17+ Best Movies About Crime and Gangsters (Top Picks)

Crime and gangster movies have always captivated audiences with their thrilling narratives, complex characters, and intense action sequences.

These films look into the dark underbelly of society, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of a life of crime.

Crime and gangster films have been a staple of cinema for decades, offering gritty tales of ambition, power, and downfall. Here’s a list of some of the best movies in this genre:

The Godfather (1972) – The epic tale of the Corleone mafia family.

Goodfellas (1990) – A mobster’s rise and fall in the mafia hierarchy.

Scarface (1983) – A Cuban immigrant’s violent rise in the drug trade.

Pulp Fiction (1994) – Interwoven crime stories in Tarantino’s unique style.

The Departed (2006) – Undercover agents in the Irish mob and the police.

Casino (1995) – The mafia’s influence in Las Vegas casinos.

Heat (1995) – A detective and a thief face off in Los Angeles.

The Untouchables (1987) – Federal agents try to bring down Al Capone.

Donnie Brasco (1997) – An FBI agent infiltrates the mafia.

Reservoir Dogs (1992) – The aftermath of a heist gone wrong.

A Bronx Tale (1993) – A boy grows up in a mob-controlled neighborhood.

Once Upon a Time in America (1984) – Jewish gangsters in New York’s Lower East Side.

Miller’s Crossing (1990) – Power struggles between crime bosses.

American Gangster (2007) – The rise of a heroin kingpin in Harlem.

The Usual Suspects (1995) – Criminals unite for a heist with a twist.

Eastern Promises (2007) – A midwife uncovers Russian mafia secrets in London.

Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998) – Small-time crooks get in over their heads.

Gangs of New York (2002) – Gang wars in 1860s New York.

These films span different eras and settings, but they all delve into the dark and often violent world of organized crime, offering viewers a mix of drama, action, and moral quandaries.

From classic masterpieces to modern gems, we look deeper into some of the best movies about crime and gangsters.

Table of Contents

The Godfather (1972)

Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, “The Godfather” is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.

This epic crime drama follows the Corleone family, an Italian-American mafia dynasty, as they navigate the world of organized crime.

With its iconic performances by Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, “The Godfather” explores themes of family, honor, and the corrupting influence of power.

Goodfellas (1990)

Based on the true story of Henry Hill, “Goodfellas” is a gritty and fast-paced film directed by Martin Scorsese.

The movie chronicles Hill’s rise through the ranks of the Italian-American mob in New York City.

With its stylish direction, memorable performances by Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, and a screenplay that perfectly balances humor and violence, “Goodfellas” is a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

Scarface (1983)

“Scarface,” directed by Brian De Palma, tells the story of Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant who becomes a powerful drug lord in Miami.

Al Pacino delivers a mesmerizing performance as Montana, portraying his transformation from a small-time criminal to a ruthless kingpin.

The film’s iconic quotes and intense action sequences have made it a cult classic among crime movie enthusiasts.

Heat (1995)

Directed by Michael Mann, “Heat” is a gripping crime thriller that explores the lives of a professional thief and a dedicated detective on their collision course.

Starring Robert De Niro and Al Pacino, the film is known for its realistic portrayal of heists and its intense cat-and-mouse game between the two lead characters.

“Heat” is a masterclass in tension and character development.

Pulp Fiction (1994)

Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction” is a genre-defying film that weaves together multiple interconnected stories involving crime and gangsters.

With its nonlinear narrative, sharp dialogue, and memorable characters, the movie has become a cultural phenomenon.

“Pulp Fiction” showcases Tarantino’s unique storytelling style and his ability to create unforgettable moments on screen.

The Departed (2006)

Directed by Martin Scorsese, “The Departed” is a gripping crime drama set in Boston.

The film follows an undercover cop who infiltrates an Irish gang while a mole in the police force works to uncover his identity.

With its stellar ensemble cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson, “The Departed” keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its twists and turns.

City of God (2002)

“City of God,” directed by Fernando Meirelles, takes place in the violent slums of Rio de Janeiro.

The film follows the lives of two young boys, Rocket and Lil Zé, as they navigate the dangerous world of drug trafficking and gang warfare.

With its kinetic energy, stunning cinematography, and powerful performances by non-professional actors, “City of God” offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of life in the favelas.

Training Day (2001)

“Training Day,” directed by Antoine Fuqua, is a gritty crime thriller that explores corruption within the Los Angeles Police Department.

Denzel Washington delivers an Oscar-winning performance as a rogue detective who takes a rookie cop, played by Ethan Hawke, on a day-long journey through the city’s criminal underworld.

The film’s intense atmosphere and Washington’s captivating portrayal make “Training Day” a standout in the genre.

Once Upon a Time in America (1984)

Sergio Leone’s “Once Upon a Time in America” is an epic crime drama that spans several decades in the lives of a group of Jewish gangsters in New York City.

With its sprawling narrative, stunning cinematography, and haunting score by Ennio Morricone, the film explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the American Dream.

“Once Upon a Time in America” is a masterpiece that demands multiple viewings to fully appreciate its intricacies.

Reservoir Dogs (1992)

Quentin Tarantino’s directorial debut, “Reservoir Dogs,” is a stylish and violent film that follows a group of criminals after a failed diamond heist.

Known for its nonlinear storytelling, sharp dialogue, and memorable characters, the movie established Tarantino as a visionary filmmaker.

“Reservoir Dogs” is a cult classic that showcases Tarantino’s unique blend of dark humor and visceral violence.

FAQs – Best Movies About Crime and Gangsters

1. What are some must-watch crime movies?

Some must-watch crime movies include “The Godfather,” “Goodfellas,” “Scarface,” “Heat,” and “Pulp Fiction.”

2. Are there any crime movies based on true stories?

Yes, there are several crime movies based on true stories, such as “Goodfellas,” “City of God,” and “Once Upon a Time in America.”

3. Who are some iconic gangster characters in movies?

Iconic gangster characters in movies include Vito Corleone from “The Godfather,” Tony Montana from “Scarface,” and Henry Hill from “Goodfellas.”

4. What makes a great crime movie?

A great crime movie often has a compelling narrative, well-developed characters, and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of a life of crime.

It should also have strong performances, stylish direction, and memorable dialogue.

5. Are there any crime movies with female protagonists?

Yes, there are crime movies with female protagonists, such as “Foxy Brown,” “Kill Bill,” and “Gone Girl.”

6. What are some crime movies from different countries?

Some crime movies from different countries include “City of God” (Brazil), “Infernal Affairs” (Hong Kong), and “A Prophet” (France).

7. Are there any crime movies that focus on heists?

Yes, there are crime movies that focus on heists, such as “Heat,” “Ocean’s Eleven,” and “The Italian Job.”

8. What are some crime movies with unexpected plot twists?

Some crime movies with unexpected plot twists include “The Usual Suspects,” “Se7en,” and “Fight Club.”

9. Are there any crime movies that explore the psychological aspects of criminals?

Yes, there are crime movies that delve into the psychological aspects of criminals, such as “Taxi Driver,” “American Psycho,” and “No Country for Old Men.”

10. What are some crime movies that have won Academy Awards?

Some crime movies that have won Academy Awards include “The Godfather,” “Goodfellas,” “The Departed,” and “No Country for Old Men.”

11. Are there any crime movies that have inspired TV series?

Yes, there are crime movies that have inspired TV series, such as “The Godfather” (inspired “The Sopranos”) and “Fargo” (inspired by the Coen brothers’ film).

12. What are some crime movies that have iconic soundtracks?

Some crime movies with iconic soundtracks include “Scarface,” “Pulp Fiction,” and “Drive.”

13. Are there any crime movies that explore the moral ambiguity of criminals?

Yes, there are crime movies that delve into the moral ambiguity of criminals, such as “A Clockwork Orange,” “The Dark Knight,” and “The Wolf of Wall Street.”

14. What are some crime movies that have become cult classics?

Some crime movies that have become cult classics include “Reservoir Dogs,” “Fight Club,” and “Donnie Darko.”

15. Are there any crime movies that focus on the consequences of a life of crime?

Yes, there are crime movies that explore the consequences of a life of crime, such as “The Godfather,” “The Departed,” and “No Country for Old Men.”

Summary – Best Movies About Crime and Gangsters

Crime and gangster movies have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, captivating audiences with their gripping narratives and memorable characters.

From the iconic “The Godfather” to the genre-defying “Pulp Fiction,” these films explore the dark and complex world of organized crime.

Whether it’s the exploration of power dynamics, the examination of loyalty and honor, or the consequences of a life of crime, these movies offer valuable insights into the human condition.

Through their compelling storytelling, masterful direction, and stellar performances, these movies have become timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences today.

They remind us of the allure and dangers of a life on the wrong side of the law, while also shedding light on the complexities of human nature.

So, grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and immerse yourself in the world of crime and gangsters with these must-watch movies.

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