Angelina Jolie's Best Full Action Movies
Angelina Jolie, a name synonymous with fierce talent and unforgettable performances, has carved a unique niche for herself in the action movie genre. Known for her dedication to roles, performing many of her own stunts, and bringing a compelling depth to her characters, Jolie has starred in some of the most iconic action films of the last few decades. Let’s dive into some of her best full action movies, exploring what makes them so great and why they remain fan favorites.
Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001)
Lara Croft: Tomb Raider marked a significant moment in Angelina Jolie's career, solidifying her status as an action star. Based on the hugely popular video game series, Jolie stepped into the adventurous shoes of Lara Croft, a wealthy, intelligent, and athletic archaeologist who embarks on dangerous missions to uncover ancient artifacts and prevent them from falling into the wrong hands. What made Jolie's portrayal so compelling was her physical commitment to the role. She underwent extensive training in martial arts, weapons handling, and acrobatics to bring authenticity to Lara's action sequences. The film follows Lara as she races against the Illuminati to find a powerful artifact that controls time. The globe-trotting adventure takes her from England to Cambodia and Siberia, encountering booby traps, gunfights, and ancient mysteries along the way.
Beyond the action, Jolie brought a certain depth and complexity to Lara Croft, capturing her independence, intelligence, and determination. While the film received mixed reviews for its plot and dialogue, Jolie's performance was widely praised, with many considering her the perfect embodiment of the character. The success of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider spawned a sequel, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life (2003), where Jolie reprised her role, continuing to deliver thrilling action and adventure. These films not only showcased Jolie's physical prowess but also her ability to carry a major action franchise.
The impact of Jolie's portrayal of Lara Croft extends beyond the films themselves. She inspired a generation of female action heroes and demonstrated that women could lead action films and be just as compelling and believable as their male counterparts. Jolie's dedication to the role and her willingness to perform her own stunts set a new standard for actresses in the action genre. Lara Croft: Tomb Raider remains a significant milestone in her career and a testament to her enduring appeal as an action star. Whether you're a fan of the video games or simply enjoy action-packed adventures, Jolie's portrayal of Lara Croft is a must-see, showcasing her athleticism, charisma, and ability to bring iconic characters to life.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
Mr. & Mrs. Smith is not just an action movie; it's a romantic action comedy that pairs Angelina Jolie with Brad Pitt in a sizzling on-screen dynamic. The premise is simple yet ingenious: John and Jane Smith are a seemingly ordinary suburban couple, each hiding a deadly secret – they are both highly skilled assassins working for competing organizations. The film kicks off with their mundane married life, filled with simmering resentments and unspoken frustrations. However, everything changes when they are both assigned to assassinate the same target. The ensuing confrontation leads to the explosive revelation of their true identities, turning their lives upside down.
What follows is a rollercoaster of action, humor, and relationship drama as John and Jane attempt to kill each other while also grappling with the realization that they don't really know each other at all. The film is filled with cleverly choreographed fight scenes, intense shootouts, and plenty of witty banter between Jolie and Pitt. Their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, adding an extra layer of excitement and intrigue to the story. Mr. & Mrs. Smith stands out because it seamlessly blends action with comedy and romance, creating a unique and entertaining cinematic experience.
The film's success lies not only in its action sequences but also in its exploration of marriage and relationships. As John and Jane try to navigate their newfound reality, they are forced to confront their own insecurities and vulnerabilities. The film cleverly uses the extreme circumstances of their lives to highlight the challenges and complexities of marriage, making it relatable to audiences on a deeper level. Jolie's portrayal of Jane Smith is both fierce and vulnerable, showcasing her range as an actress. She embodies the character's strength and independence while also revealing her emotional depth. Mr. & Mrs. Smith is a testament to Jolie's ability to excel in a variety of genres, proving that she can be both a formidable action star and a compelling dramatic actress. The film remains a popular choice for those looking for a fun, action-packed movie with a touch of romance and humor.
Wanted (2008)
Wanted takes Angelina Jolie into the realm of stylized, over-the-top action, where she plays Fox, a skilled assassin who recruits Wesley Gibson (James McAvoy), an ordinary office worker, into a secret society of assassins. The film is based on a graphic novel and embraces its source material with its visual flair and exaggerated action sequences. Jolie's character, Fox, is a mysterious and deadly figure, who guides Wesley through his transformation from a timid nobody into a lethal killer. The film is characterized by its unique visual style, with slow-motion shots, bullet-time effects, and gravity-defying stunts that push the boundaries of cinematic action.
Wanted distinguishes itself through its innovative action sequences and its exploration of fate and free will. The assassins in the film possess the ability to curve bullets, adding a surreal and visually stunning element to the fight scenes. Jolie's portrayal of Fox is both enigmatic and commanding, making her a compelling mentor figure to Wesley. The film delves into the idea that everyone has the potential for greatness and that circumstances can shape individuals in unexpected ways. Wanted is a visually stunning and action-packed film that showcases Jolie's ability to excel in high-concept action roles. Her performance as Fox is both memorable and impactful, contributing to the film's overall success.
The movie isn't just about the crazy action; it also dives into some pretty deep themes about choice and destiny. Wesley's journey from a desk drone to a total badass is something a lot of people can relate to, even if they're not curving bullets. Angelina Jolie, as Fox, brings this cool, detached vibe that makes her character super intriguing. You're never quite sure what she's thinking, which adds to the whole mystery of the film. If you're into movies that don't take themselves too seriously and just want to be entertained, Wanted is a great pick. It's got the right mix of action, style, and a little bit of philosophical pondering to keep you hooked.
Salt (2010)
Salt is a spy thriller that puts Angelina Jolie front and center as Evelyn Salt, a CIA agent accused of being a Russian sleeper agent. The film is a high-stakes game of cat and mouse, as Salt must evade capture while trying to clear her name and uncover the truth behind the accusations. What makes Salt so compelling is its intricate plot twists and turns, keeping the audience guessing about Salt's true allegiances. Jolie delivers a captivating performance, portraying Salt as a complex and resourceful character who is always one step ahead of her pursuers. The film is filled with intense action sequences, including hand-to-hand combat, daring escapes, and explosive confrontations.
Salt relies heavily on Jolie's ability to portray a character with ambiguous motives, keeping the audience questioning whether she is a hero or a villain. Her physical performance is also crucial to the film's success, as she performs many of her own stunts, adding to the realism and intensity of the action. The film explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the blurred lines between good and evil. Salt is a thrilling and suspenseful film that showcases Jolie's talent for playing strong, multifaceted characters. It's a movie that keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end, thanks to its clever plot and Jolie's compelling performance.
Angelina Jolie really shines in this role because she brings this intense physicality and emotional depth that makes Salt such a believable character. The movie's all about double-crosses and mind games, and Jolie nails the part of someone who's always thinking ten steps ahead. If you're into spy movies with lots of twists and turns, Salt is definitely worth checking out. It's a great showcase of Jolie's range as an actress and her ability to carry a high-stakes action thriller.
The Tourist (2010)
While The Tourist is often described as a romantic thriller, it features Angelina Jolie in a role that requires both elegance and resourcefulness. Alongside Johnny Depp, Jolie plays Elise Clifton-Ward, a woman who is being pursued by Interpol and Russian mobsters. The film follows Elise as she uses an American tourist, Frank Tupelo (Depp), as a decoy to protect herself and her associate. While The Tourist may not be as action-heavy as some of Jolie's other films, it still showcases her ability to handle suspenseful situations and perform in physically demanding scenes. The film's European settings add to its allure, with beautiful locations in Paris and Venice serving as the backdrop for the intrigue and romance.
The Tourist allows Jolie to showcase her versatility as an actress, balancing the glamour and sophistication of her character with the underlying tension of the plot. The film's strength lies in its twists and turns, keeping the audience guessing about the true identities and motives of the characters. Jolie's chemistry with Depp adds to the film's appeal, creating a captivating dynamic between their characters. While The Tourist may not be a traditional action movie, it still offers plenty of excitement and suspense, making it a worthwhile addition to Jolie's filmography. The movie proves that Jolie can excel in roles that require both physical prowess and emotional depth.
Okay, so The Tourist might not be wall-to-wall action like some of her other flicks, but Angelina Jolie still brings this cool, mysterious vibe that's hard to ignore. Plus, the whole movie is set in these gorgeous European cities, which is always a bonus. It's more of a suspenseful, romantic kind of thing, but Jolie definitely holds her own as this sophisticated woman with a secret. If you're looking for something a little more on the elegant side with a few twists thrown in, give The Tourist a shot. It's a nice change of pace from the usual action-packed stuff, but still keeps you guessing.
Conclusion
Angelina Jolie's contributions to the action genre are undeniable. From her iconic portrayal of Lara Croft to her complex roles in films like Salt and Wanted, Jolie has consistently delivered memorable performances that showcase her talent, dedication, and versatility. Her ability to combine physical prowess with emotional depth has made her a true icon in the world of action movies. Whether she's battling enemies, solving mysteries, or navigating complex relationships, Jolie always brings a unique and captivating presence to the screen. Her action films are not just about explosions and fight scenes; they are about strong, independent women who are capable of anything. As such, Angelina Jolie remains one of the most respected and admired action stars in Hollywood, inspiring audiences around the world with her talent and her commitment to her craft. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the thrilling world of Angelina Jolie's best full action movies!
