Netflix’s Heart of Stone isn’t a great action movie – stream these 5 thrill rides instead
From superhero offerings to sci-fi spectacles, watch this quintet over Heart of Stone
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Netflix’s latest big-budget movie,Heart of Stone, has landed on the world’sbest streaming service– but we don’t think it’s anything to write home about.
The Gal Gadot-fronted action flick is another example of how goodNetflixis at making expensive-but-average original films for its audience. Yes, it’s got a stacked cast full of household names. Sure, itsexploration of the benefits and dangers of artificial intelligence(AI) might make you think twice about about usingChatGPTorGoogle Bardany time soon. But, with its derivative action, corny one-liners, and stress-free plot that’s lacking in shock twists and turns,Heart of Stoneisn’t worth investing in.
Why waste your time, then, on streaming the near-two-hour-long movie – one that won’t be making it onto ourbest Netflix movieslist – when you can watch lots of far more enjoyable action films? Below, we’ve picked out five stunningly good flicks to catch on Netflix’s rivals instead. You’ll thank us later, we promise.
Casino Royale
Where to watch it:Prime Video in the US and Binge in Australia (UK viewers can rent or buy it digitally)
On another day,Skyfallwould’ve made it onto this list instead of Daniel Craig’s firstJames Bondfilm. It’s theactor’s best Bond movie, in our opinion – and no, we won’t be taking questions about why we think that’s the case.
Given thatSkyfallisn’t available to stream on any of the world’s biggest streamers, though,Casino Royale– a no less thrilling and action-packed 007 film available now onPrime Video– takes its place. Craig’s debut outing as the legendary spy is a far grittier take on the character than audiences had become accustomed to during thePierce BrosnanJames Bondera. And, frankly, nobody believed Craig would make a successful Bond.
Craig, though, proved the naysayers wrong, withCasino Royalemarking an impressive return to form for MI6’s most famous secret agent. Its tension-fuelled plot, terrific supporting cast (how good is Eva Green, by the way?), death-defying and wince-inducing action – we won’t forgetthattorture scene in a hurry – and haunting examination of the titular character lined up perfectly to deliver a sensational Bond film packed with originality. Find out where its fits into the 007 timeline in ourJames Bondmovies in orderguide before you read on.
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Extraction
Where to stream it:Netflix
Given its 67% and 71% critical and audience scores onRotten Tomatoes, this choice may be viewed as somewhat controversial, especially when its lightweight plot and lack of character development are taken into account.
ButExtractionis everythingHeart of Stoneisn’t from an action-spectacle standpoint. It’s violent, breathless, and very much in-your-face for much of its two-hour runtime. Led byMarvelstar Chris Hemsworth, it’s also got a charismatic and likeable protagonist in anti-hero Tyler Rake, who delivers a full-blooded, macho performance in the vein of the best ’80s action movie stars. Oh, andExtraction’s 12-minute one-shot action sequence (also known as a ‘oner’) is a frenetic, seamless thing of beauty.
Its sequel –Extraction 2– is slightly more enjoyable than its predecessor, and includes itsown, lengthy ‘oner’ that took four gruelling months to film. But, likeCasino Royale, this film series' first entry is a perfect entry point for anyone looking for an all-action flick that’ll have you gripping the edge of your seat.
The Avengers
Where to stream it:Disney Plus
There are plenty of great action films to stream on Disney’s main streaming service. From classics likeDie Hardand theIndiana Jonesmovie collection to newer fare, including everyMarvelCinematic Universe (MCU) film, there’s tons to enjoy.
Speaking of Marvel, the studio’s first superhero team-up movie is our next our pick for this list.The Avengersproved that it was possible to tell an engaging, funny, heartfelt, and action-packed story – in a comic-book film comprising numerous big-name characters – with a palatable runtime for viewers of all ages. From the natural chemistry existing between its A-listers to the unforgettable climactic battle in New York City,The Avengersis a stone-cold classic that takes pride of place on many of thebest Marvel moviesguides across the internet. it’s easily one of thebest superhero moviesto date, too.
While you’re here, find out where it sits on the increasingly complex MCU timeline in ourMarvel movies in orderguide.
Dune
Where to watch it:MaxandHuluin the US, Prime Video in the UK, and Netflix and Binge in Australia
If you like your action movies to be of a cerebral, sci-fi disposition, 2021’sDuneshould be your go-to.
Denis Villeneuve’s live-action adaptation is a majestically sweeping, visually arresting, no-holds-barred action sci-fi adventure that deserved to be seen on the biggest screen possible. Of course, unless you have your own IMAX-style cinema room at home, your TV screen will have to do.
Regardless of whether you watch it on a 30-inch or 85-inch screen, though,Duneis an atmospheric, absorbing, and bloody film with a backstabbingGame of Thrones-like flavor. It’s slightly long, and its anti-climactic ending will leave some viewers feeling a tad short-changed, but look past those slight issues and you’ll have a great time. One of thebest Max moviesaround, it most certainly is.Dune Part 2, one of our most anticipatednew moviesof the year, is due out in November.
Top Gun: Maverick
Where to watch it:Paramount Plus
You may be wondering why we’ve opted for this film over its 1986 forebear. After all, we plumped for the first entries inExtraction’s and Daniel Craig’sBondfilm series, so why make an exception withTop Gun: Maverick?
For one, you don’t really need to watchTop Gunfirst. It helps to do so, of course, but you can enjoy whatMaverickhas to offer without sitting through its predecessor’s occasionally cringey ’80s-set narrative.
Indeed, provided that you suspend your disbelief withTop Gun: Maverick’s over-the-top, jet-fuelled action, one of thebest movies of 2022will leave you flying high with how amazing it is. Its special effects are out of this world, its cast are at the top of their game, and its plot is highly entertaining; well, as long as you can look past its Cold War-esque narrative underbelly. Stick one of thebest Paramount Plus movieson immediately if you’ve yet to watch it.
As TechRadar’s senior entertainment reporter, Tom covers all of the latest movies, TV shows, and streaming service news that you need to know about. You’ll regularly find him writing about the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Star Wars, Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, and many other topics of interest.
An NCTJ-accredited journalist, Tom also writes reviews, analytical articles, opinion pieces, and interview-led features on the biggest franchises, actors, directors and other industry leaders. You may see his quotes pop up in the odd official Marvel Studios video, too, such as thisMoon Knight TV spot.
Away from work, Tom can be found checking out the latest video games, immersing himself in his favorite sporting pastime of football, reading the many unread books on his shelf, staying fit at the gym, and petting every dog he comes across.
Got a scoop, interesting story, or an intriguing angle on the latest news in entertainment? Feel free to drop him a line.
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