.jpg)
More and more, I'm convinced the critics have a vendetta against action movies. Open up rotten tomatoes and you can find many instances where the critic score and the audience score are dramatically different. My explanation for this would be that grading an action flick by the same criterial that you would apply to an art-film or drama likely ignores the directorial intent and audience appeal of a perhaps shallow but thoroughly entertaining film. When you're just looking to kick back and sip some juice, these underrated action movie throwbacks do plenty to check all of your fast-food action boxes.
1. Dredd (2012) - For Stunning Slow motion Action Sequences
Karl Urban takes to the streets as Judge Dredd, a law enforcement officer with cool armor, a cooler gun, and no need for a jury or executioner. This visually impressive film is self aware and offers deadpan humor in addition to excellent camera placement. The movie well captures the gritty dystopian aesthetic of the sci-fi future comic on which it is based. Both critics and audiences thought this movie delivered above and beyond from a quality perspective, but a disappointing lack of marketing throttled box office performance.
Pair With: Peaty Scotch - Laphroaig 10 - As Gruff as the Judge Himself!
2. Van Helsing (2004) - Monster Slaying Action Reaction
Hugh Jackman takes on a myriad of storied enemies in this Monster of the Week Mashup. Critics weren't big fans of the gratuitous use of early 200s CGI and some of the dialog is a bit campy. On the bright side, the action sequences are well done and non-stop. Those in the right mindset may find the banal script amusing. I watch it every Halloween.Pair With: Sherry Finished Whiskey - Stranahan's Sherry Cask or Glenmorangie Lasanta - Blood!
3. Treasure Planet (2002) - For Watching with your Kids
This futuristic retelling of Treasure Island, the greatest children's story of all time, features excellent animation, a plucky soundtrack, and memorable characters. A lack of princesses contributed to its relatively obscurity, though in my experience people always get excited when you mention it.
Pair With: Salty Scotch - Bunnahabhain 10 yr Single Malt - Taste the brine!
4. IP Man (2008) - Kung Fu the Way it should be
In Hong Kong film set during the Sino-Japanese war, Bruce Lee portrays a skilled wing chun master captured with his family. Fight choreography is impeccable and the acting superb. It was well received when it launched in China but remains relatively niche in the USA. The film went on to receive three sequels.
Pair With: Japanese Whisky - Nikka Coffey Malt or Nikka From the Barrel - Because far East!
5. The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003) - A Contemporary Fiction Buffet
This mash of up literary leading characters from an assortment of authors features constant action, managing to be quite entertaining in spite of the thin plot and trite dialog that spurred critical ire. Sean Connery joins a large cast outfitted with an impressive assortment of practical effects, jaunty score, and outrageously intricate costumes to defeat a secret evil in a classic world chasing struggle of good versus evil. You'll enjoy this one more if you're relatively well read.
Pair With: Jefferson's Ocean Aged at Sea - Captain Nemo Approved!
6. A Knights Tale (2001) - Tasteful Anachronism and Jousting
Heath Ledger stars as a peasant who takes the place of his former liege after the knight passes away, pretending to be a noble in order to complete in a series of jousting tournaments in the pursuit of fame, fortune, and love. Loosely based on the Canterbury tales, this well paced film features endearing characters, lively action sequences, and just the right amount of comedy. Listen for a classic rock soundtrack and look for fashion from the finest European brands highlighted by a monotone and dearly medieval setting.
Pair With: Old Grand-Dad 114 - Salute to the old man!
7. Hellboy (2004) - A Smashing Good Time, Surprisingly Funny
Guillermo del Toro directs Ron Perlman in this fun and big-hearted action flick filled with all sorts of baddies, rock-and-roll, and the occasional dry wit. It suffers from some issues with pacing and didn't resonate with some audiences but did better than expected with critics, probably the best action flick of the year. Who doesn't love a demon working for the US government?
Pair With: Barrel Proof Bourbon - Benchmark Barrel Proof - I think he'd like cheap and big bourbon.
8. Pacific Rim (2013) - Big Robots, Bigger Monsters, Epic Fun
One of the more well crafted CGI popcorners, Pacific Rim combines awesome action, solid acting, and a simple plot to satisfy everyone's inner child. The pacing is solid and a great cast helps to carry the momentum forward. What could be better than robots fighting sea kaiju. A boys night favorite!
Pair With: Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Rye or Bourbon - a treat!