The Tower is a highly efficient and entertaining modern update of the classic disaster movie formula, swapping a burning skyscraper for a precarious high-rise on Christmas Eve. It expertly builds its characters before unleashing a relentless series of fiery, well-executed peril scenarios with solid CGI. While not original, it’s fast-paced and technically proficient, offering exactly the kind of thrilling, melodramatic spectacle you want from the genre. | © CJ Entertainment
Batman Returns is a dark and visually stunning Christmas movie, where the villains steal the show. Danny DeVito's grotesque yet sad Penguin and Michelle Pfeiffer's iconic Catwoman overshadow even Michael Keaton's suitably brooding Batman. While the plot drags at times, Tim Burton’s detailed direction and the excellent gothic sets make it a uniquely macabre and entertaining holiday film. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
The Bourne Identity redefined the action genre with style and a compelling performance from Matt Damon as a confused but highly skilled operative. The film balances spectacular chases and tense fights with a surprising level of subtlety, especially in the developing relationship between Bourne and his partner. It’s a gripping puzzle of a thriller that favors sharp technique over empty pyrotechnics, making every move feel real and consequential. | © Universal Studios
Carry On is a solid, watchable action movie that delivers straightforward, enjoyable escapism. The likable main character draws you into his story, supported by some genuinely good moments and reliable performances. While it’s no genre-redefining classic, it leaves you wanting more, especially from a potential follow-up with the same cast. | © Netflix
Die Hard 2 matches the original's scale, swapping the skyscraper for a besieged, hyperactive airport during Christmas. Bruce Willis is still in top form as John McClane, facing off against a ruthless villain in William Sadler. Director Renny Harlin keeps the pace blistering and the action huge, delivering a very satisfying and explosive holiday sequel. | © 20th Century Studios
The Long Kiss Goodnight is an ahead-of-its-time blast, featuring Geena Davis as a brilliant dual force, both a small-town mom and a vicious, amnesiac assassin. Her fantastic chemistry with Samuel L. Jackson’s reluctant, funny sidekick makes their pairing a hugely entertaining ride. It’s a clever, high-octane thriller that delivers fierce action and sharp wit, leaving you wondering why this never became a full franchise. | © New Line Cinema
The Last Boy Scout is peak Bruce Willis, playing a mumbling, grunting anti-hero who feels like a mix of John McClane and Snake Plissken. Tony Scott’s flashy direction and Shane Black’s witty, one-liner-packed script make for a rough, seedy, and wildly entertaining ride. It’s a violent and funny adventure that never takes itself too seriously, perfect for fans of unapologetic ‘90s action. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Silent Night is a stylish return to form for director John Woo, delivering emotionally devastating action without a single line of dialogue. Joel Kinnaman gives a powerfully physical performance as a father on a punishing quest for vengeance, driving a plot that feels both classic and fresh. It’s a visceral, near-constant thrill ride that captures the raw energy of a ‘90s action flick with modern precision. | © Lionsgate Films
Violent Night is a brutal movie that mixes the DNA of Die Hard and Home Alone with a festive twist. David Harbour delivers a fantastic performance as a disgruntled Santa, anchoring the film's wildly entertaining mix of raw action and surprisingly goofy humor. While the story might feel predictable, it’s executed with such high energy and gory fun that it keeps you thoroughly entertained, perfect for anyone craving a different kind of holiday movie. | © Universal Studios
Kiss Kiss Bang Bang is a smart comedy wrapped in a tongue-in-cheek film noir package, driven by the fantastic chemistry between Robert Downey Jr. and Val Kilmer. The dialogue comes fast and furious, packed with jokes so clever you might miss a few while you're still laughing from the last one. It's a highly entertaining buddy film that proves stylish action and sharp wit are a perfect, and perfectly funny, match. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Reindeer Games is a fast-paced thriller from the late director John Frankenheimer, who squeezes every bit of tension from its twisty plot. Ben Affleck holds his own as an ex-con caught in a dangerous holiday heist, backed by strong turns from Charlize Theron and a menacing Gary Sinise. While the script might not reinvent the wheel, the decent action, tight atmosphere, and a few clever twists make it a reliably entertaining Christmas-time watch. | © Miramax Films
Home Alone is a holiday classic fueled by Macaulay Culkin's charmingly self-assured performance and the perfectly goofy villainy of Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern. The late John Candy adds a wonderful layer of heart and humour, matching the film's clever visual jokes and inventive traps. It's a funny and touching ride that balances chaotic comedy with warmth, securing its place as a beloved festive watch. | © 20th Century Studios
Iron Man 3 takes a refreshingly different direction by focusing on Tony Stark's deductive genius rather than just his high-tech suit. There's still plenty of explosive action, including a spectacular climax, but the film’s heart lies in seeing Stark use his wits during more vulnerable, hands-on fights. This character-driven approach might divide fans of pure armor-on-armor battles, but it offers a personal chapter in the saga. | © Paramount Pictures
Lethal Weapon is a nearly perfect action film, powered by the brilliant, symbiotic partnership of Mel Gibson’s volatile Riggs and Danny Glover’s weary Murtaugh. It balances intense thrills with genuine heart as these two cops evolve from reluctant colleagues to inseparable friends. The story moves with such charismatic momentum that it never needs to overindulge, securing its timeless status. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Die Hard sets the standard for every action movie that followed. It’s a clever, explosive ride wrapped in just enough holiday spirit to feel festive without ever getting cheesy. You can switch your brain off and enjoy the pure spectacle of Bruce Willis’s iconic performance, making it a perfect and perfectly badass Christmas watch. | © 20th Century Studios
Forget quiet nights by the fire. This Christmas, swap sugarplums for shootouts and carols for car chases with these 15 explosive action movies that are perfect for the holidays.
