10 Amazing World-Building Action Films You Must Watch

      Tom Jolliffe offers a curated list of ten remarkable films (or franchises) with unique world-building that sets them apart…

      Action has long been one of the most beloved genres in cinema, dating back to the first scenes of galloping horses. From cowboys to ninjas, spies to car thieves, the action genre continues to captivate viewers. An action movie can be situated in a setting resembling our own reality, as seen in Die Hard, where the everyman cop John McClane faces off against international thieves in a skyscraper. Alternatively, there's the world of Jason Bourne, which, despite its secretive encounters, feels like it could easily exist in a reality similar to ours—especially with the gritty direction of Paul Greengrass.

      However, many action films feature excellent world-building set in a universe that, although recognizable, resembles hyperreality. This could be a contemporary setting that diverges from our reality, perhaps with different physical laws and conventions. It might also depict a futuristic scenario, regardless of its plausibility in reality. Viewers either embrace or reject this world-building, but when executed effectively, a well-defined film universe adds a special touch to the typical good versus evil conflict or whatever chase our hero embarks on. Here are ten outstanding films (or franchises) with exceptional world-building…

      James Bond

      One franchise has thrived for over 60 years, continually adapting its source material and evolving into new stories. James Bond constructs its world in a distinctive manner. From Sean Connery to Daniel Craig (and likely beyond), there are enduring elements that are essential to the Bond experience, including nefarious villain organizations wielding extensive power, vast resources, and fortified lairs. Bond himself is characterized by having multiple love interests in each film, always being armed, and impeccably dressed. Regardless of his mission, there's always a lavish banquet, casino, or high-society event calling for his best attire.

      A standout feature of Bond is how its core elements adapt and blend with each fresh approach and actor, from the cheesy gadget-laden theatrics of Roger Moore to the darker, more serious tone of the Craig era. Craig’s tenure still includes specially equipped sports cars. His debut, Casino Royale, likely stands as one of the finest (if not the finest) Bond films, swiftly establishing a mood for a more flawed, moody, and grounded Bond while maintaining the high-octane spectacle audiences expect. Martin Campbell, having set a high standard with Pierce Brosnan’s Goldeneye, kicked off Casino Royale in exceptional style, highlighted by a breathtaking foot chase that leaves viewers in awe.

      Mad Max

      The Mad Max franchise created a distinctive world set in a dystopian future filled with desolate landscapes and marauders scavenging for gasoline, water, and resources—where everyone remains dependent on their gas-guzzling vehicles. The initial film was more grindhouse, still depicting some remnant of recognizable civilization. By the second installment, The Road Warrior, the lore deepened, featuring a morally ambiguous Max in a world that appeared even more devastated and ravaged.

      George Miller has constructed Max’s (and Furiosa's) universe around chaotic vehicular action from the original film to the latest, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga. Many fans might argue that his latest venture delves deeper into world-building, though it felt the heaviest of the series, lacking the nimble excitement and stoic essence of Max. For ardent followers, a contentious favorite regarding perfectly executed world-building and consistent thrills would be either Fury Road or Road Warrior. For me, it leans towards the latter, clocking in at a concise 90 minutes, packed with eccentric characters and iconic imagery, with Mel Gibson embodying the role of a quiet, brooding, and tortured hero. Tom Hardy never quite captured the essence (hence, it’s no surprise that Miller pivoted to a follow-up centered on Furiosa).

      Charlie’s Angels

      Remember McG? While his rendition of Terminator received subdued reactions, his take on the cheesily charming original series, Charlie’s Angels, leaned more into his personal vision than trying to please the original series’ fans. His world of Angels was vibrant, dazzling, and infectious. The trio of heroic female fighters (portrayed brilliantly by Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore, and Lucy Liu) often break into spontaneous dance numbers or gravity-defying kung-fu battles. It felt as if these Angels could literally fly, given their extraordinary capabilities.

      The first installment of his two-part series stands out as the best, primarily due to its relative restraint (well… compared to the sequel). However, the portrayal of Charlie’s operation surpasses reality, with each mission allowing for excessively perilous pursuits, numerous costume changes, and a plethora of film references. Featuring Bill Murray at his best (or Bernie Mac joyfully riffing in the sequel), these films offer plenty of entertainment in their light, breezy