42 Excellent Heist Films to Watch
41 titles
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The TownMovie · 2010 · 125m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerDoug MacRay, a skilled thief planning to leave his criminal life behind, sees an opportunity during a bank heist. When the crew unexpectedly kidnaps a branch manager, Doug is assigned to watch her. However, their developing connection puts Doug and his team at risk of exposure to the FBI agent pursuing them.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 2
Inside ManMovie · 2006 · 129m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerA heavily armed, masked gang storms a Manhattan bank, locking the doors and taking hostages. The detective assigned to resolve the situation is struggling with corruption charges he's currently facing.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 3
ThiefMovie · 1981 · 123m · Crime, Thriller, DramaFrank is a skilled safecracker famous for pulling off major diamond robberies. After years in the criminal world, he wants to retire and start a normal life with a family, using his earnings to build a home. To speed things up, Frank agrees to work with a powerful gangster on one last, big heist. But as he gets involved, he discovers that every crime comes with its own difficulties and repercussions.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 4
Now You See MeMovie · 2013 · 116m · Thriller, CrimeAn FBI agent and an Interpol detective pursue a group of illusionists who commit bank robberies as part of their elaborate stage shows, distributing the stolen money to their captivated audiences.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 5
The LadykillersMovie · 2004 · 104m · Comedy, Crime, ThrillerA quirky Southern professor and his associates pretend to be musicians to pull off a casino heist, all while operating under the oblivious watch of his shrewd landlady.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.1 - 6
Three KingsMovie · 1999 · 114m · Action, Comedy, WarNear the end of the Gulf War, American soldiers in Iraq find a map that supposedly leads to a huge hidden treasure – stolen Kuwaiti gold buried near their base. This sparks a risky mission for the soldiers, offering them the chance at great wealth. As they journey through war-torn Iraq searching for the gold, they face difficult choices and question their loyalty and friendship. The story is a suspenseful mix of action and drama about greed, sacrifice, and the hope for redemption when facing impossible situations.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 7
The Bank JobMovie · 2008 · 112m · Thriller, Crime, DramaTerry, a car salesman trying to build a normal life and start a family, is approached by Martine, a striking model from his past. Martine knows Terry isn't who he seems and suggests a bank robbery – a perfect plan. Terry sees the risk but also recognizes this could be his chance for something more.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 8
The Thomas Crown AffairMovie · 1968 · 102m · Crime, RomanceThomas Crown, a wealthy businessman bored with his life, decides to plan a major heist. He hires a skilled agent to help him pull it off. While navigating the dangerous world of espionage, Crown unexpectedly falls in love with the agent assigned to stop him. Now caught between his feelings and the need to maintain secrecy, Thomas must carefully balance passion and deception as he carries out his daring plan. The film explores the complexities of love and desire within a thrilling crime story.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 9
GoldfingerMovie · 1964 · 110m · Adventure, Action, ThrillerA special agent faces a dangerous new enemy: a shrewd tycoon planning a daring heist of Fort Knox to destabilize the global economy. The agent must navigate a world of danger and deception to stop the tycoon before it's too late.
As the agent investigates, he uncovers surprising truths about his powerful adversary. With the world at risk, the agent must use his skills to outwit the villain in a thrilling chase that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 10
SneakersMovie · 1992 · 125m · Comedy, Crime, DramaA reformed computer hacker is forced back into a dangerous world when shadowy intelligence agents threaten to reveal his past. He assembles a team of security specialists to steal a powerful device from a brilliant, Soviet-linked scientist. The mission quickly escalates, revealing a global conspiracy. The hacker and his team must evade their pursuers, outsmart their blackmailer, and secure the device before it can be used to disrupt the world's economy. Packed with action, suspense, and humor, this film delivers a thrilling adventure from start to finish.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 11
The Thomas Crown AffairMovie · 1999 · 113m · Drama, Crime, RomanceThis is the story of a wealthy and charming playboy who enjoys stealing valuable art from top galleries. He believes he's above the law, but becomes fascinated by a sharp detective who is determined to catch him.
As the playboy's art thefts become more famous, he's increasingly drawn to the detective's mystery. Their game of cat and mouse intensifies with each stolen masterpiece, complicated by a growing attraction.
The film explores obsession, power, and the difficult choices between love and betrayal. Through their complex relationship, it’s a suspenseful drama about the desire for control, the appeal of risk, and the conflict between passion and right and wrong.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 12
The GetawayMovie · 1972 · 123m · Action, Crime, ThrillerAn ex-con and his wife are forced to flee after a robbery goes wrong. They must use their wits and stay together to evade those hunting them. As fugitives, they face constant danger, testing their love and revealing how deeply they depend on each other. This action film is about redemption, trust, and the lengths people will go to protect those they love.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 13
Ocean's ElevenMovie · 2001 · 116m · Thriller, CrimeBarely 24 hours after being released on parole, charming thief Danny Ocean begins planning his next big heist: a one-night operation to steal over $150 million from three Las Vegas casinos. However, Danny jeopardizes his potential reconciliation with his ex-wife, Tess, in pursuit of the money.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 14
Ocean's TwelveMovie · 2004 · 125m · Thriller, CrimeAfter a massive heist in Las Vegas where they shared $160 million, the members of Danny Ocean's crew have attempted to leave their criminal past behind and start new lives. However, their efforts are complicated when casino owner Terry Benedict demands the return of the stolen money, plus interest. Unable to pay, the team must reunite for a series of new heists across Europe – Rome, Paris, and Amsterdam – while evading a relentless Europol agent.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.6 - 15
RififiMovie · 1955 · 118m · Crime, Thriller, DramaAfter serving five years in prison, Tony returns to a world of high-stakes jewel theft and a personal vendetta. His old friend Jo offers him a seemingly simple heist, but the job becomes complicated when Tony discovers his former lover, Mado, is now with local gangster Pierre Grutter.
Tony assembles a crew, transforming the planned robbery into a daring operation. Though they succeed in escaping, their actions trigger unforeseen consequences for everyone involved. The relationships and loyalties within the group unravel, revealing hidden secrets and putting lives at risk.
The film is a suspenseful story about love, betrayal, and the dangerous world of jewel heists. As tensions rise and allegiances shift, it explores the motivations behind revenge and redemption, and how far people will go to achieve them.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.8 - 16
The Italian JobMovie · 1969 · 99m · Action, Crime, ComedyAfter a recent prison release, Charlie travels to Turin, Italy, where he learns a friend's risky robbery has fallen under the control of the mafia. Charlie takes charge, assembling a team of drivers and a variety of vehicles – including Minis, Jaguars, and a bus – to execute a complex plan. The goal: cause massive traffic chaos to steal a valuable gold fortune and escape. Packed with car chases, close calls, and inventive strategies, the film delivers constant excitement as Charlie races against the clock and evades the mafia to complete the heist.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 17
Fast FiveMovie · 2011 · 131m · Action, Thriller, CrimeFormer police officer Brian O'Conner teams up with former criminal Dom Toretto, now on opposite sides of the law. After Brian and Mia Toretto helped Dom escape from jail, they've fled across borders to avoid capture. Cornered in Rio de Janeiro, they plan a final heist to secure their freedom.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 18
Ocean's ThirteenMovie · 2007 · 122m · Crime, ThrillerDanny Ocean and his crew return with a mission driven by revenge. After casino owner Willy Bank betrays Reuben Tishkoff, resulting in a heart attack, Danny vows to dismantle Bank's empire. He's determined to take down Bank and everything he owns, even if it means seeking assistance from an unexpected ally.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 19
Dead PresidentsMovie · 1995 · 119m · Action, Crime, DramaThis drama tells the story of a Vietnam veteran struggling to adjust to civilian life. Back home, he becomes involved with organized crime and teams up with fellow veterans to plan a major robbery. Their target is an armored car full of unmarked U.S. money. As they carefully plot their heist, the film explores the bonds of friendship, loyalty, and desperation among veterans grappling with the aftermath of war. It examines post-war trauma and the temptation of quick wealth, taking audiences on a suspenseful journey that challenges their friendship and values.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 20
HeatMovie · 1995 · 170m · Crime, Drama, ActionIn a world where talent is everything, experienced thief Neil McCauley and his skilled team pull off elaborate heists in Los Angeles with careful planning. Detective Vincent Hanna, determined to catch them, relentlessly pursues them, fixated on capturing the mastermind behind these crimes.
This intense chase reveals a surprising respect between the two men, who admire each other's abilities and determination. But their dangerous game eventually leads to a final, high-stakes showdown with potentially devastating consequences.
The film explores ambition, loyalty, and the complex relationship between right and wrong, offering a compelling look at human nature and the difficult choices people face when confronting their own lives.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.9 - 21
The Italian JobMovie · 2003 · 110m · Action, CrimeCharlie Croker executes a daring heist, but a betrayal throws his plans into chaos. Partnering with a stunning safecracker, Croker and his crew embark on a second attempt to reclaim the stolen goods. Their pursuit leads them on a thrilling, high-speed chase throughout Los Angeles.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 22
Jackie BrownMovie · 1997 · 154mJackie Brown, a flight attendant, becomes involved in smuggling money for her gunrunner boss. When the police try to use her to find him, she devises a plan – with the assistance of a bail bondsman – to steal the money for herself.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 23
How to Steal a MillionMovie · 1966 · 123m · Comedy, Crime, RomanceA young woman undertakes a risky mission to steal a valuable statue from Paris. She's driven by a desire to protect her father, who secretly works as a skilled art forger. The film follows her as she navigates a complex world of secrets and deception in the city. It explores family loyalty, difficult choices, and the question of what is real, all within a suspenseful heist story that maintains excitement until the conclusion.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 24
The StingMovie · 1973 · 129m · Comedy, Crime, DramaTwo con men team up to avenge a friend's death and strike it rich. A green rookie seeks guidance from a seasoned con artist, and together they plot a major heist: stealing from a powerful mob boss. As they navigate the criminal underworld, their partnership is tested by distrust and conflicting desires, endangering their lives. This film is a twisty story about friendship, betrayal, and deception, as the two men fight for justice and fortune against impossible odds.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.0 - 25
The Asphalt JungleMovie · 1950 · 112m · Crime, Drama"Doc" Riedenschneider, a notorious ex-convict, returns to a life of crime after prison. He gathers a team of experienced thieves with the help of his former partners and funding from Alonzo Emmerich, a lawyer with connections to organized crime. Their target: a valuable jewel in the Midwest.
The film is a suspenseful, action-filled story exploring the lives and relationships of these skilled criminals as they plan their elaborate heist. They face deceit, danger, and pursuit by both law enforcement and rival gangs. Driven by the promise of wealth and personal histories, they risk everything to succeed.
The movie has a gritty, realistic tone, examining the challenges to trust and loyalty as the stakes rise. As the heist unfolds, themes of friendship, betrayal, and the pursuit of wealth emerge, culminating in a dramatic climax that questions the characters' true motives.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5 - 26
True RomanceMovie · 1993 · 119m · Action, Crime, RomanceIn a harsh city, Clarence unexpectedly marries Alabama, a woman working in sex work. Together, they discover a supply of cocaine and decide to sell it in Hollywood, hoping for a better life.
But the original owners of the cocaine are determined to get it back, forcing Clarence and Alabama into a dangerous chase. As they try to stay ahead of their pursuers while protecting their new wealth, they face the consequences of their actions and form an unlikely partnership amidst the chaos.
The film explores love, survival, and morality in a world with unclear boundaries and high risks, presenting a story that questions traditional ideas of right and wrong.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 27
Dog Day AfternoonMovie · 1975 · 124m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerThis true story follows John Wojtowicz and Salvatore Naturile, two men who attempt a bank robbery in Brooklyn as a rebellion against society. Their bold plan quickly turns into a tense hostage situation and standoff with police. As the film progresses, the reasons behind the crime are revealed, adding depth to the story. The event evolves from a simple robbery into a major media sensation, placing those involved in extraordinary circumstances and revealing their weaknesses and strengths.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8 - 28
HeistMovie · 2001 · 107m · Action, Crime, DramaJoe Moore is a skilled thief who enjoys his work. His life takes a turn when he's captured on security footage. His contact, Bergman, refuses to pay him what he's promised, and Moore suspects his wife is having an affair with Bergman's assistant. Now broke, betrayed, and facing blackmail, Moore and his partners, Bobby Blane and Pinky Pincus, are pressured into one final, high-stakes heist.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 29
Take the Money and RunMovie · 1969 · 85m · Comedy, Crime"Virgil Starkwell: The Accidental Bank Robber" is a humorous story about Virgil, who wants to become a notorious bank robber. The film follows Virgil as he hilariously fails at each attempt, leading to increasingly absurd situations, yet he remains determined. It's not just a comedy; the film explores themes of ambition and identity, showing the humor and sadness in people's desire to be noticed. "Virgil Starkwell: The Accidental Bank Robber" balances satire with empathy, blurring the line between villain and hero, and offering a witty and charming look at the human spirit and the pursuit of dreams.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 30
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking BarrelsMovie · 1998 · 105mA skilled card player and his reluctant companions must quickly raise a large sum of money after a bad poker game. They decide to rob a local gang who are operating out of the apartment next door.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.1 - 31
BanditsMovie · 2001 · 123m · Comedy, CrimeJoe and Terry break out of prison and begin a series of bank robberies across Oregon and California, planning to use the money for a new life in Mexico. Their plans change when they encounter Kate, who accidentally runs into them. She joins their crime spree, and unexpectedly, ends up stealing something more valuable than money: their affection.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 32
Tower HeistMovie · 2011 · 104m · Action, ComedyA luxury condo manager organizes a team to get revenge on the Wall Street executive who cheated them. With the conman about to escape justice, this group of inexperienced thieves hires a small-time criminal named Slide to steal the $20 million they believe is hidden in his penthouse.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.1 - 33
Quick ChangeMovie · 1990 · 89m · Comedy, CrimeGrimm, with his girlfriend Phyllis Potter and best friend Loomis, pulls off a seemingly perfect bank robbery in Manhattan while disguised as clowns. Enjoying their initial success, the trio plans to escape to the airport. But a series of unfortunate events and setbacks complicate their getaway, raising the question of whether they'll evade capture and achieve freedom, or face the consequences of their actions.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 34
SnatchMovie · 2000 · 103m · Crime, ComedyA group of unlikely players – shady boxing promoters, dangerous bookmakers, a Russian gangster, inept amateur thieves, and seemingly Jewish jewelers – all compete to find a valuable diamond that has been stolen.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.8 - 35
The ScoreMovie · 2001 · 124m · Action, Crime, ThrillerA seasoned thief dreams of a peaceful retirement funded by past crimes, but a young person persuades him to pull one final job.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 36
The Hot RockMovie · 1972 · 101m · Crime, ComedyDortmunder, a seasoned thief known for elaborate heists, faces a new challenge: stealing a huge diamond from a seemingly impenetrable museum vault. He gathers his trusted team and carefully plans the impossible job. But fate intervenes, trapping them in a repeating time loop where they must steal the same diamond again and again.
This strange situation tests their loyalty, wits, and friendship as they try to outsmart their enemies and escape the loop. Filled with humor, suspense, and a hint of absurdity, the film explores themes of fate, greed, and the desire for redemption. As Dortmunder and his crew endlessly pursue the diamond, they learn that sometimes breaking the rules isn't enough to escape destiny.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 37
A Fish Called WandaMovie · 1988 · 109m · Comedy, CrimeThis thriller centers on a talented thief who targets a valuable diamond collection heavily protected by its owner. As he plans the heist, he discovers another group also wants the same diamonds.
The film follows the escalating competition between these two groups, each using different approaches to try and get ahead. The story builds suspense as they race against time, trying to outwit each other. It also examines greed and ambition, exploring how far people will go for wealth.
With a complex plot full of surprises, the movie delivers suspense and excitement. Strong direction and performances keep audiences captivated until the conclusion.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 38
ParkerMovie · 2013 · 118m · Action, CrimeA thief who lives by a strict personal code is betrayed by his team and left for dead. Assuming a new identity, he teams up with a woman working from within to take over the crew's next target.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.1 - 39
Reservoir DogsMovie · 1992 · 99m · Crime, ThrillerPaul and Jamie Buchman are a contemporary couple building a life together in 1990s city life. The film explores their journey as they navigate the joys and difficulties of marriage, blending their lives and personalities. Their relatable struggles include dealing with in-laws and balancing careers with family life, all presented with humor and sharp timing. This story offers a lighthearted look at love and partnership.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.1 - 40
The Usual SuspectsMovie · 1995 · 106m · Drama, Crime, ThrillerIn a tense interrogation in Los Angeles, Verbal Kint recounts a chilling story to federal agents. He describes how the legendary crime lord Keyser Soze manipulated him and his crew into carrying out a dangerous heist that ended in a disastrous explosion in San Pedro harbor. As Verbal mixes truth and lies, the agents become increasingly unsure of what's real. His account of Keyser Soze’s uncanny abilities captivates them, blurring the line between fiction and reality. The story creates uncertainty, leaving everyone to question Keyser Soze’s true nature and his involvement in the deadly outcome of the failed heist.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.2 - 41
Bottle RocketMovie · 1996 · 91m · Comedy, Crime, DramaAfter a nervous breakdown, Anthony leaves the hospital and reconnects with Dignan, an old friend. It soon becomes clear that Dignan is even more unstable than Anthony was before. He has a bizarre plan for a crime spree involving a mysterious man named Mr. Henry, with whom Dignan claims to have worked before. The film follows Anthony and Dignan as they pursue Dignan's outlandish scheme and try to find the elusive Mr. Henry.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7