The 25 Best Movies Like 'The Equalizer', Ranked By Fans
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    • The Equalizer
    • Sony Pictures Releasing

The 25 Best Movies Like 'The Equalizer', Ranked By Fans

Jason Bancroft
Updated May 15, 2024 25 items
Voting Rules
Vote on the movies that fans of 'Equalizer' are sure to love.

It's time to buckle up for an electrifying movie spree sure to satisfy your craving for intense action and riveting narratives. For all you fans who reveled in the suspense and high-octane drama of The Equalizer, we've meticulously crafted a collection of films that echo its dynamic storytelling and heart-racing action. Expect to encounter characters as complex and morally driven as those you loved in The Equalizer, set amidst scenarios that will have you teetering on the edge of your seat.

Through a rigorous selection process grounded in votes from Rankers like you, rest assured that each movie featured here is not arbitrarily picked. Rather, it is anchored in the preferences and affinities of The Equalizer's avid fan base. The films we've chosen promise to deliver a potent mix of suspense, exhilarating action, and thought-provoking storylines that will strike a chord with those looking for similar movies like The Equalizer.

Visualize being engrossed in Denzel Washington's compelling portrayal of a former CIA operative on a mission of vengeance in Man on Fire, which shares thematic veins of retribution and sacrifice akin to The Equalizer. Moreover, each movie listing comes equipped with convenient "Where to Watch" buttons, granting you easy access to stream these cinematic pearls on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Max, Apple TV+, Hulu, Paramount+, and Disney+.

We invite you to delve into this thoughtfully curated assortment of action-packed movies. As you explore, make your voice heard by voting on your top picks. Your engagement is key—it not only shapes the rankings but also guides fellow cinephiles toward their next captivating movie adventure. They'll be on the looking for new and classic movies that promise the same vigor and narrative strength found in The Equalizer.

  • The Bourne Identity
    1
    7 VOTES

    The Bourne Identity

    The Bourne Identity offers audiences a gripping exploration of self-discovery entwined with high-stakes action sequences. Matt Damon takes center stage as Jason Bourne, an amnesiac trying to piece together his past while evading relentless assassins from a covert CIA program. This film masterfully blends elements of mystery and suspense with thrilling chase scenes across Europe, making it an unforgettable entry in the spy-thriller genre.

    Like The Equalizer, The Bourne Identity is the first installment of a neo-action franchise beloved by movie-goers.

    7 votes
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  • Man on Fire
    2
    15 VOTES

    Man on Fire

    Man on Fire sets the stage ablaze with its relentless action sequences and poignant narrative. The film centers around a former CIA operative turned bodyguard, played by the charismatic Denzel Washington, whose life takes a dangerous turn when the young girl he's sworn to protect is kidnapped. This heart-pounding thriller delves deep into themes of redemption, friendship, and sacrifice as it navigates through the gritty underbelly of Mexico City. Its intense storyline and memorable performances have left an indelible mark on the action genre.

    Man on Fire echoes the theme of a former operative's quest for redemption found in of The Equalizer, which also stars Denzel Washington.

    15 votes
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  • Inside Man
    3
    14 VOTES

    Inside Man

    A masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, Inside Man is an intricate tapestry of heist drama and police procedural. Clive Owen delivers a riveting performance as Dalton Russell, who orchestrates a meticulously planned bank robbery that transforms into a high-stakes negotiation when detective Keith Frazier (Denzel Washington) steps onto the scene. With its clever plot twists and exploration of corporate greed vs personal morality, this Spike Lee joint has redefined what viewers expect from their action thrillers.

    Inside Man mirrors the suspenseful storytelling and moral complexity found in The Equalizer in another Denzel Washington gem.

    14 votes
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  • The Siege
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      • The Siege
    4
    7 VOTES

    The Siege

    Unleashing a cascade of tension and suspense, The Siege is an action-packed exploration into the dark corners of terrorism on American soil. The film features Denzel Washington as an FBI agent, grappling with martial law in New York City, imposed in response to escalating terrorist attacks. With the city under siege, it's a race against time to restore peace while navigating political agendas. This movie subtly comments on the balance between civil liberties and national security, standing out for its thought-provoking narrative within the action genre.

    The Siege unfolds as an action-packed exploration into terrorism on American soil, much like the intensity in The Equalizer.

    7 votes
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  • Enemy of the State
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      • Enemy of the State
    5
    10 VOTES

    Enemy of the State

    In Enemy of the State, paranoia meets technology in an adrenaline-fueled chase across America. Starring Will Smith as Robert Clayton Dean, a lawyer unwittingly caught in a deadly game of cat-and-mouse with government agents after obtaining evidence linked to a political assassination. Packed with high-tech surveillance and espionage elements, this movie not only thrills but also sparks conversations about privacy rights in our increasingly interconnected world.

    Enemy of the State shares similarities with The Equalizer through its suspenseful scenarios and heroic action.

    10 votes
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  • John Wick
    6
    10 VOTES

    John Wick

    With John Wick, Keanu Reeves redefines the revenge thriller genre with his portrayal of a retired hitman seeking vengeance for his murdered dog - the last gift from his deceased wife. The movie blends stylish combat choreography with emotional depth, creating an unforgettable cinematic experience that has since spawned several successful sequels. Its innovative "gun fu" fighting style has left an indelible mark on action cinema.

    John Wick echoes many of the vigilante themes of The Equalizer.

    10 votes
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  • Unthinkable
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      • Unthinkable
    7
    5 VOTES

    Unthinkable

    Unthinkable is a harrowing exploration of the lengths one might go to in the name of national security. Samuel L. Jackson gives a chilling performance as H, an interrogator tasked with extracting information about nuclear bombs from a suspected terrorist. The film's intense and thought-provoking narrative pushes the boundaries of traditional action cinema, offering viewers not only heart-stopping sequences but also moral dilemmas that linger long after the credits roll.

    Unthinkable, similar to the moral complexities in The Equalizer, redefines the line between right and wrong when lives are at stake.

    5 votes
  • Collateral
    8
    9 VOTES

    Collateral

    In Collateral, Tom Cruise sheds his charming persona to play Vincent - a ruthless contract killer whose path intersects with Jamie Foxx's character Max - a taxi driver caught up in Vincent's deadly assignments over one night in LA. Director Michael Mann masterfully intertwines relentless action with existential contemplation, making it more than just your average thriller. Cruise's chilling performance coupled with Foxx's portrayal of an unwitting accomplice, transformed this film into a cultural touchstone within the genre.

    Collateral mirrors the unexpected alliances and intense action found in The Equalizer.

    9 votes
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  • S.W.A.T.
    9
    11 VOTES

    S.W.A.T.

    S.W.A.T. brings together an ensemble cast including Samuel L. Jackson and Colin Farrell who breathe life into their roles as members of Los Angeles Police Department’s elite Special Weapons And Tactics unit. The plot spirals from a routine mission to a high-stakes operation when they are tasked with transporting an infamous drug lord offering $100 million to anyone who can free him! Amidst explosive shootouts and daring escapes, the film leaves audiences pondering over questions of loyalty and betrayal.

    S.W.A.T. explores questions of trust within a high-stakes operation, aligning with the themes in The Equalizer.

    11 votes
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  • 2 Guns
    10
    15 VOTES

    2 Guns

    2 Guns is an explosive action-packed movie that intertwines the lives of two undercover operatives from competing bureaus, portrayed by Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. The plot pivots around their quest to infiltrate a Mexican drug cartel and recover millions. With its clever narrative twists, high-octane action sequences, and charismatic leads, 2 Guns gives a fresh take on the buddy-cop genre.

    With another great performance from Denzel Washington, 2 Guns echoes the suspenseful narrative present in The Equalizer.

    15 votes
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  • The Taking of Pelham 123
    11
    10 VOTES

    The Taking of Pelham 123

    The Taking of Pelham 123 redefines hostage dramas with its riveting story unfolding in New York's subway system. John Travolta's compelling portrayal of the main antagonist who orchestrates a train hijack is met head-on by Denzel Washington's transit authority dispatcher turned unlikely hero. This cat-and-mouse chase punctuated by sharp dialogues and high-speed action sequences makes this remake a classic in its own right. The film not only offers adrenaline pumping moments but also delves into themes like redemption and courage.

    The Taking of Pelham 123, staring The Equalizer's Denzel Washington, is another action movie full of intensity and intelligence.

    10 votes
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  • Murder at 1600
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      • Murder at 1600
    12
    13 VOTES

    Murder at 1600

    Delving into political intrigue within hallowed halls is Murder at 1600, where Detective Harlan Regis (Wesley Snipes) investigates a murder inside the White House itself. As Regis uncovers layers of deception threatening national security, audiences are treated to thrilling action sequences that keep them on edge till the final reveal. This film combines elements of mystery and action to offer viewers an exhilarating ride through power corridors.

    Murder at 1600, like The Equalizer, follows an investigation with international consequences.

    13 votes
  • Mission: Impossible
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      • Mission: Impossible
    13
    3 VOTES

    Mission: Impossible

    Diving headfirst into the realm of espionage and deadly missions is Mission: Impossible. This film catapults audiences into a whirlwind adventure alongside Ethan Hunt, played by Tom Cruise, an agent for the Impossible Mission Force (IMF). The narrative spirals into chaos as Hunt becomes embroiled in a sinister conspiracy within his own organization. Notable for its breathtaking stunts and innovative spy gadgetry, Mission: Impossible has significantly shaped pop culture's perception of contemporary spy films.

    Mission: Impossible navigates an international conspiracy, similar to the thrilling escapades in The Equalizer.

    3 votes
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  • Jack Reacher
    14
    3 VOTES

    Jack Reacher

    Jack Reacher, a heart-pounding action thriller, is based on Lee Child's best-selling novel series. In the world of cinematic justice, Tom Cruise steps into the shoes of Jack Reacher, an elusive ex-military investigator with unparalleled combat skills and a strong moral compass. The plot revolves around Reacher's relentless pursuit to solve a shocking sniper attack that has rocked the city. With its high-octane car chases and intense hand-to-hand combats, Jack Reacher leaves an indelible mark in the action genre.

    Tom Cruise's Jack Reacher, much like Denzel Washington's Robert McCall in The Equalizer, will stop at nothing in his quest for justice.

    3 votes
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  • The Magnificent Seven
    15
    3 VOTES

    The Magnificent Seven

    The Magnificent Seven, a remake of a classic Western, brings together an impressive ensemble cast that includes Chris Pratt, Denzel Washington, and Ethan Hawke. This action-packed epic focuses on seven gunslingers who band together to protect a vulnerable village from ruthless outlaws. The film juxtaposes thrilling gunfights with themes of honor and sacrifice, adding depth to its high-octane narrative while paying tribute to its genre roots.

    The Magnificent Seven is another action-packed collaboration between Denzel Washington and Antoin Fuqua, the creative forces at the heart of The Equalizer.

    3 votes
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  • Assault on Precinct 13
    16
    6 VOTES

    Assault on Precinct 13

    Assault on Precinct 13 is a raw blend of suspense thriller and action elements set within an isolated Los Angeles police station under siege by gang members seeking revenge. The film's approach to action, along with its captivating performances, has made it a classic and an influential piece in the siege genre.

    Assault on Precinct 13 echoes the approach to action and atmospheric tension present in The Equalizer.

    6 votes
  • Brooklyn's Finest
    17
    6 VOTES

    Brooklyn's Finest

    In the gritty world of Brooklyn's Finest, viewers are plunged into the morally ambiguous lives of three NYPD officers grappling with corruption, addiction, and survival. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and featuring performances by Richard Gere, Ethan Hawke, and Don Cheadle, this film explores themes of redemption and despair in a crime-ridden landscape. Its stark portrayal of law enforcement has left an indelible mark on crime dramas.

    From The Equalizer director Antoine Fuqua, Brooklyn's Finest explores redemption through suspenseful storytelling and intense performances.

    6 votes
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  • Bullet Train
    18
    4 VOTES

    Bullet Train

    In Bullet Train, Brad Pitt leads an all-star cast in this adrenaline-fueled ride through Tokyo's underworld. As an experienced assassin tasked with eliminating his rivals aboard a speeding train, Pitt delivers both intense action sequences and moments of dark humor. Despite being set within the confines of a moving vehicle, the film explores larger themes such as loyalty and survival, making it more than just your typical action flick.

    Produced by The Equalizer's Antoine Fuqua, Bullet Train  is another action-packed story led by true Hollywood star.

    4 votes
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  • Training Day
    19
    6 VOTES

    Training Day

    Training Day is a gripping exploration of the blurred lines between legality and corruption within the realm of law enforcement. The film, which features standout performances by Denzel Washington as a charismatic yet morally ambiguous detective and Ethan Hawke as an idealistic rookie cop, delves deep into the gritty underbelly of Los Angeles' crime scene. Its impact on pop culture is undeniable, with Washington's Oscar-winning performance often cited among the best in modern cinema.

    Training Day is another action-packed cinematic collaboration between The Equalizer's Denzel Washington and Antoine Fuqua.

    6 votes
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  • Casino Royale
    20
    1 VOTES

    Casino Royale

    Packed with suave sophistication and lethal tactics is Casino Royale. This film marks Daniel Craig's debut as James Bond - MI6's notorious secret agent 007. Engulfed in the dangerous world of high-stake poker games and ruthless terrorists, Bond must thwart a nefarious plot threatening global security while grappling with personal demons. Its seamless fusion of classic Bond tropes with darker themes redefined the franchise for modern audiences.

    Casino Royale blends savvy mind games with compelling action, akin to the experience of The Equalizer.

    1 votes
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  • We Own the Night
    21
    2 VOTES

    We Own the Night

    We Own the Night, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Mark Wahlberg as brothers on opposite sides of the law in 1980s New York City, delivers intense drama amidst its gripping action scenes. Phoenix plays a nightclub manager entangled with Russian mobsters while Wahlberg is a dedicated policeman trying to bring them down. It's a tale of familial bonds strained by duty and danger which adds emotional depth to its high-stakes police drama setting.

    We Own the Night delivers intense performances amid the world of the Russian mafia, akin to the themes in The Equalizer.

    2 votes
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  • Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai
    22
    2 VOTES

    Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai

    Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai, directed by Jim Jarmusch, presents a unique fusion of samurai tradition within modern urban America. Forest Whitaker stars as Ghost Dog, a hitman who abides by ancient samurai code while working for an Italian mobster. This film combines action with introspective moments about loyalty and honor - it challenges traditional genre norms while providing thrilling entertainment.

    Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai follows a thoughtful protagonist with his own, well-defined moral code, similar to the unique blend of action and depth found in The Equalizer.

    2 votes
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  • Escape Plan
    23
    4 VOTES

    Escape Plan

    Escape Plan pits Sylvester Stallone against Arnold Schwarzenegger in a high-stakes prison break scenario that harks back to their 80s heyday. Stallone plays an expert in structural security who finds himself incarcerated in a prison of his own design, while Schwarzenegger is a savvy inmate with crucial knowledge. The movie combines the classic action elements of its iconic stars' past works with a complex narrative, proving that brain and brawn can coexist in the genre.

    Escape Plan mirrors the blend of action and intelligence found in The Equalizer.

    4 votes
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  • Bad Boys
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      • Bad Boys
    24
    4 VOTES

    Bad Boys

    Bad Boys is a thrilling ride that pairs action with humor in the sun-soaked city of Miami. The plot follows two wisecracking detectives, Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence), as they attempt to recover millions in stolen narcotics while keeping their brotherly bond intact. Its unique blend of explosive action sequences and comedic undertones has not only made it a classic in the genre but also spawned a successful franchise that continues to entertain audiences worldwide.

    Bad Boys is another adventure-packed entry into the action franchise realm, like The Equalizer.

    4 votes
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  • Bad Lieutenant
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      • Bad Lieutenant
    25
    3 VOTES

    Bad Lieutenant

    Bad Lieutenant, directed by Abel Ferrara, plunges into the depths of human depravity through its exploration of a corrupt cop's life. The film presents an action-packed narrative that revolves around the main character, played with unflinching intensity by Harvey Keitel. He portrays a morally bankrupt New York City police lieutenant spiraling into addiction and self-destruction while trying to solve a brutal rape case involving a nun. The movie delves deep into themes of guilt, redemption, and the duality of good and evil within each individual. It does not shy away from showcasing graphic scenes in order to flesh out its stark portrayal of urban decay and moral erosion.

    Its impact on pop culture is evident in how it paved the way for other movies exploring similar themes and characters grappling with their inner demons amid high-stakes scenarios like The Equalizer.

    3 votes
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