15 movies where we see super cops in action

We all know how Hollywood is intrigued by cop movies, especially ones in which the cop saves the day. Cop movies have become a genre in Hollywood. Numerous such movies are churned out year after year that are packed with action scenes. After researching, we have curated a list of top movies where we see super cops in action, from movies like Serpico, which revolves around gritty realism, to the head-spinning narrative of The Departed. These movies are filled with adrenaline rush, intellect, and a good storyline. So, let us dive into it.

1) Die Hard

This cop movie is often recognized as one of the best action movies by the viewers. The movie revolves around the NYPD officer John McClane, whose visit to his wife turns upside down. When faced with challenges while tackling the group of terrorists, John McClane’s wit and skilled use of weapons eventually save the day. This movie is also noted as a Christmas movie for its theme around Christmas.

2) Rush Hour

When the Chinese Consul General’s daughter is kidnapped, the Hong Kong cop, Lee, comes to the rescue. This movie is filled with humorous banter between Lee and Carter, who has to team up to save the kidnapped daughter. Lee’s discipline clashes with Carter’s impulsive nature. However, they finally join hands to pull off their mission successfully. This movie is filled with action-packed scenes and thrilling car chases.

3) Dirty Harry

San Fransisco Police Detective Harry Callahan is known for his unorthodox methods in his field. So, when a psychopathic killer terrorizes the city, Harry is forced to work outside the law. He implements violent interrogation techniques which are disapproved by his superiors. Harry pursues the killer, frustrated by the legal system. Packed with a suspenseful plot and intense action, Harry finally confronts the killer, and the movie ends, proving Harry’s capabilities as a cop.

4) Heat

This 1995 American Crime thriller movie has Al Pacino as a supercop. He comes face to face with the intelligent Neil McCauley, played by Robert De Niro, who is planning a big heist with his highly skilled techniques. Unlike some movies, Heat delves into the psychological toll caused to both of these men while each is intensely involved in the game of chase. The intense action sequences are what differentiates Heat from other movies. Lieutenant Vincent Hana is finally able to corner McCauley, bringing an end to the chase.

5) Lethal Weapon

Richard Donner’s movie Lethal Weapon puts two polar opposite characters in a team who initially clash, filled with witty banter, these two eventually develop a bond. Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh join hands to uncover a conspiracy of a massive drug smuggling ring. The movie is filled with intense action set pieces. There is humor and unpredictability throughout the film, making it one of the best super cop movies according to the viewers.

6) LA Confidential

This movie is well known to be one of the best cop movies in Hollywood. Three cops join hands to uncover the truth about the murders going on. Edmund Exley, Wendell White, and Jack Vincennes become entangled in a web of corruption. They unveil the conspiracy going on, which also divulges the truth about their own police department. The movie challenges the audience’s assumption about justice and the question of right and wrong.

7) Internal Affairs

Internal Affairs delves into the life of an honest detective, Raymond Avila, who investigates the murky world of police corruption in Los Angeles. As Raymond investigates, he uncovers the truth about a fellow police officer, Peck’s, involvement in drug trafficking. The encounter between Raymond and Peck in the elevator is tense and claustrophobic. It brings out the depth of the movie. The action scenes are not frequent. However, the gripping suspense and the thrilling plot make it one of the best cop movies.

8) Fargo

This Coen Brother movie revolves around the pregnant cop, Marge Gunderson. She is tasked to solve the case of kidnapping. This is a high-octane thriller movie packed with dark humor. The wood-chipper scene leaves a lasting impact on the viewers. Through various unexpected twists and turns, police Chief Marge Gunderson can finally come out victorious. This character-driven movie is a great choice for cop movie lovers.

9) The French Connection

The French Connection won several accolades, including The Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Film Editing. Jimmy Doyle and Buddy Russo join hands in investigating the smuggling ring operating out of France. This movie’s thrilling car chase scenes and action-packed sequences have made cinematic history. Doyle is known for being a force of nature. This movie brings out Doyle’s super cop instincts in solving mysteries and embodying a legendary figure.

10) Hot Fuzz

In Hot Fuzz, Nicolas Angel, known for his exceptional performance, is reassigned to a village where he uncovers some treacherous truths. His supercop-like capabilities help him with the investigation. Angel is skilled in martial arts which is proved during the hand-to-hand combat scenes of the movie. The action scenes are packed throughout the film and keep the viewers entertained. According to the viewers, Hot Fuzz is a seamless blend of all the required combinations for a super cop movie.

11) End Of Watch

Brian Taylor and Mike Zavala are highly trained and skilled young officers whose lives take a turn after their encounter with the Mexican Cartel. Taylor possesses exceptional marksmanship and combat skills, while Mike is a former MMA fighter. These two join hands in this action-packed movie. Though it does not have a happy ending, this movie delves into the more realistic side of the world. This movie has received several accolades and is well-appraised by the viewers for its gritty realism.

12) American Gangster

The movie delves into the real life of Frank Lucas. In this biographical movie, Detective Richie Roberts infiltrates the drug kingpin's inner circle. He uses his tactical skills to bring down his drug empire. Richie Roberts is known for his sharp intellect, and his commitment to bringing down Lucas shows unwavering integrity. The narrative of the movie is gripping. Filled with action scenes, this movie is enjoyed by cop movie lovers all over the world.

13) Training Day

This movie is a different one from the rest of the cop movies on the list. As the rookie cop Jake Hoyt undergoes training with Alonzo Harris, he faces numerous challenges. The movie delves into the themes of morality and corruption. The viewers are left with questions regarding the true meaning of justice at the end of the movie. The fact that this movie has received several accolades proves the quality and powerful performance of the actors.

14) The Departed

The Departed is a chilling exploration of the psychology that works behind the minds of the two undercover agents. The undercover agent Billie infiltrates the mob. On the other hand, Colin Sullivan is a mole who is working for the mob. Colin transfers vital information to the mob. Betrayal is one of the primary themes of the movie. The thin line between good and evil constantly blurs throughout the movie, proving its popularity as one of the best cop movies among the fans.

15) Serpico

Even after becoming a victim of an attempted assassination, Fran Serpico maintains his integrity as a cop. He fights against the corruption within the department. He is ostracized and outcasted because he reports the corruption of his superiors. He upholds his ethical standards, which makes him a super cop. He is forever vigilant about the corrupting influences around him and remembers the importance of public trust. This movie upholds a complex issue, signifying the importance of law enforcement officers' integrity.