Netflix action thriller that's 'John Wick meets Taken' dethrones Tom Hardy movie

Netflix fans are hooked on a gripping action thriller that's being dubbed as a 'twisted Taken', and it's even outshone a recent Tom Hardy blockbuster.

Exterritorial hit the streaming giant just days after Hardy's Havoc made its debut. Despite Havoc's swift ascent to the top of Netflix's most-watched movie charts, it has already been toppled.

The film that's pulled off this feat is the German-made Exterritorial. As of now, it's reigning supreme at number one in both the US and UK as the most viewed movie among subscribers, edging out Havoc by a spot in both regions.

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Exterritorial spins the tale of ex-Special Forces soldier Sara, portrayed by Jeanne Goursaud, whose young son mysteriously vanishes during a visit to the US consulate in Frankfurt.

Adding to the intrigue, no one seems to recall him ever setting foot in the building. Sara realises that the German authorities have no power within the consulate, and if she's forced to leave, she may never see her son again. Unaware of a sinister conspiracy brewing around her, Sara plunges deeper into the consulate's maze in a desperate search for her son.

Viewers might recognise Goursaud from her stint in the Netflix series Barbarians. She shares the screen with Scottish actor Dougray Scott, known for his roles in The Crow Girls, X-Men, and as the antagonist in Taken 3, reports .

The film has drawn numerous comparisons to the Liam Neeson-starring franchise due to its premise and action-packed sequences. Movie Web notes: "Netflix continues to deliver exactly what many action movie fans are looking for with its latest foray into the genre, which is streaming on the platform now. Taking its cues from the beloved Liam Neeson-led action thriller Taken, but with more twists and turns."

Similarly, Tom's Guide recommends the film to fans of Taken, stating: "What Exterritorial lacks in narrative surprises, it more than makes up for in its action sequences and tension-building. There's plenty to enjoy in this action-thriller, especially if you're in the mood for a fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping ride."

While one critic acknowledged that the film falls short of cinematic excellence, they still found it entertaining. They commented: "The situations are far-fetched... a ton of plot conveniences are introduced into the storytelling... the arcs get a little too convoluted for their own good... and the ending exposition dump is uninspired. And despite all that, I was still mostly entertained."

Netflix viewers who have watched the film have taken to social media to share their opinions. One user raved: "Wow wow wow. 10000/100. Watch this movie! ! Loved it. It's like a mix of Taken and Extraction but with a female protagonist."

One viewer was pleasantly surprised, sharing: "You ever click on a random movie and then sit there like 'Wait... this is actually GOOD'? That was me with Exterritorial. Totally worth it!"

Meanwhile, another fan took to X, posting: "Just watched Exterritorial on Netflix a gritty German action-thriller packed with raw fight scenes and a fierce performance by Jeanne Goursaud. Think John Wick meets Taken, but with a mother's rage. Plot's a bit familiar, but the action hits hard. Worth it."

Exterritorial is streaming on Netflix.