Action
Action films are the film industry's mass consumption items. By this I mean they're an easy choice for most people when deciding on a film to watch. Usually they are quite brainless, having a flimsy plot and one-dimensional characters, but occasionally a smart film like Die Hard gets through. They often include lots of chases on foot and by moving vehicle, as well as multiple shootouts and a few explosions. I classify action films as usually involving police or some other law enforcement agency, and/or having a few of the above setpieces.
The ultimate action film. A New York cop visiting his wife in LA is trapped in a skyscraper commandeered by international terrorists. Non-stop excitement, great characters (especially Alan Rickman's suave villain) and a good dose of humour. Started a sub-genre on its own: the real-time, trapped-in-one-location action thriller.
James Cameron's blockbuster sequel has some of the most incredible action sequences put on film. Arnold Schwarzenegger returns as the Terminator, a robot travelling back in time in search of a future leader. Could be labelled sci-fi, but essentially the same story as the original. The action is breathtaking and the special effects state-of-the-art. Full review.
The best of the Die Hard clones. A rip-roaring action film set on a bus that's set to explode if the speed drops below 50mph. Sometimes goes a bit over-the-top (such as the leap over the unfinished freeway) but the first half hour on the bus will have you on the edge of your seat. Laced with fresh humour and charismatic performances from Keanu Reeves and especially Sandra Bullock.
An action film with a complex story and complex characters - who would have thought? Not only that, there is plenty of action and a dash of style in this John Woo stunner. Nicolas Cage and John Travolta have a lot of fun mimicking each other, and the Woo trademarks are all there. Full review
James Cameron's third collaboration with Arnold Schwarzenegger is a wildly funny and spectacular homage to James Bond films. Contains three definitive action sequences - the exhilarating horse and motorcycle chase through a hotel, the explosive Florida Keys setpiece, and the climax on a Harrier jet. Loses its way in a fidelity subplot, but the action proves Cameron is a master. Scene-stealing support from Tom Arnold.
Mad Max 2 (or The Road Warrior as it was known in North America) is set in a post-nuclear war society where gangs rule the roads. Max (Mel Gibson) stands between the outlaws and a community that is producing the most precious commodity: oil. Exciting chase scenes and stunts, and the most spectacular smash between 2 vehicles on film.
Mad Max
The original Australian classic. Highway policemen like Max (Mel Gibson) have their hands full dealing with rampaging road gangs. After one gang pushes him over the edge, Max exacts revenge in brutal and thrilling fashion. The only one of the trilogy where Max is really "mad".
Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome
The third instalment in the series finds Max in Bartertown, a town that has grown out of the ashes of nuclear war. Trades in action for more story development, but still throws in a great chase on Flintstone-like vehicles and a train. Interesting to note that the more the series moves forward in time, the more primitive the set design and art direction becomes. Tina Turner is surprisingly effective as Aunty Entity, the ruler of Bartertown.