My Heart Was Racing: Top 30 Action & Adventure Shows on Hulu in 2024

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Written By Lori C.

Lori C. writes about movies, TV shows, and the latest updates from the world of entertainment. She studied Film and Television many years ago at university and uses her knowledge to dissect the newest releases. When not in front of a laptop, she wanders around various European cities with a backpack and a little dog.

Are you looking for fast-paced entertainment? Prepare for an epic binge-watching experience with our top picks of heart-pumping action series you can stream right now on Hulu.

From explosive battles to breathtaking escapades, the titles on this list are sure to satisfy your craving for thrills and provide the indulgent escapism you desire. These are IMDb’s picks for the best 25 action and adventure series on Hulu.

Firefly (2002) – 9/10

Adam Baldwin, Nathan Fillion, Ron Glass, Sean Maher, Jewel Staite, Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk, Morena Baccarin, and Summer Glau in Firefly (2002)
Image credit: Fox via IMDb.
  • Creator: Joss Whedon
  • Starring: Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk

Official synopsis: Join Captain Mal Reynolds and his crew aboard the ship Serenity as they navigate the outer fringes of space in this thrilling series. With a diverse team including a war veteran, a pilot, a mercenary, a mechanic, fugitive siblings, a courtesan, and a preacher, they tackle any job that comes their way, legal or illegal. Follow their gripping adventures as they evade The Alliance, with the interplanetary government hot on their trail.

The Shield (2002 – 2008) – 8.7/10

Michael Chiklis in The Shield (2002)
Image credit: FX via IMDb.
  • Creator: Shawn Ryan
  • Starring: Michael Chiklis, Catherine Dent, Walton Goggins

Official synopsis: An inner-city Los Angeles police precinct becomes the backdrop for a group of cops who are ready to break the rules and betray their colleagues to safeguard the streets and their interests. This gripping series explores the complex dynamics within the police force as they confront moral dilemmas while striving to maintain public safety. 

Moving (2023 – ) – 8.6/10

Moving (2023)
Image Credit: Hulu via IMDb.
  • Starring: Kim Seong-gyoon, Han Hyo-joo, Anzu Lawson

Official synopsis: The story revolves around three teenagers harboring hidden superpowers, along with their parents, who have carried deep-seated secrets for generations. As their concealed abilities and long-held truths intersect, they find themselves entangled in significant danger.

Justified (2010 – 2015) – 8.6/10

Louis Herthum, Timothy Olyphant, and Jacob Pitts in Justified (2010), Fugitive Number One
Image credit: Prashant Gupta/Photo Cr: Prashant Gupta/FX Netwo – © 2015 FX Networks.
  • Creator: Graham Yost
  • Starring: Timothy Olyphant, Nick Searcy, Joelle Carter

Official synopsis: U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens brings a unique brand of justice, blending old-fashioned values with a modern-day approach. Reassigned to his hometown, he grapples with his complicated past and confronts both criminals and superiors, showcasing a captivating blend of toughness, gentility, and inner turmoil in the treacherous world of rural Kentucky.

Shoresy (2022) – 8.5/10

Harlan Blayne Kytwayhat, Andrew Antsanen, Jared Keeso, Max Bouffard, and Terry Ryan in Shoresy (2022)
Image credit: Courtesy of Hulu/ HULU – © 2022 Hulu.
  • Creator: Jared Keeso
  • Starring: Jared Keeso, Tasya Teles, Harlan Blayne Kytwayhat 

Official synopsis: A relentless middle-aged man shakes up a senior AAA hockey team in Sudbury. With a sharp tongue, unwavering dedication to his mother, and an unrivaled competitive spirit, Shoresy injects the team with a blend of humor and determination, taking viewers on a wild and one-of-a-kind journey filled with laughter and triumphant moments.

Vikings (2013 – 2020) – 8.5/10

Katheryn Winnick, Travis Fimmel, and Alyssa Sutherland in Vikings (2013)
Image credit: History via IMDb.
  • Creator: Michael Hirst
  • Starring: Katheryn Winnick, Gustaf SkarsgÃ¥rd, Alexander Ludwig

Official synopsis: Through exhilarating battles and unwavering devotion to Norse traditions, Ragnar Lothbrok leads his Viking brothers and family on extraordinary adventures, ultimately fulfilling his destiny as the King of Viking tribes. Ragnar’s tale intertwines myth and history in an epic narrative that will leave you spellbound.

24 (2001 – 2010) – 8.4/10

Kiefer Sutherland in 24 (2001)
Image credit: Fox via IMDb.
  • Creator: Robert Cochran, Joel Surnow
  • Starring: Kiefer Sutherland, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Carlos Bernard

Official synopsis: Join counterterrorism agent Jack Bauer in the heart-stopping series 24 as he fights global threats one day at a time. With each season capturing a single day in Bauer’s life in real-time, brace yourself for non-stop action, suspense, and his unwavering determination to protect the world.

Ash vs Evil Dead (2015 – 2018) – 8.4/10

Ray Santiago in Ash vs Evil Dead (2015)
Image credit: Matt Klitscher/2016 Starz Entertainment, LLC – © 2016 Starz Entertainment, LLC
  • Creators: Ivan Raimi, Sam Raimi, Tom Spezial
  • Starring: Bruce Campbell, Ray Santiago, Dana DeLorenzo

Official synopsis: Groove back into action with Ash vs Evil Dead as our favorite reluctant hero, Ash, picks up his boomstick to fend off a Deadite plague after years of dodging his monster-slaying destiny. Buckle up for a blood-splattered, belly-laughing, epic battle for the fate of mankind.

The Worst of Evil (2023 – ) – 8.4/10

Bibi and Ji Chang-wook in The Worst Evil (2023)
Image credit: Disney+ via IMDb
  • Starring: Ji Chang-wook, Wi Ha-joon, Im She-mi

Official synopsis: In The Worst Evil, Ji Chang-Wook’s Park Jun-Mo takes on the lethal world of narcotics across Asia, risking it all undercover. But when his police officer wife steps into the drug war, their lives intertwine with the enigmatic crime boss Jung Gi-Cheul, ramping up the action and suspense in this edge-of-your-seat crime drama.

Arthdal Chronicles (2019) – 8.3/10

Shin Se-Kyung in Arthdal Chronicles (2019)
Image credit: tvN via IMDb
  • Starring: Jang Dong-Gun, Kim Ok-bin, Sa-Bong Yoon

Official synopsis: Step back into the mythical world of Arthdal Chronicles, where Eun Som’s foretold path of destruction sets him on a collision course with Ta Gon, Arthdal’s most influential warrior, and Tan Ya, his destined equal. Their epic journeys through trials and tribulations promise to reshape the fate of this prosperous yet turbulent land.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997 – 2003) – 8.3/10

Sarah Michelle Gellar in Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997)
Image credit: 2001 20th Century Fox Television.
  • Creator: Joss Whedon
  • Starring:  Sarah Michelle Gellar, Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan

Official synopsis: Enter the supernatural realm of Buffy The Vampire Slayer as Buffy Summers, the chosen one, fights vampires, demons, and the forces of darkness. Brace yourself for a thrilling blend of humor, heroism, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

Prison Break (2005) – 8.3/10

Wentworth Miller, Dominic Purcell, Rick Yune, and Augustus Prew in Prison Break (2005)
Image credit: Didier Baverel – © Didier Baverel_FOX.
  • Creator: Paul T. Scheuring
  • Starring: Dominic Purcell, Wentworth Miller, Amaury Nolasco

Official synopsis: Falsely accused of murder, Lincoln Burrows faces imminent execution while his determined brother, Michael Schofield, hatches an audacious plan to free him. In a high-stakes gamble, Michael orchestrates his incarceration to join Lincoln at Fox River Prison, setting the stage for a thrilling escape from within the walls of confinement.

Impure (2018) – 8.3/10

Raphael Logam in Episode #3.10 (2021)
Image credit: Star+ via IMDb.
  • Creator: Alexandre Fraga
  • Starring: Raphael Logam, Rui Ricardo Diaz, Cyria Coentro

Official synopsis: Impure tells the story of Evandro, whose aspirations of becoming a successful businessman lead him down a path of crime, establishing a formidable criminal empire. Morello, a self-destructive federal police officer, becomes intrigued by Evandro’s business acumen and leadership, considering him a formidable adversary. As these two strategic minds with a shared appetite for danger clash, a gripping pursuit ensues.

Lost (2004) – 8.3/10

Naveen Andrews, Matthew Fox, Jorge Garcia, Yunjin Kim, and Evangeline Lilly in Lost (2004), There’s no place like home
Image credit: ABC via IMDb.
  • Creator: J.J. Abrams, Jeffrey Lieber, Damon Lindelof
  • Starring: Jorge Garcia, Josh Holloway, Yunjin Kim

Official synopsis: Lost follows the survivors of Oceanic Flight 815, who find themselves marooned on a mysterious island, far off their intended course. As they grapple with their secrets, they uncover the island’s ominous security system and hidden bunkers and encounter a menacing group of survivalists.

Legion (2017 – 2019) – 8.2/10

Aubrey Plaza in Legion (2017)
Image credit: 2018, FX Networks.
  • Creator: Noah Hawley
  • Starring: Dan Stevens, Rachel Keller, Aubrey Plaza

Official synopsis: Legion follows the story of David Haller, a troubled young man who grapples with his mental health and a possible extraordinary nature. Diagnosed as schizophrenic, David’s life takes a turn when he meets Syd, a fellow patient who brings new possibilities to light. As he questions the reality of his visions and voices, David embarks on a transformative journey that blurs the lines between what is real and what is not.

Descendants of the Sun (2016) – 8.2/10

Descendants of the Sun (2016) promo
Image credit: KBS2 via IMDb.
  • Creator: Eung Bok Lee
  • Starring: Song Joong-ki, Song Hye-Kyo, Jin Goo

Official synopsis: Descendants of the Sun follows the blossoming love between Captain Yoo Shi Jin of the South Korean Special Forces and Doctor Kang Mo Yeon, a dedicated surgeon. Their romance unfolds amidst tumultuous events in both their homeland and the war-torn fictional country of Urk, creating a captivating narrative of love, duty, and danger.

The Unit (2006 – 2009) – 8.1/10

Still of Scott Foley and Dennis Haysbert in The Unit
Image credit: © Fox Television.
  • Creator: David Mamet
  • Starring: Dennis Haysbert, Regina Taylor, Audrey Marie Anderson

Official synopsis: Get on a thrilling journey with a series about the clandestine operations of a secret US military group. From dangerous missions across the world to life-threatening encounters, this elite team faces high-stakes situations, showcasing the risks they undertake in their dedicated service.

Stargate Atlantis (2004 – 2009) – 8.1/10

David Hewlett in Stargate: Atlantis (2004)
Image credit: © Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc.
  • Creator: Robert C. Cooper, Brad Wright
  • Starring: Joe Flanigan, Rachel Luttrell, David Hewlett

Official synopsis: The discovery of the ancient city of Atlantis in the Pegasus Galaxy sets the stage for a thrilling scientific expedition led by Dr. Elizabeth Weir and Major Sheppard. However, their arrival cuts off communication with Earth and reawakens a formidable enemy, the Wraith. With the aid of local allies like Teyla Emmagan, the Atlantis Team embarks on a quest to unravel the secrets of their new home while engaging in a desperate battle for survival against the relentless Wraith threat.

Burn Notice (2007 – 2013) – 8/10

Jeffrey Donovan and Giovanni Rodriguez in Burn Notice (2007)
Image credit: USA Network – © 2013 USA Network Media, LLC.
  • Creator: Matt Nix
  • Starring: Jeffrey Donovan, Gabrielle Anwar, Bruce Campbell

Official synopsis: U.S. spy Michael Westen finds himself unexpectedly “burned” and stripped of his credentials. To survive, he takes on unconventional missions for desperate individuals in Miami, where his mother resides. Assisted by his resourceful ex-girlfriend Fiona and trusted former FBI informant, Sam, Michael navigates a world of danger and intrigue while seeking to uncover the truth behind his betrayal.

The Rookie (2018 – ) – 8/10

Nathan Fillion, Richard T. Jones, Eric Winter, Melissa O'Neil, and Titus Makin Jr. in The Rookie (2018)
Image Credit: © 2018 American Broadcasting Companies, Inc.
  • Creator: Alexi Hawley
  • Starring: Nathan Fillion, Alyssa Diaz, Richard T. Jones

Official synopsis: The show tracks John Nolan’s journey, a 40-year-old who uproots his small-town life to fulfill his dream of becoming an LAPD officer in Los Angeles. Striving to excel as a “young” cop, he navigates the city’s treacherous, amusing, and unpredictable law enforcement landscape, all the while determined to make the most of his fresh start.

Lights Out (2011) – 8/10

Holt McCallany in Lights Out (2011)
Image Credit: FX via IMDb.
  • Creator: Justin Zackham
  • Starring: Holt McCallany, Stacy Keach, Catherine McCormack

Official synopsis: Following his retirement from the boxing ring, a former heavyweight champion grapples to rediscover his sense of self and identity.

The First Responders (2022 – ) – 7.9/10

Rae-won Kim in The First Responders (2022)
Image Credit: SBS TV via IMDb.
  • Starring: Rae-won Kim, Ho Joon Son, Gong Seung-Yeon

Official synopsis: Tenacious detective Jin Ho Gae masterfully unravels crimes using his sharp instincts, while firefighter Bong Do Jin valiantly aids victims with unwavering courage. Empathetic paramedic Song Seol tends to both physical injuries and emotional wounds. Together, they weave a compelling tale of teamwork, bravery, and compassion.

Angel (1999 – 2004) – 7.9/10

Alexis Denisof, J. August Richards, David Boreanaz, Charisma Carpenter - Season 2 Gallery Still
Image Credit: © 2000 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation.
  • Creators: David Greenwalt, Joss Whedon
  • Starring: David Boreanaz, Charisma Carpenter, Alexis Denisof

Official synopsis: Once known as the vampire Angelus, Angel is now burdened with a human soul, haunted by his dark history. Eager to atone for his past sins, he departs Sunnydale, leaving behind his romance with Buffy Summers. Settling in Los Angeles, he dedicates himself to aiding the oppressed by battling supernatural beings that terrorize them. 

9-1-1 (2018 – ) – 7.9/10

Peter Krause, Aisha Hinds, Brian Maillard, and Oliver Stark in 9-1-1 (2018)
Image Credit: Fox via IMDb.
  • Creators: Brad Falchuk, Tim Minear, Ryan Murphy
  • Starring: Angela Bassett, Peter Krause, Oliver Stark

Official synopsis: The show follows the intense lives of police, paramedics, and firefighters as they confront terrifying situations while balancing their own personal challenges.

The Musketeers (2014 – 2016) – 7.8/10

Hugo Speer, Luke Pasqualino, Tamla Kari, and Howard Charles in The Musketeers (2014)
Image credit: Robert Viglasky – © BBC 2013.
  • Creator: Adrian Hodges
  • Starring: Luke Pasqualino, Tom Burke, Santiago Cabrera

Official synopsis: The Musketeers takes viewers to 17th-century Paris with a fresh spin on the tale of a skilled group of soldiers. Tasked with defending king and country, their thrilling guard duty unfolds in a whirl of danger and intrigue.

Lethal Weapon (2016 – 2019) – 7.8/10

Damon Wayans and Seann William Scott in Lethal Weapon (2016)
Image credit: Fox via IMDb.
  • Creator: Matthew Miller
  • Starring: Damon Wayans, Keesha Sharp, Kevin Rahm

Official synopsis: Lethal Weapon follows Martin Riggs, an ex-Navy SEAL turned LAPD recruit, as he forms an unlikely partnership with seasoned Detective Roger Murtaugh. Together, they take on the city’s most perilous criminals.

Vigilante (2023) – 7.8/10

Nam Joo-hyuk in Vigilante (2023)
Image credit: © GARAGE LAB
  • Starring: Nam Joo-hyuk, Yoo Ji-tae, Lee Jun-hyuk

Official synopsis: By day, Kim Jiyong hits the books at the police academy; come weekend, he’s a hero to the public and a thorn in the side of criminals slipping through legal cracks. Vigilante is a captivating tale of an aspiring cop shadowed by his own heroic deeds and pursued by a dogged investigator determined to unmask him.

Extraordinary (2023) – 7.7/10

Máiréad Tyers in Extraordinary (2023)
Image credit: Natalie Seery/Disney+/ HULU – © 2021 Disney+, Inc.
  • Creator: Emma Moran
  • Starring: Máiréad Tyers, Sofia Oxenham, Bilal Hasna

Official synopsis: Imagine a world where superpowers are the norm—but not for Jen, the focus of Extraordinary, who at 25, is still searching for her special ability. Follow her and her flatmates as they navigate a world of wonders, with Jen feeling just a step behind but never out of hope.

Once Upon a Time (2011 – 2018) – 7.7/10

Ginnifer Goodwin in Once Upon a Time (2011)
Image credit: ABC via IMDb
  • Creator: Adam Horowitz, Edward Kitsis
  • Starring: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jennifer Morrison, Lana Parrilla

Official synopsis: Once Upon a Time is a fantastical series where Emma Swan’s life takes a sharp turn into the extraordinary when she’s drawn to Storybrooke, a town where fairy tales are more than bedtime stories. Classic characters like Snow White and the Evil Queen are locked in a fierce struggle that could obliterate their world and happy endings.

Catch-22 (2019) – 7.7/10

Rafi Gavron, Gerran Howell, Graham Patrick Martin, Austin Stowell, Christopher Abbott, Pico Alexander, and Jon Rudnitsky in Catch-22 (2019)
Image credit: Philipe Antonello – © 2018 Hulu.
  • Creator: Luke Davies, David Michôd
  • Starring: Christopher Abbott, Kyle Chandler, Daniel David Stewart

Official synopsis: Catch-22 drops viewers into the chaotic life of Captain John Yossarian, a WWII bomber stationed on Pianosa Island. Trapped by paradoxical army regulations, Yossarian’s desperate attempts to escape the dangers of war lead him down an unexpected path.

The 20 Best Science Fiction Movies of All Time: Enter a World Beyond Your Imagination

Star Wars A New Hope Lucasfilm LTD
Image Credit: Lucasfilm Ltd.

Get ready to explore galaxies far, far away and other realms beyond your imagination! Whether you’re a sci-fi nerd or just a major cinephile, we know you’re going to love these 20 best science-fiction movies of all time. From space battles to time travel, this list has it all. Grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the greatest sci-fi films in this universe or any other.

The 20 Best Fantasy Movies of All Time: Enter a World Beyond Your Imagination

Lord Of The Rings Fellowship New Line Cinema
Image Credit: New Line Cinema.

Get ready to be enchanted as we explore the realm of fantasy films! Immerse yourself in captivating worlds and epic adventures with my handpicked selection of the 20 greatest fantasy movies ever made. From Middle Earth’s mystical landscapes to The Green Mile’s emotional depths, this list promises to transport you to extraordinary realms.

The 20 Best History Movies of All Time: Relive the Past Through the Magic of Film

Hidden Figures
Image Credit: Hopper Stone/Hopper Stone, SMPSP – © TM & © 2017 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation.

Calling all history buffs and movie lovers! Get ready for a cinematic time travel experience with our top 20 history movies. From Schindler’s List’s powerful Holocaust narrative to the groundbreaking Hamilton musical, these films will immerse you in the most significant moments of human history. Prepare for a historical adventure like no other- and you won’t even need to leave your couch!