Top 13 Action Movies from Pakistan You Must Watch
Pakistan’s film industry, often referred to as Lollywood and the New Wave Cinema, has seen a remarkable transformation in recent years. While dramas and romances have traditionally dominated, action films have also carved out a significant space with gripping narratives, intense fight sequences, and adrenaline-pumping thrills.
From military-based operations to vigilante justice and spy thrillers, Pakistani filmmakers have experimented with different sub-genres of action, delivering some unforgettable cinematic experiences. Below is a curated list of the top 13 action movies from Pakistan that showcase the industry's evolution in this genre.
1. Waar (2013) – The Game-Changer
Director: Bilal Lashari
Starring: Shaan Shahid, Hamza Ali Abbasi, Aisha Khan
Why Watch?
Waar is considered Pakistan’s first big-budget action blockbuster, revolutionizing the industry with Hollywood-style production. The film follows a retired military officer (Shaan Shahid) who returns to combat terrorism. With high-octane action, espionage, and a patriotic theme, Waar became the highest-grossing Pakistani film at the time and set a new standard for action cinema in the country.
2. The Legend of Maula Jatt (2022) – The Epic Reboot
Director: Bilal Lashari
Starring: Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Hamza Ali Abbasi
Why Watch?
A modern retelling of the 1979 cult classic, this film blends brutal action, revenge drama, and stunning cinematography. With bone-crushing fight sequences, powerful dialogues, and stellar performances, The Legend of Maula Jatt became Pakistan’s biggest box office hit and gained international acclaim.
3. Yalghaar (2017) – Military Warfare
Director: Hassan Waqas Rana
Starring: Humayun Saeed, Shaan Shahid, Adnan Siddiqui
Why Watch?
A war film based on Pakistan’s fight against terrorism, Yalghaar features intense combat scenes, tactical operations, and emotional depth. The movie boasts an ensemble cast and is one of the most expensive Pakistani films ever made.
4. Operation 021 (2014) – Spy Thriller
Director: Summer Nicks
Starring: Shaan Shahid, Ayub Khoso, Aamina Sheikh
Why Watch?
A fast-paced espionage thriller involving intelligence agents, betrayals, and high-stakes missions. The film’s gritty action and suspenseful plot make it a standout in Pakistani cinema.
5. Parwaaz Hai Junoon (2018) – Aerial Action
Director: Haseeb Hassan
Starring: Hamza Ali Abbasi, Hania Amir, Ahad Raza Mir
Why Watch?
This film revolves around Pakistan Air Force (PAF) pilots, combining aerial combat, patriotism, and drama. The dogfight sequences and emotional storytelling make it a must-watch for action and aviation enthusiasts.
6. Sherdil (2019) – War & Sacrifice
Director: Azfar Jafri
Starring: Mikaal Zulfiqar, Hassan Niazi, Armeena Khan
Why Watch?
Inspired by real-life PAF heroes, Sherdil is a war-action film with thrilling air battles and emotional depth. The movie pays tribute to Pakistan’s military bravery.
7. Durj (2019) – Dark Crime Thriller
Director: Shamoon Abbasi
Starring: Shamoon Abbasi, Sherry Shah, Maira Khan
Why Watch?
A gritty, violent thriller about cannibalism and crime, Durj is one of Pakistan’s darkest action films. Its raw and brutal fight scenes set it apart from typical Lollywood fare.
8. Project Ghazi (2017) – Pakistan’s First Superhero Film
Director: Nadir Shah
Starring: Humayun Saeed, Sheheryar Munawar, Syra Shahroz
Why Watch?
An ambitious attempt at a Pakistani superhero movie, Project Ghazi features enhanced soldiers, sci-fi action, and futuristic combat. Though it faced production challenges, it remains a bold experiment in Pakistani cinema.
9. Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad (2019) – Action-Comedy
Director: Nabeel Qureshi
Starring: Fahad Mustafa, Mahira Khan
Why Watch?
A vigilante action-comedy, this film mixes social messages with entertaining fight scenes. Fahad Mustafa plays a corrupt cop turned hero, delivering fast-paced action with humor.
10. Karachi Se Lahore (2015) – Action-Adventure Comedy
Director: Wajahat Rauf
Starring: Sheheryar Munawar, Ayesha Omar, Javed Sheikh
Why Watch?
A road-trip comedy with action-packed misadventures, this film offers lighthearted thrills and chaotic chases, making it a fun watch.
11. Saawan (2017) – Survival Action
Director: Farhan Alam
Starring: Syed Karam Abbas, Saleem Mairaj
Why Watch?
A survival thriller set in the harsh mountains of Pakistan, Saawan features intense action, suspense, and emotional struggle.
12. Waar 2 (Upcoming) – The Anticipated Sequel
Director: Bilal Lashari
Starring: Shaan Shahid, Uzma Khan
Why Watch?
The sequel to Pakistan’s biggest action film is highly awaited, promising more espionage, combat, and high-stakes drama.
13. Janaan (2016) – Action-Drama Blend
Director: Azfar Jafri
Starring: Armeena Khan, Bilal Ashraf, Ali Rehman Khan
Why Watch?
While primarily a romantic drama, Janaan includes tribal conflict and action sequences, adding a thrilling edge to its storyline.
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Conclusion: The Rise of Pakistani Action Cinema
Pakistani filmmakers have stepped up their game in the action genre, delivering films that compete with international standards. From military epics (Waar, Yalghaar) to cult reboots (The Legend of Maula Jatt) and experimental superhero films (Project Ghazi), the industry is diversifying its storytelling.
With bigger budgets, better VFX, and stronger scripts, Pakistani action movies are gaining global recognition. If you’re a fan of high-stakes drama, explosive fight scenes, and patriotic themes, these 13 films should be on your must-watch list.
Which of these action movies is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments!