These films explore the world of organized crime, often focusing on the rise and fall of criminal empires.
1. The Godfather (1972)
The patriarch of an organized crime dynasty transfers control to his reluctant son.
Why it’s great:
- Marlon Brando and Al Pacino’s iconic performances
- Francis Ford Coppola’s masterful direction
- Exploration of family, power, and the American Dream
2. Goodfellas (1990)
The story of Henry Hill and his life in the mob, covering his relationship with his wife Karen and his mob partners Jimmy Conway and Tommy DeVito.
Why it’s great:
- Martin Scorsese‘s kinetic direction
- Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci’s powerful performances
- Authentic portrayal of mob life
3. The Departed (2006)
An undercover cop and a mole in the police force attempt to identify each other while infiltrating an Irish gang in Boston.
Why it’s great:
- Strong ensemble cast including Leonardo DiCaprio and Matt Damon
- Tense cat-and-mouse game between characters
- Martin Scorsese’s masterful direction
4. Once Upon a Time in America (1984)
A former Prohibition-era Jewish gangster returns to the Lower East Side of Manhattan 35 years later, where he reunites with his old gang.
Why it’s great:
- Epic scope covering several decades
- Robert De Niro’s nuanced performance
- Sergio Leone’s masterful direction and Ennio Morricone’s score
5. Casino (1995)
A tale of greed, deception, money, power, and murder occur between two best friends: a mafia enforcer and a casino executive compete against each other over a gambling empire and a fast-living, fast-loving socialite.
Why it’s great:
- Martin Scorsese’s detailed portrayal of Las Vegas casino operations
- Strong performances by Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci
- Exploration of the mob’s influence on Las Vegas.
