Action movies are these little gems in cinema that are gifts to movie fans who are just looking for fun on the big screen. Sure, there are some naysayers who think that action movies are nothing more than mindless drivel intended on doing nothing more than appealing to base emotions. So, what’s wrong with that?
Going to the movies is supposed to be fun, and action movies provide just that. Moreover, action movie buffs will tell you that if you’re quick to judge an action flick as beneath you, the actual issue is yours, and you’ve certainly not been paying attention to the latest action-packed movie offerings. Big explosions aside, the action movie has seen a bit of the renaissance, and if you’re a film buff, you owe it to yourself to check out the latest releases.
That said, it has to be noted that the best place to check out one of these awesome movies is in a proper theater. Yes, the home theater experience has become more refined and improved over the years, but it just doesn’t compare to the bombastic sound-system and massive screen you find at your local movie house. What’s more, there’s something about the whole theater experience that makes watching a movie much more fun. You want to look around at everyone else just to confirm you all just saw the same amount of awesome.
If you’re looking for the ultimate pairing of truly great action movies and the big screen, you need to see these seven movies in a theater with a quickness:
Gravity – Though some might argue this movie is more philosophical than action-packed, watch the end sequence, and you’ll understand what it means to be on the edge of your seat.
Terminator 2: Judgement Day – The first film was quite epic, but this sequel took things to a whole new level. From start to finish, this movie makes you just enjoy the thrills rather than focus on the actual apocalyptic message of the film.
Speed – Yes, it’s campy and corny by many people’s estimations, but it’s hard to argue with the action chops this movie delivers.
RoboCop – At a time in our history where we wonder about our safety, knowing there is a man-machine hybrid law enforcement officer who will clean up crime in an efficient manner is pretty sweet to behold.
The Matrix – The moviemakers behind this classic weren’t sure if the message of the movie was too deep for audiences to understand. Not only did they understand it, they were also privy to some of the most impactful action sequences ever put on film.
Raiders of the Lost Ark – An entire franchise rested on the shoulders of this early 1980s gem. Not only were the thrills in place for a truly entertaining time, but it also heralded the cementing of Harrison Ford as a bonafide movie star.
Watchmen – “Who watches the watchmen?” We love superhero movies & the idea of a group of superhuman individuals who keep us safe, but what happens when this isn’t the case? Based on one of the most celebrated graphic novels of all-time, this one deserves to only be shown in theaters.
Full disclosure: all of these action movies are now past their theater screening time and have made it to home viewing. That said, there are still some really great theaters out there that not only provide first-run movie releases, but they also go so far as to host theme movie nights that screen celluloid classics for the fan that just needs to see their favorite films back where they belong – on the big screen.