It’s not your everyday sight to see superheroes being seen as action heroes. But have you ever pondered if the tables could turn? Can an action star truly embody the essence of a superhero? Well, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, the WWE pro wrestler and occasional actor, is a firm believer – and we’re on board too!
In fact, there are some larger-than-life characters from the silver screen who might even outshine the iconic heroes of the MCU and DCEU. Brace yourself as we present a list of the most awe-inspiring action characters who perfectly fit the superhero mold. From natural-born warriors like John Wick and Rambo to the astonishingly skilled spies like James Bond and Jason Bourne, let’s dive into the world of those who possess all the qualities of a true superhero.
1. Neo
Neo, also known as “the chosen one” and “the liberator of humanity,” has undeniably reached superhero status. It’s safe to say he’s like a sci-fi version of Superman. This is common knowledge among everyone. Like many other action heroes, Neo has a moment of awakening where he realizes that the world is not what it seems.
With the assistance of Trinity, Morpheus, and other allies, Neo gains incredible superpowers that enable him to take down the Agents and their machine overlords. He acquires instant mastery of martial arts, the ability to fly, the skill to dodge bullets, and even the power to manipulate his surroundings. It begs the question: is there anything Neo cannot do?
2. John Wick
Every superhero has a reason to do what they do. In John Wick’s case, it all starts when some idiots decide to mess with his beloved dog or his car. It may seem like a small injustice, but it sets off a chain reaction of countless killings carried out by the legendary Baba Yaga.
But here’s the thing that makes Mr. Wick almost superhuman: he has an incredible ability to heal. He can take on 10, 20, or even 100 enemies and come out of it without many scratches. And even if he does get hurt, he always manages to bounce back and be just fine in the end. It doesn’t matter what happens, John Wick always finds a way to rise again…
3. Richard B. Riddick
Introduced in a film called Pitch Black, Richard B. Riddick is one badass who thrives in the darkness. With his night vision, cool shades, impressive skills, and a ripped body, Riddick is basically a Marvel hero – the only problem is, he hasn’t realized it yet.
I mean, seriously, this guy can fall, dislocate his limbs, and not even bat an eye. He just gets right back up, brushes himself off, and keeps on fighting the baddies. I don’t know about you, but having Riddick on your side during a blackout sounds like a pretty solid plan, right?
4. Evelyn Wang
Many people claim that Everything Everywhere All at Once is the movie Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness wishes it was – and there’s some truth to that. One of the reasons behind its success lies in the character arc of Evelyn Wang.
Evelyn faces not only important issues in her personal life but also finds herself thrust into a multiverse where she assumes various roles and possesses different abilities. But here’s the interesting part: Evelyn’s true strength lies in her authentic self – that’s where her real power originates. It’s like Uncle Ben’s famous ‘with great power comes great responsibility’ speech, you know?
5. Harry Hart
Sometimes, masters recognize the need to step aside and let their students take the lead. This is exactly what Harry Hart, from the Kingsman series, and Master Splinter, from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, have in common.
Harry comprehends the significance of the younger generation, like Eggsy, and recognizes that they hold the key to the future. He takes it upon himself to equip them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and support to help them realize their full potential. In a similar vein, Splinter also guides his ninja turtle apprentices, albeit in a different setting and without the whole living in a sewer thing. Plus, Harry really knows how to rock a suit.
6. Jason Bourne
Jason Bourne is one remarkable super spy, even if he can’t recall his breakfast or his fifth birthday presents. His skills and reflexes are almost supernatural, showcasing his peak physical condition.
However, let’s not mistake him for a superhero like Batman who can effortlessly soar over skyscrapers. Bourne is undeniably human, but he excels at honing his abilities and constantly pushing himself to new heights. It’s no big deal that his memories are as scrambled as a bounce house at a 4-year-old’s party.
7. James Bond
Let’s get real for a moment: James Bond is basically the epitome of what every S.H.I.E.L.D. agent aspires to be. He’s got the kind of specialized training, a whole arsenal of cool gadgets, and a seriously badass team backing him up.
When things hit the fan, nobody’s picking up the phone to call Captain America or Iron Man. Nope, it’s all about Bond. He’s the one and only hero we need, effortlessly saving the world time after time, all while casually sipping on his martini. Just please, let’s not bring up the No Time to Die ending, alright?
8. John Matrix
Most retirees don’t really bother about their former colleagues once they retire. But John Matrix is not like most people. Despite being a retired army colonel, he still cares deeply about his former team. So when he learns that they were brutally attacked and his daughter was kidnapped, he’s ready to take action and unleash his fury.
Even James Rhodes, who is known as War Machine in the MCU, might have to step aside for John. In Commando, John is a force to be reckoned with, wreaking havoc and using an arsenal of weapons to inflict unimaginable pain and suffering on those who cross his path. Unlike other heroes who rely on teammates from the Avengers or Justice League, John only needs one thing to make a statement: lots and lots of ammo.
9. John Rambo
Who’s the ultimate powerhouse capable of annihilating a whole town, army, or even a country? If the name Rambo didn’t instantly cross your mind, you might want to reevaluate. Once that red bandana is strapped on, it’s time to start running for cover because those guns are about to unleash chaos, reducing people to mere smithereens. It’s actually quite perplexing why the Justice Society didn’t think of recruiting him to take down Teth-Adam in the Black Adam movie from the get-go.
The Frankenstein Drag Queens from Planet 13 nailed Rambo’s essence in their rebellious anthem “R.A.M.B.O”: “He’s a lethal machine, the finest combat veteran you’ve ever witnessed. Now he stands alone, and what you deem hell, he calls home.” Such an epic choice.
10. The Bride
Beatrix Kiddo goes through some serious stuff in Kill Bill. She’s left for dead and ends up in a coma where people do some truly awful things to her. But when she finally wakes up, revenge is on her mind – and let me tell you, she gets it!
The Bride is one badass assassin. She’s quick as a cat and doesn’t mess around when it comes to combat. Her weapon of choice? A sword that she wields with deadly precision. She’s not like those heroes who enjoy a fair fight – oh no. Instead of playing games, she’ll just chop off your limbs without a second thought. She’s like a way more effective version of Katana from Suicide Squad.
11. Snake Plissken
Snake Plissken is the ultimate antihero, just like the Punisher. He’s the guy they send to do all the dirty jobs that nobody else wants to touch, but he doesn’t get any recognition or praise for it. He’s also a master at escaping from impossible situations. He’s fought his way out of war-ravaged versions of Los Angeles and New York, places where regular people can’t even handle the daily traffic.
Snake isn’t afraid of a fight, either. In fact, he seems to thrive on it. When tensions rise and things get heated, he’s the one who steps up and takes action. Sure, you might call Superman to rescue a cat stuck in a tree, but when it comes to saving humanity, everyone knows it’s Snake who will do whatever it takes.
