Scottish actor Gerard James Butler continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic performances, and this July 2025, Netflix highlights three of his best films that showcase his talent in action-packed roles. From tense political thrillers to high-stakes survival dramas and thrilling heist adventures, these Gerard Butler Netflix best movies offer something for every fan of gripping cinema.
A High-Stakes Terrorist Attack Sets the Stage in London Has Fallen
Released in 2016 and directed by Babak Najafi, London Has Fallen is the second film in the popular Has Fallen franchise where Butler stars as Mike Banning, the dedicated Secret Service agent responsible for protecting U.S. President Benjamin Asher, played by Aaron Eckhart. The plot revolves around the sudden death of the British Prime Minister, prompting world leaders to gather in London. This moment of international unity turns into chaos when terrorists execute a devastating attack targeting the city, aiming to destabilize global politics. During this brutal assault, President Benjamin is kidnapped, thrusting Banning into a dangerous mission to ensure the president’s safety amid relentless violence. Butler’s portrayal captures the intensity and determination of his character as he battles overwhelming odds.
Survival and Courage Tested in the Remote Philippine Jungle in Plane
The 2023 film Plane, directed by Jean-François Richet, follows Brodie Torrance, a former Royal Air Force pilot turned commercial aviator, embodied by Gerard Butler. During a flight over the Philippines, torrential weather forces Torrance to crash land on a densely forested and conflict-ridden island. Though he averts catastrophe, the passengers soon face captivity by violent rebel forces. Amid this turmoil, Torrance joins forces with Louis Gaspare, a fugitive homicide suspect played by Mike Colter, who was being extradited by the FBI on the same flight. Together, they undertake a perilous rescue effort to save the hostages. This intense survival thriller combines the wrath of nature with human conflict, highlighting Butler’s ability to portray resilience and leadership under pressure.
A Diamond Heist Drives the Action in Den of Thieves 2: Pantera
Coming in 2025, Den of Thieves 2: Pantera, directed by Christian Gudegast, serves as a sequel to the 2018 hit Den of Thieves. The storyline is loosely inspired by the true 2003 Antwerp diamond heist. Gerard Butler returns as Nick “Big Nick” O’Brien, a determined cop on the trail of Donnie Wilson, a charismatic thief and former Marine portrayed by O’Shea Jackson Jr. Nick discovers Donnie is planning a major diamond robbery and opts to infiltrate the heist crew, blurring the lines between law enforcement and criminality. This action-packed heist thriller explores themes of loyalty, deception, and high-risk gambles, with Butler delivering a gripping performance that anchors the film’s suspenseful narrative.
For viewers seeking thrilling narratives and compelling characters, these three Gerard Butler Netflix best movies provide an excellent selection this July. From the political intrigue and explosive action of London Has Fallen, through the survival drama of Plane, to the dark, adrenaline-fueled world of the diamond heist in Den of Thieves 2: Pantera, Butler continues to demonstrate his range and appeal in the genre.
