Action Reviews

The Dark Knight (2008)

The Dark Knight Review: A Superhero Film That Aims Higher

Christopher Nolan's Batman sequel is a gripping crime thriller anchored by Heath Ledger's unforgettable Joker. Our verdict.

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King Review: An Epic Finale

Peter Jackson closes his trilogy with huge battles, genuine emotion and an ending that takes its time. Our verdict.

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring Review: A Perfect Start to the Journey

Peter Jackson's first Middle-earth film is a gloriously realised, richly detailed adventure. Our verdict.

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Review: The Darkest, Boldest Chapter

The middle film of Peter Jackson's trilogy delivers the epic Battle of Helm's Deep and introduces Gollum. Our verdict.

Inception (2010)

Inception Review: A Blockbuster Heist Inside Dreams

Christopher Nolan's dream-heist thriller is a dazzling puzzle box with a heart. Our verdict.

Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back Review: The Franchise at Its Best

Irvin Kershner's darker sequel deepens the Star Wars saga with twists, romance and one of cinema's great reveals. Our verdict.

The Matrix (1999)

The Matrix Review: The Film That Changed Action Cinema

The Wachowskis' cyberpunk blockbuster mixes philosophy with groundbreaking action. Our verdict.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Saving Private Ryan Review: The Landing That Changed War Films

Steven Spielberg's brutal D-Day opening and moving mission make this a defining war movie. Our verdict.

Seven Samurai (1954)

Seven Samurai Review: The Template for the Action Ensemble

Akira Kurosawa's epic about farmers hiring warriors remains thrilling, funny and deeply human. Our verdict.

Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)

Terminator 2: Judgment Day Review: The Sequel That Outdid the Original

James Cameron's blockbuster sequel is a landmark in visual effects and action filmmaking. Our verdict.