1. The Prestige 2006，IMDB Rating: 8.5, IMDB Votes: 1456101, ID: 0482571 Photo by goodfon.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Prestige is a film that masterfully pulls the wool over your eyes, weaving a tale of two magicians caught in a deadly rivalry. The fragmented story, full of flashbacks and untrustworthy diary entries, keeps you engrossed from start to finish. The film is not just about the skill and humor of its making, but also about the corrupting effects of obsession and retribution, making it a brilliant distillation of the universe of revenge movies.
2. Kill Bill: Vol. 1 2003，IMDB Rating: 8.2, IMDB Votes: 1207352, ID: 0266697 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Kill Bill: Vol. 1 is a stylish revenge thriller that benefits from a wildly inventive surfeit of style. The Bride, played by Uma Thurman, seeks vengeance against her former assassin squad. With its mix of martial arts, unique storytelling, and vibrant visuals, this film is a seminal entry into the revenge genre. It’s a film that stands out with its vibrant, martial arts sequences and strong female lead.
3. Kill Bill: Vol. 2 2004，IMDB Rating: 8.0, IMDB Votes: 813822, ID: 0378194 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Kill Bill: Vol. 2 is an exuberant celebration of moviemaking. It’s a continuation and completion of Vol. 1, filmed at the same time. The Bride finally gets to face her former lover and the leader of the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad. The film’s completion amidst adversity spoke volumes about the dedication of its cast and crew. It’s a film that respects its audience enough to give them a lot to think about.
4. Memento 2000，IMDB Rating: 8.4, IMDB Votes: 1334735, ID: 0209144 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Memento is a mind-bending neo-noir thriller that follows Leonard Shelby. It’s a film that displays real interest in how perception and memory shape action, identity, and, of course, filmic storytelling. The film is an intelligent and well-paced thriller that respects its audience. It’s a rule-breaking masterpiece that examines one such dark depth of the human soul.
5. The Crow 1994，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 207311, ID: 0109506 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Crow is a dark and captivating outlier in the comic book genre landscape of the 1990s. It’s a film about a musician Eric Draven who rises from the grave and assumes the mantle of the Crow, a supernatural avenger. The film’s production was marred by the untimely death of its star, Brandon Lee, casting a somber shadow over its release. Yet, The Crow persevered, becoming a cult classic.
6. Gladiator 2000，IMDB Rating: 8.5, IMDB Votes: 1642391, ID: 0172495 Photo by goodfon.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Gladiator is a captivating epic narrative of a betrayed general seeking justice. The film is beautifully made and its story is nothing short of riveting. The film’s success lies in its ability to blend historical drama with action-packed sequences, all while maintaining a strong emotional core. Russell Crowe’s performance as Maximus is powerful and moving, making the audience root for his quest for vengeance.
7. Man on Fire 2004，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 393792, ID: 0328107 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Man on Fire showcases Denzel Washington’s relentless quest for justice with gripping intensity. The film is a disturbing denouncement of societal cruelty and an examination of the difficulties of growing up. Despite its implausible plot, the film is a satisfying viewing experience, thanks to Washington’s powerful performance and the film’s stylish execution.
8. Payback 1999，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 146779, ID: 0120784 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Payback is a gritty revenge thriller that effectively exploits the desire to see the wicked punished, with Mel Gibson’s character, Porter, on a mission to seek exact retribution from those who wronged him. The film’s success lies in its ability to combine a compelling narrative with intense action sequences, making it a satisfying watch for fans of the genre who crave justice served cold.
9. Oldeuboi 2003，IMDB Rating: 8.3, IMDB Votes: 644250, ID: 0364569 Photo by goodfon.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Oldboy is a powerful exploration of vengeance, filled with unexpected twists and turns. The film follows the story of Oh Dae-su, who seeks revenge against his enigmatic captor after being imprisoned for 15 years. Its intricate plot and psychological depth make it a standout in the revenge genre, offering viewers a unique cinematic experience.
10. Taken 2008，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 639656, ID: 0936501 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Taken is a high-octane action thriller that centers around a father’s relentless pursuit to rescue his kidnapped daughter. Liam Neeson’s performance as Bryan Mills is both intense and engaging, making the film a thrilling ride from start to finish. Despite its implausible plot, the film’s fast-paced action and Neeson’s charismatic performance make it a satisfying revenge tale.
11. Cape Fear 1991，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 219067, ID: 0101540 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Cape Fear is a gripping tale of revenge, where defense attorney Sam Bowden is haunted by his past when a convict he defended, Max Cady, seeks revenge for a prison sentence he believes was unjust. The film’s portrayal of the flawed and guilt-ridden Bowden, played by Nick Nolte, adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a thriller but a profound exploration of guilt and retribution.
12. John Wick 2014，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 747775, ID: 2911666 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 John Wick is a modern classic in the revenge genre. After the tragic loss of his wife and dog, John Wick, portrayed by Keanu Reeves, returns to his old life as an assassin to seek vengeance. The film is praised for its action choreography, stylish visuals, and Reeves’ compelling performance.
13. The Count of Monte Cristo 2002，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 149730, ID: 0245844 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Count of Monte Cristo is a classic tale of betrayal and revenge. The film, starring Jim Caviezel, Guy Pearce, and Richard Harris, is a thrilling adventure that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The plot is intricate, filled with unexpected twists and turns, and the performances are top-notch. The film’s depiction of revenge is satisfying, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
14. The Equalizer 2014，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 427060, ID: 0455944 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Equalizer, starring Denzel Washington, is a gripping tale of justice and retribution. Washington’s character, a former intelligence operative, uses his skills to help those in need and exact revenge on those who harm the innocent. The film is intense and action-packed, with Washington delivering a powerful performance. It’s a compelling watch for anyone seeking a thrilling revenge story.
15. Promising Young Woman 2020，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 214804, ID: 9620292 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Promising Young Woman is a bold and provocative film that tackles the theme of revenge in a unique way, with Carey Mulligan delivering a stellar performance as Cassie, a woman seeking to avenge her best friend’s tragic fate. The film’s narrative is compelling, and its approach to the revenge genre is fresh and innovative, making it a must-watch for those seeking a different take on the revenge narrative.
16. Lucky Number Slevin 2006，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 327261, ID: 0425210 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Lucky Number Slevin is a stylish and clever film that weaves a complex web of revenge, with an intricate plot filled with twists that make it a riveting watch. The performances, particularly by Josh Hartnett, are commendable, and the film’s unique take on the revenge genre makes it a standout entry that keeps viewers guessing until the end.
17. Ocean’s Thirteen 2007，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 369747, ID: 0496806 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Ocean’s Thirteen is a slick and entertaining heist film where revenge serves as the driving force, with Danny Ocean and his crew plotting to sabotage the opening of a new casino after one of their own is double-crossed. The film is filled with clever plans and charismatic performances, making it a fun and engaging revenge story that delights fans of the genre.
18. Nine to Five 1980，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 40004, ID: 0080319 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 A delightful comedy with a strong feminist message, ‘Nine to Five’ is a revenge story that’s as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. The film’s plot, which revolves around three women who take revenge on their sexist boss, is a humorous and satisfying take on workplace inequality. Dolly Parton’s energetic performance adds a unique charm to the film.
19. The Revenant 2015，IMDB Rating: 8.0, IMDB Votes: 883376, ID: 1663202 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘The Revenant’ is a gripping tale of survival and revenge in the American wilderness. After being left for dead following a bear attack, frontiersman Hugh Glass, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, embarks on a harrowing journey to exact revenge on the man who betrayed him. The film’s raw intensity and DiCaprio’s committed performance make it a powerful cinematic experience.
20. Blue Ruin 2013，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 79640, ID: 2359024 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘Blue Ruin’ is a gritty and intense revenge thriller that tells the story of a drifter returning to his hometown to exact vengeance for his parents’ deaths. The film’s slow-burning suspense and the protagonist’s ineptitude at being an assassin add a layer of realism that sets it apart from typical revenge films, making it a compelling and unique entry in the genre.
20 Must-Watch Revenge Movies That Will Keep You on the Edge of Your Seat
