Finding a great action movie on streaming services like Netflix and Hulu can be quite the endeavor, as the plethora of mediocre films often overwhelms the truly exceptional ones. This phenomenon isn’t new; even before streaming, theatrical releases struggled to shine amidst more popular genres. The Watch With Us team has curated a list of three underrated action films worth revisiting in May. While the first two selections might have flown under the radar during their theatrical releases, they have significant merits that make them deserving of a second glance. The third choice features a classic Nicolas Cage performance that embodies an over-the-top enjoyment often overlooked by audiences.
The first of the trio, "Overlord" (2018), presents a unique and thrilling twist on World War II narratives. Set during the war’s closing days, the film follows a group of American soldiers, including Private First Class Edward Boyce, Corporal Lewis Ford, and others, who are tasked with sabotaging a German radio-jamming tower in occupied France. Upon their arrival, they stumble upon a horrifying secret: the Germans are conducting experiments on local villagers and captured soldiers, transforming them into grotesque superhuman monsters. The dire situation intensifies, as the soldiers may have to resort to using a mutating serum themselves for survival. With its intense action and unexpected horror elements, "Overlord" adds a fresh flavor to the war film genre and is available for streaming on Shudder.
"This Means War" (2012) combines action and romantic comedy in a unique premise. Featuring CIA agents Franklin "FDR" Foster and Tuck Hansen, played by Chris Pine and Tom Hardy respectively, the film showcases how their longstanding friendship crumbles when both men fall for the same woman, Lauren Scott, portrayed by Reese Witherspoon. Although they collectively agree to let Lauren decide who she prefers, they revert to underhanded tactics to sabotage each other’s courtship. Lauren, caught in the middle, remains unaware of this ongoing competition, which escalates in ludicrous yet engaging ways. Adding to the chaos is a vengeful terrorist, Karl Heinrich, who targets Lauren in his revenge against the two agents. The film’s lighthearted approach to espionage and romance makes it a fun choice for those looking for a lighter action film, now streaming on Max.
In a quintessential representation of ’90s action cinema, "Con Air" (1997) stars Nicolas Cage as Cameron Poe, a convict trying to return home to his family after serving eight years for involuntary manslaughter. His journey takes an unsettling turn when he ends up on a plane with some of the country’s most dangerous criminals after his release. The inmates, led by the menacing Cyrus “The Virus” Grissom, take control of the aircraft, making Poe’s desperate situation even more perilous. With the stakes sky-high, Poe must navigate his way through the chaos while maintaining his disguise as an inmate to survive and eventually reunite with his family. The film exemplifies high-octane action complemented by entertaining performances, especially from Cage and a strong supporting cast, making it a beloved cult classic. "Con Air" is available for streaming on Hulu.
These three films—"Overlord," "This Means War," and "Con Air"—showcase the diversity of the action genre, each offering unique elements that enhance their storytelling. While "Overlord" pairs traditional war themes with horror influences, "This Means War" provides a comedic take on competition and espionage. In contrast, "Con Air" remains a classic in the action realm, encapsulating the essence of its era with bold characters and thrilling sequences. Each film underscores the idea that action can take many forms, and there are hidden gems in the sea of cinema that deserve another look.
The approach of blending genres is well executed in all three selections. "Overlord" successfully meshes war narratives with horror elements, creating a chilling atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge. Meanwhile, "This Means War" finds humor in a typically masculine environment, creating relatable scenarios even in the midst of covert ops. Finally, "Con Air" combines drama, humor, and intense action, allowing for both serious moments and light-hearted quips, a hallmark of its era. This nuanced approach to storytelling is what makes these films stand out and merits their inclusion in a binge-worthy watchlist.
As streaming platforms continue to expand their libraries, finding these hidden gems is more important than ever. Whether you’re in the mood for eerie conflicts, comic rivalries, or classic action, these selections prove that there are still plenty of underrated films awaiting discovery. So this May, give yourself a chance to experience these action movies that bring not just adrenaline but entertainment value in myriad forms. Enjoy the thrill and the laughter—sometimes, the most enjoyable journeys are those we take away from mainstream hits.
