Top 15 Mafia Movies Ever Ranked
Movies have long captivated audiences with the allure of gunslingers, bank robbers, and wise guys, tapping into our fascination with those who live outside the law. Crime stories have been a cinematic staple since the dawn of film, becoming one of the earliest and most enduring genres. For those drawn to tales of steely individuals crafting their own rules and living by their own codes, we present a curated list of the top 15 mafia movies of all time.
Organized crime, a hallmark of the 20th century, has inspired countless films that trace the parallel growth of mob syndicates across the country. Directors like Francis Ford Coppola and Martin Scorsese have become synonymous with the genre, delivering legendary films that define it. Other acclaimed filmmakers have also explored the mafia world, producing exceptional works that showcase the depth and breadth of this fascinating subject.
Our list encompasses a range of narratives, from historical accounts of real-life mobsters and the law enforcement agents pursuing them, to imaginative works of fiction designed to thrill and entertain. Here, in no particular order, are our picks for the 15 best mafia movies ever.
The 15 Best Mafia Movies
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Best Spy MoviesBest Thriller MoviesBest Netflix MoviesGoodfellas (1990)
Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas stands out as a perennial favorite among mafia films, rivaling even the iconic The Godfather series. This gripping narrative chronicles the rise and fall of Henry Hill, portrayed brilliantly by Ray Liotta, 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 established reputations to elevate Liotta and Pesci to stardom.
Donnie Brasco (1997)
Donnie Brasco, directed by Mike Newell, dives deep into the life of an FBI agent, Joe Pistone (played by Johnny Depp), who infiltrates the Bonanno crime family. Al Pacino delivers a compelling performance as Lefty, the mobster who unknowingly mentors Pistone. Adapted from Pistone's autobiography, the film offers a unique perspective on the mafia world, distinguishing itself with its cool, compelling narrative.
A Most Violent Year (2014)
J. C. Chandor's A Most Violent Year offers a modern take on the mafia genre, with Oscar Isaac as Abel Morales, a trucking company owner navigating the treacherous waters of 1981 New York City. The film is a thoughtful thriller that captures the moral dilemmas faced by its protagonist in a corrupt environment, making it a standout entry in the genre.
Miller's Crossing (1990)
The Coen brothers' Miller's Crossing offers a stylized, noir-inspired take on the Prohibition-era Irish mob. Gabriel Byrne stars as Tom, a lieutenant caught between rival factions, delivering a performance that helped cement his status in American cinema. The film's unique dialogue and visual style set it apart within the genre.
Casino (1995)
Martin Scorsese's Casino reunites the powerhouse trio of De Niro, Pesci, and Scorsese, this time exploring the world of Las Vegas casinos. Based on Pileggi's book Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas, the film traces the tumultuous relationship between casino operator Ace Rothstein (De Niro) and enforcer Nicky Santoro (Pesci). Sharon Stone's riveting performance earned her an Oscar nomination, adding depth to this epic tale.
City of God (2002)
City of God, a Brazilian crime drama, offers a raw and authentic portrayal of the rise of organized crime in Rio de Janeiro's Cidade de Deus neighborhood. Directed by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund, the film's use of local, non-professional actors adds to its gritty realism, making it a powerful addition to the mafia genre.
The Untouchables (1987)
Brian De Palma's The Untouchables is a thrilling, action-packed take on the battle between Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) and Al Capone (Robert De Niro) in 1930s Chicago. The film's energetic style and Sean Connery's Oscar-winning performance as a seasoned cop make it a memorable and engaging mafia movie.
The Departed (2006)
Martin Scorsese's The Departed, a remake of the Hong Kong film Infernal Affairs, is set in Boston and follows the parallel lives of a police mole (Matt Damon) and an undercover cop (Leonardo DiCaprio) within the Irish mob. With a stellar cast including Jack Nicholson, the film is a complex, thrilling exploration of loyalty and betrayal.
Eastern Promises (2007)
David Cronenberg's Eastern Promises showcases Viggo Mortensen as a Russian mob enforcer in London, caught in a web of deceit and violence. The film's intense narrative and iconic bathhouse fight scene make it a standout in the genre, blending crime drama with Cronenberg's signature style.
The Godfather (1972)
Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather is often hailed as the quintessential mafia movie. Based on Mario Puzo's novel, the film follows the Corleone family, led by patriarch Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando), and the transformation of his son Michael (Al Pacino) into a ruthless leader. Its impact on cinema and popular culture is undeniable.
The Godfather Part 2 (1974)
The Godfather Part 2 continues the saga, alternating between Michael Corleone's struggles as the new Don and the early life of his father, Vito, portrayed by Robert De Niro. The film's dual narrative structure and deep character exploration make it a worthy successor to the original.
Road to Perdition (2002)
Sam Mendes' Road to Perdition tells the story of Michael Sullivan (Tom Hanks), an Irish mob enforcer, and his son as they seek revenge after their family is killed. The film's blend of family drama and crime narrative, combined with stunning visuals, makes it a compelling entry in the genre.
Scarface (1932)
Howard Hawks' Scarface is an early classic, inspired by the rise of Al Capone. Paul Muni's portrayal of Tony Camonte, a ruthless gangster, is both stylish and gripping, making the film a landmark in the mafia genre.
The Irishman (2019)
Martin Scorsese's The Irishman offers a reflective look at the mafia life through the eyes of Frank Sheeran (Robert De Niro), a hitman for the Bufalino crime family. The film's themes of regret and isolation, combined with its epic scope, make it a poignant addition to Scorsese's mafia oeuvre.
American Gangster (2007)
Ridley Scott's American Gangster focuses on the criminal empire of Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington) and the efforts of Detective Richie Roberts (Russell Crowe) to bring him down. The film's intelligent storytelling and strong performances make it a standout in the genre.
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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