The art of editing is a crucial aspect in action cinema, setting apart classics from the rest. A well-crafted narrative, pacing, and suspense are essential to create an engaging film. In this article, we explore the top 10 action movies that have mastered the art of editing, showcasing the directors and editors’ mastery. From the 1984 “The Terminator” to the 2022 “Top Gun: Maverick”, each film has demonstrated exceptional editing skills.
James Cameron’s “The Terminator” was a groundbreaking film that proved editing could boost a budget-constrained film to new heights. The film’s depiction of time travel was ambitious, and Cameron’s editing ensured it made sense within the context of the franchise. The result is a neo-noir thriller that is both intense and thought-provoking.
In “Aliens”, Cameron balanced action sequences to maximize tension, showcasing Ripley’s growth from a maternal figure to a warrior against the Xenomorphs. The film’s groundbreaking visual effects, makeup, and costuming still hold up today. Martin Campbell’s “Casino Royale” introduced Daniel Craig as Bond, moving at an electrifying pace with a focus on the stakes and tragedy of Bond’s romantic life.
Keanu Reeves in Matrix (Via IMDB)
Joseph Kosinski’s “Top Gun: Maverick” is a legacy sequel that combines nostalgia with a new story. The film’s air-based combat scenes are groundbreaking, with Tom Cruise performing many of the stunts himself. The results are breathtaking and suspenseful. Luc Besson’s “Leon: The Professional” is a masterwork of stylization, telling the intimate story of the bond between a young girl and a ruthless assassin.
The Wachowski sisters’ “The Matrix” is a miracle of a movie, conceived as a completely original science fiction film. The film’s innovative visual storytelling and “Bullet Time” sequence are still mind-blowing today. Edgar Wright’s “Baby Driver” is a throwback to classic car chase movies, using music and visuals to create a standout action film.
Don Siegel’s “Dirty Harry” is a groundbreaking action film that captured the paranoia about serial killers. Clint Eastwood’s iconic performance as Harry Callahan keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. John McTiernan’s “Die Hard” set the template for modern action movies, with John McClane fighting for survival against terrorists.
Steven Spielberg’s “Raiders of the Lost Ark” is almost perfect, with masterful direction, pacing, and production design. The film’s action sequences are thrilling, and the reveal of the Ark’s power is still one of the most effectively edited scare sequences in movie history. These films are a testament to the power of editing in action cinema, making them stand out as some of the best action movies of all time.
