Arnold Schwarzenegger: No film star is as internationally synonymous with the action genre as the former Mr. Olympia and current governor of California. Letting his actions speak louder than words, the "Governator" became the undeniable king of action through testosterone-fueled blockbusters that are still considered archetypal within the genre.

Jackie Chan: Action hero, stuntman, choreographing pioneer, comedian - all of these phrases can be applied to one of the reigning kings of kung fu, and the man responsible for renewing international interest in Hong Kong cinema. Known for his acclaimed environment-scaling fight scenes, the ever-resourceful Jackie Chan continues to be one of the most entertaining men to watch at work.

Bruce Lee: Known for his incredible feats of physical prowess, Lee almost single-handedly brought western interest to kung fu and its potential in film. Though his death came all too soon, Lee's commitment to his trade - movies and martial arts - secures him the title of one of the first legitimate action heroes of modern cinema.

Clint Eastwood: Though he's collected enough awards and recognition to supply several actors of his age, Eastwood is best remembered for his roles as a tough-guy and anti-hero. Having slung guns as both a cowboy and police detective in much-favored titles, it's safe to say that "Dirty Harry" has given the action genre some irreplaceable moments.

Jet Li: Often regarded as the greatest movie martial artist since Bruce Lee, Li already ruled the Hong Kong scene by the time he became acquainted with western audiences, whom he proceeded the amaze as well by way of his unparalleled talent of wushu.

Jean-Claude Van Damme: A veteran of the golden era of action films, "the Muscles from Brussels" gained his audience not through acting ability, but by being the best and most exciting martial artist in the western world.

Chuck Norris: Though more iconic nowadays for a running gag and "Walker, Texas Ranger", the founder of Chun Kuk Do mixed patriotism with Asian teachings to craft a slew of cult action flicks still being collected today.

Vin Diesel: The quarterback of the modern scene, Vin Diesel sports not only the size but also the moves to qualify him as a definitive action-heavyweight.

Chow Yun-Fat

Dolph Lundgren: Embodying the role of the tall, muscular European powerhouse, Lundgren failed to maintain the success of many of his peers, but remains a constant player in the direct-to-video realm - consistently supplying action flicks and waiting for his next big break...

Sonny Chiba

Christian Bale

Mark Wahlberg

Toshirô Mifune

Richard Roundtree

Antonio Banderas

Donnie Yen

Don 'The Dragon' Wilson: The king of karate B-movies was The Dragon - a renowned kickboxer who found his niche in the American martial arts craze. Though he never came close to achieving the fame of Norris or Van Damme, his features were a staple part of the '80s action definition.

John Wayne

Tyrone Power