It’s Action Month here at Screenage Wasteland, which means you’re getting action shows to stream. When I first started thinking about this list, the Jack Ryans and Reachers of the world popped into my head and I was concerned I wouldn’t have much to talk about. No hate to either of those shows, but they are really not the kind of stuff I watch.
As I really thought about it though (and all the subgenres that action intersects with), I realized I actually watch a lot of action shows, and I was really spoiled for choice. The ones I included below are some of my personal favorites that fit the bill, and the ones I would recommend most without any reservations. And yes, two of them are animated this month. You just got to trust me on this.
Hulu: Shogun (2024 – present)
If you skipped out on this one because of the hype surrounding it, just understand that it’s well deserved. Based on the James Clavell novel of the same name, Shogun follows the rise to power of Lord Toranaga (based on the real-life Tokugawa Ieyasu) and his intersection with the western world through the eyes of Englishman John Blackthorne. While the novel and the first adaptation of this story focus heavily on Blackthorne, this show makes the choice to focus the story on the shogunate infighting and establish Blackthorne as a more passive observer since he doesn’t speak the language or understand any of the customs. The result is a fascinating political drama that has you on pins and needles for most of its runtime. Believe me when the swords come out (and they do), it’s an absolute thrill. The fight choreography between the samurai is absolutely precise, and really gives the audience the feeling they’re watching masters of their craft. This show also features larger action set-pieces, including naval combat and full field skirmishes complete with cannons. Fans of Gladiator or early Game of Thrones will be right at home with this one, and with a second season in the works, it’s a great time to check it out.
FOR FANS OF: Game of Thrones; The Last Kingdom; Rome
Tubi: 11.22.63 (2016)
This one flew under a lot of folks’ radar when it came out, but it’s one of the best action mini-series on Hulu and maybe ever. Based on the incredible Stephen King novel, 11.22.63 is about a man who goes back in time to stop JFK’s assassination. Only, it’s not just people trying to stop him. The past, an active and violent force in its own right, knows he doesn’t belong there and pushes back against him at every turn. While King’s horror roots permeate the show with tension and suspense, make no mistake. This is an action show through and through, with a fun mystery to boot. James Franco is on the run in nearly every scene, whether it’s the FBI, the shooter or the past itself whispering in a sinister tone “YOU’RE NOT SUPPOSED TO BE HERE.” It’s a fun romp, and a great introduction for someone interested in checking out King’s work but who isn’t into horror.
FOR FANS OF: The Outsider; The Man in the High Castle; Steins;Gate
Netflix: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009–2010)
Before I begin, let me clarify that this is NOT a review of Full Metal Alchemist (2003). These two shows are two different adaptations of the manga series, but the 2003 version was completed before the story had concluded and as we know from other television shows (cough Game of Thrones) that choice can lead to less than satisfactory conclusions. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood follows two brothers in a fantasy world that contains alchemy: a form of magic governed by the law of equivalent exchange. This means no power can be given without taking away that power in equal measure from something else. The brothers learned this lesson the hard way when, in trying to revive their dead mother, they ended up losing pieces of themselves. Edward loses his arm, while Alphonse loses his entire body and now navigates the world as a soul bound to a suit of armor. The action in this show is non-stop, as the system of alchemy is just as frequently used for combat against horrific creatures. It’s the story that will hook you though, and the way this show stays excellent for its full 64 episode runtime should be studied.
FOR FANS OF: Avatar: The Last Airbender; Code Geass; Attack On Titan
Hulu/Disney+: Daredevil (2015–2018)
Hey, remember when Marvel was good? Like really good? I jest, but seriously, I miss the days of the original Marvel run. This was before the Disney-fication of the Marvel TV show circuit, and how dark this show got contributed to its brilliance. Charlie Cox really showed his range with Matthew Murdock, lawyer by day and violent vigilante by night. A complicated character, Murdock would often give into his impulses and seemed to crave (and almost enjoy) the brutality of taking down the members of Hell Kitchen’s underworld. Unlike some of the later Marvel stuff, this show feels grounded and Daredevil himself is often painted as more of an anti-hero. A continuing theme with his characters is “how much is too much.” The action is primarily hand-to-hand combat, but the way he takes down his enemies feels less like a typical action hero and more like Bourne or John Wick. He really gives these guys an absolute beatdown, bones cracking and heads slamming against the asphalt. Of course, I am aware that this has been rebooted, but I’m hesitant to check it out because I know in my heart it just won’t be the same.
FOR FANS OF: Jessica Jones; Arrow
Prime: The Legend of Vox Machina (2022 – present)
A team of misfits has never been messier. Based on the wildly successful online Dungeons and Dragons campaign series Critical Role, The Legend of Vox Machina is a D&D adventure in the very best way. The titular Vox Machina are a group of adventurers navigating the continent of Exandria, challenging foes and killing mercilessly while partying and screwing along the way. The cast chemistry is pure delight, as all of the actors’ real life-long friendships shine through in their characters. This is about the action though, and I think this is one of the best in the last few years, particularly when it comes to western animation. Titmouse, the studio behind incredible hits like Scavengers Reign and Star Trek: Lower Decks, really went all out with Vox Machina. It’s a high fantasy with constant action, ranging from dragon fights to duels to full-scale military assaults. We’ve had three fantastic seasons so far, and Season 4 is estimated to premiere next summer. It’s a really special show with a small team behind it, and definitely worth checking out. You’ll know from episode one whether or not it’s for you, and if it is, you’re in for a wild ride.
FOR FANS OF: Dragon Age: Absolution; Invincible; One Piece