Is there something universally fascinating about watching mafia stories on screen? Maybe it’s their rebellious streak, unshakable confidence, seemingly boundless power, or the way mobsters do things most people wouldn’t even dream of. Even though it’s already 50 years old, The Godfather is still hailed as one of the greatest films ever. Our love-hate relationship with these mafia characters seems unshakable.
Legit mafia movies feel raw and real, featuring stellar casts, marvelous cinematography, sharp editing, clever plots, and memorable dialogue. According to a recent online thread that had people talking, these are some all-time fan-favorite mafia movies. You might just find a new classic and get a glimpse into why these movies have such a strong hold on us!
Donnie Brasco
If we can all collectively forget about the whole Amber Heard fiasco (I hope), we can still enjoy Johnny Depp’s portrayal of FBI agent Joe Pistone. Based on a true story, Pistone goes undercover as Donnie Brasco. Spoiler alert: things get complicated when he forms a real bond with a mobster played by the legendary Al Pacino.
Donnie Brasco is chock full of drama– wait till you watch the leg scene and see what they do to the waiter! It’s one of those moments that’ll make your skin crawl!
Once Upon a Time in America
I know, a four-hour movie sounds like a lot, but trust me, it’s worth every minute (who hasn’t binged four hours of The Office anyway, right?). Once Upon a Time in America takes its time, jumping across three generations to tell the gritty story of David “Noodles” Aaronson—rising from a tough kid in New York’s Jewish slums to a Mafia boss. It’s packed with everything: murder, loyalty, love, betrayal, and friendship.
You know a mafia movie hits you hard when the characters are unlikeable and flawed, and you still feel like you’ve known them forever. It’s slow, but the pacing is perfect.
Goodfellas
As someone who’s watched Goodfellas a few times, I can say it’s one of the best gangster movies ever and probably Scorsese’s finest work. Based on Nicholas Pileggi’s book Wiseguy, the film tells the story of Henry Hill, played by Ray Liotta, rising through the mob ranks, living in luxury but blind to the destruction he causes. His downfall comes from a drug addiction and a few wrong moves that unravel everything.
The voice-over narration is powerful, the editing is flawless, and the music? Each song sets the tone—rock ‘n’ roll and cheerful pop as the scene fits. It leaves you reflecting on guilt, betrayal, and wasted chances.
The Godfather Part II
We can all agree that Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather is one of the greatest films ever made, completely redefining the gangster genre. It’s a poetic, Shakespearean epic that takes on the world of the mob. But The Godfather Part II takes something already spectacular and adds Robert De Niro.
The film is like a prequel and a sequel, showing us Vito’s rise to power and mirrors New York to Corleone, Sicily. The non-linear storytelling, deeper themes, and stunning depictions of 1917 New York make it even more epic. It’s complex, beautifully shot, and expertly directed.
The Departed
Martin Scorsese is one of the most prolific mafia movie directors, and it’s no surprise that The Departed is a beloved film in the genre. This Oscar-winning movie perfectly blends action, drama, humor, and emotional shocks. Matt Damon plays a mobster’s plant in the police force, while Leonardo DiCaprio is the undercover cop infiltrating Jack Nicholson’s crime empire. Their worlds collide in the most chaotic way.
Just when you think you’ve figured it out, the film hits you with another twist. You’ll find yourself rooting for both the good guys and the bad guys, and it’s oddly satisfying!
Gomorrah
At first glance, Gomorrah might seem like just another gangster drama, but there’s no Don Corleone or charming criminal to root for. Instead, it dives into the harsh societal consequences of the mafia—something most American mob films shy away from. Based on a real investigative book, it weaves together slice-of-life stories set in a crime-ridden part of Italy in the 2000s.
When it premiered, there were rumors that the director, Matteo Garrone, had even worked with real mafia members to make the film.
A Bronx Tale
This down-to-earth coming-of-age film captures the chaos of a boy’s life growing up in the Bronx, New York. The story has heart, and Chazz Palminteri’s character, Sonny, might just win you over as your favorite gangster.
Robert De Niro’s directorial debut shines with its vibrant portrayal of 1960s New York City. It’s clear he chose a topic close to his heart, and A Bronx Tale will transport you right back to that iconic era.
Miller’s Crossing
The Coen brothers are known for directing classics like Fargo, No Country For Old Men, and The Big Lebowski, but Miller’s Crossing is worth a spot as one of their top movies as well. The film dives into the turf war between two rival gangs battling for city control, with the police as mere pawns and liquor busts serving as revenge tactics.
Premiering in 1990, it didn’t quite get the fame it deserved, overshadowed by Scorsese’s Goodfellas. But trust me, this film is ridiculously good, with unique, stylized cinematography. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re missing out. And if you have, you’re probably still pondering the significance of that hat, just like Gabriel Byrne!
Eastern Promises
I’m definitely not alone in saying Eastern Promises can be hard to watch—the violence feels shockingly real and intense from the get-go.
Director David Cronenberg crafts a gripping story with Steve Knight’s solid screenplay, intense performances, and a moody atmosphere. There are no flashy twists or gimmicky camera tricks, just raw, compelling drama. We all wished for a sequel, even though it could never quite match the original. We just wanted more of this powerful film.
ZeroZeroZero
Although not technically a film, ZeroZeroZero still deserves a spot on this list. This gripping miniseries feels very authentic and real, following a cocaine shipment from a powerful Italian cartel through its packing in Mexico and across the Atlantic. You’ll see every angle—cartels, dealers, brokers—it’s all there.
One review of this series says it’s like watching Sicario, Gomorrah, and Bad Blood all at once. It’s grim, gripping, and insanely well done. The story, characters, music, and performances are absolutely top-tier.
Things To Do In Denver When You’re Dead
The dark and funny film Things To Do In Denver When You’re Dead follows five criminals who find themselves in deep trouble after a job goes horribly wrong.
With a ton of quotable lines like “I am Godzilla, you are Japan!” and a great cast featuring Steve Buscemi and Christopher Walken, you can’t go wrong. The film might not be groundbreaking, but if you’re not in the mood for tragedy and grit, this one is a little more easygoing and entertaining than a lot of mafia movies.
Bugsy Malone
You rarely see gangster movies with an all-child cast, but Bugsy Malone pulls it off. Instead of real guns, the kids use “splurge guns” that blast whipped cream—totally fun and messy! The film follows Bugsy Malone’s rise and the power struggle between Fat Sam and Dandy Dan.
It’s a mobster musical but can also be very brutal, like gang hits, characters getting mugged, and wild speakeasy attacks. It’s also a chance for parents to chat with their kids about breaking the law and its real-life consequences.
Source: Reddit
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