Lights, Camera... Adkins!
Action, adrenaline, and Adkins—these three elements converge to define a cinematic experience unlike any other. Scott Adkins, a martial artist, and excellent actor has become synonymous with heart-pounding action and awe-inspiring combat sequences.
With an impressive acting resume that spans genres and showcases his mastery in martial arts, Adkins has carved a niche for himself in the world of action-packed cinema. From his breakout roles to his more recent endeavors, each film in his repertoire is a testament to his dedication to the craft and his ability to bring characters to life with unparalleled intensity.
In this movie compilation, we delve into the pulse-pounding world of action films with Scott Adkins, exploring 20 of his most punch-packing films that leave us on the edge of our seats, craving more of the excitement that only Adkins can deliver. The adrenaline-charged universe of Scott Adkins cinema is just up ahead.
Here are the movies in order, listed from the oldest to the most recent:
- Undisputed 2: Last Man Standing (2006)
- The Shepherd (2008)
- The Tournament (2009)
- Universal Soldier: Day of Reckoning (2012)
- Ninja: Shadow of a Tear (2013)
- Wolf Warrior (2015)
- Close Range (2015)
- Eliminators (2016)
- The Brothers Grimsby (2016)
- Boyka: Undisputed (2016)
- Savage Dog (2017)
- American Assassin (2017)
- Accident Man (2018)
- Avengement (2019)
- Ip Man 4: The Finale (2019)
- Debt Collectors (2020)
- Castle Falls (2021)
- Day Shift (2022)
- Accident Man: Hitman's Holiday (2022)
- John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)
1. Undisputed 2: Last Man Standing (2006)
In Undisputed 2: Last Man Standing, Scott Adkins portrays Yuri Boyka, a ruthless Russian inmate with unparalleled fighting skills. When former boxing champion George Chambers is unjustly imprisoned in a corrupt Russian penitentiary, Boyka sees an opportunity to prove himself as the ultimate fighter.
As the prison hosts a brutal underground tournament, Boyka's thirst for supremacy drives him to face Chambers in a no-holds-barred battle. The film unfolds in a gripping spectacle of martial arts prowess, redemption, and survival, showcasing Boyka's journey from a menacing antagonist to a complex character seeking redemption in the unforgiving world of underground fighting.
2. The Shepherd (2008)
The Shepherd follows Karp (Scott Adkins), an ex-special forces operative turned border patrol agent. When a dangerous human trafficking ring led by a ruthless Eastern European gang targets his small town, Karp's past comes back to haunt him.
Fueled by personal vendettas and a desire for justice, he takes matters into his own hands. As the traffickers escalate their operations, Karp finds himself in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse, pushing his skills to the limit.
With the safety of his community at stake, Karp must confront his own demons and use his lethal expertise to bring down the criminal empire.
3. The Tournament (2009)
In The Tournament, Scott Adkins portrays Yuri Petrov, a deadly assassin with a mysterious past. The film unfolds as every seven years, the world's deadliest assassins converge in a secret tournament where the last one standing claims the title.
When a small town becomes the unsuspecting battleground, Petrov finds himself entangled in a deadly game of cat and mouse. As the ruthless competitors eliminate each other, Petrov must navigate betrayal, conspiracies, and a relentless Interpol agent.
Blending intense action and suspense, the movie delves into Petrov's complex motives, revealing a character driven by survival and a quest for redemption.
4. Universal Soldier: Day of Reckoning (2012)
Universal Soldier: Day of Reckoning stars Scott Adkins as John, a man seeking vengeance after witnessing his family's brutal murder by rogue Universal Soldiers. Unbeknownst to him, John discovers a dark conspiracy involving the UniSol program.
Teaming up with the enigmatic Luc Deveraux (Jean-Claude Van Damme) and a rogue UniSol named Magnus (Dolph Lundgren), John embarks on a relentless pursuit of the truth. Blurring the lines between reality and nightmare, the film unfolds in a visceral blend of sci-fi and action, revealing John's extraordinary abilities and the unsettling secrets behind the Universal Soldier program.
(Watch the video to experience the epic fight scene with former UFC Heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski.)
5. Ninja: Shadow of a Tear (2013)
Ninja: Shadow of a Tear stars Scott Adkins as Casey Bowman, a martial artist seeking justice. When his pregnant wife is murdered by a mysterious assailant, Casey embarks on a global quest for vengeance.
His journey takes him to Thailand, where he uncovers a drug syndicate's involvement in his wife's death. Fueled by rage, Casey navigates a world of treachery, facing deadly adversaries and honing his martial arts skills to their peak.
The film is a relentless blend of action and suspense, showcasing Adkins' martial prowess as Casey seeks retribution against those responsible for his devastating loss.
6. Wolf Warrior (2015)
In Wolf Warrior, Scott Adkins portrays Tom Cat, an ex-military mercenary with a formidable skill set. The film centers on Leng Feng, a skilled soldier who becomes embroiled in a conflict with a ruthless mercenary unit led by Tom Cat. As tensions escalate, Leng Feng transforms into the titular Wolf Warrior, defending his homeland against the mercenary threat.
Packed with intense military action, strategic warfare, and Adkins' formidable presence, the movie explores themes of patriotism, honor, and the indomitable spirit of a soldier. Adkins' character, Tom Cat, serves as a formidable adversary, adding depth to the gripping narrative.
7. Close Range (2015)
Close Range features Scott Adkins as Colton MacReady, an ex-soldier who unwittingly becomes the target of a ruthless drug cartel after rescuing his kidnapped niece. When Colton takes refuge in a vacant farmhouse, he finds himself in a relentless and explosive battle for survival.
The film unfolds in a high-octane mix of close-quarter combat and intense shootouts as Colton uses his military skills to protect his family and expose the criminal organization. Adkins' portrayal of Colton showcases his martial arts prowess and action hero charisma in this adrenaline-fueled thriller that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
8. Eliminators (2016)
Eliminators stars Scott Adkins as Thomas, a former federal agent with cybernetic enhancements. When a high-tech device containing valuable information falls into the wrong hands, Thomas becomes a target.
Framed for a crime he didn't commit, he must go on the run to clear his name. Teaming up with a mysterious woman, Thomas uses his enhanced abilities to evade ruthless mercenaries and uncover a conspiracy.
The film combines adrenaline-pumping action with sci-fi elements, showcasing Adkins' martial arts skills and on-screen charisma. As Thomas fights to survive and expose the truth, Eliminators delivers a thrilling mix of suspense and combat.
9. The Brothers Grimsby (2016)
The Brothers Grimsby features Scott Adkins in a supporting role as Pavel Lukashenko, a ruthless assassin. The film revolves around Nobby (played by Sacha Baron Cohen), a dimwitted English football hooligan who reunites with his long-lost brother, Sebastian (Mark Strong), a skilled MI6 agent.
Unaware of his brother's profession, Nobby inadvertently puts them both in the crosshairs of international espionage. Adkins' character, Pavel, adds a dangerous element to the chaos as the brothers navigate a world of absurdity, action, and comedy.
The film explores themes of brotherhood and absurdity in a hilarious and action-packed adventure.
10. Boyka: Undisputed (2016)
Boyka: Undisputed centers on Yuri Boyka, portrayed by Scott Adkins, a former Russian prison fighter seeking redemption in the brutal world of underground boxing. After an accidental death in the ring, Boyka feels responsible and desires a chance at redemption.
To secure his shot, he agrees to participate in a series of deadly fights to help a widow. As the stakes rise, Boyka faces formidable opponents and confronts his own inner demons.
The film delivers intense martial arts sequences, showcasing Adkins' unparalleled skills, while exploring themes of honor, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of personal growth in the face of adversity.
11. Savage Dog (2017)
Savage Dog stars Scott Adkins as Martin Tillman, a former boxer and POW in 1959 Indochina. Seeking a fresh start, Tillman becomes entangled in a violent struggle against corrupt officials and criminal overlords.
When a tragedy befalls him, Tillman unleashes his combat skills in a quest for justice. The film unfolds in a gritty blend of martial arts and period drama, showcasing Adkins' prowess in visceral fight sequences.
As Tillman battles through a lawless landscape, Savage Dog explores themes of redemption and survival against overwhelming odds in the unforgiving backdrop of post-war Indochina.
12. American Assassin (2017)
In American Assassin, Scott Adkins plays Victor, a lethal operative in a covert counterterrorism organization. The film follows Mitch Rapp (Dylan O'Brien), a young recruit seeking revenge for his fiancée's murder by a terrorist cell.
Under the mentorship of Cold War veteran Stan Hurley (Michael Keaton), Rapp and his team uncover a global conspiracy involving a dangerous rogue operative—Victor, portrayed by Adkins. As the plot unravels in a gripping mix of espionage and action, Adkins' character adds a formidable layer to the thrilling narrative, showcasing his martial arts expertise in intense confrontations with the protagonists.
13. Accident Man (2018)
Accident Man features Scott Adkins as Mike Fallon, a skilled assassin with a unique modus operandi of making his hits look like accidents. When his ex-girlfriend is murdered, Fallon embarks on a relentless quest for revenge, uncovering a web of betrayal within his own secretive community of contract killers.
As he systematically takes down those responsible, the film unfolds in a stylized blend of martial arts, dark humor, and intricate plotting. Adkins' portrayal of Fallon combines lethal precision with charisma, making Accident Man a thrilling action film that delves into the underworld of professional assassins and personal vendettas.
14. Avengement (2019)
Avengement stars Scott Adkins as Cain Burgess, a hardened criminal seeking vengeance against those who betrayed him. Wrongfully imprisoned, Cain escapes during a hospital transfer, unleashing his wrath on both his former associates and the law.
Through a series of brutal confrontations, the film delves into Cain's tragic past, revealing the events that transformed him into a merciless force of retribution. Adkins delivers a riveting performance, seamlessly blending intense fight sequences with a compelling narrative.
Avengement is a gritty tale of redemption, exploring the cost of betrayal and the brutal path one man takes to reclaim his life.
15. Ip Man 4: The Finale (2019)
In Ip Man 4: The Finale, Scott Adkins plays the formidable Colin Frater, a martial arts master and Marine Corps officer. The film follows Ip Man (Donnie Yen) as he travels to San Francisco to find a suitable school for his son and discovers a deep-seated prejudice against Chinese martial arts.
Adkins' character, Frater, serves as a skilled antagonist, engaging in a climactic showdown with Ip Man. The movie delivers a powerful conclusion to the acclaimed martial arts saga, exploring themes of cultural pride and resilience, with Adkins' character adding a dynamic layer to the intense and emotionally charged narrative.
16. Debt Collectors (2020)
Debt Collectors stars Scott Adkins as French, a martial artist and debt collector alongside partner Sue (played by Louis Mandylor). Tasked with retrieving a mysterious package, they find themselves entangled in a web of betrayal and danger.
The film unfolds in a whirlwind of intense action sequences and unexpected alliances as French and Sue navigate the criminal underworld. Adkins' character, French, showcases his martial arts prowess in relentless and dynamic fight scenes, adding depth to the buddy-action genre.
Debt Collectors is a thrilling ride through the gritty world of debt collection, infused with Adkins' signature style and flair for high-impact combat.
17. Castle Falls (2021)
Castle Falls features Scott Adkins as Mike Johnson, a former MMA champion turned security guard. When a group of mercenaries storms a high-rise apartment building, Mike becomes the unlikely hero tasked with protecting the residents, including his estranged daughter.
As chaos ensues and bullets fly, Mike's combat skills are put to the test in a fight for survival. The film unfolds in a tense and action-packed thriller, blending Adkins' martial prowess with a gripping narrative.
Castle Falls showcases Adkins in a role that combines raw physicality with emotional depth, delivering a relentless and entertaining action experience.
18. Day Shift (2022)
Day Shift stars Scott Adkins as a vampire named Diran Nazarian, who works as a skilled exterminator hunting down supernatural creatures. Balancing his nocturnal life with raising his daughter, he becomes entangled in a conflict with an ancient, powerful vampire clan.
As bodies pile up, Diran Nazarian (Adkins) must confront his own immortal nature while protecting his loved ones from the brewing supernatural war. The film combines action, horror, and family drama, showcasing Adkins' versatility in a role that adds a unique twist to vampire mythology, offering a fresh and entertaining take on the age-old battle between hunters and the undead.
19. Accident Man: Hitman's Holiday (2022)
In Accident Man: Hitman's Holiday, Scott Adkins reprises his role as Mike Fallon, an elite hitman with a unique style of making his assassinations look like unfortunate accidents. The plot takes an exciting turn when Fallon, looking forward to a simple, peaceful holiday, gets tangled up in a web of intrigue and deception involving his old crime syndicate.
As old enemies and questionable alliances resurface, Fallon's 'holiday' quickly transforms into a thrilling mission of survival and unexpected revelation, testing his lethal skills in more ways than he expects. It's a pulse-pounding ride packed with action, humor and unexpected twists.
20. John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)
John Wick: Chapter 4 sees Scott Adkins making his series debut as Yuri, a charismatic and lethal assassin from Wick’s past. John Wick (Keanu Reeves), already struggling to survive the bounty on his head, finds himself targeted by Yuri.
Both adversaries provide a thrilling showdown of martial art skills throughout the exquisitely orchestrated action set pieces the series is famed for. As their paths intertwine, Adkins' Yuri proves integral to Wick's survival and pushes the boundaries of their shared past.
This chapter adds deeper layers to the already complex world of John Wick, with riveting twists, continuously high stakes and heart-stopping action.
Do You Have a Favorite Scott Adkins Movie?
In the thrilling world of action cinema, Scott Adkins has solidified himself as a charismatic and formidable force. From his early roles to his latest endeavors, Adkins consistently delivers breathtaking martial arts sequences, intense fight scenes, and compelling characters.
In this cinematic journey, we've explored 20 action-packed films that showcase Adkins' versatility, from his breakout roles like Yuri Boyka in the Undisputed series to the complex characters like Mike Fallon in Accident Man. Whether he's navigating the gritty underworld or portraying iconic martial arts figures like Ip Man's adversary, Adkins injects each performance with an undeniable energy and skill that captivates audiences.
His commitment to his craft and the genre is evident, creating a legacy that resonates with action enthusiasts worldwide. As we eagerly anticipate his future projects, the adrenaline-fueled legacy of Scott Adkins in action cinema is one that continues to evolve and leave an indelible mark on the hearts of fans.
In a world filled with fast-paced choreography, high-stakes narratives, and relentless determination, Scott Adkins remains a cinematic force to be reckoned with, and his filmography stands as a testament to his enduring impact on the action genre.
