Movies

Cheap Thrills: Action Flicks That Blew Our Minds (Without Breaking the Bank!)

BBG News

In my view, action movies often feature extravagant stunts and dazzling special effects, which usually demand hefty budgets. Yet, there are numerous low-budget gems in this genre that have an enduring impact. These films demonstrate the immense potential hidden within modest resources, showing that it takes more than a grand display to captivate and make a lasting impression on viewers.

In contrast to high-budget action films such as “John Wick” and “The Fall Guy,” which had production costs of around $20 million and $130 million respectively, these low-budget action movies were produced on a much smaller scale. Despite the lack of big-name actors and CGI, they manage to maintain the high-octane action sequences that fans of the genre crave. Movies like “The Raid” and “Oldboy” are renowned for their over-the-top thrills, but they also receive acclaim for their innovative storytelling and powerful acting performances.

9. Upgrade (2018)

Budget: $3 million

As a fan, I must say that “Upgrade,” created by Jason Blum under Blumhouse Productions, stands out among recent low-budget action films, boasting a memorable impact similar to classic releases. This is largely due to the ingenious decisions made throughout the movie that skillfully mask its modest budget. In this sci-fi/action blend, Logan Marshall-Green’s character, Grey Trace, takes center stage in an engaging narrative that’s truly captivating.

After the death of his wife and an incident that leaves him wheelchair-bound, Grey receives an implant that boosts his combat abilities, enabling him in his quest for vengeance. The movie “Upgrade” is often gruesome and grimy, yet manages to infuse it with a fair dose of humor. Its thoughtful examination of artificial intelligence and the thrilling action scenes make it a film that will likely be remembered fondly for quite some time.

8. Mad Max (1979)

Budget: $350,000

Over the years, as the Mad Max franchise has expanded, both the acclaim and caliber of the films have increased. Although the original Mad Max film from 1979 isn’t quite as revered as later installments, it remains a must-watch for action enthusiasts. The initial movie in the series offers viewers their first glimpse into a dystopian Australia and introduces them to our title character, who transforms from an officer into a vigilante in this film.

Despite having a smaller budget and fewer resources compared to later films in the Mad Max series, the original movie places more emphasis on character development, but it’s still packed with an undeniable sense of excitement. George Miller’s first feature film may not have been flawless, but it resonated strongly with viewers when it was initially released. Breaking box office records, Mad Max became a financial success.

7. Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior (2003)

Budget: $1.1 Million

Among the top-tier non-American action movies brimming with exhilarating martial arts scenes, one stands out even with a modest budget – the movie titled “Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior“. This captivating martial arts film features Tony Jaa in his breakthrough role. The story revolves around Jaa’s character, Ting, a Muay Thai expert from a village, who embarks on a quest to recover a stolen statue.

Despite the modest budget of Ong-Bak, the movie’s action sequences retain their thrilling, larger-than-life essence. The daring stunts performed by Jaa in Ong-Bak and its sequels seem effortless, earning them enduring admiration from viewers. While Ting’s heroic journey in Ong-Bak isn’t entirely unique compared to martial arts films of the past, Jaa’s athleticism and Panna Rittikrai’s action choreography elevate the film to a memorable level for audiences.

6. Escape From New York (1981)

Budget: $6 Million

Among John Carpenter and Kurt Russell’s most notable collaborations is the film “Escape from New York,” which was produced on a budget around $6 million during the 1980s. This action-packed movie remains enjoyable to rewatch, showcasing Carpenter’s innovative approach to world-building. The raw, cost-effective visuals of the film, combined with exhilarating action sequences, make it an indelible experience.

In the not-too-distant future, Manhattan transforms into a maximum-security, advanced prison. John Carpenter’s movie, “Escape from New York,” follows Snake Plissken, a former Special Forces operative, who is tasked with rescuing the President of the United States from this city. Despite its modest budget, the film became a box office hit. Today, “Escape from New York” is recognized as a cult classic, offering an engaging escape from reality for viewers.

5. Duel (1971)

Budget: $450,000

Over the years, Steven Spielberg has produced numerous high-cost movies, and it’s clear that the expense is reflected in both their grandeur and excellence. Nevertheless, when considering what Spielberg can achieve on a smaller budget, one of the initial films that spring to mind is the made-for-TV road thriller “Duel.” Working with an estimated budget of around $450,000, Spielberg skillfully creates an intriguing blend of action and horror that lingers in viewers’ minds for quite some time.

The film titled “Duel” first aired on ABC and later hit theaters, telling the story of David, portrayed by Dennis Weaver, who encounters a menacing truck driver during his extended road trip. Despite the truck driver’s identity remaining unknown, the tense back-and-forth between them creates an exhilarating sense of anticipation that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

4. The Raid (2011)

Budget: $1.1 million

In the early 2010s, Gareth Evans’ movie “The Raid: Redemption” brought new life to the action genre through its straightforward storyline and extraordinary martial arts scenes. The main characters are Indonesian actors and martial artists Iko Uwais and Joe Taslim who play members of a police team assigned to storm an apartment complex inhabited by a ruthless drug lord. The film has received acclaim over the years due to its skillfully built-up tension and graphic violence.

In “The Raid,” the plot unfolds primarily within a single apartment building, where police officers find themselves cornered by a drug lord. This high-octane movie is characterized by its captivating characters, particularly Uwais’ Rama, who undergoes significant development. However, what truly sets “The Raid” apart is the relentless action sequences that leave an indelible impression.

3. El Mariachi (1992)

Budget: $7,225

Robert Rodriguez’s first installment in the Mexico Trilogy, “El Mariachi,” initially had a budget of just $7,225. However, additional funds were spent by Columbia Pictures for post-production and marketing. Notably, many of the actors in this movie are amateurs, with Carlos Gallardo – a frequent collaborator of Rodriguez – portraying the title character. The story revolves around Gallardo’s character who aims to become a mariachi musician and embarks on a journey to a small Mexican town.

In spite of a mix-up, El Mariachi unwittingly gets entangled in a drug lord’s relentless chase for a notorious felon. Rodriguez’s distinctive filmmaking skills shine brightly throughout El Mariachi, lending freshness to the familiar storyline and injecting it with renewed vigor. The film’s impact is significantly enhanced by Rodriguez’s creativity and his knack for crafting a compelling movie even on a shoestring budget, making El Mariachi an impressively memorable cinematic experience.

2. Train To Busan (2016)

Budget: $8.5 Million

In “Train to Busan,” the thrilling events onboard the train journeying from Seoul to Busan are equally captivating as its heartfelt narrative at its core. This outstanding non-American zombie movie, directed by Yeon Sang-ho, offers a unique blend of astute social commentary and pulse-pounding action alongside gruesome scenes. The film was produced with an approximate budget of around $8.5 million.

In the movie “Train to Busan”, the claustrophobic environment creates an intense sense of suspense amidst the frightening events depicted on screen. Although the film’s action is undeniably impressive, it’s the character development of Seok-woo that leaves a lasting impact on viewers – fortunately, a big budget isn’t essential to evoke deep emotional connections with audiences.

1. Oldboy (2003)

Budget: $3 Million

The movie “Oldboy” is both a gripping action flick and a thought-provoking psychological drama that leaves viewers guessing. This memorable film delves into the human desire for revenge, a theme masterfully executed by director Park Chan-wook. In this film, Choi Min-sik delivers an impactful performance as Oh Dae-su, the central character. Throughout the movie, Dae-su embarks on a quest to find and punish the enigmatic figure responsible for his 15-year imprisonment.

The movie “Oldboy” is intense with its dynamic actions and graphic violence, yet it doesn’t solely rely on these elements to leave a lasting impression. Apart from catering to thriller enthusiasts with exhilarating action sequences, the film delves into a complex narrative that invites viewers to ponder over Dae-su’s predicament and decisions.

Read More

2025-04-30 16:36

Previous post Ed Sheeran’s Drunken Throwback Frenzy
Next post Jenna Ortega Wants To Direct A Movie, And I’m Impressed By Her Comments On How She’s Already Been Preparing Herself