15 Must-See Movies That Capture the Spirit of 'The Accountant'
Every movie fan needs to discover the thrill and engaging storylines that resonate with the adrenaline-packed adventure of 'The Accountant.' In 2016, Ben Affleck stepped into the iconic role of Batman within the ambitious yet tumultuous DC Extended Universe. While he never got the chance to star in his own standalone film as the Caped Crusader, Affleck showcased his action prowess in an entirely different project: The Accountant. This thriller features Affleck as Christian Wolff, a brilliant accountant on the autism spectrum who finds himself entangled in both financial wrongdoing and a life-threatening conspiracy involving some extremely dangerous individuals. His journey becomes even more complicated when he forges a connection with a woman named Dana, played by Anna Kendrick.
Admittedly, it’s important to note that the film doesn’t precisely represent the ins and outs of real-life accounting (as explained by real accountants in this review). However, The Accountant more than compensates with its expertly choreographed action sequences and a fantastic supporting cast, featuring talents such as J.K. Simmons, Cynthia Addai-Robinson, and Jon Bernthal. Interestingly, this story's universe extends beyond the confines of the DCEU, culminating in the release of The Accountant 2 in 2025, suggesting there's still more in store. In the meantime, let's explore some exhilarating films akin to The Accountant that promise to deliver your necessary dose of excitement.
1. John Wick
If you adored the action in The Accountant, prepare to elevate your excitement levels with the John Wick series. This franchise represents the pinnacle of action filmmaking in the 21st century, and both its sequels and spin-offs are essential viewing, preferably in the order of their release (check the viewing order). The original John Wick runs a taut 90 minutes and drops you into a harrowing world where protagonist John Wick (played by Keanu Reeves) embarks on a chilling revenge spree after a senseless crime involving his beloved dog, a final gift from his late wife.
What sets John Wick apart and turned it into a cultural phenomenon is the innovative approach to its action sequences. Unlike many contemporary action films, it steers clear of excessive edits, allowing viewers to witness Reeves’s exceptional combat skills in fluid extended takes. The influence of John Wick can be seen in subsequent action films, including Atomic Blonde and Bullet Train, extending even to The Accountant itself.
2. The Town
Ben Affleck shines, not just as an actor but also as a director, in The Town, where he embodies Doug MacRay, a member of a notorious bank robbery crew. When he unexpectedly falls for a woman linked to one of his criminal pasts, he faces a challenge of concealing his true identity while navigating the complexities of both crime and romance.
Critically acclaimed as one of the finest heist films out there (check out the best heist movies here), The Town masterfully explores themes of redemption and the struggle to break free from a life of crime. Doug’s conflict between pursuing a lawful life and the irresistible thrill of another heist adds depth to the film, balancing romance with high-stakes action, all shot with tremendous skill that is bound to captivate action enthusiasts.
3. Nobody
Few action films can lay claim to the same identity as Nobody, a film imbued with the essence of John Wick, primarily due to its writer, Derek Kolstad. Initially perceived only as a comedic actor in roles like those in Mr. Show and Breaking Bad, Bob Odenkirk steps into a fierce role as Hutch Mansell, a seemingly ordinary family man who must revert to his former life as a lethal assassin when his family faces an unexpected threat.
Nobody delights viewers who appreciate a light-hearted take on the action genre. Odenkirk infuses the film’s narrative with his trademark sardonic humor while also showcasing the grit and physicality of his character’s resurrection into chaos. The aging assassin’s journey, alongside the character's humorous rapport with his teenage partner in vengeance, elevates this film into an entertaining watch, especially when paired with larger-than-life action elements.
4. Warrior
To discover more films that resonate with The Accountant, explore the captivating cinema of Gavin O'Connor, particularly the outstanding sports drama Warrior. The film revolves around two estranged brothers, Tommy (played by Tom Hardy) and Brendan (Joel Edgerton), who unintentionally enter the same mixed martial arts competition. Their shared endeavor serves as a backdrop for reconciling their tumultuous relationship and other personal conflicts.
The dynamic between the brothers is profoundly relatable and driven by O'Connor’s unique storytelling approach. A pivotal aspect of Warrior lies in how it reflects O'Connor’s own experiences and emotions, making the narrative feel genuine and compelling. The fight sequences are thrilling, supported by authentic appearances from MMA athletes, spotlighting not just the physicality of the sport but also the deeper emotional stakes associated with it.
5. The Equalizer
When it comes to action franchises, The Equalizer series epitomizes the key ingredients for success: a charismatic lead and electrifying confrontations. Denzel Washington perfectly fulfills the role of Robert McCall, a retired Marine who finds himself entangled in the dark underbelly of the Russian mafia. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film is celebrated for its moody atmosphere and intense action sequences that resonate profoundly with viewers.
While it may start off at a leisurely pace, cunningly allowing audiences to connect with McCall's motivations, the film builds tension effectively. As the action unfolds toward the latter half, the audience is immersed not only in the stunning visuals but in the emotional stakes driving McCall’s choices. This blend of character development and thrilling sequences makes The Equalizer one of Washington’s most rewatchable films, and its sequels uphold this quality seamlessly.
6. Hell or High Water
Taylor Sheridan is perhaps best known for his gripping television narratives, but those who admire his work should not miss Hell or High Water, his most remarkable film to date. This neo-Western chronicles the story of two brothers, Toby (Chris Pine) and Tanner Howard (Ben Foster), who resort to bank robberies in a desperate bid to save their family ranch, all while being pursued by relentless Texas Rangers.
The heart-pounding action in Hell or High Water is complemented by layered themes that dive into moral complexities. Many viewers might even sympathize with the brothers’ unlawful choices in their pursuit of financial stability against an oppressive system. The multi-dimensional characters and the palpable chemistry between Pine and Foster create a compelling narrative filled with moral dilemmas, keeping viewers engaged and making them ponder the implications of their actions.
7. A Dark Place
What makes The Accountant particularly special is its representation of a main character on the autism spectrum. While opinions about Affleck’s portrayal have been mixed, anyone interested in another captivating narrative highlighting a neurodiverse protagonist should seek out A Dark Place. Andrew Scott takes center stage as Donald Devlin, a sanitation worker with autism who plunges into an investigation of a missing child, discovering unsettling truths along the way.
Scott delivers an impressive performance, seamlessly blending his role as a devoted father with his determination to uncover the truth behind the case. Despite its relatively low profile upon release in 2019, A Dark Place is deserving of attention, particularly as Scott continues to gain recognition in projects like Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, enhancing its relevance.
8. Kate
In the action genre, it’s time to shine a light on female leading characters; Kate, featuring Mary Elizabeth Winstead, delivers an exhilarating rollercoaster of an experience. The story follows Kate, a highly skilled assassin who learns that she has been poisoned and has only one day left to live. Fueled by a burning desire for vengeance, she uses her remaining hours to seek out those responsible for her imminent demise.
Reflecting the audacious storytelling style of John Wick, Kate boasts stylish, choreographed action set pieces and scenic visuals of Tokyo, complete with its resplendent neon lights. Despite its familiar revenge plotline, Winstead’s performance injects heartfelt emotion into each confrontation, particularly as her character bonds with a teenager named Ani (Miku Martineau). With Woody Harrelson playing the antagonist Varrick, Kate strikes a balance between thrilling action and emotional depth, making it a perfect choice when you are looking for a straightforward action flick that keeps you engaged without demanding too much mental effort.
9. Midnight Run
Accountants might not have the most exciting careers (no offense intended to accountants out there!), but the action film landscape is surprising when it comes to showcasing this profession, with titles such as Midnight Run stepping to the forefront. In this classic, bounty hunter Jack Walsh (Robert De Niro) is tasked with retrieving accountant-turned-crook Jonathan Mardukas (Charles Grodin), who embezzled money from the mob and donated it to charity. The unexpected journey they share leads Jack to reevaluate his mission and form a heartfelt bond with Jonathan.
Midnight Run brilliantly mixes action with comedy, offering thrilling sequences interspersed with quick-witted dialogue that resonates with audiences. What truly sets it apart from other films in the genre is its genuine emotional core; an element not often found in bounty hunter narratives. Even the challenging filming conditions that led director Martin Brest to the hospital contributed to the creation of this timeless classic.
10. Lethal Weapon
When discussing quintessential buddy cop films, Lethal Weapon remains an impressive hallmark since its debut in 1987. Unfortunately, the genre has waned in recent years, but this film exemplifies why the buddy cop dynamic continues to garner favor. The story kicks off with the audacious Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson) and experienced officer Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover) uniting to comb the streets for a drug trafficking syndicate while confronting their individual quirks.
Not only does screenwriter Shane Black deliver engaging dialogue, but the thrilling action scenes help establish Lethal Weapon as one of the most exhilarating films of the '80s. Up next, The Accountant 2 also explores elements of the buddy cop dynamic with Christian teaming up with his brother Braxton (Jon Bernthal), making Lethal Weapon an essential viewing experience for fans of that genre.
11. The Amateur
In a unique twist, The Amateur has been coined as the ‘anti-James Bond’ (per a review in /Film). Rami Malek stars as Charlie Heller, a brilliant computer expert at the CIA who finds himself utterly unprepared for real-life operations. After his wife Sarah (Rachel Brosnahan) is killed while on duty, he takes matters into his own hands, embarking on a mission to hunt down her killers using intellect over brute strength.
The Amateur serves as an intriguing counterpoint to The Accountant, illustrating how characters in these narratives must employ their cunning for survival – facing challenges that are multifaceted rather than merely explosive showdowns. The film rewards viewers with fresh insights into the consequences of actions in the digital age, layered with Malek's compelling performance.
12. Extraction
While many Netflix originals can be hit or miss in terms of audience engagement, Extraction stands out as a refreshing offering that makes you wish it could have graced the big screen. Starring Chris Hemsworth as Tyler Rake, a mercenary assigned the challenging task of rescuing a drug lord’s son, the plot takes a dark turn with unexpected betrayals.
Extraction deserves accolades for its unrelenting action, reminiscent of John Wick, often pushing the boundaries of what action sequences can achieve. Notably, the film features impressive long-take sequences, with one incredible continuous shot that captivated viewers worldwide. Its commitment to delivering breathtaking, well-crafted action has cemented Extraction as a successful franchise, exemplifying the power of ambition in storytelling within the streaming realm.
13. Deep Cover
In The Accountant, Christian Wolff might not seem the likely candidate for criminal endeavors, but if you seek a film where seemingly ordinary people become embroiled in crime, look no further than Deep Cover. This action-comedy follows a group of improv comedians (two of whom aren’t exactly Oscar-worthy) who assist the police in a dangerous infiltration of a minor drug deal.
As they commit to their parts, they find themselves spiraling deeper into perilous situations, showcasing the humorous side of an otherwise violent undertone. Orlando Bloom graces the cast with remarkable comedic timing, providing comedic relief that will resonate well with audiences familiar with improv struggles. If you've ever endured a lackluster show, Deep Cover offers a clever nod to real-life performances that could reshape your perspective on comedy.
14. The Bourne Identity
For those who appreciate Ben Affleck's action roles, Matt Damon delivers an astonishing performance in The Bourne Identity. Damon portrays Jason Bourne, a man with amnesia possessing a unique skill set that allows him to fend off numerous assassins intent on his life while unravelling the mystery of his identity.
This film set the stage for action filmmaking in the early 2000s by introducing the audience to a raw, immersive storytelling style characterized by expertly executed action sequences and a signature shaky camera technique. Much like the films that followed, it stands as an excellent example of how engaging long takes can draw viewers into the chaos of combat. Perhaps we need a team-up film featuring Bourne and Christian Wolff to explore the endless possibilities of their contrasting skills!
15. Kimi
Steven Soderbergh adeptly shifts gears across genres, and his film Kimi borrows elements from classics like Rear Window and Panic Room. The narrative centers on Angela Childs (Zoë Kravitz), an agoraphobic woman who monitors smart devices only to witness a horrifying crime perpetrated by her company's CEO. As she aims to expose the wrongdoing, she encounters menacing forces trying to stifle her truth-seeking mission.
Not only is Kimi a gripping thriller, but it also acts as a poignant reflection on the pandemic era, echoing the heightened sense of surveillance so many experienced during lockdowns. Its unconventional release on HBOMax didn’t distract from its worth as a compelling narrative, making it a must-see for those who appreciated the dramatic turns seen in The Accountant.
