A gangster movie is a genre of film that portrays a criminal organization as its primary subject These films revolve around the activities of an organized crime syndicate and typically focus on the lives and struggles of a single protagonist or group of protagonists who are involved in the activities of the criminal organization. The films often depict a moral struggle between the protagonist and the criminal organization, and the power of the organization often arises from its ability to corrupt the protagonist.
The five best examples of gangster movies are "The Godfather," "Goodfellas," "Scarface," "Mean Streets," and "Pulp Fiction."
“The Godfather,” released in 1972, is arguably the greatest and most influential gangster movie ever made. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starring Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, this classic film follows the rise of an Italian-American mafia family in the 1940s and 50s. The Godfather is praised for its iconic and realistic depiction of organized crime and is often credited with establishing the genre.
Martin Scorsese’s “Goodfellas” is another beloved gangster movie classic, released in 1990. Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, and Joe Pesci star in this story of a low-level mob associate gradually working his way up the ranks of the mafia. Goodfellas is typically viewed as one of the best films of all time, and for its accurate and unflinching portrayal of life in the mafia.
Brian De Palma’s 1983 crime drama “Scarface” stars Al Pacino as the legendary Cuban mobster Tony Montana. The film follows the rise and fall of Tony as he ruthlessly takes control of the Miami drug trade. Scarface is well-known for its over-the-top violence and memorable characters, as well as its iconic catchphrases.
Director Martin Scorsese’s 1973 drama “Mean Streets” stars Harvey Keitel and Robert De Niro as two struggling small-time criminals in New York City’s Little Italy. This low-budget masterpiece remains one of Scorsese’s most acclaimed films and is often considered the director's breakout work.
Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 neo-noir action film “Pulp Fiction” follows the intertwining storylines of several criminals in Los Angeles. This iconic and influential movie stars John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, and Bruce Willis, and is often cited as one of the greatest films of all time. Pulp Fiction has become a cult classic and is praised for its mix of comedy, violence, and off-beat dialogue.