10 Best John Wick Ripoffs, Ranked

Kenji Nakamura

6 min read

Post on May 12, 2025

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<p>Meta Description: Dive into the world of stylish gun-fu with our ranked list of the 10 best John Wick ripoffs. From explosive action to intricate plots, discover the films that capture the magic of Baba Yaga.</p>

<p>John Wick redefined action cinema with its balletic gunfights, intricate world-building, and unforgettable protagonist. Since its release, countless films have attempted to replicate its success, spawning a subgenre of stylish, neo-noir action thrillers. But which John Wick ripoffs truly deliver the goods? This list ranks the 10 best, considering factors like fight choreography, plot complexity, and overall entertainment value. Prepare for a blood-soaked journey through the best John Wick-inspired movies!</p>

<h2>Top Tier John Wick Inspired Films (Ranks 1-3)</h2>

<h3>#1: Nobody (2021)</h3> <p>Nobody expertly captures the quiet intensity and explosive action of John Wick. Bob Odenkirk's performance as a seemingly ordinary man with a deadly past is captivating. The film boasts flawlessly choreographed fight sequences, inventive weapon usage, and a surprisingly emotional core. It’s a masterclass in understated action, showcasing the power of a well-executed revenge story.</p> <ul> <li>Exceptional gun-fu and hand-to-hand combat sequences</li> <li>A compelling villain with a believable motivation</li> <li>A strong narrative that keeps you engaged from beginning to end</li> <li>A memorable and fitting soundtrack</li> </ul>

<h3>#2: Atomic Blonde (2017)</h3> <p>Atomic Blonde sets itself apart with its 80s aesthetic and Charlize Theron's powerhouse performance as Lorraine Broughton. The film's action is brutal and stylish, mirroring John Wick's precision, but with a distinctly female-led perspective. The intricate spy thriller plot adds another layer of depth, keeping you guessing until the very end. While different in setting, the commitment to stylish action and morally grey characters makes it a worthy contender.</p> <ul> <li>Creative and brutal kill scenes that are both stylish and shocking</li> <li>A well-developed Cold War world that feels authentic and lived-in</li> <li>An engaging protagonist with a complex backstory</li> <li>A satisfying and unpredictable conclusion</li> </ul>

<h3>#3: Gunpowder Milkshake (2021)</h3> <p>Gunpowder Milkshake brings a unique female-centric perspective to the John Wick formula, featuring a stellar cast and impressive action sequences. The film cleverly blends gun-fu with a powerful mother-daughter narrative, creating a fresh take on the revenge thriller trope. The vibrant visuals and stylized violence further elevate its position in this list.</p> <ul> <li>Intense and creatively choreographed action sequences</li> <li>Surprising plot twists that keep you on the edge of your seat</li> <li>A cast of memorable and strong female characters</li> <li>Stylish visuals and a distinct visual aesthetic</li> </ul>

<h2>Mid-Tier John Wick Imitators (Ranks 4-7)</h2>

<h3>#4: The Night Comes for Us (2018)</h3> <p>The Night Comes for Us delivers relentless and brutal action, showcasing some of the most impressive Indonesian martial arts ever filmed. While the plot is somewhat straightforward, the sheer intensity of the fight choreography and the dedication to practical effects make it a worthwhile watch for fans of extreme action.</p> <ul> <li>Good action sequences and impressive martial arts</li> <li>A decent plot, but lacks the intricate world-building of John Wick</li> <li>Shows some originality in its setting and style</li> <li>Lacks the polish and refinement of the top-tier films</li> </ul>

<h3>#5: Kate (2021)</h3> <p>Kate distinguishes itself with its focus on unique weaponry and a strong female lead. Mary Elizabeth Winstead delivers a powerful performance, and the film's exploration of the Yakuza underworld is intriguing. However, pacing issues prevent it from reaching the upper echelons of this list.</p> <ul> <li>Unique weapon focus, adding a fresh element to the action</li> <li>Interesting world-building within the Yakuza underworld</li> <li>Pacing issues and a predictable plot hinder its overall impact</li> </ul>

<h3>#6: Extraction (2020)</h3> <p>Extraction offers a high-octane action experience with Chris Hemsworth in the lead. The film's single-take fight sequences are impressive, and Hemsworth's charisma carries the film. However, the plot is somewhat predictable, and the character development could be improved.</p> <ul> <li>Fun and engaging action sequences, especially the long takes</li> <li>A charismatic lead who delivers a solid performance</li> <li>A somewhat predictable plot that follows a familiar formula</li> </ul>

<h3>#7: Peppermint (2018)</h3> <p>Peppermint offers a solid action foundation, but falls short due to underdeveloped characters and a weak narrative. While Jennifer Garner delivers a capable performance, the story lacks the complexity and depth found in the top-tier John Wick ripoffs.</p> <ul> <li>Solid action sequences, but nothing groundbreaking</li> <li>Underdeveloped characters that lack depth and emotional resonance</li> <li>A weak narrative that fails to engage fully</li> </ul>

<h2>Honorable Mentions (Ranks 8-10)</h2>

<h3>#8: Assassin's Creed (2016)</h3> <p>While not strictly a John Wick ripoff, Assassin's Creed incorporates some similar elements, such as stylish fight sequences and a morally grey protagonist. However, its action sequences are somewhat underdeveloped compared to the films higher on this list.</p> <ul> <li>Promising premise and elements of stylish action</li> <li>Underdeveloped action sequences that lack the precision of other films</li> </ul>

<h3>#9: Bullet Train (2022)</h3> <p>Bullet Train offers a fun, chaotic action-comedy with a unique setting and ensemble cast. While it shares some stylistic similarities with John Wick, its focus on comedic elements distinguishes it from the more serious tone of the others.</p> <ul> <li>Interesting concept and unique setting within a speeding bullet train</li> <li>Uneven execution; the comedy sometimes overshadows the action</li> </ul>

<h3>#10: Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (2010)</h3> <p>Prince of Persia features some impressive parkour-influenced action sequences that echo the stylized movement found in John Wick. It's a worthy inclusion for fans of the genre, but it's not a standout among the other films on this list.</p> <ul> <li>Worth a watch for fans of stylized action and fantasy</li> <li>Not a standout in terms of plot or overall impact</li> </ul>

<h2>Conclusion</h2>

<p>From the top-tier contenders that expertly capture the essence of John Wick to the honorable mentions that offer glimpses of its magic, this list explores the diverse landscape of John Wick ripoffs. Each film offers its own unique brand of stylish action and intricate storytelling, providing a compelling viewing experience for fans of neo-noir thrillers. Whether you're looking for brutal gun-fu, intricate spy plots, or female-led action, there's a John Wick-inspired movie on this list for you.</p>

<p>Have we missed your favorite John Wick ripoff? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to check out our other articles exploring the best action films and the world of stylish gun-fu cinema. Keep exploring the world of John Wick-inspired movies – you might find your new favorite action thriller!</p>