Bruce Willis's Best Action Film Series: Ranked!
Hey guys! Let's dive into the action-packed world of Bruce Willis and explore some of his most iconic film series. From saving the world from terrorists to navigating dystopian futures, Willis has given us some unforgettable characters and thrilling moments. We're ranking them, so buckle up and get ready for a wild ride!
Die Hard Series
When you think of Bruce Willis and action, Die Hard is probably the first thing that pops into your head. This series is the quintessential action franchise, setting the bar high with its clever writing, realistic stunts, and, of course, Willis's portrayal of the everyman hero, John McClane. The original Die Hard (1988) is a masterpiece, a tightly woven thriller that sees McClane, a New York City cop, unexpectedly having to save his wife and several others from a group of terrorists during a Christmas party at Nakatomi Plaza in Los Angeles. What makes McClane so compelling is that he's not a superhero; he bleeds, he gets tired, and he's often just winging it. This vulnerability, combined with Willis's wisecracking delivery, makes him incredibly relatable and endearing. The film’s success spawned several sequels, each with its own unique flavor and scale of threat.
Die Hard 2 (1990) moved the action to Dulles International Airport, where McClane once again finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, battling terrorists who have taken control of the airport's control tower. While it doesn't quite reach the heights of the original, it's still a solid action flick with plenty of explosive set pieces and memorable one-liners. Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995) takes a different approach, pairing McClane with Samuel L. Jackson's Zeus Carver in a buddy-cop dynamic as they navigate a series of deadly games orchestrated by the brother of the original film's villain. This entry brings a fresh energy to the series and benefits from the chemistry between Willis and Jackson. Later installments, such as Live Free or Die Hard (2007) and A Good Day to Die Hard (2013), attempted to modernize the franchise with bigger budgets and more elaborate stunts. However, they often strayed from the grounded realism that made the original so special, and fan reception was mixed. Despite some of the later entries not quite capturing the magic of the original, the Die Hard series remains a cornerstone of the action genre and a testament to Bruce Willis's enduring appeal as an action star.
The Fifth Element
Okay, so The Fifth Element isn't technically a series but hear me out. This movie is so iconic, so visually stunning, and so uniquely Bruce Willis that it deserves a spot on this list. In this 1997 sci-fi action film directed by Luc Besson, Willis plays Korben Dallas, a taxi driver in a futuristic New York City who becomes embroiled in a quest to save the world from an approaching evil. The film is a visual feast, with vibrant costumes designed by Jean-Paul Gaultier, imaginative set designs, and groundbreaking special effects. But what truly makes The Fifth Element stand out is its quirky sense of humor and its willingness to embrace the absurd. Willis delivers a charismatic performance as the reluctant hero, balancing tough-guy action with comedic timing. Milla Jovovich is equally memorable as Leeloo, the supreme being who holds the key to saving the planet. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their interactions are both funny and heartwarming. The film's supporting cast, including Gary Oldman as the villain Zorg and Chris Tucker as the flamboyant radio host Ruby Rhod, add even more color and energy to the proceedings.
The Fifth Element's blend of action, sci-fi, and comedy was a refreshing departure from the typical Hollywood blockbuster, and its influence can still be seen in films today. While there haven't been any sequels (and likely won't be), The Fifth Element remains a beloved cult classic and a highlight of Bruce Willis's filmography. It showcases his versatility as an actor and his ability to thrive in both serious and comedic roles. For fans of sci-fi, action, or just plain fun movies, The Fifth Element is an absolute must-see. Its unique vision and unforgettable characters have cemented its place as a true original in the world of cinema. Plus, who can forget Bruce Willis rocking that orange tank top and saving the world with a kiss? It's pure cinematic gold!
12 Monkeys
Another fantastic example of Bruce Willis in a sci-fi role is 12 Monkeys. While not an action series in the traditional sense like Die Hard, 12 Monkeys is a mind-bending thriller that showcases Willis's dramatic range and his ability to tackle complex characters. Directed by Terry Gilliam, this 1995 film tells the story of James Cole (Willis), a convict from a post-apocalyptic future who is sent back in time to gather information about the virus that wiped out most of humanity. What sets 12 Monkeys apart is its intricate plot, its surreal visuals, and its exploration of themes such as memory, identity, and the nature of time. Willis delivers a powerful performance as Cole, a man haunted by visions and struggling to make sense of his mission. He portrays Cole's vulnerability and desperation with a raw intensity that is both captivating and heartbreaking.
The film's supporting cast, including Brad Pitt as the mentally unstable Jeffrey Goines and Madeleine Stowe as the psychiatrist Kathryn Railly, add further depth and complexity to the story. Pitt's performance earned him an Academy Award nomination, and his portrayal of Goines is both manic and strangely sympathetic. Gilliam's direction is characteristically eccentric, with bizarre camera angles, dreamlike sequences, and a pervasive sense of unease. 12 Monkeys is not an easy film to watch; it challenges viewers to question their perceptions of reality and to grapple with difficult themes. However, it is also a deeply rewarding experience, offering a thought-provoking and visually stunning journey into the darkest corners of the human psyche. While there are no sequels to the film, it did inspire a television series of the same name, which ran for four seasons and explored similar themes and ideas. However, the original film remains a classic of the sci-fi genre and a testament to Bruce Willis's versatility as an actor. If you're looking for an action movie with brains, 12 Monkeys is a must-see.
RED Series
Now, for something a bit more lighthearted but still packed with action, let's talk about the RED series. Based on the DC Comics graphic novel of the same name, RED (2010) and RED 2 (2013) are action-comedy films that star Bruce Willis as Frank Moses, a retired black ops agent who is forced back into action when his life is threatened. What makes the RED series so enjoyable is its ensemble cast, which includes Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich, Helen Mirren, and Mary-Louise Parker. The chemistry between these actors is fantastic, and their witty banter and over-the-top antics make for a highly entertaining viewing experience. Willis is perfectly cast as the stoic and capable Frank Moses, providing a solid center for the film's comedic chaos. The action sequences are well-choreographed and often played for laughs, with plenty of explosions, gunfights, and hand-to-hand combat. The RED series doesn't take itself too seriously, and that's part of its charm. It's a fun and escapist action movie that doesn't require a lot of brainpower to enjoy.
RED 2 expands on the original film's premise, sending the team on a globe-trotting adventure to stop a nuclear weapon from falling into the wrong hands. The sequel adds new cast members, including Anthony Hopkins and Catherine Zeta-Jones, who bring even more star power to the proceedings. While RED 2 doesn't quite capture the freshness of the original, it's still a worthwhile addition to the series. If you're looking for an action movie with a sense of humor and a cast of seasoned veterans, the RED series is definitely worth checking out. It's a reminder that action movies can be fun and that Bruce Willis is always up for a good time. Plus, who doesn't love seeing Helen Mirren wielding a machine gun? It's a truly iconic image!
Conclusion
So, there you have it, guys! A look at some of Bruce Willis's most memorable action film series. From the gritty realism of Die Hard to the quirky sci-fi of The Fifth Element, Willis has proven himself to be a versatile and enduring action star. Whether he's saving the world from terrorists, unraveling a time-traveling conspiracy, or cracking jokes with his fellow retired agents, Bruce Willis always delivers the goods. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the ride! What are your favorite Bruce Willis action films? Let us know in the comments below!
