If you're a fan of the dark allure of crime dramas, you've likely been captivated by the allure of movies that bring the gritty underworld to life. These films have long been a staple of cinema, dating back to the early days of Hollywood. As moving pictures gained popularity, crime stories quickly became one of the most sought-after genres. For those who enjoy diving into a world where characters forge their own paths and live by their own rules, we've curated a list of the best mafia movies of all time.
Organized crime emerged as a significant phenomenon in the 20th century, and it's no surprise that filmmakers gravitated toward this subject matter. Directors like Francis Ford Coppola and Martin Scorsese became synonymous with the genre due to their masterful storytelling. Other notable directors also dabbled in mafia-themed projects, producing some remarkable entries. Below, you'll find a mix of historical figures, fictional tales, and everything in between—our selection of the 15 best mafia movies ever made, listed in no particular order.
The 15 Best Mafia Movies
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Goodfellas (1990)
Image credit: Warner Bros.
Director: Martin Scorsese
Writer: Martin Scorsese, Nicholas Pileggi
Stars: Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci
Release Date: September 19, 1990
Review: IGN's Goodfellas review
Where to Watch: Included with HBO Max subscription, rent from Amazon, Apple TV, and most platforms
Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas is widely regarded as one of the greatest mob movies ever made. Following the rise and fall of Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), a mob associate over several decades, the film features stellar performances from Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, who won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar. Based on Nicholas Pileggi's book Wise Guy, Goodfellas is a vivid portrayal of the allure and danger of the mafia lifestyle.
Donnie Brasco (1997)
Image credit: Sony Pictures
Director: Mike Newell
Writer: Paul Attanasio
Stars: Al Pacino, Johnny Depp, Michael Madsen
Release Date: February 28, 1997
Review: IGN's Donnie Brasco review
Where to Watch: Rent from Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and more
Based on the true story of an FBI agent who went undercover in the Bonanno crime family, Donnie Brasco immerses viewers in the chaotic life of the underworld. Johnny Depp plays the undercover agent, while Al Pacino delivers a nuanced performance as a low-level enforcer. The film offers a unique perspective on the mafia, blending authenticity with compelling storytelling.
A Most Violent Year (2014)
Image credit: A24
Director: J. C. Chandor
Writer: J. C. Chandor
Stars: Oscar Isaac, Jessica Chastain, David Oyelowo
Release Date: December 31, 2014
Where to Watch: Rent from Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, FlixFling, and more
Set in 1981, New York City's most violent year, A Most Violent Year follows trucking company owner Abel Morales (Oscar Isaac) as he navigates a morally complex business environment. The film is both a thought-provoking thriller and a period piece that captures the essence of its time.
Miller's Crossing (1990)
Image credit: 20th Century Fox
Director: Joel Coen
Writer: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
Stars: Gabriel Byrne, Marcia Gay Harden, John Turturro
Release Date: September 22, 1990
Where to Watch: Rent from Amazon, Apple TV, and more
Set during the Prohibition era, Miller's Crossing offers a stylized, film noir-inspired look at the Irish mob. Gabriel Byrne stars as Tom, an angsty lieutenant caught in the middle of a mafia war. Known for its sharp dialogue and memorable performances, the film is a standout in the Coen brothers' catalog.
Casino (1995)
Image credit: Universal Pictures
Director: Martin Scorsese
Writer: Martin Scorsese, Nicholas Pileggi
Stars: Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, Joe Pesci
Release Date: November 22, 1995
Review: IGN's Casino review
Where to Watch: Stream with AMC Plus, rent from Amazon, Apple TV, and more
Martin Scorsese's Casino is another masterpiece in the mob genre, based on Nicholas Pileggi's book Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas. The film follows real-life figures Lefty Rosenthal and Tony Spilotro, portrayed by Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci respectively. Sharon Stone's performance earned her an Oscar nomination, making Casino a must-watch for fans of the genre.
City of God (2002)
Image credit: Miramax
Director: Fernando Meirelles, Kátia Lund
Writer: Bráulio Mantovani
Stars: Alexandre Rodrigues, Leandro Firmino Da Hora, Jonathan Haagensen
Release Date: August 30, 2002 (Brazil)
Review: IGN's City of God review
Where to Watch: Rent on Amazon, Apple TV, and more
This Brazilian crime drama spans decades, portraying the rise of organized crime in Rio de Janeiro's Cidade De Deus neighborhood. The film features a mostly non-professional cast, lending authenticity to its gritty portrayal of violence and corruption.
The Untouchables (1987)
Image credit: Paramount Pictures
Director: Brian De Palma
Writer: David Mamet
Stars: Kevin Costner, Charles Martin Smith, Andy Garcia
Release Date: June 3, 1987
Review: IGN's The Untouchables review
Where to Watch: Paramount+, Hoopla, or rentable on most platforms
Set in 1930s Chicago, The Untouchables follows FBI agent Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) as he teams up with an incorruptible squad to take down Al Capone (Robert De Niro). Known for its stylized action sequences and memorable performances, the film is a thrilling ride.
The Departed (2006)
Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures
Director: Martin Scorsese
Writer: William Monahan
Stars: Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson
Release Date: October 6, 2006
Review: IGN's The Departed review
Where to Watch: Rent on Amazon and most platforms
A remake of the Hong Kong thriller Infernal Affairs, The Departed follows two moles—one working for a crime boss and the other for the police—as they attempt to uncover each other's identities. The film is a complex, multi-layered drama with standout performances
