Liam Neeson, with a career spanning more than four decades, remains one of the most distinctive stars in film history, especially known for his roles in action movies. This article ranks Liam Neeson‘s best action movies and provides information on where to stream each, celebrating the films that defined his status as an action icon.
10. A High-Stakes Thriller on the Train: ‘The Commuter’ (2018)
In The Commuter, Neeson plays Michael MacCauley, a former NYPD officer now working as an insurance agent, who becomes entangled in a dangerous mystery during his routine train commute. The film includes a notable supporting cast featuring Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, and Florence Pugh. Set almost entirely on a train, the story builds suspense through tight pacing and an intrigue-filled plot.
Though critics offered mixed reviews, The Commuter achieved commercial success, earning over $119 million worldwide from a $30 million budget. It delivers continuous tension reminiscent of Hitchcock-style thrillers and is now available for streaming on TBS, TruTV, TNT, and YouTube TV.
9. Intense Flight Thriller: ‘Non-Stop’ (2014)
Non-Stop stars Neeson as Bill Marks, a Federal Air Marshal confronting a deadly threat aboard an international flight from New York to London. The situation escalates as Marks receives demands for a $150 million ransom tied to passenger deaths every 20 minutes. The film boasts a strong ensemble cast including Julianne Moore, Lupita Nyong’o, and Scoot McNairy.
Despite lukewarm critical reception, Non-Stop became a favorite among viewers, grossing over $222 million globally. Neeson’s commanding presence, coupled with director Jaume Collet-Serra’s dynamic approach, creates a suspenseful and entertaining experience. Starz currently offers this action thriller for streaming.
8. Revisiting the Military Team-Up: ‘The A-Team’ (2010)
Inspired by the 1980s television series, The A-Team follows five U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers who, betrayed by their government and wrongfully imprisoned, aim to prove their innocence. Liam Neeson stars as the mastermind John Hannibal Smith alongside Bradley Cooper and Jessica Biel in this ensemble action film.
Although the movie was largely panned in comparison to the original series and underperformed at the box office, it stands out for its explosive action sequences and light-hearted moments. The A-Team offers a fun, adrenaline-filled watch and is available for streaming on Fubo TV and Prime Video.
7. A Fugitive Assassin Battling Memory Loss: ‘Memory’ (2022)
Memory centers on Alex Lewis, an assassin with early-onset Alzheimer’s who decides against completing a hit, putting himself at odds with both his employers and the FBI. Starring alongside Neeson are Guy Pearce and Monica Bellucci. The film captures the tension of a man racing to survive as his memory fades.
Receiving a cold critical reception, Memory nevertheless found an appreciative audience and performed solidly at the box office. Praised for its gripping action and Neeson’s nuanced performance, it offers a thrilling story with emotional depth. Viewers can stream Memory on Prime Video.
6. A Snowplow Driver’s Revenge: ‘Cold Pursuit’ (2019)
Cold Pursuit, an American remake of a Norwegian film, features Neeson as Nels Coxman, a snowplow operator in Colorado who seeks vengeance after his son is killed by a drug cartel, sparking a violent gang war. The cast includes Tom Bateman, Laura Dern, and Emmy Rossum.
The film received more favorable reviews than its predecessor, in part due to Neeson’s performance and the blend of action with dark humor. It was nominated for a Saturn Award for Best Action or Adventure Film. Cold Pursuit is accessible on Prime Video and Hulu.
5. Key Mentor and Villain in a Superhero Origin: ‘Batman Begins’ (2005)
In the critically acclaimed Batman Begins, Neeson portrays Henri Ducard, who mentors Bruce Wayne during his transformation into Batman. Directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Christian Bale, the film redefined the superhero genre with its realistic tone and complex characters. The cast also includes Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, and Katie Holmes.
Neeson’s role, though limited in screen time, is pivotal and showcases his skill in portraying mentor figures with shades of moral ambiguity. Batman Begins kickstarted a successful trilogy and is available for streaming on HBO Max, alongside its sequels.
4. A Historical Epic with Thrilling Combat: ‘Rob Roy’ (1995)
Rob Roy is a biographical drama revealing the story of the Scottish clan leader Rob Roy MacGregor, played by Neeson. The film chronicles his fight against a corrupt nobleman who endangers his people, featuring a strong supporting cast including John Hurt and Tim Roth.
While primarily a drama, the movie features intense sword fights and duels, qualifying it as one of Neeson’s standout action roles. Critically praised and moderately successful financially, Rob Roy is available on Tubi, MGM+, and The Roku Channel for streaming.
3. Irish Underworld Clash: ‘In the Land of Saints and Sinners’ (2023)
Set in 1970s Ireland, In the Land of Saints and Sinners stars Neeson as Finbar Murphy, a former hitman drawn out of retirement when IRA fugitives disrupt a nearby village. The film also stars Kerry Condon, Jack Gleeson, and Ciarán Hinds.
The movie premiered at the 2023 Venice International Film Festival to positive reviews, praised for its intense storyline, striking visuals, and strong performances. It’s regarded as one of Neeson’s finest recent works and is currently available on Prime Video, Fubo TV, and MGM+.
2. Early Superhero Horror Venture: ‘Darkman’ (1990)
Darkman marked Neeson’s first action lead, playing a scientist who becomes a vengeful antihero after brutal attacks leave him disfigured and with unstable mental health. Directed by Sam Raimi, the film also stars Frances McDormand and Larry Drake.
The movie was successful both critically and commercially, inspiring a franchise of sequels, comics, and games. Blending gothic horror with superhero elements, Darkman remains a notable cult classic in Neeson’s filmography. It streams now on Philo.
1. Defining the Action Star Image: ‘Taken’ (2008)
Taken remains Liam Neeson’s most recognizable action film, portraying Bryan Mills, an ex-CIA agent whose daughter is kidnapped by sex traffickers in Paris. With virtually no leads, Mills embarks on a relentless and violent quest to rescue her from the French criminal underworld.
Though initially receiving mixed critical reviews, Taken became a box office hit grossing over $226 million worldwide and set the standard for Neeson’s action career. The success spawned two sequels and a spin-off TV series focused on a younger Mills. Taken is currently streaming on Hulu.
