From ancient tombs and secret codes to far flung planets and multiversial chaos, action-adventure films have long offered audiences the ultimate cinematic escape. While the genre has evolved over the decades—thanks to advancements in CGI, special effects, and storylines that reflect the spirit of their times—it has always held on to its core appeal: thrilling narratives driven by courageous heroes determined to solve a mystery or save the day. Whether grounded in historical mysteries, dystopian futures, or supernatural realms, these films keep us on the edge of our seats and allow us to dream of worlds and adventures beyond our own.

This list celebrates the best the genre has to offer, from franchise juggernauts like Indiana Jones and Mission: Impossible to boundary-pushing standalones like Everything Everywhere All at Once. We’ve deliberately left out superhero films, as their sheer volume and distinct tone make them a genre all their own.

No matter your mood, this roundup delivers a perfect mix of nostalgia and fresh thrills. Buckle up and get ready to dive into the best action-adventure movies.