Ever since Hulk Hogan’s unsuccessful foray into the film industry, professional wrestlers have gradually attempted to transition to Hollywood. John Cena followed this path in the mid-2000s, evolving into one of the prominent action heroes, including his role as the titular superhero in HBO’s “Peacemaker.” Over two decades, he has established himself as a quick-witted, enthusiastic hero type and arguably stands as the best actor to transition from the wrestling ring to the silver screen. Cena began his acting career with “The Marine,” a franchise he likely didn’t realize he was launching at the time.

Currently, Cena is recognized for his roles in major franchises like the DC Universe and “The Fast and the Furious,” portraying Jakob Toretto. Surprisingly, “The Marine” also initiated its own movie franchise. In the initial film, Cena portrayed a U.S. Marine returning home from Iraq, only to encounter trouble. Produced by World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), “The Marine” featured Robert Patrick (who later teamed up with Cena in “Peacemaker”) and revealed Cena’s acting prowess beyond mere physical strength. However, it did not become his foundational franchise, as Cena did not reprise his role in its sequels.

Since its 2005 premiere, “The Marine” has spawned five sequels, none of which include John Cena. While many might not be aware of their existence, WWE fans likely remember them for their exaggerated action and for casting other WWE wrestlers.

In “The Marine,” John Cena portrays John Triton, a serviceman who returns from Iraq to discover his wife (Kelly Carlson) has been kidnapped by thugs. Although initially not meant for Cena, “The Marine” has five sequels that follow a similar narrative, each centering on a former Marine confronting a gang of villains upon returning home. Produced by WWE, the series primarily serves as a platform to pave the way for other wrestlers to venture into Hollywood.

“The Marine 2” replaced Cena with WWE star Ted DiBiase Jr., who plays U.S. Marine Joe Linwood, also returning from active duty to rescue his kidnapped wife. “The Marine 3: Homefront” repeated this theme with Mike “The Miz” Mizanin as Jake Carter, who returns from war to save his abducted sister. Mizanin reprises his role in “The Marine 4: Moving Target,” deviating by having him protect a whistleblower with sensitive information, featuring another wrestler, Summer Rae, as one of the antagonists.

Mizanin returned again in “The Marine 5: Battleground” and “The Marine 6: Close Quarters,” the latter starring WWE legends Shawn Michaels and Becky Lynch. None of the “Marine” films are acclaimed for their quality, but for those seeking wrestlers engaged in action-packed sequences, it’s an enjoyable film series.