24 Best Steven Seagal Movies: The Unrelenting Power of an Action Movie Titan

Steven Seagal is a well-known actor, martial artist, and filmmaker who has starred in numerous action films throughout his career. He first gained fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with a string of successful films that showcased his Aikido skills and tough-guy persona.

Over the years, he has become a popular figure in the world of action cinema, and his films continue to entertain audiences with their explosive action, thrilling stunts, and intense fight scenes.

Some of Steven Seagal’s best-known movies include “Under Siege,” “Above the Law,” “Marked for Death,” “Hard to Kill,” and “Out for Justice.”

These films are considered classics in the action genre, and they have helped to cement Seagal’s status as a Hollywood icon.

Best Steven Seagal Movies

With his signature style and tough-guy attitude, Steven Seagal has become one of the most beloved action stars of all time, and his movies are a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

1. Out for Justice (1991)

“Out for Justice” is a 1991 action film directed by John Flynn and starring Steven Seagal as Detective Gino Felino.

The film follows Felino as he investigates the brutal murder of his best friend, who was also a fellow police officer. Along the way, he encounters a number of dangerous criminals and must use his martial arts skills to take them down.

The film is widely regarded as one of Seagal’s best works, thanks to its gritty atmosphere, intense action sequences, and powerful performances.

Seagal delivers a memorable performance as Felino, showcasing his trademark Aikido moves and tough-guy persona. The film also features a standout performance from William Forsythe as Richie Madano, a violent gangster who becomes Felino’s main target.

Overall, “Out for Justice” is a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre in general. Its combination of intense action, suspenseful plot, and strong performances make it one of the best films of Seagal’s career.

2. Under Siege (1992)

“Under Siege” is a 1992 action film directed by Andrew Davis and starring Steven Seagal as Casey Ryback, a former Navy SEAL who becomes embroiled in a terrorist plot on board the USS Missouri, a battleship that has been decommissioned and turned into a museum.

When a group of terrorists led by the ruthless ex-CIA operative William Strannix (played by Tommy Lee Jones) take over the ship and threaten to launch its nuclear arsenal, Ryback must use his skills and training to stop them and save the crew.

The film is widely considered one of Seagal’s best works, thanks to its tense and suspenseful plot, thrilling action sequences, and strong performances from the cast.

Seagal delivers a standout performance as Ryback, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is tailor-made for his talents. The film also features memorable performances from Tommy Lee Jones, Gary Busey, and Erika Eleniak, among others.

Overall, “Under Siege” is a classic action film that has stood the test of time and continues to entertain audiences to this day.

Its combination of intense action, suspenseful plot, and strong performances make it one of the best films of Seagal’s career, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

3. Above the Law (1988)

“Above the Law” is a 1988 action film directed by Andrew Davis and starring Steven Seagal as Nico Toscani, a Chicago cop and former CIA operative who becomes embroiled in a web of corruption and deceit.

As he investigates a drug-trafficking ring, Toscani uncovers a larger conspiracy involving the CIA and a shadowy organization known as the “Patriots.”

The film is widely regarded as Seagal’s breakout role, and it established him as a major player in the action genre.

Seagal delivers a powerful performance as Toscani, showcasing his Aikido skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and complex. The film also features strong performances from Sharon Stone, Pam Grier, and Henry Silva, among others.

Overall, “Above the Law” is a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre in general. Its combination of intense action, suspenseful plot, and strong performances make it one of the best films of Seagal’s career, and a classic of the genre.

4. Executive Decision (1996)

“Executive Decision” is a 1996 action-thriller film directed by Stuart Baird and starring Kurt Russell, Steven Seagal, and Halle Berry.

Seagal plays Lieutenant Colonel Austin Travis, an elite special operations expert who teams up with a team of commandos led by Russell’s character to hijack a plane carrying a group of terrorists who plan to release a deadly nerve gas in Washington, D.C.

Although Seagal’s role in the film is relatively brief, his performance as Travis is memorable, showcasing his trademark martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a supporting role.

The film is also notable for its tense and suspenseful plot, as well as its strong performances from the cast, which also includes John Leguizamo and Oliver Platt.

Overall, “Executive Decision” is a well-made and thrilling action film that is elevated by the presence of Seagal in a supporting role.

While it may not be one of Seagal’s most iconic films, it remains a must-watch for fans of the action genre, thanks to its intense action sequences, suspenseful plot, and strong performances.

5. Marked for Death (1990)

“Marked for Death” is a 1990 action film directed by Dwight H. Little and starring Steven Seagal as John Hatcher, a former DEA agent who returns to his hometown to find it overrun by a dangerous Jamaican drug gang known as the “Posse.”

As Hatcher fights to take down the gang and protect his community, he becomes the target of their leader, a ruthless voodoo priest named Screwface.

The film is widely regarded as one of Seagal’s best works, thanks to its intense action sequences, memorable villain, and strong performances from the cast.

Seagal delivers a standout performance as Hatcher, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant.

The film also features a standout performance from Basil Wallace as Screwface, a villain who is both terrifying and charismatic.

Overall, “Marked for Death” is a classic action film that has stood the test of time and continues to entertain audiences to this day.

Its combination of intense action, suspenseful plot, and strong performances make it one of the best films of Seagal’s career, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

6. Hard to Kill (1990)

“Hard to Kill” is a 1990 action film directed by Bruce Malmuth and starring Steven Seagal as Mason Storm, a Los Angeles police detective who is left for dead after his family is murdered by a group of corrupt politicians and cops.

After waking up from a coma seven years later, Storm sets out to seek revenge and clear his name.

The film is widely regarded as one of Seagal’s best works, thanks to its intense action sequences, thrilling plot, and strong performances from the cast.

Seagal delivers a powerful performance as Storm, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged.

The film also features memorable performances from Kelly LeBrock, William Sadler, and Frederick Coffin, among others.

Overall, “Hard to Kill” is a classic action film that has stood the test of time and continues to entertain audiences to this day.

Its combination of intense action, suspenseful plot, and strong performances make it one of the best films of Seagal’s career, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

7.Under Siege 2: Dark Territory (1995)

“Under Siege 2: Dark Territory” is a 1995 action film directed by Geoff Murphy and starring Steven Seagal as Casey Ryback, a former Navy SEAL who finds himself on a train that has been hijacked by terrorists.

The terrorists plan to use the train’s technology to launch a satellite-based weapon that can destroy entire cities, and Ryback must use his skills and training to stop them and save the passengers.

While the film did not receive the same critical acclaim as the original “Under Siege,” it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre.

Seagal delivers a strong performance as Ryback, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged. The film also features memorable performances from Eric Bogosian, Katherine Heigl, and Morris Chestnut, among others.

Overall, “Under Siege 2: Dark Territory” is a thrilling action film that delivers on the promise of its predecessor. Its combination of intense action, suspenseful plot, and strong performances make it a worthy addition to Seagal’s filmography, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

8. Exit Wounds (2001)

“Exit Wounds” is a 2001 action film directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak and starring Steven Seagal as Orin Boyd, a Detroit cop who uncovers a conspiracy involving corrupt police officers and drug dealers.

As Boyd fights to bring the criminals to justice, he teams up with a rookie cop played by rapper DMX, and together they take on the corrupt system.

The film is notable for its blend of action and comedy, and for its strong performances from the cast, which also includes Tom Arnold, Isaiah Washington, and Jill Hennessy.

Seagal delivers a strong performance as Boyd, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and comedic.

Overall, “Exit Wounds” is a fun and entertaining action film that showcases Seagal’s versatility as an actor.

While it may not be one of his most iconic works, it remains a must-watch for fans of the genre, thanks to its combination of intense action, comedic elements, and strong performances from the cast.

9. Machete (2010)

“Machete” is a 2010 action film directed by Robert Rodriguez and Ethan Maniquis, and starring Danny Trejo in the title role, with Steven Seagal as the film’s main villain, Torrez.

The film follows Machete, a former Mexican Federale who is hired by a mysterious organization to assassinate a corrupt senator. However, Machete soon finds himself caught up in a web of political intrigue and violence.

Seagal delivers a memorable performance as Torrez, a drug lord who is one of Machete’s primary targets. While his role in the film is relatively brief, Seagal makes the most of his screen time, delivering a chilling and charismatic performance as a ruthless criminal mastermind.

Overall, “Machete” is a fun and over-the-top action film that blends elements of grindhouse cinema, blaxploitation, and Mexican folklore.

While Seagal’s role in the film is relatively small, he delivers a memorable performance that adds to the film’s overall sense of danger and excitement.

10. On Deadly Ground (1994)

“On Deadly Ground” is a 1994 action film directed by Steven Seagal, who also stars in the film as Forrest Taft, an environmental activist who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy involving an oil company and corrupt politicians.

As Taft fights to stop the company’s plans to drill in Alaska, he must also confront his own demons and find a way to protect the environment.

The film is notable for its environmental themes, and for Seagal’s role as both director and star. While it received mixed reviews upon release, it has since gained a cult following among fans of the action genre.

Seagal delivers a strong performance as Taft, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged.

Overall, “On Deadly Ground” is a unique and entertaining action film that offers something different from Seagal’s usual fare.

Its combination of environmental themes, intense action, and strong performances from the cast make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

11. The Glimmer Man (1996)

“The Glimmer Man” is a 1996 action film directed by John Gray and starring Steven Seagal as Jack Cole, a former government operative who becomes embroiled in a string of serial killings in Los Angeles.

As Cole investigates the murders, he must also confront his own troubled past and work with his new partner, played by Keenen Ivory Wayans.

The film is notable for its blend of action and suspense, and for the strong performances from the cast. Seagal delivers a powerful performance as Cole, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged.

The film also features a standout performance from Wayans, who brings humor and levity to the role of Cole’s partner.

Overall, “The Glimmer Man” is a solid action film that showcases Seagal’s talents as both an actor and martial artist.

While it may not be one of his most iconic works, it remains a must-watch for fans of the genre, thanks to its combination of intense action, suspenseful plot, and strong performances from the cast.

12. Mercenary for Justice (2006 Video)

“Mercenary for Justice” is a 2006 action film directed by Don E. FauntLeRoy and starring Steven Seagal as John Seeger, a mercenary who is framed for a crime he didn’t commit.

As Seeger fights to clear his name and take down the real criminals, he must also confront his own troubled past and find a way to protect his family.

While the film was released straight-to-video, it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre.

Seagal delivers a strong performance as Seeger, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged. The film also features strong supporting performances from Jacqueline Lord and Roger Guenveur Smith.

Overall, “Mercenary for Justice” is a solid action film that delivers on the promise of its genre. While it may not have the same budget or production values as Seagal’s theatrical releases, it remains a worthwhile addition to his filmography, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

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13. Belly of the Beast (2003 Video)

“Belly of the Beast” is a 2003 action film directed by Ching Siu-tung and starring Steven Seagal as Jake Hopper, a former CIA agent who sets out to rescue his kidnapped daughter from a group of terrorists in Thailand.

Along the way, Hopper must navigate a complex web of political intrigue and violence, and use his skills and training to take down the criminals and save his daughter.

While the film was released straight-to-video, it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre.

Seagal delivers a strong performance as Hopper, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged. The film also features strong supporting performances from Byron Mann and Monica Lo.

Overall, “Belly of the Beast” is a solid action film that delivers on the promise of its genre. While it may not have the same budget or production values as Seagal’s theatrical releases, it remains a

worthwhile addition to his filmography, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

14. Half Past Dead (2002)

“Half Past Dead” is a 2002 action film directed by Don Michael Paul and starring Steven Seagal as Sascha Petrosevitch, an undercover FBI agent who is sent to a maximum security prison to infiltrate a gang of criminals led by the ruthless Lester (played by Morris Chestnut).

When the prison is taken over by a group of terrorists, Sascha must team up with an inmate named Nick (played by rapper Ja Rule) to stop the terrorists and take down Lester’s gang.

While the film received mixed reviews upon release, it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre.

Seagal delivers a strong performance as Sascha, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged.

The film also features a standout performance from Morris Chestnut as the villainous Lester, and a memorable cameo from rapper Kurupt.

Overall, “Half Past Dead” is a fun and entertaining action film that delivers on the promise of its genre.

While it may not be one of Seagal’s most iconic works, it remains a must-watch for fans of the genre, thanks to its combination of intense action, suspenseful plot, and strong performances from the cast.

15. Into the Sun (2005)

“Into the Sun” is a 2005 action film directed by maverick filmmaker mink and starring Steven Seagal as Travis Hunter, a former CIA agent who is hired to track down a dangerous Yakuza leader in Tokyo.

As Hunter navigates the complex web of Japanese organized crime, he must also confront his own troubled past and find a way to bring the Yakuza leader to justice.

The film is notable for its blend of action and intrigue, and for its strong performances from the cast. Seagal delivers a powerful performance as Hunter, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged.

The film also features standout performances from Ken Lo and Takao Osawa, among others.

Overall, “Into the Sun” is a solid action film that showcases Seagal’s talents as both an actor and martial artist.

While it may not be one of his most iconic works, it remains a must-watch for fans of the genre, thanks to its combination of intense action, suspenseful plot, and strong performances from the cast.

16. Fire Down Below (1997)

“Fire Down Below” is a 1997 action film directed by Felix Enriquez Alcala and starring Steven Seagal as Jack Taggart, a U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) agent who is sent to investigate illegal toxic waste dumping in a small Kentucky town. As Taggart uncovers a web of corruption and deceit, he must also confront his own troubled past and find a way to protect the environment.

The film is notable for its environmental themes, and for Seagal’s role as a protector of nature. Seagal delivers a strong performance as Taggart, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged.

The film also features memorable performances from Marg Helgenberger, Kris Kristofferson, and Harry Dean Stanton, among others.

Overall, “Fire Down Below” is a unique and entertaining action film that offers something different from Seagal’s usual fare. Its combination of environmental themes, intense action, and strong performances from the cast make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

17. Out of Reach (2004 Video)

“Out of Reach” is a 2004 action-thriller film directed by Po-Chih Leong and starring Steven Seagal as Billy Ray Lancing, a former government agent who is forced out of retirement when a young girl he has been corresponding with is kidnapped by human traffickers in Poland.

As Lancing travels to Poland to rescue the girl, he must also confront his own troubled past and find a way to take down the criminal organization responsible.

While the film was released straight-to-video, it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre. Seagal delivers a strong performance as Lancing, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged.

The film also features a standout performance from Ida Nowakowska as the young girl who is kidnapped.

Overall, “Out of Reach” is a solid action-thriller film that delivers on the promise of its genre. While it may not have the same budget or production values as Seagal’s theatrical releases, it remains a worthwhile addition to his filmography, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

18. Pistol Whipped (2008 Video)

“Pistol Whipped” is a 2008 action film directed by Roel Reiné and starring Steven Seagal as Matt Conlin, a former cop turned mercenary who is hired by a mysterious man to take down a group of criminals in exchange for a large sum of money.

As Conlin navigates the dangerous underworld of organized crime, he must also confront his own troubled past and find a way to protect his family.

While the film was released straight-to-video, it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre.

Seagal delivers a strong performance as Conlin, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged. The film also features a standout performance from Lance Henriksen as the mysterious employer who hires Conlin.

Overall, “Pistol Whipped” is a solid action film that delivers on the promise of its genre. While it may not have the same budget or production values as Seagal’s theatrical releases, it remains a worthwhile addition to his filmography, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

19. Urban Justice (2007 Video)

“Urban Justice” is a 2007 action film directed by Don E. FauntLeRoy and starring Steven Seagal as Simon Ballister, a former Navy SEAL who returns to his hometown of Detroit to investigate the murder of his son.

As Ballister navigates the dangerous underworld of Detroit, he must also confront his own troubled past and find a way to bring his son’s killers to justice.

While the film was released straight-to-video, it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre. Seagal delivers a strong performance as Ballister, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged.

The film also features a standout performance from Eddie Griffin as Ballister’s childhood friend and ally.

Overall, “Urban Justice” is a solid action film that delivers on the promise of its genre. While it may not have the same budget or production values as Seagal’s theatrical releases, it remains a worthwhile addition to his filmography, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

20. Today You Die (2005 Video)

“Today You Die” is a 2005 action film directed by Don E. FauntLeRoy and starring Steven Seagal as Harlan Banks, a thief who is double-crossed by his partners and sent to prison.

After being released, Banks seeks revenge against his former associates and teams up with a group of criminals to pull off a daring heist.

While the film was released straight-to-video, it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre.

Seagal delivers a strong performance as Banks, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged. The film also features a standout performance from Mari Morrow as Banks’ love interest, Jada.

Overall, “Today You Die” is a solid action film that delivers on the promise of its genre. While it may not have the same budget or production values as Seagal’s theatrical releases, it remains a worthwhile addition to his filmography, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

21. Ticker (2001)

“Ticker” is a 2001 action film directed by Albert Pyun and starring Steven Seagal as Frank Glass, a bomb disposal expert who teams up with a SWAT team leader played by Tom Sizemore to take down a dangerous terrorist played by Dennis Hopper.

As Glass and the SWAT team race against time to stop the terrorist’s plans, they must also confront their own troubled pasts and find a way to work together to save the city.

While the film received mixed reviews upon release, it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre.

Seagal delivers a strong performance as Glass, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged. The film also features standout performances from Tom Sizemore and Dennis Hopper.

Overall, “Ticker” is a solid action film that delivers on the promise of its genre. While it may not be one of Seagal’s most iconic works, it remains a worthwhile addition to his filmography, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

22. The Patriot (1998)

“The Patriot” is a 1998 action film directed by Dean Semler and starring Steven Seagal as Dr. Wesley McClaren, a former Special Forces operative who is called back into action to track down a group of terrorists who have stolen a deadly nerve gas.

As McClaren navigates the dangerous world of international terrorism, he must also confront his own troubled past and find a way to save innocent lives.

While the film received mixed reviews upon release, it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre.

Seagal delivers a strong performance as McClaren, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged. The film also features standout performances from L.Q. Jones and Gailard Sartain.

Overall, “The Patriot” is a solid action film that delivers on the promise of its genre. While it may not be one of Seagal’s most iconic works, it remains a worthwhile addition to his filmography, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

23. Submerged (2005 Video)

“Submerged” is a 2005 action film directed by Anthony Hickox and starring Steven Seagal as Chris Cody, a former Navy SEAL who is hired by a group of executives to protect them on a luxury cruise ship.

When the ship is hijacked by a group of terrorists, Cody must use his skills and training to take down the criminals and save the passengers.

While the film was released straight-to-video, it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre.

Seagal delivers a strong performance as Cody, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged. The film also features standout performances from William Hope and Nick Brimble.

Overall, “Submerged” is a solid action film that delivers on the promise of its genre. While it may not have the same budget or production values as Seagal’s theatrical releases, it remains a worthwhile addition to his filmography, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

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24. Shadow Man (2006 Video)

“Shadow Man” is a 2006 action film directed by Michael Keusch and starring Steven Seagal as Jack Foster, a former CIA agent who is called back into service to help stop a group of terrorists who have obtained a deadly virus.

As Foster navigates the dangerous world of international terrorism, he must also confront his own troubled past and find a way to save innocent lives.

While the film was released straight-to-video, it remains a must-watch for fans of Steven Seagal and the action genre. Seagal delivers a strong performance as Foster, showcasing his martial arts skills and tough-guy persona in a role that is both intense and emotionally charged.

The film also features standout performances from Eva Pope and Vincent Riotta.

Overall, “Shadow Man” is a solid action film that delivers on the promise of its genre. While it may not have the same budget or production values as Seagal’s theatrical releases, it remains a worthwhile addition to his filmography, and a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

3 Reasons To Watch Steven Seagal Movies

Action-packed entertainment: Steven Seagal movies are known for their high-octane action sequences, intense fight scenes, and thrilling stunts.

Seagal’s background in martial arts and his expertise in aikido have made him a formidable presence on screen, and his movies often feature impressive displays of his physical abilities.

Iconic tough-guy persona: Seagal has become known for his tough-guy persona, playing characters who are often larger than life and willing to take on any challenge.

His performances are marked by a cool, detached demeanor, a deep, commanding voice, and a strong screen presence that has made him a favorite of action movie fans around the world.

Nostalgic appeal: For many fans, watching Steven Seagal movies is a nostalgic experience that takes them back to a time when action movies were a mainstay of popular culture.

Seagal’s movies are often associated with the 80s and 90s, a golden age of action cinema, and watching them can evoke feelings of nostalgia and fond memories of childhood or teenage years.

Best Steven Seagal Movies – Wrap Up

In conclusion, Steven Seagal has had a long and successful career as an action movie star, with a wide range of movies spanning several decades.

While some of his films have been more popular and critically acclaimed than others, all of them showcase his unique style and tough-guy persona.

Some of the best Steven Seagal movies include “Out for Justice,” “Under Siege,” “Above the Law,” “Executive Decision,” “Marked for Death,” “Hard to Kill,” “Under Siege 2: Dark Territory,” “Exit Wounds,” “Machete.”

“On Deadly Ground,” “The Glimmer Man,” “Mercenary for Justice,” “Belly of the Beast,” “Half Past Dead,” “Into the Sun,” “Fire Down Below,” “Out of Reach,” “Pistol Whipped,” “Urban Justice,” “Today You Die,” “Ticker,” “The Patriot,” and “Submerged.”

Whether you are a die-hard Steven Seagal fan or just enjoy action-packed movies, these films offer plenty of entertainment, intense action, and memorable performances.