When it comes to mafia movies, there’s something that instantly grabs us: the drama, the tension, the betrayals and, of course, that intriguing world of organized crime that seems so distant and fascinating at the same time. From the power of the kingpins to the loyalties that are forged (and broken) at gunpoint, these films take us into a universe where the rules are different. If you’re a fan of the genre or if you’re just starting to explore it, here’s our top must-see mafia movies. Get comfortable, because this list is going to make you want to put together a movie marathon as soon as possible.
The Godfather (1972)
You know you can’t talk about mob movies without mentioning The Godfather. It’s the classic of classics, directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on the novel by Mario Puzo. This movie puts us right into the Corleone family, one of the most powerful mafia families in New York. What’s interesting is that it’s not just about dirty business, but about loyalty, betrayal and, above all, family. Al Pacino as Michael Corleone and Marlon Brando as Vito Corleone are simply unforgettable. Everyone talks about the performances, but you also have to pay attention to the direction and the music (that tune is iconic). The cinematography, music and screenplay are exceptional, earning it three Oscars, including Best Picture. The iconic line “I’ll make you an offer you can’t refuse” has become part of popular culture.
If you’re up for it, it’s almost mandatory to see the sequels as well. Although the third one is somewhat disputed among fans.
Goodfellas (1990)
Directed by Martin Scorsese, Goodfellas is another gem of mafia cinema. This one is faster and more brutal than The Godfather, based on the real life of Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) and shows you up close his rise and fall in organized crime. It’s a movie with high energy, great dialogue and unforgettable moments. Joe Pesci, who won an Oscar for his role as Tommy DeVito, is out of this world, and his character will keep you on the edge of your seat. That “Are you talking to me?” scene is pure tension.
One of the most fascinating things about Goodfellas is how it manages to show the glamour of the mafia world and, at the same time, its darker, more destructive side.
Scarface (1983)
Although not technically about the traditional mafia, Scarface deserves to be in this top. It’s a movie that has become cult, and Al Pacino as Tony Montana is epic. This story follows Tony, a Cuban immigrant who becomes a powerful drug dealer in Miami during the 1980s. Montana is a complex character who reflects both ambition and self-destruction, which has led to “Scarface” becoming a cult classic. The film is a wild ride from start to finish, with tons of action, violence and those unforgettable lines like “Say hello to my little friend!”
Directed by Brian De Palma and scripted by Oliver Stone, Scarface is very different from the others on this list, because its protagonist is much more impulsive and out of control. But that’s what makes it so iconic.
Donnie Brasco (1997)
“Donnie Brasco,” directed by Mike Newell, is based on true events and follows undercover FBI agent Joseph Pistone (played by Johnny Depp) as he infiltrates the New York mob. As Pistone delves deeper into this dark world, he develops a genuine friendship with mobster Benjamin “Lefty” Ruggerio (Al Pacino).
The film is notable for its emotional exploration of Pistone’s internal conflict between his duty and his loyalty to Lefty. The narrative is intense and moving, showing the complexities of human relationships within the criminal context. “Donnie Brasco” has been acclaimed for its realism and emotional depth.
Casino (1995)
Another Martin Scorsese classic. If you already liked Goodfellas, then Casino is the perfect movie to follow. Here we see again Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci in the world of crime, but this time in Las Vegas. The movie shows you how the mob controlled the casinos in the 70s and 80s. The story follows Sam “Ace” Rothstein (De Niro), a man who is very good at what he does, but has trouble controlling those around him, especially his unpredictable friend Nicky (Pesci) and his wife Ginger (Sharon Stone, in a memorable role).
Casino is long, but it’s so engrossing that you don’t even feel it. It’s one of those movies that not only entertains you, but puts you in a completely different world.
The Untouchables (1987)
This movie is more of a confrontation between the mob and the law. Directed by Brian De Palma, The Untouchables tells the story of how Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) and his crew tried to take down Al Capone, the notorious Chicago mobster. If you like stories about how the good guys try to take down the bad guys, this one is perfect. It also has great performances, such as Robert De Niro as Al Capone and Sean Connery, who won an Oscar for his role as Officer Jimmy Malone.
It’s a bit “lighter” compared to other mobster movies, but that doesn’t take away from the epicness, especially since it’s based on real events. It will make you want to learn more about that era!
There you have it, our top mob movies. They are all different from each other, but if you like this genre, you’re going to enjoy them a lot. Some are more classic, some are more modern, but they all have one thing in common: they keep you glued to the screen from beginning to end. So get ready for a good movie marathon with these gems.
What do you think? Let us know in the comments.
