Action Movie Endings That Stay With Us
A good action film keeps us on the edges of our seats from beginning to end. But the best action films have truly memorable final scenes that make us think about the characters long after we leave the theater. It probably doesn't need to be said but there are spoilers ahead.
Inception (2010)
Nominated for eight Academy Awards, Inception (2010) is notorious for its ambiguous ending. Although Leonardo DiCaprio's character (Cobb) completes his mission and returns home, moviegoers are left wondering if he is dreaming or in the real world. Over a decade since its release, the movie's brilliant ending still sparks debate.
Inception Ending Scene - Cobb Returns Home - Inception (2010) Movie CLIP HD, Trailer Crunch
Léon: The Professional (1994)
A bit of an anomaly in the action genre, Léon: The Professional (1994) blends cutting-edge action with a mature, character-driven storyline. The movie's closing scenes intertwine brutal, breathtaking action sequences with a heart-wrenching narrative twist, creating an incredibly moving ending.
Ending scene (I think we'll be ok here Leon) - Leon: The Professional (1994), Leon and Mathilda
Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022)
The winner of 2022's Best Picture Oscar, Everything Everywhere All at Once is one of the most in-depth cinematic explorations of the multiverse concept. Labelled as an "absurdist action comedy-drama film", it has some action scenes, but its ending highlights a touching emotional climax between the protagonist and antagonist.
Everything Everywhere All at Once Deleted Scene - Final Fight (2022) | Vudu, Fandango at Home
300 (2006)
The ending of 2006's 300 is an intense and graphic combat scene that depicts the ancient Battle of Thermopylae. The film's overall message of standing up against oppression is key in these scenes where the heavily outnumbered underdogs engage in combat with superior forces.
300 Ending Scene and Motivational Speech, Matias Miranda
Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)
Since it's categorized as a spy action comedy film, it's no wonder that Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014) is an action-packed thrill ride right to its ending. The final battle scenes are deliberately edited to appear fun and energetic, underscoring the movie's triumphant ending.
Kingsman: The Secret Service | Official Trailer HD | 2014, 20th Century Studios UK
Aliens (1986)
James Cameron's 1986 film Aliens is one of his most iconic hits. During the movie's final scenes, Ellen Ripley (played by Sigourney Weaver) battles an alien queen in a beautifully shot and suspenseful sequence that keeps the audience engaged.
Aliens 1986 Ending scene 4K, FilmClips
Predator (1987)
Arnold Schwarzenegger's role in Predator (1987) is widely considered to be the action star's greatest performance. The ending, in particular, allows Schwarzenegger's acting skills to shine. His character (Dutch) shows vulnerability and fear as he battles the Predator in a quest for survival and revenge.
Predator - Last Scene (Dutch Goes back home), Lone Walker
The Matrix (1999)
The action sequences in 1999's The Matrix are iconic. Influenced by anime and martial arts films, the movie features several well-choreographed clashes between Neo (Keanu Reeves) and Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving). At the end of the film, it's gratifying to watch Neo realize his full potential and defeat Smith in a final battle.
Ending Last Scene System Failure - Matrix (1999) - Movie Clip HD Scene, Legendary Movie Scenes
Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
The ending of Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991) features one of the most iconic scenes in cinematic history. The film won an Academy Award for its visual effects, which are on full display during the final, epic fight between the two terminators in a dark steel mill.
TERMINATOR 2 (1991) | Ending Scene | The T-800 Dies Scene 4K UHD, Cinematico
Braveheart (1995)
Since 1995's Braveheart is based on historical fact, its ending did not come as a surprise. Still, as William Wallace (Mel Gibson) screams, "Freedom!" in the final moments, audiences feel both triumph and despair, recognizing his rousing courage.
Braveheart: Wallace's execution (HD CLIP), Binge Society
Mission: Impossible–Ghost Protocol (2011)
Mission: Impossible—Ghost Protocol (2011) is the fourth film in the Mission: Impossible franchise. Its ending is simple and reflective, featuring Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) walking off into thick fog as he listens to details about his next mission, should he choose to accept it.
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - GHOST PROTOCOL (2011) | Ending Scene 4K UHD, Cinematico
First Blood (1982)
The first installment of the Rambo franchise, 1982's First Blood, has an unexpected ending. Featuring Sylvester Stallone in his iconic role, the film follows John Rambo as he attempts to survive a manhunt after his return home from the Vietnam War. The film ends on a highly emotional note, with Rambo crying and speaking about how difficult it is to navigate life as a Vietnam vet.
Rambo First Blood (1982) - Ending Scene (1080p) FULL HD, RED Lion Movie Shorts
John Wick (2014)
Since John Wick (Keanu Reeves) is one of the greatest assassins of all time, it's no surprise that he survives his final battle in the first movie of the John Wick franchise. What is surprising is that the film ends on a sweetly emotional note, with Wick walking into a vet clinic to adopt a puppy.
John Wick Official Trailer #1 (2014) - Keanu Reeves, Willem Dafoe Movie HD, Rotten Tomatoes Trailers
Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade (1989)
After searching for the Holy Grail through three Indiana Jones movies, the iconic archaeologist comes up empty-handed in the final installment of the trilogy. The closing scenes of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989) feature Jones, his father, and their crew riding off into the sunset, reminding us about the importance of life.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade - Ending Scene (1989), Noble Treize
Die Hard (1988)
Filmed in an era that saw Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger achieve cult status as action stars, Die Hard (1988) changed the way action films are made. Its highly climactic finale remains iconic, both for its action and the touches of humour.
DIE HARD Clips - Final Scenes (1988) Bruce Willis, JoBlo Movie Clips
Gladiator (2000)
Russell Crowe stars as Maximus Decimus Meridius, a fictitious Roman general, in 2000's Gladiator. Maximus is one of cinema's most iconic action heroes but he loses his final battle. The movie ends on a bittersweet note as Maximus is reunited with his wife and son in the afterlife.
The Death of Maximus (Final Scene) | Gladiator (2000) | Screen Bites, Screen Bites
The Dark Knight (2008)
Since 1943, Batman has appeared in dozens of movies. But, the ending of 2008's The Dark Knight has been hailed as one of the greatest Batman finales. In this iconic film, Batman (Christian Bale) fulfills the prophecy spoken by Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart) in an early scene: "You either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain".
Official Trailer: The Dark Knight (2008), nickbtube
Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Given that 2015's Mad Max: Fury Road is two hours of virtually non-stop action, its ending is fully satisfying. In the final scenes, with the brutal Immortan Joe slain, Furiosa (Charlize Theron) takes control of the complex that she and Max (Tom Hardy) escaped from while Max walks off into the sunset.
Mad Max Fury Road - Ending Scene, Noble Treiz
John Wick: Chapter 3—Parabellum (2019)
Some fans of the John Wick franchise dislike the ending to John Wick: Chapter 3—Parabellum (2019). This third installment ends with a stunning betrayal of Wick, who appears to be eliminated after an astonishing action scene. In fact, the film's ending expertly sets up the franchise for John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023) and The Continental series.
Jurassic Park (1993)
In Steven Spielberg's Jurassic Park (1993), the tense action scenes near the end of the iconic film build to a perfect, satisfying ending. Chased by raptors, the protagonists narrowly escape—thanks to a surprise appearance by a T-Rex—before being whisked off by a helicopter into the sunset.
Jurassic Park (1993) - 'Finale' scene [1080p], Screen Themes
Furious 7 (2015)
The ending of Furious 7 (2015) is especially poignant for its nod to Paul Walker. The actor, who portrays the character Brian O'Conner, was in a fatal car crash while the film was in production. The final scene pays tribute to Walker, saying goodbye to both the actor and his character.
Fast & Furious 7 (2015) - See You Again Scene (End Scene), Lise LS_01
Star Wars: Episode V–The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Dark and depressing, the ending of Star Wars: Episode V–The Empire Strikes Back (1980) is considered by many to be one of the most memorable finales in cinematic history. Despite the seeming defeat of Luke Skywalker and Han Solo, there is some hope for fans of the franchise as Luke escapes and joins the Rebel fleet, while reuniting with Leia.
The Bourne Identity (2002)
The final scenes of The Bourne Identity (2002) have a satisfying twist. Although Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) confronts the man (Alexander Conklin) who has been pursuing him throughout the film, Bourne walks away from that encounter. But Conklin still meets his demise at the hands of one of his assets. Unaware of the drama that Conklin's expiration will cause in future installments of the franchise, Bourne meets up with his love interest in Greece.
The Bourne Identity (10/10) Movie CLIP - Stairwell Plunge (2002) HD, Movieclips
Skyfall (2012)
In the highest-grossing James Bond film to date, Skyfall (2012), the iconic character M (played by Dame Judi Dench) perishes in Bond's arms. Despite this poignant goodbye, the film ends on a positive note, with Bond rebooted and ready for more adventures.
M and Silva Die - ending - Skyfall (2012), Film Clips
Baby Driver (2017)
In 2017's Baby Driver, Ansel Elgort plays Baby, a gifted getaway driver for Doc, played by Kevin Spacey. While the audience may feel vindicated when Baby is incarcerated with a 25-year sentence, the film ends on a happy note. Released on parole after serving five years, Baby reunites with his love interest.
BABY DRIVER - Official Trailer (HD), Sony Pictures Entertainment
Michael Clayton (2007)
One of the final scenes in 2007's Michael Clayton involves hitmen pursuing the protagonist's car, which they blow up. However, the truly climatic finale involves no action—just two people having a whispered conversation outside an office boardroom.
The Departed (2006)
The finale of The Departed (2006) is truly shocking. After spending the entire film trying to uncover each other's identities, Collin Sullivan (Matt Damon) and Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) finally meet face-to-face in one of the final scenes. However, several plot twists later, both have met their demise, along with a few other pivotal characters.
The Departed - Final Scene! Payback!, simonarts
Se7en (1995)
Considered by many to be one of the greatest thrillers ever made, Se7en (1995) tells the story of a young detective (Brad Pitt) investigating a gruesome manslaughter case. Pitt's character evolves over the course of the film, culminating in a shocking finale.
WHAT'S IN THE BOX?! - SE7EN / Seven Ending - Full Scene, Cringe Cook
Collateral (2004)
In 2004's Collateral, Jamie Foxx plays a cab driver named Max who is forced to drive a hitman around Los Angeles as he checks names off his list. In the film's final chilling scenes, Max and the hitman—Vincent (Tom Cruise)—have a showdown in a subway car. The outcome is unexpected given Vincent's profession, but deeply satisfying for the audience.
I do this for a living | Final Scene | Collateral | CLIP, Boxoffice Movie Scenes
Top Gun (1986)
The iconic 1986 film follows the character of Maverick (Tom Cruise) as he navigates life, love, and loss at a military academy. It's easy to root for Maverick, and the movie's ending is deeply satisfying, checking all the boxes. Maverick comes to terms with the loss of his best friend, he's reunited with his love interest, and—most surprisingly of all—he becomes an instructor at the academy.
TOP GUN (Closing Scene), blackbirds1973
The Fugitive (1993)
In 1993's The Fugitive, Dr Richard Kimble (Harrison Ford) escapes custody after being framed for slaying his wife. The audience, knowing that Kimble is innocent, roots for him as he evades capture by Deputy Samuel Gerard (Tommy Lee Jones). The ending not only sees Kimble exonerated but also features Gerard tending to Kimble's injuries.
The Fugitive 1993 Ending scene, Movie clips channel
Heat (1995)
In Heat (1995), Al Pacino and Robert De Niro appear on screen together for the first time in their careers. Pacino plays Detective Eddie Hanna, who is on the trail of De Niro's character, a thief named Neil McCauley. The film's finale is oddly touching. Although Hanna takes down McCauley, Hanna also holds McCauley's hand as the thief succumbs to his wounds.
🎥 HEAT (1995) | Trailer | Full HD | 1080p, MOVIE PREDICTOR
Taken (2008)
Liam Neeson stars in Taken (2008) as Bryan Mills, an ex-CIA operative who falls back on his job-related skills to rescue his daughter Kim (Maggie Grace), who was abducted and taken to Paris. Although some loose ends remain untied, the finale is a happy one that includes a reunion between Kim and her mother as well as a surprise encounter between Kim and one of her musical heroes.
Taken (2008) - Ending Scene (HD), Captain Darrow
Mission: Impossible—Fallout (2018)
In 2018's Mission: Impossible—Fallout, Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt. Despite the taut action sequences, there is never any doubt that Hunt and his team will save the world once again.
Mission: Impossible - Fallout (2018) | Official Trailer - Tom Cruise, Paramount Pictures
Point Break (1991)
In 1991's Point Break, Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves) infiltrates a group of surfers who carry out daring robberies. Utah begins a bromance with the leader of the surfers, a charismatic man named Bodhi (Patrick Swayze). At the film's end, Utah can't bring himself to arrest Bodhi and instead allows him to go out into dangerous waters, knowing it's unlikely Bodhi can survive. In this way, Bodhi is not left at large but goes out on his own terms.
POINT BREAK Final Scene (1991) Keanu Reeves, JoBlo Movie Clips
Twister (1996)
Twister, the iconic 1996 film, has several intense action scenes as Jo Harding (Helen Hunt) and her ex-husband Bill (Bill Paxton) attempt to launch a scientific device into the eye of a tornado. The audience has plenty to cheer about during the film's finale. Not only are the Hardings successful in launching their device but they reconcile with a kiss.
Speed (1994)
When Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves take control of the bus in 1994's Speed, we're all along for the ride, holding onto the edges of our seats. Happily, the adorable duo survive relatively unscathed—and celebrate their success with a kiss.
SPEED Clip - The End (1994) Sandra Bullock, JoBlo Movie Clips
Spy (2015)
Spy, the 2015 spy action comedy film starring Melissa McCarthy and Jude Law, mixes hilarity with action in a thoroughly engrossing plot. McCarthy's character (CIA Agent Susan Cooper) is initially not allowed out in the field but she's vindicated in the finale, which hints at more missions to come.
Spy | Official HD Redband Trailer #1 | 2015, 20th Century Studios UK
Hanna (2011)
Starring Saoirse Ronan in the titular role, Hanna (2011) tells the story of a teenage girl sent on a mission by her father, who is an ex-CIA operative. Hanna encounters her father's nemesis, Marissa (Cate Blanchett), and the two have a showdown in the final scenes, which ends in Hanna's favor.
Hanna (2011) Movie Trailer HD, Rotten Tomatoes Trailers
Avengers: Endgame (2019)
The final scene of Avengers: Endgame (2019) pits one of the greatest villains of the Marvel Cinematic Universe—Thanos—against all the heroic Avengers in an epic battle. The scene, replete with awe-inspiring combat tactics and a rousing score, was the perfect ending to Marvel's Infinity Saga—but the filmmakers still have one heart-wrenching regret about the movie. Screenwriters Stephen McFeely and Christopher Markus have expressed their remorse for not giving Steve Rogers and Bucky Barnes more scenes together. Considering the pair's close connection across the Marvel films, we can’t blame them for wanting more of Barnes and Rogers’ friendship!
AVENGERS: ENDGAME All Movie Clips - Final Battle (2019), Entertainment Access
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