods, mobsters, and undercover police work generally cover the gist of the series so far. Give me a Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez double act and I’m in action movie heaven.