Revenge thrillers are full of suspense and drama, and are bound to both disturb and entertain its viewers. While there are many to choose from, a female-led revenge thriller certainly has different dynamics than those starring a male, and it's time to celebrate some pretty powerful women leads, while still enthralling movie lovers.
For fans of the genre, not all thrilling stories about revenge are critically-acclaimed or hit their audience with a bang. This list is full of flicks bound to keep fans on the edge of their seats and appreciate art at its finest. Here are 10 great female-led revenge thrillers - some popular, and some hidden gems.
Revenge (2017)
This might be a lesser-known film, but it's certainly a hidden gem. Starring Matilda Anna Ingrid Lutz, three middle-aged and wealthy men embark on a hunting trip. One brings along their mistress, and suddenly the tables are turned against her - and she's left for dead in the desert.
The hunting game becomes a manhunt, her for the men. With a powerful and vengeful female lead, she sets out to prove herself against the wealthy and entitled men. This flick is riveting, and is nothing short of memorable.
Lady Vengeance (2005)
This South Korean film is the only international film on the list, but scored a whopping 7.6/10 on IMDb. A woman, after being imprisoned for thirteen years and having her child taken from her, she takes it upon herself to find revenge.
The title of this film is certainly fitting, and this crime thriller is all about a wrongdoing that is met with revenge and action. Plus, this Korean film is fresh and exciting.
Ms. 45 (1981)
This is the oldest film on the list by a long shot, but this underrated film certainly deserves a spot. A mute and shy seamstress (Zoë Lund) is attacked and assaulted in New York City. So, heads to the street and shoots men at random - with a .45 caliber pistol.
This '80s flick might be one of the earliest truly women-led revenge thrillers, and is worth watching for everyone seeking suspense and female strength.
Peppermint (2018)
The newest film on the list, this thriller stars Jennifer Garner. Years after a woman's husband and daughter are killed, she returns from her exiled state for revenge - directed against the murderers and the system that let them off.
This is certainly an interesting role for Garner, and is a fresh and recent flick that is full of thrills and intensity. Of course, there's no shortage of vengeance.
Hard Candy (2005)
This film probably has the least amount of physical violence on the list, but it might also just be the hardest one to watch. Ellen Page is a teenage girl who catfishes an older man (Patrick Wilson), after she suspects that he abducts underage girls.
This flick takes place almost solely in the house of the man, and turns into a wicked game of cat and mouse, and revenge and hate.
The Brave One (2007)
This drama stars the legend Jodie Foster. She plays a woman who is struggling after the assault of her and her fiance, that ended in his death. After coming out of her coma, she sets out for revenge in New York City - leaving blood behind her.
With Terrence Howard and Naveen Andrews, this thriller follows suit with many other popular revenge tales. Of course, it's hard to pass up popular flick with Jodie Foster.
Lucy (2014)
This thriller takes a sci-fi twist, and follows a woman who is taken captive and is transformed into a merciless warrior. However, she turns the tables and seeks revenge on those who captured her.
Starring Scarlett Johansson, this flick also has Morgan Freeman and Analeigh Tipton. A revenge tale with a hint of sci-fi, this movie is packed full of action and an incredible Johansson.
Monster (2003)
This movie is based on the true life story of Aileen Wuornos. Played by Charlize Theron, a prostitute in Daytona Beach tries to get by, but is abused and raped by a potential suitor. After her assault, she carries a gun, and inadvertently becomes a serial killer.
This Osar-winning film has one of Theron's best performances to date, and is a riveting and tragic tale of revenge, love, and power.
Sucker Punch (2011)
This revenge thriller is a bit different than the rest. Directed by Zack Snyder, this fantasy crime flick follows a young woman who is institutionalized by her abusive father following the death of her mother and sister. She dives into an alternate reality, where she is a stripper at a lavish brothel, where she plots her revenge and escape.
With Emily Browning, Vanessa Hudgens, Oscar Isaac, Scott Glen, and Jon Hamm, there's enough action, stunning visuals, and powerful women to entertain all viewers.
Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003)
This film is undoubtedly one of the most popular and legendary female-led thrillers out there. With Uma Thurman, Quentin Tarantino directs this revenge tale. A former assassin is left for dead by her crew, and after awakening from a four year coma, seeks to kill all those who betrayed her.
In a violent and action-packed flick, there is enough to entertain anyone who loves a powerful female lead and devilishly wicked assassin skills. Plus, there's a second part for all who fall in love with it.