To thoroughly enjoy an action movie, you have to believe in the (sometimes outrageous) narrative that’s playing out, and one of the best ways to get the audience onside is through action movie music.
Music can trick viewers into believing a character’s stakes are their own; this way, they live the experience of every car chase, every boobytrap and every confrontation the protagonist faces.
Naturally, the type of music in action movies tends to be rip-roaring, gripping and high-octane.
We have thousands of music tracks suitable for action movies in our ever-expanding catalogue, no matter where or when your film is set – just look at our Action Playlist.
To inspire you to embrace music for your action project, we’ve created a list of the best action-movie soundtracks in film history – featuring the likes of The Mummy, Casino Royale and Mulan.
Best Action Movie Soundtracks
Enter the Dragon (1973)
The first action movie soundtrack to make it to our list comes from the early 70s kung-fu classic, Enter the Dragon.
The flick is led by martial arts legend Bruce Lee and Argentine-American composer Lalo Schifrin – a combination that proves to be a match made in heaven. We love how Schifrin adds oriental elements to the classic action soundtrack to create something fresh, yet familiar.
Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
Stephen Spielberg and George Lucas’ Raiders of the Lost Ark is a flick that incorporates every single one of the elements you crave in an action film – including an unforgettable John Williams soundtrack.
The music that accompanies the Indiana Jones’ adventure is filled with so much character that the music is instantly recognizable – even to someone who hasn’t actually seen the film.
If that isn’t movie soundtrack gold, we don’t know what is…
Top Gun (1986)
Top Gun contains many memorable movie moments, many of which are soundtracked by a stellar selection of pieces by Harold Faltermeyer.
One of our favourite tracks plays near the end of the film, with the iconic line: ‘You can be my wingman anytime.’ The music that accompanies it sums up the mid-80s zeitgeist – it’s those hazy electric guitars…
Total Recall (1990)
Total Recall has got to be one of the most underrated 90s action films in existence – and it doesn't help that the Colin Farrell-led reboot was such a flop.
But if you know, you know, as this sci-fi action-adventure is bucketloads of fun. One of the prime reasons we have such an affinity for the film is because of its supercharged soundtrack.
Listen and learn, because that’s how you pull an audience into the action.
Casino Royale (2006)
Daniel Craig’s first outing as super spy 007 is magnificent; and one of the key reasons why Casino Royale proved so enjoyable is because of its elite-level soundtrack.
David Arnold’s selection of action movie songs introduces a new type of Bond – one that’s a little more rugged, a little less silly and embraces powerful females – which is reflected in compositions that are more unpredictable than ever before in the franchise.
Inception (2010)
During the four year gap between The Dark Knight and The Dark Knight Rises, Christopher Nolan and Hans Zimmer teamed up to create Inception.
The German composer supported Nolan’s labyrinthine narrative by creating a soundtrack that constantly reminds the audience to pay close attention.
How? Masterful use of daunting strings and demanding percussion.
Bad Boys For Life (2020)
Bad Boys For Life surprised cinema-goers and critics alike with its refreshing plot, developed characters and expertly crafted soundtrack.
Improving on the original films, the third film in the franchise embraces its Miami setting by adding some choice urban percussive ingredients to the mix.
Music For Action Movies
Now that you’ve worked your way through our list of the best action movie soundtracks, you’re hopefully feeling a little more inspired to ensure music is a top priority when putting together your action film.
We have music for any kind of film, no matter the genre. Check out our roster of music suitable for a variety of film styles, from historical to horror to rom-com and vintage.
Need Music for Your Project?
At Audio Network we create original music, of the highest quality, for broadcasters, brands, creators, agencies and music fans everywhere. Through clear and simple licensing, we can offer you a huge variety of the best quality music across every conceivable mood and genre. Find out how we can connect you with the perfect collaborator today by clicking the button below!
This page was last updated on 07/03/2024 and 23/05/2024.
