20 Must-See Movies About Bounty Hunters That Will Keep You on the Edge of Your Seat

1. Bounty hunting serves as an intriguing theme in films, with many outstanding and successful movies centered around it, typically set in the 19th-century United States, often featuring western genres like dramas or crimes.
2. However, there are numerous engaging titles about contemporary bounty hunters that may not have achieved cult status but are still worth viewing. These films are filled with action, speed, and excitement, boasting intriguing plots and characters.
3. From the Coen Brothers to Eastwood and Leone, this list showcases the 20 best movies ever made about bounty hunters, spanning various periods.

Domino (2005)

In this high-octane action-thriller, Tony Scott was the man behind the camera, with Keira Knightley portraying Domino Harvey – a young woman yearning for excitement beyond her mundane existence and the conventional lifestyle of her parents. Abandoning her career as a fashion model, she opts instead to team up with Ed Moseby, stepping into the world of bounty hunting.

Initially, everything appears to be running smoothly, but then trouble arises when Moseby and his team are involved in a reality show, and money belonging to a mobster is mysteriously stolen from an armored vehicle. Matters quickly spiral out of control further as the offspring of a rival mob boss are abducted, all while the FBI keeps tabs on two gangs of criminal elements.

The Head Hunter (2018)

In this fantasy horror tale, the primary character’s relentless pursuit stems from a desire for vengeance against the monster who took the life of his beloved daughter. Riding tirelessly across desolate landscapes on his steadfast steed, he is hotly determined to track down and eliminate the final missing head in his chilling trophy collection.

In a straightforward style, this story explores a common motif, filled with dynamic action sequences, yet minimally dialogued. The narrative primarily revolves around the protagonist’s journey, as he grapples with his trials and determination to locate and vanquish the menacing entity. Seeking peace and fulfillment after an unsettling experience in his life, he embarks on this quest.

Bounty Killer (2013)

As I sat down in the theater, I was instantly drawn into this exhilarating sci-fi action adventure. The story revolves around a group of unconventional bounty hunters, or as they’re called here, ‘headhunters’. Their mission? To mete out justice for the wealthy corporations by any means necessary, redefining the very essence of a bounty hunter.

Each of these assassins possesses unique traits and abilities, but they all share one common goal: to eliminate targets, count the bodies, and pocket a substantial reward. This is a thrilling tale of vengeance, skill, and cold, hard cash. A must-watch for any sci-fi action enthusiast!

For two decades, these corporations that rule the world have been governed by the government. However, there’s a group of individuals, often referred to as bounty hunters or assassins, who aim to dismantle these corporations. Their objective is to eliminate the CEOs and offer justice, or retribution, to those who survive their actions.

The Chronicles of Riddick (2004)

In the sequel to our encounter with him in Pitch Black, I’m embarking on a fresh Sci-Fi journey, chronicling the thrilling escapades of Riddick. This time around, he’s a fugitive navigating treacherous waters, caught between two formidable factions: a warrior priest commanding a cult, and a diplomat hailing from the Elemental race.

Lord Marshal serves as a priest, apparently leading what could be the last crusade five centuries from now. Aaron, acting as an ambassador, assists Riddick in uncovering his past. Originally a bounty hunter, Riddick will have to navigate various hurdles and unravel solutions to numerous queries regarding his origins.

The Rundown (2003)

Beck, with expertise in retrieval, zeal for running a restaurant, and a knack for bounty hunting, is tasked with finding his boss’s adventurous son, Travis, who has gone missing deep within the uncharted Amazon rainforest. However, Beck isn’t alone in this pursuit; others are also eager to locate Travis.

When he gets to El Dorado, he understands that Cornelius Hatcher, a powerful local figure, is also on the hunt for Travis, the only person who knows the precise hiding spot of a valuable golden artifact. Now, Hatcher and his men are pursuing both Travis and Beck. They’re all scrambling to find this intriguing statuette, with each hoping to escape the jungle safely.

Unforgiven (1992)

Clint Eastwood helmed this gripping western tale set in Big Whiskey, Wyoming’s perilous town, where intriguing events unfolded. The narrative revolves around a disfigured prostitute seeking vengeance for a heinous crime and her companions aiming to identify the culprits. A bounty has been placed on their heads by “Little Bill” Dagget, the town’s sheriff.

In a turn of events, a former Kansas hog farmer named William Munny decides to reunite with his gang – comprising of his ex-criminal partner Ned Logan, the skilled gunman “Schofield Kid”, and others – to embark on a journey. The motivation behind this decision is his desire to protect his motherless children, as he acknowledges that he alone holds the responsibility for their wellbeing, even though it means returning to his old life as an infamous outlaw.

The Proposition (2005)

In the 1880s, a gripping crime story penned by renowned Australian musician Nick Cave unfolds against the rugged backdrop of Australia’s unforgiving outback. Here, we come to know that the notorious Burns brothers are on the run for a heinous act.

In prison after being captured, Charlie Burns assumes a crucial role as the one tasked with halting the ongoing cycle of criminal activities. The policeman who apprehended him presents a challenging offer that leaves Charlie in a difficult position. He is required to track down his violent elder brother Arthur, a pursuit necessary to prevent his younger sibling from facing execution.

Midnight Run (1988)

In this humorous blend of crime and action, Robert De Niro assumes the principal character as Jack Walsh, a bounty hunter. His current mission is to locate and bring back Jonathan “The Duke” Mardukas, a former Mafia accountant, from New York to Los Angeles. This task is crucial for him to receive a $100,000 reward.

However, events may deviate from the norm as the Mafia and FBI harbor distinct agendas, much like Marvin Dorfler, an adversary in the bounty hunting world. Yet, it’s likely to be challenging for either party to apprehend Mardukas, given his growing attachment and rapport with Walsh during their nationwide journey.

The Magnificent Seven (1960)

One classic western film, boasting an illustrious ensemble, is this gripping adventure-drama centered around seven gunmen contracted to safeguard a tranquil Mexican hamlet regularly menaced by the same outlaw gang annually.

Three villagers elders’ chosen farmers are dispatched to America with a mission to locate individuals willing to tackle a gang of thirty bandits who are due to arrive seeking supplies. This group is renowned in legend, featuring the likes of Charles Bronson, Yul Brynner, and Steve McQueen, alongside numerous others.

The Hateful Eight (2015)

Quentin Tarantino is a director that sparks strong feelings, ranging from intense admiration to outright dislike. However, for those who appreciate his work, anticipation runs high whenever one of his films hits the big screen. This gripping western-thriller boasts an impressive ensemble cast and unfolds in a snow-covered Wyoming setting post-Civil War. The narrative revolves around John Ruth, a bounty hunter, who is transporting his captive fugitive Daisy Domergue towards Red Rock for trial.

In a heavy snowstorm, they seek refuge at Minnie’s Fabric Store, encountering various individuals, each with unique motives for heading to Red Rock. However, as the storm intensifies, they start to understand that their journey there might be impossible.

Django Unchained (2012)

One of Quentin Tarantino’s most renowned films is a remarkable western drama that garnered two Oscars – one for the outstanding performance by Christoph Waltz and another for Tarantino’s exceptional screenplay. This movie, produced in 1858 Mississippi, offers an unconventional tale about slavery and their quest for liberation.

The film revolves around a bounty hunter known as King Schultz, who enlists the aid of a slave named Django. After Django assists him, they choose to team up to locate Django’s wife, Broomhilda. Upon discovering where she was taken, Django and Schultz devise a strategy to infiltrate the owner of the plantation situated in Mississippi.

Mud (2012)

In simpler terms, this story revolves around two close companions who embark on an adventure to a secluded island nestled along the Mississippi River. There, they stumble upon a peculiar boat lodged in the trees, filled with provisions and fresh tracks. Not long after, they encounter Mud, a suspicious individual clad in soiled attire, whom they befriend. It’s revealed that he is a fugitive, having allegedly murdered someone in Texas, yet his primary focus is reconnecting with his long-term love, Juniper.

This film primarily revolves around an individual’s struggle to evade capture, although the relentless pursuit of bounty hunters adds depth to the plot. However, it’s the compelling narrative and outstanding acting by Matthew McConaughey and Reese Witherspoon that truly make it stand out.

Blade Runner (1982)

In one of the movies that features rain scenes which have become truly unforgettable is the intriguing science fiction action drama known as Blade Runner, directed by Ridley Scott. This film follows a blade runner character tasked with eliminating four replicants who hijacked a spacecraft and now are back on Earth, searching for their creator.

In this scenario, we’re dealing with artificial beings indistinguishable from humans, originally designed for societal assistance. Unfortunately, their existence was outlawed on Earth, forcing them to be hunted down by professionals known as blade runners, tasked with eliminating them if they reappeared. Our story unfolds around Rick Deckard, a former blade runner, who is now tasked with tracking down these outlawed replicants, particularly those led by the formidable Roy Batty.

True Grit (1969)

In a western setting, this story unfolds in 1880’s Yell County, Arkansas. It centers around Mattie Ross, who embarks on a journey to Fort Smith following her father’s tragic death. Her objective is to ensure his killer faces justice by hanging, so she seeks the aid of the seasoned U.S. Marshal Reuben “Rooster” J. Cogburn.

A one-eyed sheriff is accompanied by a young Texas Ranger named La Boeuf, who’s primarily interested in claiming the reward money. Together, they embark on a perilous trek into Indian territory, facing numerous obstacles. However, Mattie’s thirst for retribution overpowers any fears of being captured or killed.

No Country for Old Men (2007)

As a movie enthusiast, I must share my captivating take on the gripping Coen Brothers’ masterpiece, a chilling crime drama set against the backdrop of rural Texas. This film introduces us to one of the most appalling serial killers since gracing our silver screens – Llewelyn Moss, a humble welder and hunter, stumbles upon the grim aftermath of a drug deal gone awry, resulting in the death of several runners. Seizing the opportunity, Llewelyn decides to take the two million dollars left behind, instantly turning him into the quarry for the relentless, psychopathic figure of Anton Chigurh.

He eliminates any competitor that crosses his path in his relentless quest for wealth, and Moss will need to continuously come up with new strategies to stay one step ahead. On the other hand, Sheriff Ed Tom Bell is tasked with investigating these crimes while grappling with an increasing number of criminal activities in their community.

Raising Arizona (1987)

In a humorous and comical crime film by the Coen brothers, Nicholas Cage portrays H.I.McDonnough and Holly Hunter plays Edwina. Together, they form an iconic on-screen couple, their relationship being one of the most unforgettable in cinema. After tying the knot, it’s revealed that McDonnough and Edwina are unable to conceive a child.

Overwhelmed with the desire to start a family, they resort to an extreme measure: abducting one of the quintuplets born to millionaire furniture magnate, Nathan Arizona. Once they successfully carry out this plan, they go to great lengths to conceal their actions, all while their acquaintances, colleagues, and an unruly bounty hunter harbor alternative schemes to exploit Nathan in some way or another.

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly (1966)

One of Sergio Leone’s most renowned films and box office successes is this thrilling western starring Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, and Eli Wallach in prominent positions. Eastwood portrays Blondie, The Good, a skilled gunman seeking some extra cash, while Van Cleef plays Angel Eyes, The Bad, a ruthless assassin who remains professional as long as he receives payment.

As a cinephile, let me recount my take on this tale: I’m speaking of Wallach, the man who portrayed Taco, The Ugly – an outlaw with a price on his head. My path crossed with Blondie’s, and we uncovered a fortune in gold concealed within our town’s very cemetery! This unexpected friendship set us against Angel Eyes, for he too knew of this hidden treasure but was clueless about its location. Now, all three of us are locked in a race to claim the staggering 200 million dollars’ worth of gold!

Dead Man (1995)

In this rephrased version, Johnny Depp portrays William Blake, a fugitive accountant who has allegedly killed a man. His journey leads him to cross paths with an indigenous American figure named Nobody, who guides him towards spiritual realms. The story unfolds in the late 1880s, and Blake eventually arrives at the frontier settlement of Machine, where he’s expected for work.

Upon discovering he has no job, he’s severely hurt and must flee from three relentless bounty hunters. It’s during this desperate time that he crosses paths with Nobody, who firmly believes that Blake is a reincarnation of the English poet bearing the same name.

The Predator (1987)

This movie, The Predator directed by John McTiernan, presents an unusual take on the bounty hunter genre. It revolves around an extraterrestrial predator who begins stalking a squad of special forces operatives. Commanded by the hardened soldier, Major “Dutch” Schaefer, they are tasked with aiding Colonel Al Dillon in a rescue operation.

It’s possible that some individuals from a downed helicopter could still be alive, hidden within the dense jungles of South America. However, as Dutch and his team start to understand they were misled about their mission, they soon discover that this wasn’t their main concern – instead, they find themselves plunged into a terrifying ordeal.

Ghost Rider (2007)

This story revolves around motorcyclist Johnny Blaze, who strikes a deal with the devil to save his ailing father from terminal cancer. However, the devil tricked him, and tragically, Johnny’s father perished in a motorcycle accident instead.

In a turn of events, Blaze chooses to abandon everyone and everything, including his partner Roxanne, and vanishes for several years. Upon his return, he’s recognized as a renowned motorcycle rider, with dreams of picking up where he left off with Roxanne. However, it’s clear that this town is under a dark curse, and Blaze finds himself contacted by the devil once more. The devil proposes a deal: if Blaze accepts, he’ll be freed from his contract, but only if he transforms into the Ghost Rider to battle and defeat Blackheart, his wicked son.

2025-05-24 00:24