The 20 Worst Action Movies of All Time

Action movies are meant to thrill, but some manage to miss the mark so spectacularly that they become memorable for all the wrong reasons. Here are 20 action films that have gained notoriety not for their explosive thrills, but for their baffling missteps.

1. Battlefield Earth (2000)

John Travolta’s passion project, Battlefield Earth, is infamous for its baffling cinematic choices. Adapted from L. Ron Hubbard’s sci-fi novel, the film is a chaotic blend of shaky camera work, incomprehensible alien dialogue, and over-the-top performances.

Viewers are treated to an uncomfortable mash-up of bad wigs and never-ending Dutch angles that leave audiences dizzy. It’s a cinematic experience that’s as perplexing as it is entertaining.

The entire movie feels like an alien’s misconceived idea of human culture, making it a standout in the world of “so bad it’s good” cinema.

2. Catwoman (2004)

Halle Berry stars in Catwoman, an action movie that seems to have forgotten its comic book roots. Strangely disconnected from the Batman universe, Berry’s character gains her abilities from mystical cats and engages in a bizarre basketball scene.

This film’s narrative choices leave audiences puzzled, with action sequences that seem more fantasy than superhero. The infamous “sexy basketball” scene is a memorable low point.

Catwoman is remembered for its oddball charm and missed opportunities, becoming a cult classic for its sheer audacity.

3. Dragonball Evolution (2009)

Dragonball Evolution is a live-action adaptation that left die-hard fans of the original series in disbelief. The film’s lack of fidelity to the beloved anime is glaring, with even the cast having expressed regret over their involvement.

Goku’s high school dance fight scene stands out as an epitome of misguided creative choices.

Completely missing the spirit of the source material, this movie is a lesson in how not to adapt a beloved series.

4. Batman & Robin (1997)

Batman & Robin is a film that’s become legendary for its campiness and questionable creative decisions. George Clooney’s portrayal of Batman is overshadowed by Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Mr. Freeze, whose ice puns dominate the dialogue.

The movie features memorable oddities like Bat-nipples and over-the-top set designs.

Despite its faults, Batman & Robin is enjoyed for its unintentional humor and flamboyant style, securing its place in cinematic infamy.

5. The Room (2003) [Honorary Action Pick]

The Room isn’t traditionally an action film, but it earns its honorary spot due to its bewildering alley fight scene. Tommy Wiseau’s performance contributes to the film’s legendary status.

“Oh hi, Mark” has become a symbol of the film’s bizarre dialogue choices.

Its disjointed plot and awkwardly executed scenes have rendered it a cult favorite, adored for its earnest yet misguided attempts at drama.

6. Mortal Kombat: Annihilation (1997)

Mortal Kombat: Annihilation is known for its low-budget effects and convoluted storyline. As a sequel, it fails to capture the essence of the video game series, resulting in a spectacle of camp.

One of the most infamous moments is Liu Kang’s transformation into a dragon, which showcases outdated CGI.

Despite its flaws, the film is cherished for its unintentional humor and nostalgic appeal to fans of the franchise.

7. Ballistic: Ecks vs. Sever (2002)

Ballistic: Ecks vs. Sever holds the rare distinction of a 0% score on Rotten Tomatoes, thanks to its incoherent storyline and uninspired action sequences. The film stars Antonio Banderas and Lucy Liu as rival agents in a plot that’s nearly impossible to follow.

The film’s very existence is a testament to the pitfalls of action movie excess without substance.

Its lackluster reception has turned it into a curio for fans of cinematic trainwrecks.

8. Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987)

Superman IV: The Quest for Peace is remembered for its earnest yet clumsy approach to superhero action. Christopher Reeve returns as Superman, fighting the villainous Nuclear Man in scenarios that often defy believability.

A standout moment involves Superman rebuilding the Great Wall of China with a mere glance.

The film’s budgetary constraints are apparent, making it a case study in the pitfalls of superhero cinema.

9. The Marine (2006)

The Marine stars WWE’s John Cena in his first leading role, battling a villain with the unlikely name of Romeo. Despite its formulaic plot, the film’s over-the-top action sequences are a sight to behold.

Physics-defying explosions punctuate the film, adding to its spectacle of absurdity.

The Marine is a quintessential example of action escapism, providing entertainment through its sheer audacity and Cena’s charisma.

10. BloodRayne (2005)

BloodRayne, directed by Uwe Boll, is a video game adaptation that’s become infamous for its questionable filmmaking. Featuring a notable cast, including Ben Kingsley, the film falters with its disjointed plot and wooden performances.

Kingsley’s inexplicable accent adds an extra layer of absurdity to the proceedings.

Despite its shortcomings, BloodRayne is a curious entry in the realm of video game movies, appreciated for its camp value.

11. Steel (1997)

Steel features basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal as a superhero, armed with a basketball-themed weapon. The film’s low-budget effects and simplistic plot have rendered it a staple of ‘90s action oddities.

O’Neal’s larger-than-life presence is both a draw and a curiosity.

Steel stands as a testament to the era’s superhero experiments, offering a mix of nostalgia and intrigue for fans of quirky cinema.

12. The Wicker Man (2006 Remake)

The Wicker Man remake is known more for Nicolas Cage’s infamous “NOT THE BEES!” scene than for its horror elements. The film struggles to balance suspense with unintentionally comedic moments, creating a unique viewing experience.

Cage’s antics, including punching a woman in a bear suit, contribute to its cult status.

The Wicker Man remains a peculiar blend of horror and camp, captivating audiences with its eccentricities.

13. Gymkata (1985)

Gymkata stars a gymnast-turned-martial artist in a film that blurs the line between sports and action genres. The protagonist’s gymnastic abilities are showcased in surreal fight scenes.

A standout moment involves using a pommel horse as a weapon, adding to its bizarre charm.

Gymkata is a cult favorite for its inventive, if implausible, action sequences and unique premise.

14. Troll 2 (1990) [Honorary Action Pick]

Troll 2 earns its place on this list not for traditional action, but for its legendary status among bad movies. The film’s nonsensical plot and amateurish performances have made it a cult classic.

The line “OH MY GOOOOOOD!” epitomizes its over-the-top absurdity.

Despite its shortcomings, Troll 2 is embraced by fans for its earnest attempts and unintended humor, securing its place in cinematic infamy.

15. Double Dragon (1994)

Double Dragon, inspired by the popular video game, translates its pixelated action to the big screen with mixed results. The film’s story is a hodgepodge of clichés and over-the-top characters.

A memorable element is the use of a Power Glove as a plot device.

While it may not capture the essence of its source material, Double Dragon is relished for its quirky take on the genre.

16. The Adventures of Pluto Nash (2002)

The Adventures of Pluto Nash stands as a cautionary tale in extravagant filmmaking. Eddie Murphy stars in this space comedy that faced a dismal box office return.

Its astronomical budget contrasts sharply with the uninspired plot and humor.

Despite its failure, the film’s audacity and the fact it was greenlit at all add to its intrigue as a notable flop in cinematic history.

17. Cyborg (1989)

Cyborg features Jean-Claude Van Damme in a gritty, post-apocalyptic world, where budget constraints are evident in every frame. The villain’s outrageous hairstyle adds a layer of unintended comedy.

Van Damme’s martial arts skills are on full display, offering a glimmer of excitement amidst the otherwise bleak scenery.

Cyborg remains an intriguing blend of action and low-budget sci-fi, popular among fans for its nostalgic appeal.

18. Cool as Ice (1991)

Cool as Ice marks Vanilla Ice’s foray into action, albeit with questionable results. The film attempts to capitalize on his pop culture fame with a plot as thin as ice.

The line “Drop that zero and get with the hero” showcases its cheesy dialogue.

Despite its flaws, Cool as Ice offers a snapshot of early ‘90s pop culture, with its campy charm appealing to nostalgia enthusiasts.

19. The Last Airbender (2010)

The Last Airbender, directed by M. Night Shyamalan, is a live-action adaptation that disappointed fans with its lackluster execution. The film’s stilted acting and subpar special effects detract from its storytelling.

A memorable scene involving earthbenders reveals the movie’s ineffectiveness in capturing the animated series’ magic.

Despite its shortcomings, The Last Airbender serves as a lesson in adaptation challenges, drawing mixed reactions from audiences.

20. Samurai Cop (1991)

Samurai Cop is a low-budget action film that has achieved cult status due to its unintentional comedy and chaotic fight scenes. The film’s dialogue and editing issues add to its unique charm.

The protagonist’s ever-changing wig is a symbol of its production inconsistencies.

Despite its flaws, Samurai Cop is celebrated for its earnest attempts at action and has garnered a dedicated fan base over the years.