Top 10 Brutal Action Films You Need to Watch if You Loved Marco

If you’ve been caught up in the hype around Marco, you’re not alone. The buzz is real—its extreme action and unapologetic violence have made it one of the most talked-about films in India. But why stop there? If you’re a fan of gritty, raw, and intense action, here’s a curated list of underrated gems that deserve your attention. Let’s dive into the world of brutal action cinema, both from India and beyond.

1. Rocky Handsome

Released eight years ago, Rocky Handsome is a masterpiece of raw, visceral action. At a time when violent films weren’t trendy, this Bollywood gem stood out with its no-holds-barred fight scenes. John Abraham’s portrayal is phenomenal, especially in the iconic knife-in-mouth scene—peak cinema! It’s a tale of male ego, honor, and muscular grit that perfectly balances action with emotion. A must-watch for fans of intense storytelling.

2. Thallumaala

This Malayalam film is a celebration of chaos and combat. It’s not about mindless action but situational storytelling that leads to unforgettable fight scenes. Vibrant, energetic, and deeply rooted in its cultural essence, Thallumaala is a visual treat for any action enthusiast.

3. Kala

A grounded action film that breaks away from the mainstream template. It tells the story of a farmer whose life is turned upside down after accidentally killing a dog. What follows is a raw and brutal revenge saga that showcases some of the most naturally executed action sequences ever seen in Indian cinema.

4. Taish

An underrated gem, Taish explores themes of vengeance and the consequences of gang wars. Harshvardhan Rane’s portrayal of a gangster is intense, and the film brilliantly combines high-octane action with deep emotional drama. If you’re interested in rare Indian films about international gang operations, this one’s for you.

5. Khuda Haafiz Chapter 2

Vidyut Jammwal delivers his best in this action-packed sequel. Stripped of the acrobatic stunts he’s known for, this film focuses on tight, bloody, and grounded fight sequences. Despite its limited production budget, Khuda Haafiz Chapter 2 is a shining example of Bollywood’s potential to craft gripping action cinema.

6. Rocky (Indie Film)

A dystopian indie masterpiece, Rocky tells the story of a man seeking his missing sister after spending 17 years in prison. Its dark tone, hand-to-hand combat, and lack of clichéd action-hero tropes make it a standout. If you enjoy gritty realism, this film will leave a lasting impression.

7. RD

This Malayalam action-comedy is a nostalgic throwback to martial arts films. It follows a group of friends who reunite for revenge. With plenty of fight scenes, witty dialogues, and heartfelt moments, RD offers a refreshing break from the typical action formula.

8. Shoot ‘Em Up (Hollywood)

At just 80 minutes long, this film is an adrenaline rush from start to finish. Centered around an assassin protecting a child, Shoot ‘Em Up delivers over-the-top action sequences and dark humor. Fun fact: Bollywood has borrowed scenes from this movie—can you guess which ones?

9. Brawl in Cell Block 99 (Hollywood)

A slow-burn masterpiece that explodes into jaw-dropping violence. Vince Vaughn delivers a surprising and intense performance as a man forced into brutal circumstances to protect his family. The film’s raw, bone-crunching action will leave you stunned.

10. Headshot (Indonesian Cinema)

On a shoestring budget, Headshot proves that storytelling and execution trump high production costs. This Indonesian gem delivers brutal hand-to-hand combat sequences with incredible choreography. It’s a must-watch for fans of the Raid series and anyone seeking fresh action cinema.