Top 15 Mafia Movies Ever Made
Movies have long romanticized the allure of gunslingers, bank robbers, and wise guys, tapping into our fascination with those who live beyond the law. Crime stories have been captivating audiences since long before cinema, becoming one of the earliest and most enduring genres in film. For those eager to dive into a world where gritty characters forge their own paths and live by their own rules, we present a curated list of the best mafia movies of all time.
Organized crime, largely a phenomenon of the 20th century, naturally found its way into the cinematic world, growing in parallel with real-life mob syndicates across the country. Iconic filmmakers like Francis Ford Coppola and Martin Scorsese have become synonymous with the genre due to their masterful storytelling, while other notable directors have also ventured into this realm, producing exceptional works.
Our list below encompasses a range from historical accounts of mobsters and the law enforcement chasing them to purely fictional narratives designed to entertain and enthrall. Here, in no particular order, are our selections for the 15 best mafia movies ever.
The 15 Best Mafia Movies
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Best Spy MoviesBest Thriller MoviesBest Netflix MoviesGoodfellas (1990)
Kickstarting our list with a bang, Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas has been hailed as one of the greatest mob movies for over three decades, often competing with The Godfather for the top spot. This cinematic masterpiece follows the tumultuous journey of mob associate Henry Hill, portrayed by Ray Liotta, from his rise to his inevitable fall over several decades. Based on the biography Wise Guy by Nicholas Pileggi, Goodfellas showcases some of the finest work from its cast and crew, leveraging Scorsese and De Niro's iconic status to cement the stardom of Liotta and Pesci, the latter winning a Best Supporting Actor Oscar.
Donnie Brasco (1997)
Donnie Brasco brings another true story to the screen, this time helmed by British director Mike Newell. The film delves into the life of FBI agent Joe Pistone, played by Johnny Depp, who goes undercover within the Bonanno crime family under the alias "Donnie Brasco." Al Pacino delivers a standout performance as Lefty, a seasoned but aging enforcer who unwittingly mentors Pistone. Adapted from Pistone's autobiography, the movie offers a gripping, cool narrative that distinguishes itself from typical mob films.
A Most Violent Year (2014)
A Most Violent Year might be considered a sleeper hit, but it's a compelling addition to the genre. Starring Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain, the film portrays the struggles of Abel Morales, a trucking company owner navigating the treacherous, corrupt landscape of 1981 New York City. As Morales attempts to maintain his integrity in a cutthroat business environment, the movie offers a thought-provoking thriller and a vivid snapshot of a tumultuous time.
Miller's Crossing (1990)
In the same year as Goodfellas, the Coen brothers delivered Miller's Crossing, a unique take on organized crime set during the Prohibition era. This film noir-inspired tale follows Tom Reagan, played by Gabriel Byrne, as he navigates the dangerous waters between warring factions of the Irish mob. With its stylized dialogue and compelling performances, Miller's Crossing helped launch Byrne's career in the U.S. and set the stage for future Coen brothers' successes.
Casino (1995)
Another Scorsese gem, Casino reunites Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci in a tale inspired by real-life figures from the Las Vegas underworld. De Niro plays Ace Rothstein, loosely based on casino magnate Lefty Rosenthal, while Pesci portrays the ruthless enforcer Nicky Santoro, inspired by Tony Spilotro. The epic narrative traces their journey from allies to adversaries, with Sharon Stone's captivating performance as Ginger McKenna earning her an Oscar nomination. Following Goodfellas, Casino holds its own as a monumental achievement in the genre.
City of God (2002)
Venturing beyond American cinema, City of God is a Brazilian crime drama that offers a raw and intense look at the growth of organized crime in Rio de Janeiro's Cidade de Deus suburb over two decades. Loosely based on real events, the film's authenticity is heightened by its cast of non-professional actors from Rio's low-income neighborhoods. Directed by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund, City of God also inspired a successful TV series and film adaptation.
The Untouchables (1987)
Brian De Palma's The Untouchables is a crowd-pleasing depiction of 1930s Chicago, focusing on Eliot Ness's crusade against Al Capone. With Kevin Costner as Ness and Robert De Niro as Capone, the film doesn't shy away from its action-packed, comic-book-like style. Sean Connery's portrayal of a seasoned cop joining Ness's team earned him a Best Supporting Actor Oscar, adding to the film's allure.
The Departed (2006)
A remake of the Hong Kong thriller Infernal Affairs, The Departed transports the story to Boston, loosely based on real-life crime boss Whitey Bulger. Leonardo DiCaprio and Matt Damon star as moles on opposite sides, with Jack Nicholson delivering a chilling performance as the crime boss. This complex ensemble film, filled with tension and dark humor, also features standout performances from Vera Farmiga, Mark Wahlberg, and more.
Eastern Promises (2007)
During the 2000s, Viggo Mortensen not only fought for Middle Earth but also starred in David Cronenberg's crime films, A History of Violence and Eastern Promises. The latter, featuring Mortensen as a Russian mob enforcer in London, offers a gripping narrative filled with tension and visceral action, including a now-iconic bathhouse fight scene.
The Godfather (1972)
Often hailed as the quintessential mob movie, Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather revolutionized the genre. Based on Mario Puzo's novel, the film follows the Corleone family under the leadership of Vito Corleone, played by Marlon Brando, and the transformation of his youngest son, Michael, portrayed by Al Pacino. A box office sensation and a critical darling, The Godfather set new standards for storytelling and cinematic excellence.
The Godfather Part 2 (1974)
Competing with its predecessor for the title of best mob movie, The Godfather Part 2 continues the saga of the Corleone family. This sequel/prequel explores Michael Corleone's struggles as the new Don and parallels his journey with the early life of his father, Vito, portrayed by Robert De Niro. A masterful blend of past and present, this film is considered a landmark in cinema.
Road to Perdition (2002)
Road to Perdition brings together an unlikely cast for a unique mobster tale based on a graphic novel. Tom Hanks stars as Michael Sullivan, an Irish mob enforcer who goes on the run with his son after a betrayal leads to the murder of their family. Directed by Sam Mendes, this film beautifully balances its brutal narrative with poignant moments of father-son bonding, unfolding like the pages of a comic book.
Scarface (1932)
While many are familiar with the 1983 remake, the original Scarface directed by Howard Hawks offers a fascinating look at early cinema. Inspired by the rise of Al Capone, the film follows Tony Camonte, played by Paul Muni, as he climbs the ranks of the Chicago mob. With its bold visuals and gripping narrative, Scarface remains a significant and influential entry in the genre.
The Irishman (2019)
Martin Scorsese's The Irishman marks another milestone in the genre, released as a Netflix original. The film explores the life of truck driver-turned-hitman Frank Sheeran, portrayed by Robert De Niro, and his association with mobster Russell Bufalino (Joe Pesci) and Teamster leader Jimmy Hoffa (Al Pacino). With its themes of regret and the cost of a life in crime, The Irishman offers a poignant and reflective take on the mafia narrative.
American Gangster (2007)
Ridley Scott's American Gangster delves into the criminal empire of Harlem drug lord Frank Lucas, played by Denzel Washington. As Lucas uses the Vietnam War to smuggle heroin into the U.S., Newark Detective Richie Roberts, portrayed by Russell Crowe, leads the effort to bring him down. With powerful performances and a compelling narrative, American Gangster stands out as a gripping tale of crime and justice.
AnswerSee ResultsThose are our picks of the best mafia movies ever – in no particular order. Did your favorite make the cut? If not, rather than leaving a horse head in our bed, let us know your top picks in the comments.
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