Top 15 Mafia Movies Ever Made

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Movies have long romanticized the allure of gunslingers, bank robbers, and wise guys, captivating audiences with tales of individuals who live outside the law. The fascination with crime stories predates cinema itself, and as soon as films emerged, they became one of the earliest and most enduring genres. For those drawn to the gritty underworld of organized crime, where individuals forge their own paths and adhere to their unique codes, we present a curated list of the best mafia movies of all time.

Organized crime, largely a phenomenon of the 20th century, has naturally found its way into the cinematic world, evolving alongside the rise of mob syndicates across the globe. Iconic filmmakers such as Francis Ford Coppola and Martin Scorsese have become synonymous with the genre, delivering unforgettable portrayals of mafia life. Other renowned directors have also ventured into this territory, often yielding remarkable results.

Our selection spans a range of narratives, from real-life mobsters and the law enforcement officers pursuing them to captivating fictional tales designed to entertain and inspire. Here are our top picks of the 15 best mafia movies ever, 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

Kicking off our list is Martin Scorsese's masterpiece, "Goodfellas," a perennial favorite hailed as one of the best mob movies of all time. This gripping saga follows the rise and fall of mob associate Henry Hill, portrayed by Ray Liotta, over several decades. With standout performances from Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, who won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, "Goodfellas" masterfully adapts Nicholas Pileggi's biography "Wise Guy," showcasing some of the finest work from all involved.

Donnie Brasco (1997)

Image credit: Sony Pictures

"Donnie Brasco" offers a compelling true story of an FBI agent, played by Johnny Depp, who goes deep undercover within the Bonanno crime family. Directed by Mike Newell, the film also features Al Pacino in a nuanced role as Lefty, a seasoned enforcer who unwittingly becomes the agent's mentor. Based on Joe Pistone's autobiography, "Donnie Brasco: My Undercover Life in the Mafia," this film provides a fresh perspective on the genre.

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

"A Most Violent Year" is a modern gem featuring Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain. Set in 1981, during one of New York City's most crime-ridden years, the film follows Abel Morales, a trucking company owner striving to maintain his integrity amidst rampant corruption. J. C. Chandor's thought-provoking thriller captures the era's turmoil and showcases the moral dilemmas faced by its protagonist.

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

The Coen brothers' "Miller's Crossing" transports viewers to the Prohibition era, offering a stylized take on the Irish mob. Gabriel Byrne stars as Tom, a lieutenant caught between rival factions, delivering a performance that solidified his reputation in the U.S. With its sharp dialogue and compelling visuals, this film also launched the career of John Turturro, who would star in the Coens' next film, "Barton Fink."

Casino (1995)

Image credit: Universal Pictures

Director: Martin Scorsese | Writer: Martin Scorsese, Nicholas Pileggi | Stars: Robert DeNiro, 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

Another Scorsese classic, "Casino" reunites Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, this time delving into the world of Las Vegas casinos. Based on Nicholas Pileggi's book "Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas," the film follows the tumultuous relationship between casino owner Ace Rothstein (De Niro) and mob enforcer Nicky Santoro (Pesci). Sharon Stone's electrifying performance as Ginger McKenna earned her an Oscar nomination, cementing "Casino" as a standout in 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

"City of God" is a Brazilian cinematic powerhouse that chronicles the rise of organized crime in Rio de Janeiro's Cidade De Deus slum. Directed by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund, this film stands out for its raw authenticity, achieved by casting local non-professional actors. Its impact led to a successful spin-off TV series, "City of Men."

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

Brian De Palma's "The Untouchables" is a thrilling, slightly theatrical take on the legendary battle between Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) and Al Capone (Robert De Niro) in 1930s Chicago. With its memorable action sequences and Sean Connery's Oscar-winning performance, this film remains a crowd-pleaser and a staple of the genre.

The Departed (2006)

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

"The Departed," a remake of the Hong Kong thriller "Infernal Affairs," is set in Boston and follows the parallel lives of two moles: one within the police force (Matt Damon) and one within the mob (Leonardo DiCaprio). Martin Scorsese's direction, coupled with a stellar cast including Jack Nicholson, delivers a tense, thrilling narrative that won the director his first Oscar.

Eastern Promises (2007)

Image credit: Focus Features

David Cronenberg's "Eastern Promises" features Viggo Mortensen as a Russian mob enforcer navigating the dangerous waters of London's underworld. With a gripping narrative and a memorable bathhouse fight scene, the film showcases Mortensen's versatility and Cronenberg's mastery of the crime genre.

The Godfather (1972)

Image credit: Paramount Pictures

Director: Francis Ford Coppola | Writer: Francis Ford Coppola, Mario Puzo | Stars: Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan | Release Date: March 24, 1972 | Review: IGN's The Godfather review | Where to watch: Stream on Paramount+, or rent on Amazon and most platforms.

"The Godfather" is often hailed as the pinnacle of mafia cinema. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on Mario Puzo's novel, this epic tale of the Corleone family broke box office records and redefined the genre. With iconic performances from Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, it remains a seminal work in film history.

The Godfather Part 2 (1974)

Image credit: Paramount Pictures

Director: Francis Ford Coppola | Writer: Francis Ford Coppola, Mario Puzo | Stars: Al Pacino, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton | Release Date: December 20, 1974 | Review: IGN's The Godfather Part 2 review | Where to watch: Stream on Paramount+ and FuboTV, or rent on Amazon and most platforms.

"The Godfather Part 2" is both a sequel and a prequel, following Michael Corleone's (Al Pacino) struggles as the new Don while also exploring the early life of his father, Vito (Robert De Niro). This ambitious narrative won multiple Oscars, solidifying its place as one of the greatest films ever made.

Road to Perdition (2002)

Image credit: DreamWorks Pictures

"Road to Perdition" combines elements of a mobster film with a poignant father-son road trip. Tom Hanks stars as Michael Sullivan, an Irish mob enforcer on the run with his son after a betrayal. Directed by Sam Mendes and based on a graphic novel, this film beautifully blends action and emotion.

Scarface (1932)

Image credit: United Artists

Director: Howard Hawks | Writer: W.R. Burnett, John Lee Mahin, Seton I. Miller, Ben Hecht | Stars: Paul Muni, Ann Dvorak, Osgood Perkins | Release Date: April 9, 1932 | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and most platforms

Howard Hawks' "Scarface" is a landmark film inspired by Al Capone's rise in Chicago. Featuring Paul Muni as the ambitious gangster Tony Camonte, this pre-Hays Code film broke new ground with its stylish visuals and gritty portrayal of mob life. It remains a significant work in the genre, even admired by Capone himself.

The Irishman (2019)

Image credit: Netflix

"The Irishman," another Scorsese masterpiece, reunites Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci in a poignant examination of the mafia life's cost. This Netflix film, based on the book "I Heard You Paint Houses," follows a truck driver turned hitman and his involvement with the Teamsters and Jimmy Hoffa. It offers a mature, reflective take on the genre.

American Gangster (2007)

Image credit: Universal Pictures

Director: Ridley Scott | Writer: Steven Zaillian | Stars: Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, Josh Brolin | Release Date: November 2, 2007 | Review: IGN's American Gangster review | Where to watch: Starz Apple TV Channel, rentable on most platforms.

Ridley Scott's "American Gangster" delves into the life of Harlem drug lord Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington) and the detective (Russell Crowe) determined to bring him down. With its intelligent storytelling and powerful performances, this film offers a compelling look at the complexities of organized crime.

What's the best mafia movie of all time? ---------------------------------------- The GodfatherThe DepartedAmerican GangsterThe Godfather Part 2The IrishmanCasinoDonnie BrascoGoodfellasA Most Violent YearEastern PromisesMiller's CrossingCity of GodScarface (1932)The Untouchables (1987)Road to PerditionSomething else (let us know in the comments!)

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Those are our selections for the best mafia movies ever – presented in no particular order. Did your favorite make the list? If not, rather than resorting to extreme measures, share your top picks in the comments section.