The “Girls with Guns” subgenre features female protagonists in action-packed roles traditionally associated with male characters.
1. La Femme Nikita (1990)
Luc Besson‘s thriller follows a convicted felon turned government assassin.
Why it’s great:
- Anne Parillaud’s powerful lead performance
- Stylish direction and action sequences
- Exploration of identity and morality
2. Kill Bill: Vol. 1 & 2 (2003-2004)
Quentin Tarantino‘s two-part revenge epic stars Uma Thurman as a former assassin seeking vengeance.
Why it’s great:
- Thurman’s iconic performance as The Bride
- Stylized action sequences and cinematography
- Blend of various genres and film homages
3. Aliens (1986)
While not strictly a “girls with guns” film, Sigourney Weaver’s Ellen Ripley is a pioneering action heroine.
Why it’s great:
- Weaver’s powerful, Oscar-nominated performance
- Intense action sequences and creature design
- Blend of sci-fi, horror, and action genres
4. Haywire (2011)
Steven Soderbergh‘s action thriller stars MMA fighter Gina Carano as a black ops operative seeking revenge.
Why it’s great:
- Realistic fight choreography featuring Carano’s MMA skills
- Stylish direction and cinematography
- Strong supporting cast including Ewan McGregor and Michael Fassbender
5. Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)
Geena Davis stars as an amnesiac housewife who discovers she’s a former assassin.
Why it’s great:
- Davis’s versatile performance
- Clever script by Shane Black
- Blend of action and dark humor.
