New York City, with its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, has always been a perfect backdrop for action-packed films. This collection showcases ten thrilling movies where the city plays a pivotal role, offering viewers not just high-octane action but also a vivid portrayal of one of the world's most dynamic urban landscapes. Whether you're a fan of classic shootouts, modern-day heroes, or gritty urban warfare, these films will take you on an unforgettable ride through the Big Apple.

Der Mann, der niemals aufgab (1971)
Beschreibung: This classic cop thriller features one of the most famous car chases in film history, set in the gritty streets of New York, showcasing the city's raw urban environment.
Fakt: The famous car chase was filmed without permits, making it one of the most authentic and dangerous sequences ever shot. Also, the film's director, William Friedkin, used real-life undercover cops to ensure the film's realism.


Der Pate (1972)
Beschreibung: Although known for its drama, The Godfather has several action sequences, including the iconic assassination scenes, set against the backdrop of New York's Little Italy.
Fakt: The film was shot in New York City, with many scenes filmed on location in Little Italy. Also, Marlon Brando famously stuffed his cheeks with cotton to achieve the look of Vito Corleone.


Taxi Driver (1976)
Beschreibung: While not a traditional action film, Taxi Driver captures the gritty essence of New York City through the eyes of Travis Bickle, a Vietnam vet turned taxi driver, whose descent into madness culminates in a violent climax. Its portrayal of urban decay and vigilante justice makes it a unique entry in this list.
Fakt: Robert De Niro prepared for his role by working as a real taxi driver in New York for several weeks. Also, the film's famous "You talkin' to me?" scene was improvised by De Niro.


Escape from New York (1981)
Beschreibung: In this dystopian action film, New York City has become a maximum security prison, and Snake Plissken must rescue the President. The film's unique setting and action-packed plot make it a standout.
Fakt: The film was shot in St. Louis, Missouri, due to budget constraints, but it was set in New York. Also, Kurt Russell's character, Snake Plissken, became an iconic figure in action cinema.


Die Hard (1988)
Beschreibung: Although set in Los Angeles, the film's sequel, "Die Hard: With a Vengeance," brings the action to New York, making it an honorary mention for its iconic scenes and the character's return to the city.
Fakt: The film's famous scene where McClane jumps off the roof with a fire hose was inspired by a real-life incident where a man escaped a burning building in a similar manner. Also, Bruce Willis was initially reluctant to do the film, but it became a defining role in his career.


Die Hard: Jetzt erst recht (1995)
Beschreibung: In this third installment of the Die Hard series, John McClane teams up with a Harlem shopkeeper to stop a mad bomber from destroying New York. The film's intense action sequences and iconic scenes like the taxi chase through Harlem make it a must-watch for action fans.
Fakt: The famous scene where McClane and Zeus jump over a bridge was filmed on the George Washington Bridge. Also, the film was originally planned as a standalone movie without Bruce Willis, but due to its success, it was incorporated into the Die Hard franchise.


Der Tag, an dem die Welt unterging (1998)
Beschreibung: While the action takes place in space, the film starts with a meteor shower hitting New York, leading to a thrilling rescue mission to save Earth.
Fakt: The film's opening scene, where a meteor hits New York, was shot using a combination of miniatures and CGI, with some scenes filmed on location in New York.


Der Tag, an dem die Erde stillstand (2004)
Beschreibung: Although primarily a disaster movie, this film features intense action sequences as New York City faces a sudden and catastrophic climate change. The survival of characters amidst the chaos of a frozen city adds to the action-packed narrative.
Fakt: The film used over 500,000 gallons of water to simulate the flood scenes in New York. Also, the library scene where the characters burn books for warmth was inspired by a real event during the 1997 Red River Flood in Grand Forks, North Dakota.


Der Wolf von Wall Street (2013)
Beschreibung: This biographical black comedy film, while focusing on the excesses of Wall Street, includes several high-energy scenes of chaos and pursuit, making it an action-packed watch with a New York setting.
Fakt: The film was shot in New York, with many scenes filmed in actual locations like the former Stratton Oakmont office. Also, Leonardo DiCaprio improvised many of his lines, adding to the film's raw energy.


Der König von Staten Island (2020)
Beschreibung: While not an action film in the traditional sense, this comedy-drama by Pete Davidson includes elements of action and adventure as the protagonist navigates life in post-9/11 New York, dealing with personal and societal issues.
Fakt: Pete Davidson co-wrote the screenplay, drawing heavily from his own life experiences. The film was also one of the first major releases to hit theaters after the initial wave of the COVID-19 lockdowns.
