Every Action Movie Coming to Theaters and Streaming in December 2025

Even though it’s the holiday season, action movie lovers don’t have to miss out on their favorite genre. While many people enjoy Christmas classics, there are plenty of new action films hitting theaters and streaming services. Of course, Die Hard is a popular choice for a holiday watch – and it’s coming to Peacock on December 1st! But with so much focus on heartwarming holiday movies, it’s easy to overlook all the exciting action releases.

We’re showcasing all the exciting action movies coming out in December, both in theaters and for streaming. We’ve chosen a couple to spotlight – a gritty Viking adventure and a popular film making a comeback on the big screen. You’ll find a full list of everything releasing this month, along with details on how and where to watch.

‘The Northman’ (2022)

Streaming on Netflix on December 3

The Northman is a powerful and legendary story of revenge. After witnessing his uncle murder his father, Prince Amleth (Alexander Skarsgård) goes into hiding. He dedicates his life to becoming a skilled warrior, determined to avenge his father’s death. During his journey, he meets Olga (Anya Taylor-Joy), a mysterious woman with her own agenda, and uncovers the truth about his mother, Queen Gudrún (Nicole Kidman), and where her loyalties truly lie.

Robert Eggers consistently creates visually striking films that stand out within their genres, and his latest, The Northman, uniquely combines Norse mythology, intense action, and compelling drama. What’s particularly appealing for action movie fans is that the fight scenes are raw, realistic, and unflinchingly brutal. While The Northman has been available on streaming before, its arrival on Netflix makes this gripping Viking story of revenge and redemption easily accessible to a wider audience.

‘Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair’ (2025)

In Theaters on December 5

Fans can now see Kill Bill back in cinemas, but this time it’s a special, combined version of both films. Called Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair, this cut presents the movie as director Quentin Tarantino originally envisioned – one long, complete film. While most viewers likely already know Kill Bill, this theatrical release is a great way for longtime fans to revisit the story of The Bride’s quest for revenge starring Uma Thurman. Be prepared for a lengthy movie though, as it clocks in at four hours!

‘F1: The Movie’ (2025)

Streaming on Apple TV+ on December 12

Hitting Apple TV this December, F1: The Movie is one of the most eagerly awaited action films to become available for streaming. The Brad Pitt-led movie was a hit in theaters and a sequel is already being considered. It follows Sonny Hayes, a former race car driver played by Pitt, as he comes out of retirement to help a struggling team and mentor a promising young driver, Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), in a final bid for championship success.

The film offers an incredibly immersive experience of Formula 1 racing, thanks to fast-paced, point-of-view cinematography shot on actual racetracks. Director Joseph Kosinski, known for the thrilling action in Top Gun: Maverick, brings that same skill to this project. While most fans will never experience being in an F1 car, this film provides the most realistic sensation possible from the comfort of your own home.

‘Plane’ (2023)

Streaming on Hulu on December 12

As a huge fan of action thrillers, I was hooked by the premise of Plane. It follows Brodie Torrance, a pilot played by Gerard Butler, who pulls off an incredible landing after a lightning strike during a terrible storm. But surviving the crash is just the beginning! They end up in a really dangerous jungle controlled by a ruthless militia, and most of the passengers are taken hostage. It’s fascinating to watch Brodie team up with Louis Gaspare, a prisoner being transported on the plane – played by Mike Colter – and together they have to fight to save everyone. It’s a pretty intense, edge-of-your-seat kind of movie!

Fans of action movies often enjoy films that stick to the tried-and-true formula. Sometimes, you just want pure entertainment – thrilling action without needing complex plots or hidden meanings! “Plane” delivers exactly that, letting you relax and enjoy the ride. Gerard Butler and Mike Colter are both fantastic in the lead roles, driving the action forward with style and charisma.

‘Ne Zha 2’ (2025)

Streaming on HBO Max on December 24

I’m really excited about Ne Zha 2, but you definitely need to watch the first Ne Zha movie first – thankfully, it’s currently on HBO Max! It’s awesome because both films are packed with incredible animation and action. They’re based on classic Chinese stories and look fantastic, with really epic battles and adventures. Basically, the story is about Ne Zha, this super cool, rebellious hero from ancient Chinese mythology who fights demons.

If you’re a fan of action movies, especially those inspired by classic Chinese martial arts – often called Wuxia – then Ne Zha is for you. Think of it as a loving tribute to that tradition. If you enjoyed films like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Hero, or even older classics like A Touch of Zen and One-Armed Swordsman, you’ll find the same exciting mix of martial arts and fantasy in Ne Zha that captivated you before.