Five Action Movies for holiday season

This month’s selection of films features an exciting blend of martial arts, post-apocalyptic chaos, high-stakes hijacking, survival in space, and mysterious adventures. Whether you’re in the mood for intense fight choreography or searching for captivating stories, these action films provide the adrenaline rush you need. Here are five must-watch action movies you can check out now.

100 Yards

Where to Watch: Available for purchase or rental on most major platforms.
In the beautifully shot martial arts epic “100 Yards,” Haofeng Zhu and Junfeng Zhu take viewers to Tianjin in the 1920s, where the sudden death of a martial arts master creates a fiercely competitive situation. His ruthless student, Chi Kuan (Andy On), aims to become the academy’s heir, challenging the master’s son, Shen An (Jacky Heung).

This leads to an escalating duel that turns into a deadly fight for control of the academy and the loyalty of its students. The film’s stunning visuals are complemented by balletic performances and intricate swordplay, making it a feast for the eyes and a thrilling experience for action enthusiasts.

Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End

Where to Watch: Stream on Amazon Prime Video.
“Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End” offers a gripping take on the post-apocalyptic genre. Directed by Carles Torrens, the film tells the story of Manil (Francisco Ortiz), a widowed lawyer facing the threat of turning into a zombie in a world ravaged by a deadly virus.

As she embarks on a perilous journey to reunite with her sister, Manil’s misplaced trust leads her to dangerous encounters with pirates and hordes of the undead. The film skillfully weaves themes of survival and survivor’s guilt, culminating in a gripping final showdown where Manil must fight for her life using only an axe as a weapon.

Hijack 1971

Where to Watch: Available for purchase or rental on most major platforms.
Inspired by true events, “Hijack 1971” tells the harrowing story of T-In (Ha Jung-woo), a former fighter pilot caught in a hijacking incident. When a young hijacker takes control of his plane, T-In must confront his past decisions and summon the courage to protect his passengers.

Director Kim Sung-han expertly builds tension in the confined space of the aircraft, while the relationship between T-In and the hijacker (Yoo Jin-goo) adds depth to the narrative. The film’s thrilling aerial battles and emotional stakes make it a standout in the action genre.

The Moon

Where to Watch: Stream on Amazon Prime Video.
In “The Moon,” directed by Kim Yong-hwa, astronaut Hwang Sun-woo (Do Kyung-soo) faces unimaginable challenges during South Korea’s first moon mission. When a solar storm devastates his crew and damages his spacecraft, Hwang bravely decides to land on the moon, only to be left stranded by a meteor shower.

This film tells a captivating story of survival and rescue, as disgraced flight director Kim Jae-guk (Sol Kyung-gu) returns to assist Hwang. With high stakes scenarios and stunning visuals, “The Moon” is a thrilling journey that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Onmyoji Zero

Where to Watch: Stream on Amazon Prime Video.
In “Onmyoji Zero,” directed by Shimeko Sato, action is blended with mysterious elements. The story revolves around Abe Seimei (Kento Yamazaki), a talented student in a school that trains fighters to protect Heian-Kyo from supernatural threats.

Driven by a desire for revenge against his parents’ killers, Abe becomes embroiled in a murder mystery and a kidnapping plot. The film features spectacular fight scenes set in a dreamlike world, where elemental dragons clash and magical spells are cast. With its unique story and stunning visuals, “Onmyoji Zero” offers a fresh perspective in the action genre.