St. Petersburg, with its rich history and stunning architecture, provides a unique backdrop for action-packed films. This collection of ten action movies not only showcases the city's beauty but also its potential for high-octane drama and suspense. Whether you're a fan of car chases, espionage, or just love seeing the Hermitage in a new light, these films offer a thrilling cinematic journey through one of Russia's most iconic cities.

The Russia House (1990)
Description: While more of a spy thriller, this film uses St. Petersburg's atmosphere to enhance its espionage narrative.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by John le Carré, who was known for his detailed and realistic portrayals of the spy world.


GoldenEye (1995)
Description: James Bond's adventures take him to St. Petersburg in this classic 007 film. The city's landmarks, including the Winter Palace, are used to great effect in the film's action sequences.
Fact: The film's opening sequence was shot at the Nene Valley Railway in England, but the chase scenes were filmed in St. Petersburg.


The Peacemaker (1997)
Description: This film features a nuclear terrorist plot with scenes set in St. Petersburg, highlighting the city's role in international intrigue.
Fact: The film's title was inspired by a poem by Rudyard Kipling.


The Saint (1997)
Description: This film features a master of disguise, Simon Templar, who finds himself in St. Petersburg for a heist. The city's grandeur adds to the film's allure, making it a perfect fit for this list.
Fact: The film was one of the first major Hollywood productions to shoot extensively in St. Petersburg after the fall of the Soviet Union.


The Saint (1997)
Description: This film features a master of disguise, Simon Templar, who finds himself in St. Petersburg for a heist. The city's grandeur adds to the film's allure, making it a perfect fit for this list.
Fact: The film was one of the first major Hollywood productions to shoot extensively in St. Petersburg after the fall of the Soviet Union.


The Sum of All Fears (2002)
Description: Although the film's plot revolves around a nuclear threat, St. Petersburg's setting adds a layer of Cold War tension to the narrative.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use digital compositing to integrate real locations with CGI effects.


The Bourne Supremacy (2004)
Description: Jason Bourne's quest for identity leads him to Moscow and St. Petersburg, where the city's modern and historical elements are juxtaposed in thrilling chase scenes.
Fact: The film's car chase through Moscow was actually filmed in Berlin, but St. Petersburg's scenes were shot on location.


The Darkest Hour (2011)
Description: Although primarily set in Moscow, the film includes scenes in St. Petersburg, showcasing the city's beauty amidst an alien invasion.
Fact: The film was shot in 3D, making it one of the first Russian-American co-productions to use this technology.


Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol (2011)
Description: While not exclusively set in St. Petersburg, the city plays a crucial role in the film's plot, with Ethan Hunt navigating its streets and landmarks.
Fact: The Kremlin scenes were filmed in Toronto, but the exterior shots of St. Petersburg were real.


The Jackal (1997)
Description: This action thriller features an assassin known as The Jackal, with scenes set in St. Petersburg, adding to the film's global chase.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life assassin Carlos the Jackal.
