In between the making of T2 and Titanic, legendary filmmaker James Cameron gave us one of the greatest action-comedies of all time, True Lies. With thrilling action-sequences that still hold up better than 99.9% of today’s CGI nonsense, a brilliant side plot involving Bill Paxton and some good old fashioned buddy-cop humor, it’s a window into all of the things we love about 90’s movies. If you’re in between sittings, or like us, waiting for the Blu-ray version to finally be released, check out these 5 movies that do their best to offer a similar level of enjoyment.
Here are our recommended picks for movies similar to True Lies:
1. The Man From U.N.C.L.E
Kick starting our list, we have Guy Ritchie’s return to form with the stylish and wildly entertaining black comedy – The Man From U.N.C.L.E. (2015). As a result of lackluster (or rather, nonexistent) marketing, this silky smooth feature went largely unnoticed at the time of release. But ever since then it’s grown into something of a cult-classic as fans all over begin to appreciate it’s appeal.
Through Henry Cavill, Armie Hammer and Alicia Vikander it’s effortlessly charming, while it also has enough eye-pleasing action to move it along nicely. The banter is in line with True Lies even if the action is a touch more subdued. Watch if you like: Stylish action-movies.
2. Mr. & Mrs. Smith
Falling right back into step with a strict action-comedy, next up we have Doug Limon’s Mr. & Mrs. Smith. With Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt playing a married couple of gun for hires who hide their profession from each other, this sizzling and lively ride is no doubt directly influenced by True Lies.
Another entry that continues to hold up well to this day, if it’s been a while since you last saw it then this could be a great option to stick on next. Watch if you like: Seductive action-comedies.
3. Spy
Next up we have Paul Feig’s self-written and directed hit movie – Spy. Featuring some stunning backdrops for the locale and more importantly, a relentless onslaught of humor, this movie rather insists on making you laugh all the way through. Starring Melissa McCartney in a winning performance, if you’re okay with less high-wire action and more humor then look no further. Watch if you like: Non-stop humor.
4. The Rock
Giving a nod to another fabulous action-movie of the 90’s, we have Michael Bay’s highly-esteemed The Rock. With Bay at the height of his powers, this movie stands up well on just about any list. Sharing common themes with True Lies such as tight-action sequences, a dangerous terrorist plot or the star-studded talent on display (Nicholas Cage, Sean Connery etc), there’s no doubt that you’ll be in good hands with this one. Watch if you like: Michael Bay.
5. Demolition Man
While Arnold Schwarzenegger undoubtedly reigned supreme as a heavyweight of the action genre, it’s hard to ignore his opposing number Sylvester Stallone. As another larger than life 90’s star, we’ve narrowed down his extensive action-packed resume to the 1993 hit – Demolition Man. Of course, Stallone has many more high profile movies but as a pairing to True Lies, this is the most fitting in both style and substance. Watch if you like: Sylvester Stallone.
