35 Crime Films: Mafioso, Drugs, and Thugs
35 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
GoodFellasMovie · 1990 · 145m · Drama, CrimeSet in Brooklyn, this true story follows Henry Hill, a young man of Irish and Sicilian heritage, as he gets involved with a local gang. He earns the trust of Jimmy Conway and climbs the ranks of the Mafia, experiencing both triumphs and dangers. This intense film explores organized crime, examining loyalty, betrayal, and the difficult choices between friendship and business in a dangerous world.IMDb 8.7TMDB 8.5 - 3
CasinoMovie · 1995 · 179m · Crime, DramaIn 1970s Las Vegas, Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a skilled casino manager, is put in charge of the Tangiers Casino by his mafia bosses. Ace initially succeeds, making the casino a profitable center for gambling and entertainment. But over time, complicated relationships begin to threaten his professional life. These include Nicky Santoro, Ace's hot-headed enforcer; Ginger, Ace's former hustler wife with a troubled past; and Lester Diamond, Ginger's con-artist ex. Their interactions create a dangerous situation that endangers Ace’s career and safety. The involvement of corrupt local politicians adds another layer of complexity, revealing how the world of entertainment and wealth can quickly become a dangerous place filled with deceit.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.0 - 4
The DepartedMovie · 2006 · 151m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeTo dismantle South Boston's Irish Mafia, the police recruit an undercover officer, unaware that the syndicate has already infiltrated their ranks. As the cop gains the trust of the mob's leader, a seasoned criminal climbs the ranks within the police force. Soon, both sides realize a traitor is operating within their midst.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.2 - 5
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 - 6
Donnie BrascoMovie · 1997 · 127m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerAn ambitious FBI agent infiltrates a notorious mafia family, blurring the lines between his duty and loyalty. Deep within the criminal underworld, he begins to identify with the mafia life, struggling to maintain his cover while questioning his own morality. Caught in a dangerous balancing act, the agent must protect society from the mob's activities while grappling with the allure of a lifestyle he once condemned. The story explores loyalty, identity, and the complexities of right and wrong as he faces immense pressure to remain committed to his mission within the dark glamour of organized crime.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 7
Bella MafiaMovie · 1997 · 165mAfter her husband and male relatives are brutally murdered, Sophia joins forces with her mother-in-law and sisters-in-law to seek revenge on those responsible.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 8
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 - 9
The CounselorMovie · 2013 · 117m · Thriller, Crime, DramaA lawyer gets deeply involved in drug trafficking, quickly finding himself overwhelmed by the situation.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.3 - 10
BlowMovie · 2001 · 124m · Crime, DramaGrowing up in the 1950s, George Jung witnesses his family's financial struggles as his mother criticizes her husband's attempts to provide. Eventually, they face bankruptcy, fueling George's determination to avoid the same fate. In the 1960s, his friend Tuna proposes they start a marijuana smuggling operation. George becomes successful in California, but imprisonment exposes him to the lucrative world of cocaine. Upon release, he leverages this knowledge to build a fortune importing cocaine into America, but soon faces severe consequences.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 11
Pulp FictionMovie · 1994 · 154m · Thriller, Crime, ComedyThis darkly funny crime story explores the lives of four unlikely people: a hitman who loves burgers, his thoughtful partner, a drug-using criminal's girlfriend, and a washed-up boxer. The film tells their stories in a non-linear way, shifting between past and present to connect them in a complex story of crime, connection, and finding meaning. As their lives cross and separate, the film blends humor, violence, and personal journeys within the world of organized crime.IMDb 8.8TMDB 8.5 - 12
LegendMovie · 2015 · 132m · Crime, ThrillerIn 1960s London, the charismatic but unpredictable Reggie Kray and his volatile twin brother Ronnie begin building a reputation in the city's criminal world. They use violence to achieve their goals, planning robberies and murders while controlling nightclubs and running protection rackets. As Detective Leonard "Nipper" Read closes in, the brothers rapidly gain power and become infamous in the tabloids.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.1 - 13
Road to PerditionMovie · 2002 · 117m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerMike Sullivan is a hit man for crime boss John Rooney, whom he considers a father figure. When his son witnesses a murder, Sullivan goes on the run to protect his son and seek revenge on those who betrayed him.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 14
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 - 15
Once Upon a Time in AmericaMovie · 1984 · 229m · Drama, CrimeSet in New York City's Lower East Side, the film follows a former Jewish gangster who returns after more than thirty years away from the Prohibition era. Now older and haunted by memories, he must confront the consequences of his past. The story explores regret, the possibility of redemption, and the complicated nature of relationships, offering a glimpse into a vanished world and the lasting effects of life's decisions.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.4 - 16
Public EnemiesMovie · 2009 · 140m · Crime, History, DramaDuring the Great Depression, bank robber John Dillinger gains popularity with many Americans struggling through hard times. However, he also becomes a major problem for J. Edgar Hoover and the new FBI. Determined to capture Dillinger, Hoover declares him Public Enemy Number One and assigns his best agent, Melvin Purvis, to hunt him down – dead or alive.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 17
Carlito's WayMovie · 1993 · 144m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerThis drama tells the story of a man who, after a prison sentence for drug involvement and violence, is determined to change his life upon release. Originally from Puerto Rico but living in New York City, he faces many challenges as he tries to adjust to life outside while staying committed to his goal.
The film explores themes of redemption and strength against the pressures and temptations of city life. It's a realistic look at a man trying to escape his past, struggling with societal expectations that could pull him back.
Along the way, the people around him reveal complicated aspects of themselves, showing how individual choices connect to larger community struggles. Ultimately, it’s a moving look at what it means to change – how we can strive for a better future while still being shaped by our surroundings and experiences.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8 - 18
GottiMovie · 1996 · 117m · Crime, Drama, TV MovieIn a world built on tradition and loyalty, John Gotti, an ambitious leader in the New York mafia, challenges the established rules of the criminal underworld. His determination and new tactics lead him to become the head of the powerful Gambino family, making him one of America's most infamous mob bosses. Surrounded by luxury and respect, Gotti enjoys the admiration of his fellow criminals. But beneath the surface of his success, doubts begin to surface. Gotti's disregard for rules, ambition for wealth, and public image threaten to destroy his rapid ascent to power. The film explores the complexities of power, loyalty, and self-destruction as Gotti relentlessly pursues control and recognition in a cutthroat criminal world.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.5 - 19
L.A. ConfidentialMovie · 1997 · 138m · Crime, Mystery, ThrillerIn a quiet New England town, Judy and Peter Shepherd discover a mysterious board game called "Jumanji," which unexpectedly throws them into a perilous jungle world. Each turn of the game presents a cryptic clue they must solve to escape. They encounter Alan Parrish, who has been trapped in this dangerous environment for twenty years because he couldn't finish the game. Together, the three must use their intelligence and courage to overcome deadly challenges and find their way back home. The film is an adventure filled with suspense and mystery, exploring the strength of friendship and family.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.8 - 20
A Bronx TaleMovie · 1993 · 121m · Drama, CrimeIn 1960s Bronx, New York, a teenage boy is torn between his devotion to his father, a hardworking and honest man, and the dangerous appeal of a charismatic crime boss. As he struggles with this conflict, he also experiences a forbidden attraction to a beautiful Black girl from his neighborhood. This coming-of-age story examines identity, morality, and love against the backdrop of social upheaval and change. The film follows a young boy’s journey to find himself in a rapidly transforming world.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.9 - 21
A Most Violent YearMovie · 2014 · 124m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerIn 1981, New York City experiences a particularly violent winter. The film follows an immigrant family striving to grow their business amidst the city's escalating crime, urban decay, and widespread corruption. Their efforts to build a better life are increasingly threatened by the dark forces surrounding them.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 22
SavagesMovie · 2012 · 131m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerBen and Chon, who grow marijuana together, are forced to confront a Mexican drug cartel after their girlfriend is kidnapped.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.3 - 23
Layer CakeMovie · 2004 · 105m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeA simple drug deal goes wrong, forcing XXXX to abandon his principles. He must escalate the situation to defeat his former associates and protect himself.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 24
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 - 25
The Godfather LegacyMovie · 2012 · 95mTHE GODFATHER LEGACY explores Francis Ford Coppola's sweeping story of the Corleone crime family, examining the rise of the Academy Award-winning film and its sequels into a highly respected Hollywood franchise. The documentary includes iconic scenes from all three movies, previously unseen home footage, and interviews with Coppola, producers All Ruddy and Peter Bart, as well as actors Al Pacino, James Caan, Talia Shire, Joe Mantegna, and others; law enforcement officials and former Mafia members. It illustrates the enduring appeal of The Godfather trilogy and its lasting influence on how society perceives topics ranging from business to crime.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.2 - 26
The GodfatherMovie · 1972 · 175m · Drama, CrimeThe film follows the Corleone family, an Italian-American crime family, from 1945 to 1955. Vito Corleone, the family's head, survives an assassination attempt. As his health declines, his youngest son Michael steps up to defend the family and seek revenge on those who tried to harm his father. This gripping story examines loyalty, power, and the impact of violence and retaliation.IMDb 9.2TMDB 8.7 - 27
ScarfaceMovie · 1983 · 170m · Action, Crime, DramaThe film depicts the dangerous world of drugs, crime, and power in Miami during the peak of the cocaine trade. Tony Montana makes a deal for a green card by assassinating a Cuban government official, launching his ruthless climb into the criminal underworld. Driven by greed and violence, he quickly becomes Miami's leading drug lord, building wealth and power while leaving a trail of violence.
As his empire grows, Tony faces increasing police pressure, Colombian cartel conflicts, and his own self-destructive addiction. The film shows how power and greed can be destructive as it follows Tony’s rapid rise to the top and his ultimate downfall. This drama explores the ruthless world of drug trafficking, presenting a stark picture of a corrupt and dangerous Miami, and unflinchingly examines one man's relentless pursuit of power and wealth at any price.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.2 - 28
The Godfather Part IIMovie · 1974 · 202m · Drama, CrimeThe Corleone family story continues with a young Vito Corleone's upbringing in Sicily and later, in 1910s New York. Decades later, in the 1950s, Michael Corleone seeks to broaden the family's operations into new territories: Las Vegas, Hollywood, and Cuba.IMDb 9.0TMDB 8.6 - 29
The Godfather Part IIIMovie · 1990 · 162m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerIn 1979, aging mafia boss Michael Corleone grapples with the shifting world of organized crime in New York and Italy. Haunted by his past, he seeks a path to redemption while mentoring a young protégé, sharing his experience and facing threats from both old rivals and new adversaries. The film explores themes of redemption, loyalty, and adapting to change within the criminal underworld.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 30
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 - 31
The UntouchablesMovie · 1987 · 119m · Crime, History, Thriller"The Untouchables" is a compelling crime drama about Elliot Ness, a determined federal agent determined to bring down Al Capone, the notorious head of Chicago's criminal underworld. Battling widespread corruption and political obstacles, Ness forms a team of honest officers who operate outside the usual rules. This group, known as "The Untouchables," relentlessly pursues Capone through the dangerous world of organized crime in 1930s Chicago. The film explores the complicated relationship between law and crime, highlighting themes of loyalty, courage, and moral strength in the face of hardship, as Ness fights for justice.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8 - 32
American GangsterMovie · 2007 · 157m · Drama, CrimeThis film is loosely inspired by the life of Frank Lucas, a gangster who operated in La Grange, North Carolina. He smuggled heroin into the U.S. using flights returning from the Vietnam War. His activities eventually drew the attention of a task force headed by Newark Detective Richie Roberts, who worked to bring him down.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 33
The Rise of the KraysMovie · 2015 · 110mThis film chronicles the formative years of two young, aspiring boxers in London. Quickly rising through the ranks, they become notorious figures, feared and respected throughout the city. Narrated by a surviving close friend, the story details their ascent to infamy, marked by drug use, sexual encounters, and violence.IMDb 4.9TMDB 4.7 - 34
Gangster SquadMovie · 2013 · 113m · Crime, Drama, ActionLos Angeles, 1949. Mickey Cohen, a ruthless mob boss from Brooklyn, controls the city's underworld, profiting from drugs, weapons, prostitution, and gambling. He maintains power through a network of corrupt police and politicians, intimidating even seasoned officers. But a small, secret team of LAPD outsiders, led by Sgt. John O’Mara and Jerry Wooters, unites to challenge Cohen's dominance.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4 - 35
Miller's CrossingMovie · 1990 · 115m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeIn 1929, two powerful men clash over a woman, threatening their political partnership. The city's fate has long rested on their alliance – the boss and his advisor have shaped its politics from the shadows. But when both men fall for the same woman, jealousy and conflicting loyalties destroy their friendship. This story explores love, ambition, and complicated relationships during a time of societal change. As they navigate these new feelings, they must decide what their connections truly mean and the price of personal desire when power is involved.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5
