When discussing the greatest action movies, iconic films like Die Hard and Terminator often come to mind, but what about the little guys? You know, those lesser-known action flicks that can be watched over-and-over, regardless of their popularity. That’s what we’re talking about today: the underappreciated, but highly recommended action movies that may have flown under your radar. From the cliché and parody filled Last Action Hero to Karl Urban’s Dredd, join us as we highlight a few underrated but unforgettable action movies of the past 30 years.
Here are 20 of our favorite underrated action films. Enjoy!
20. Tears of the Sun (2003)
Helmed by Training Day director Antoine Fuqua and starring Bruce Willis, Monica Bellucci, and Cole Hauser, Tears of the Sun follows Lieutenant Walters (Willis) as he and his team of Navy SEALS attempt to extract a doctor (Bellucci) from the war-torn nation of Nigeria. Released to mixed reviews, we’re here to say that Tears of the Sun is an underrated action flick. While the film’s admittedly subpar screenplay prohibits it from being the film it aspires to be, Tears of the Sun separates itself from the other action movie chaff with absolutely stunning cinematography and some genuinely awe-inspiring set pieces (there’s a terrific action sequence where Willis and his cronies work their way through a burning village, it’s gorgeous to watch). Filled with quality action and drama that doesn’t veer too far into cheese, Tears of the Sun is a quality watch that most definitely deserves the positive run its received on late-night cable.
Source: Screenshot via Columbia Pictures