Action movies are a staple of the film industry, with their high-octane sequences, larger-than-life characters, and mind-blowing special effects. But did you know that many of the best action movies are based on popular books? That’s right - these films take the thrilling storylines and memorable characters from beloved novels and bring them to life on the big screen.
From crime thrillers to science fiction adventures, there are endless options when it comes to action movies based on books. These films often offer a fresh take on the source material, introducing new elements and plot twists that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. They also provide an opportunity for readers to see their favorite characters and worlds come to life in a whole new way.
So, if you’re a fan of both action movies and books, then you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the source material or just looking for a new action movie to watch, there’s something for everyone in this list.
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10 Bullet Train
Sony Pictures Releasing
Based on the novel Maria Beetle by Japanese author Kotaro Isaka, Bullet Train is an action movie that follows a group of assassins who find themselves on the same high-speed train, each with their own deadly mission. The adaptation is so outstanding, Isaka himself was amazed. With an all-star cast including Brad Pitt and Joey King, this film is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat as the characters race against time to complete their missions before the train reaches its final destination.
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
9 American Assassin
CBS Films
American Assassin is based on the book of the same name by Vince Flynn. The movie depicts a young man who is recruited by the CIA after his girlfriend is killed in a terrorist attack. With an intense performance by Dylan O’Brien and a supporting cast including Michael Keaton and Sanaa Lathan, this film is a thrilling ride from start to finish.
8 A Walk Among the Tombstones
Universal Pictures
Based on the 1992 novel of the same name by Lawrence Block, A Walk Among The Tombstones is another brilliant and honest adaptation. The movie follows a private investigator who is hired by a drug kingpin to find the men who kidnapped and murdered his wife. With a gripping performance by Liam Neeson and a supporting cast including Dan Stevens and David Harbour, this film is a must-see for fans of crime thrillers.
7 Gone Girl
20th Century Fox
Award-winning author, screenwriter and producer Gillian Flynn collaborates with the high-profile creator of thrillers, David Fincher, to create this remarkable murder mystery adaptation based on her own 2012 crime thriller novel of the same name. This action movie tells the story a man whose wife goes missing on their fifth wedding anniversary. With a standout performance by Ben Affleck and a supporting cast including Rosamund Pike and Neil Patrick Harris, Gone Girl is a captivating mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.
6 Jack Reacher
Paramount Pictures Releasing
Based on Lee Child’s 2005 novel One Shot, Jack Reacher models the story of a former military investigator as he delves into a case involving a skilled sniper. With a commanding performance by Tom Cruise and a supporting cast including Rosamund Pike and Robert Duvall, this film is a must-see for fans of crime thrillers.
5 Ready Player One
Warner Bros. Pictures
Ready Player One is based on the science fiction novel of the same name by Ernest Cline. This extraordinary action movie takes place in a virtual reality world set in 2045, where the protagonist must compete in a series of challenges to win a massive fortune. With an impressive cast including Tye Sheridan and Olivia Cooke, this film is a must-see for fans of both action and science fiction.
4 The Bourne Identity
The Bourne Identity, the first in a highly-regarded franchise, is based on the novel of the same name by Robert Ludlum. This action movie follows an amnesiac who must piece together his past while on the run from a group of assassins. With a standout performance by Matt Damon and a supporting cast including Franka Potente and Chris Cooper, this film is a fast-paced thriller. In fact, the acclaim received by this film has made a classic of the action genre, and has spawned numerous sequels.
3 Casino Royale
MGM
Based on Ian Fleming’s first ever novel of the same name, Casino Royale is an incredible action movie and a long-awaited addition to the James Bond franchise. In this action-packed premise, Bond travels to Montenegro to take on a high-stakes poker game and stop a terrorist organization from winning. With a majestic performance by Daniel Craig and a supporting cast including Eva Green and Mads Mikkelsen, fans of the Bond franchise can’t even imagine missing this movie.
2 Man on Fire
Man on Fire is based on the 1980 novel of the same name by A. J. Quinnell. The movie follows a bodyguard who is on a mission of revenge after his charge is kidnapped. Denzel Washington delivers an outstanding performance alongside a steller supporting cast including Dakota Fanning and Marc Anthony. Without a doubt, this film is a heart-pumping ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
1 Die Hard
Silver Pictures
If you’re an action movie fan, you have got to be aware of Die Hard. Based on Nothing Lasts Forever by Roderick Thorpe, this action movie follows a cop who is trapped in a high-rise building with terrorists and must fight his way out. With a standout performance by Bruce Willis and a supporting cast including Alan Rickman and Bonnie Bedelia, this film is a classic that has cemented itself as a must-watch for action fans.
