An action film is a film genre in which, as mentioned by the name, there are many action sequences. The plot is most of the time built around action sequences such as stunts, fights, gun fights car chases, explosions etc...

For many of them, the emphasize is much more put on the action scenes than the scenario. But there may also be other elements in action films, and there may be a mix of genres. In this way, Terminator is both an action, and a science-fiction film. On the other hand, Die hard with Bruce Willis is a typical action film where the plot is only based on the elimination of the villains.

Directing an action films usually needs important funds so as to subsidize the cost of the different explosion, gun fight sequences etc...

Some directors and even actors got specialized in this film genre. Directors like Michael Bay (Rock, Armageddon) or John Woo (Face/Off, Impossible Mission 2) can be quoted. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis Jean-Claude Van Damme or Steven Seagal are emblematic actors of the action genre.