John Wick, portrayed by Keanu Reeves, is often celebrated as one of cinema’s most formidable assassins. However, there are numerous characters from other films that could easily match his prowess. With the recent confirmation of John Wick 5 in the works, fans can eagerly anticipate more of this iconic character’s exploits. Additionally, Reeves will reprise his role in two other films, including a cameo in Ballerina.
The John Wick franchise showcases an impressive array of fight scenes, with Wick frequently outmaneuvering adversaries. What sets this series apart is not only its innovative action sequences, such as the memorable mirror shootout in Chapter 2 or the intense chase through Paris in Chapter 4, but also Wick’s quick thinking and exceptional combat abilities, which highlight he is not invincible.
10 Joe – Looper (2012)
Played By Bruce Willis
Bruce Willis delivers a captivating performance as Joe in Rian Johnson’s Looper. This character is a hitman tasked with eliminating dangerous criminals from the future sent back in time. The plot thickens when he discovers that his next target is a future version of himself. Joe grapples with moral dilemmas concerning his duties and his instinct for self-preservation, leading to a complex exploration of his character’s motivations.
9 Vincent & Jules – Pulp Fiction (1994)
Played By John Travolta & Samuel L. Jackson
At first glance, Jules and Vincent from Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction may not seem like traditional assassins, yet they’ve survived their share of risks. Jules experiences a miraculous escape at the film’s start and demonstrates a remarkable ability to defuse dangerous situations, particularly during the diner scene. While he may not match Wick in a direct combat scenario, Jules possesses the verbal agility to navigate tense moments effectively.
8 Aguilar – Assassin’s Creed (2016)
Played By Michael Fassbender
Despite its mixed reviews, the Assassin’s Creed film successfully introduces Aguilar, played by Michael Fassbender, as a powerful and charismatic assassin. Although set in the 15th century, Aguilar’s abilities, enhanced by the Animus, place him among the ranks of cinema’s elite assassins, paralleling Wick’s unmatched combat skills.
7 Mike – Road To Perdition (2002)
Played By Tom Hanks
In Road to Perdition, directed by Sam Mendes, Tom Hanks portrays Mike Sullivan, a hitman caught between the demands of his criminal affiliations and his deep love for his son. This film richly explores themes of loyalty, power, and the complex nature of love, making Mike one of Hanks’ most memorable and compelling characters in a world filled with assassins.
6 John & Jane – Mr & Mrs. Smith (2005)
Played By Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie
Mr & Mrs. Smith offers a lighter take on the assassin genre, featuring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie as John and Jane, both master killers. Their ability to strategize and outmaneuver each other emphasizes their skills in combat, akin to Wick’s tactical thinking. Both characters excel in using intelligence and perception to remain one step ahead in their assignments.
5 Agent 47 – Hitman: Agent 47 (2015)
Played By Rupert Friend
Hitman: Agent 47 is another violent adaptation of a video game, showcasing Rupert Friend’s portrayal of Agent 47 as a compellingly stoic figure. His creativity in execution and ability to think on his feet parallel the strengths found in John Wick. While the film has flaws, Agent 47’s character contributes significantly to its overall appeal.
4 Natasha Romanoff – MCU (2010-2021)
Played By Scarlett Johansson
Introducing her character in Iron Man 2 and later starring in her solo film, Scarlett Johansson’s Natasha Romanoff is an elite assassin, highly skilled and trained in the KGB’s Red Room. Despite her lethal capabilities, she embodies loyalty and compassion, attributes that amplify her strength. No opponent, including John Wick, would be beyond her formidable skills.
3 Vincent – Collateral (2004)
Played By Tom Cruise
In Collateral, Tom Cruise’s portrayal of Vincent stands out as one of the most chilling assassins depicted on screen. Michael Mann masterfully presents Vincent as a complex antagonist who forces a cab driver, Max, into his dark world of crime. This film illustrates how villains can drive a narrative while showcasing their menacing nature.
2 Léon – Léon: The Professional (1994)
Played By Jean Reno
Luc Besson’s Léon: The Professional stands as a pinnacle of assassin movies. The film intertwines themes of power, control, and ambition as it follows a boy who finds refuge with a seasoned hitman after a grim encounter. Jean Reno’s performance as Léon is both touching and formidable, showcasing a blend of brutality and vulnerability in the life of an assassin.
1 Anton Chigurh – No Country for Old Men (2007)
Played By Javier Bardem
Javier Bardem’s chilling portrayal of Anton Chigurh in No Country for Old Men has become iconic. As a relentless pursuer in a deadly game against Josh Brolin’s character, Chigurh employs a vast array of methods to assert dominance. Although not as action-heavy as John Wick, his cunning, calculations, and psychological tactics position him as an impressive antagonist.