A music video of the song, directed by Jonas Odell, was released online on 7 July and features the band performing in an environment similar to their previous video "Take Me Out" (which was also directed by Odell) as the song's lyrics also appear on the screen.

The lyrics for "Right Action" were inspired by a postcard found by lead singer Alex Kapranos at a London flea market that contained the words "come home, practically all is nearly forgiven".

On 27 June 2013, the official audio track was released on YouTube and made available for digital download.

The song was featured on the soundtrack album for the 2014 romantic drama film Endless Love, starring Alex Pettyfer and Gabriella Wilde.

Live versions taken from Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action deluxe edition bonus disc, recorded at Konk Studios in London.