When an action film needs to let the audience know what gear the good or bad guys have in the arsenal, they turn to the epic cinematic tool that is the “gearing up” montage.
Also known as a “lock and load” montage, the idea is to get the audience pumped up in the seats for the action sequences that are coming their way.
Check out our list of awesome “gearing up” montages from action movies
1. Commando
When on a mission to recuse his kidnapped teenage daughter from the bad guys, nothing said ’80s action movie like this epic gearing up montage with Ahhnold.
That camouflage paint will allow you to blend into any environment … in the broad day light.
2. The Batman movies
Producers love showing the caped crusader gear up against DC’s most villainous characters — even adding in a few butt and crotch shots.
3. Hot Fuzz
After a motivated cop relocates to a dull town where a murder hasn’t been committed in over 20-years, he’s bound to uncover something. But when he stumbles upon the town’s dark secret, he uses some big guns from the fully stocked arsenal to save the day.
4. Raw Deal
Of course Arnold made this list twice.
5. Loaded Weapon 1
If you haven’t seen this hilarious early ’90s spoof, you’re totally missing out.
He put on a pearl necklace. That’s classic.
6. Rambo: First Blood Part II
Tying the laces of your boots never looked so tough.
7. Hot Shots: Part Deux
The ultimate Rambo spoof.
