Top 10 Best Gangster Movies of All Time

Gangster movies have long captured the imagination of audiences with their gritty portrayal of crime, loyalty, and the dark underbelly of society. From classic mob tales to modern depictions of street life, these films offer a unique blend of drama and action.

Here's our list of the top 10 best gangster movies of all time that you must watch.

Our Picks for Best Gangster Movies

Before we dive into the details, here's a quick look at our top picks:

1. The Godfather (1972)

Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, "The Godfather" is an epic tale of the Corleone crime family. Marlon Brando and Al Pacino deliver unforgettable performances in this saga of power, betrayal, and loyalty. The film’s influence on the genre is unparalleled.

Feature	Details
Director	Francis Ford Coppola
Main Cast	Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan
Accolades	3 Academy Awards, including Best Picture
Memorable Quote	"I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse."

2. Goodfellas (1990)

Martin Scorsese’s "Goodfellas" is a raw, unflinching look at the life of a mobster, based on the true story of Henry Hill. The film stars Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci, whose performance won him an Oscar.

Feature	Details
Director	Martin Scorsese
Main Cast	Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci
Accolades	1 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (Joe Pesci)
Memorable Quote	"As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a gangster."

3. The Godfather Part II (1974)

A sequel that matches the brilliance of its predecessor, "The Godfather Part II" explores the early life of Vito Corleone and the rise of his son Michael. Al Pacino and Robert De Niro both deliver powerful performances.

Feature	Details
Director	Francis Ford Coppola
Main Cast	Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Diane Keaton
Accolades	6 Academy Awards, including Best Picture
Memorable Quote	"Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer."

4. Scarface (1983)

Brian De Palma’s "Scarface" stars Al Pacino as Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant who rises to power in Miami's drug underworld. The film is known for its intense violence and iconic lines.

Feature	Details
Director	Brian De Palma
Main Cast	Al Pacino, Michelle Pfeiffer, Steven Bauer
Accolades	Golden Globe nominations
Memorable Quote	"Say hello to my little friend!"

5. Pulp Fiction (1994)

Quentin Tarantino’s "Pulp Fiction" weaves together multiple stories of crime and redemption. The film’s nonlinear narrative, sharp dialogue, and eclectic cast have made it a modern classic.

Feature	Details
Director	Quentin Tarantino
Main Cast	John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Samuel L. Jackson
Accolades	Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay
Memorable Quote	"You know what they call a Quarter Pounder with Cheese in Paris?"

6. The Departed (2006)

Martin Scorsese’s "The Departed" is a tense, thrilling tale of deception and double lives. Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson deliver stellar performances in this Boston-based crime saga.

Feature	Details
Director	Martin Scorsese
Main Cast	Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson
Accolades	4 Academy Awards, including Best Picture
Memorable Quote	"When you decide to be something, you can be it."

7. Once Upon a Time in America (1984)

Sergio Leone’s sprawling epic "Once Upon a Time in America" chronicles the lives of Jewish gangsters in New York City. Robert De Niro and James Woods star in this haunting tale of friendship and betrayal.

Feature	Details
Director	Sergio Leone
Main Cast	Robert De Niro, James Woods, Elizabeth McGovern
Accolades	Golden Globe nominations
Memorable Quote	"I believe in America."

8. Casino (1995)

Another masterpiece from Martin Scorsese, "Casino" delves into the glitzy yet dangerous world of Las Vegas casinos. Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone star in this gripping tale of power and greed.

Feature	Details
Director	Martin Scorsese
Main Cast	Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, Joe Pesci
Accolades	Academy Award nomination for Best Actress (Sharon Stone)
Memorable Quote	"When you love someone, you've got to trust them."

9. City of God (2002)

Fernando Meirelles’ "City of God" is a visceral, intense look at gang life in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro. The film is praised for its powerful storytelling and dynamic cinematography.

Feature	Details
Director	Fernando Meirelles
Main Cast	Alexandre Rodrigues, Leandro Firmino, Phellipe Haagensen
Accolades	4 Academy Award nominations
Memorable Quote	"If you run, the beast catches; if you stay, the beast eats."

10. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

Quentin Tarantino’s directorial debut, "Reservoir Dogs," is a masterclass in tension and dialogue. The film follows the aftermath of a botched robbery and features an ensemble cast.

Feature	Details
Director	Quentin Tarantino
Main Cast	Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Michael Madsen
Accolades	Independent Spirit Awards nominations
Memorable Quote	"Are you gonna bark all day, little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"