In this electrifying era of filmmaking, directors, stunt coordinators, and visual effects wizards collaborated to create unforgettable moments of vehicular mayhem.
In the roaring decade that was the 2010s, Hollywood delivered some of the most heart-pounding, adrenaline-fueled car chases ever captured on screen. From sleek sports cars tearing through neon-lit cityscapes to high-speed pursuits on winding mountain roads, the silver screen was ablaze with tire-squealing action.
From the adrenaline-fueled dystopian car chases of "Mad Max: Fury Road" (2015) to the superhero-driven excitement of "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" (2014), these films encapsulate the innovative and diverse spirit of 2010s cinema. During this decade, filmmakers showcased their creativity by pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual effects, captivating audiences around the world.
Here are the 10 best car chase movies of the 2010s.
"Mad Max: Fury Road" (2015) stands as a cinematic tour de force, particularly in its depiction of heart-stopping car chase scenes. Director George Miller's vision catapults viewers into a post-apocalyptic wasteland where survival is contingent upon speed and ruthlessness. The film's car chases are a symphony of chaos and creativity, featuring a fleet of intricately designed vehicles tearing across the desert in a relentless pursuit. Imperator Furiosa's (Charlize Theron) iconic War Rig, a behemoth of armored steel, becomes the focal point of these intense sequences, leading a band of rebel women against the oppressive forces of Immortan Joe (Hugh Keays-Byrne) and his war party.
What sets these car chase scenes apart is their visceral authenticity. George Miller's commitment to practical effects and real stunts is evident in every frame. The vehicles, ranging from the menacing Doof Wagon to the agile Polecat, are not just props but characters with distinct personalities. The stunts, crashes, and explosions were executed live on set, imbuing the scenes with a palpable sense of danger and urgency. The film's choreography is meticulously crafted, showcasing the talents of stunt performers and drivers who brought these high-octane moments to life. Each chase is a carefully orchestrated dance of destruction, seamlessly blending practical effects and visual effects to create a visually stunning and emotionally charged experience.
RELATED: Ranked: Mad Max from Worst to Best
One of the standout car chase scenes in "Fast Five" occurs during a high-stakes heist where the crew must navigate the narrow streets of Rio de Janeiro while towing a massive vault behind their cars. This sequence is a masterstroke of practical effects, featuring real cars and a practical vault that was dragged through the city streets, creating a palpable sense of weight and momentum. The meticulous planning and execution of this scene are evident in every twist and turn, making it one of the most memorable car chases in cinematic history. The intensity of the chase is heightened by the film's expert editing, allowing the audience to feel the rush of wind and the adrenaline-fueled tension as the cars weave through the urban landscape.
Additionally, "Fast Five" introduced the concept of heist-driven car chases, elevating the franchise to new heights. The film's car chase scenes are not merely action set-pieces but intricately crafted narratives within the larger plot. They showcase the characters' resourcefulness, teamwork, and expertise, turning the chase sequences into dynamic character-driven moments. The film's ability to balance heart-pounding action with character development and storytelling is what makes its car chase scenes truly exceptional, leaving a lasting impression on fans and solidifying its status as a standout entry in the action genre.
RELATED: Best to Worst: 11 Fast & Furious Movies Ranked
What sets the car chase scenes in "Drive" apart is their realism and understated elegance. The film embraces a more subtle approach to action, allowing the tension to build organically. The chase sequences are characterized by their precision and strategic maneuvering rather than over-the-top explosions or flashy stunts. The minimal dialogue and atmospheric music further heighten the suspense, making the audience feel every twist and turn on a visceral level.
One of the film's standout car chases occurs in the iconic Los Angeles River scene. The Driver skillfully navigates through the concrete channels, expertly outmaneuvering his pursuers. The sequence is marked by its raw intensity, with the confined space of the river adding an extra layer of tension. The minimalistic yet high-impact approach to this chase scene showcases the Driver's exceptional driving skills, emphasizing his calm demeanor under pressure and making the scene a standout moment in the film.
One of the film's notable car chase scenes occurs when the protagonists find themselves pursued by law enforcement after a heist. The chase weaves through the narrow, labyrinthine streets of Boston, highlighting the robbers' desperate attempts to evade capture. The scene stands out for its raw energy and heart-pounding suspense, as the criminals employ daring maneuvers to outwit their pursuers. The use of practical effects and realistic stunt work adds a visceral quality to the chase, immersing the audience in the adrenaline-fueled pursuit.
What makes the car chase scenes in "The Town" particularly impactful is their role in emphasizing the high-stakes nature of the characters' criminal activities. The tension is palpable as the robbers navigate the cityscape, showcasing their resourcefulness and determination to escape the law. The chase sequences are not just action set-pieces; they serve as pivotal moments that shape the characters' fates and test their mettle under pressure.
One of the standout car chase scenes in "John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum" occurs early in the film when John Wick (Keanu Reeves) finds himself pursued by motorcycle-riding assassins through the bustling streets of New York City. What sets this chase apart is its seamless integration of hand-to-hand combat, gunplay, and vehicular maneuvers. John Wick's impeccable driving skills are on full display as he expertly maneuvers his car through narrow alleys and crowded thoroughfares, all while engaging in intense firefights with his assailants. The scene is a symphony of chaos, with the choreography and editing creating a harmonious blend of fast-paced action and precise driving.
Another notable car chase takes place in the Moroccan desert, where John Wick engages in a high-speed pursuit aboard a motorcycle. The vast, arid landscape provides a visually striking backdrop for the chase, highlighting the film's international scope and diverse set pieces. The motorcycle chase showcases John Wick's agility and resourcefulness as he navigates treacherous terrain, adding an extra layer of excitement to the sequence.
One of the film's standout car chase scenes occurs in the bustling streets of Casablanca, Morocco. Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team engage in a high-stakes pursuit, weaving through the crowded marketplaces and narrow alleys of the city. What makes this chase remarkable is its choreography, seamlessly blending intense vehicular action with close-quarters combat. The scene is a testament to the film's practical effects and meticulous planning, as real cars navigate the chaotic urban environment, creating a palpable sense of urgency and danger. Tom Cruise's commitment to performing his own stunts adds a genuine, visceral quality to the chase, emphasizing the film's dedication to realism.
Another notable car chase takes place on the highways of Morocco, featuring a thrilling pursuit between Ethan Hunt and the enigmatic Ilsa Faust (Rebecca Ferguson). The chase unfolds at breakneck speed, with both characters showcasing their driving skills and resourcefulness. The sequence is marked by its dynamic camera work, capturing the adrenaline-fueled action from various angles and intensifying the audience's immersion. The use of practical effects, real vehicles, and expertly executed stunts creates a visually stunning and emotionally charged experience, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
One of the film's notable car chase sequences occurs early in the story when Captain America (Chris Evans) and Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) find themselves pursued by assassins. The chase unfolds on the busy streets of Washington, D.C., with the heroes attempting to evade their well-armed pursuers. What makes this scene remarkable is its blend of hand-to-hand combat, acrobatics, and high-speed driving. The choreography and precision driving create a seamless flow between the intense action and the vehicular pursuit, highlighting the characters' teamwork and resourcefulness. The scene's dynamic camera work captures the adrenaline-fueled chase from various angles, immersing the audience in the heart-pounding excitement.
Additionally, the film features a thrilling car chase involving Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson), the director of S.H.I.E.L.D. Fury finds himself under attack, leading to a high-stakes pursuit through the streets of Washington, D.C. The sequence is marked by its intense pacing, as Fury's armored SUV becomes the target of relentless gunfire and explosive attacks. The use of practical effects, combined with visual effects enhancements, creates a visually striking and emotionally charged experience. The chase showcases Fury's resilience and strategic thinking as he navigates the urban landscape, adding depth to his character while delivering a pulse-pounding action sequence.
One of the film's pivotal car chase scenes occurs when Louis Bloom, equipped with a police radio scanner, races to a crime scene before the authorities arrive. This scene is notable for its suspenseful tone and the unorthodox approach to traditional car chases. Rather than engaging in high-speed pursuits, Louis navigates the city's streets with calculated precision, avoiding attention and blending in with other vehicles. The tension in this sequence arises from Louis' manipulative and cunning behavior, as he manipulates the situation to his advantage, showcasing his opportunistic and morally ambiguous character.
Another significant car-related moment in the film takes place when Louis manipulates a car accident to capture graphic footage for the news. This scene highlights his cold, calculated approach and lack of empathy, as he exploits human tragedy for personal gain. While not a traditional car chase, this sequence underscores the film's exploration of ethical boundaries and the ruthless pursuit of sensationalism in the media industry.
One of the film's standout car chase scenes occurs early in the story when Bane (Tom Hardy) and his mercenaries hijack the Tumbler. The chase unfolds through the chaotic streets of Gotham City, with the Tumbler pursued by the police and Batman (Christian Bale) attempting to stop Bane's plans. The scene is characterized by its high-speed maneuvers, explosive action, and impressive practical effects. The Tumbler's powerful engine roars as it races through the city, crashing through obstacles and showcasing Batman's determination to maintain order. The use of practical effects and stunt work adds a visceral quality to the chase, immersing the audience in the heart-pounding excitement of the pursuit.
Another notable car-related sequence takes place during the film's climax when Batman, now joined by Catwoman (Anne Hathaway) and the Batpod (Batman's motorcycle), engages in a pursuit against Bane's army of armed vehicles. The Batpod, with its sleek design and incredible agility, weaves through the streets of Gotham in a high-stakes chase, showcasing Batman's strategic skills and Catwoman's acrobatic finesse. The sequence's dynamic camerawork and expert choreography capture the intensity of the chase, making it a visually exhilarating experience for viewers.
The car chase takes place during a high-stakes pursuit through the narrow and bustling streets of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar. Bond, driving the sleek Aston Martin DB5, is pursued by Raoul Silva's (Javier Bardem) henchmen. The scene is marked by its high-speed maneuvers, precise driving, and the seamless integration of practical effects. Bond expertly navigates through the crowded market, employing clever gadgets and strategic moves to evade his pursuers. The chase culminates in a series of heart-stopping moments, with the Aston Martin showcasing its impressive performance capabilities, leaving a trail of chaos in its wake.
What makes this car chase sequence in "Skyfall" exceptional is its attention to detail and the seamless fusion of traditional practical effects with modern visual effects. The scene captures the essence of classic Bond car chases while incorporating innovative techniques to enhance the overall impact. The cinematography and editing work in tandem to create a sense of urgency and excitement, allowing the audience to feel every twist and turn of the chase. Daniel Craig's portrayal of Bond adds depth to the character, emphasizing his determination and resourcefulness, making the sequence a defining moment in the film.
RELATED: 2000s Movies: Top 10 Car Chase Scenes (New Heights)
| Rank | Company | Country |
|---|---|---|
| #1 |  Volkswagen |
Germany |
| #2 |  Toyota |
Japan |
| #3 |  Stellantis |
Netherlands |
| #4 |  Mercedes-Benz Group |
Germany |
| #5 |  Ford Motor |
United States |
| Rank | Company | Country |
|---|---|---|
| #1 |  Michelin |
France |
| #2 |  Bridgestone |
Japan |
| #3 |  Continental |
Germany |
| #4 |  Goodyear |
United States |
| #5 |  Sumitomo |
Japan |
