Top 10 Best Mafia Movies of All Time

Mafia-themed films are an integral aspect of filmmaking, especially when considering Francis Ford Coppola’s influential The Godfather. This legendary art has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on movie buffs worldwide, making it an iconic part of cinematic history. However, the cinematic realm of gangster and mafia films also offers countless other gems worth exploring.

From classic mob flicks to modern day mafia gems, here’s our selection of the ten greatest gangster films to hit our screens.

Casino (1995)

Martin Scorsese stands out as a master of the mobster film genre. In Casino, he narrates the gripping story based on real events of two best friends who strive for a prestigious gambling empire and the love of a beautiful socialite. Scorsese perfectly captures the juxtaposition between the luxurious and perilous aspects of Las Vegas with its riveting visuals. If you can’t make it to Sin City, Joe Fortune Casino Online games provide just as much thrilling entertainment from the comfort of your own home.

Black Mass (2015)

After an extended period in Hollywood obscurity, Johnny Depp made an emphatic return with Black Mass, the gripping tale of Whitey Bulger’s rise and eventual fall from criminal greatness. With Joel Edgerton starring as FBI agent John Connelly, the movie deftly chronicles the infamous mobster’s partnership and rivalry with the agency. Join Depp’s character on a journey through a criminal underworld of murder and debauchery.

Depp’s performance in Black Mass has been widely praised by critics as one of his most impressive works across the last few decades. He showcases an entirely new level of commitment to the Mafia genre, resulting in an experience unlike anything seen before.

The Untouchables (1987)

Set in a turbulent era of illegal drinking and ever-increasing criminal activity, the film adaptation of Eliot Ness and Oscar Fraley’s biography, The Untouchables, provides viewers with a captivating depiction of 1930s Chicago and notorious mobster Al Capone. Robert De Niro’s masterful portrayal of Capone allows the audience to experience this exciting moment in American history as they take a walk down the dark alleys of Prohibition-era Chicago.

Eliot Ness’s mission to take down Al Capone’s illegal empire requires the assemblage of an extraordinary team, consisting of law enforcement and crack shots.

Scarface (1983)

Starring Al Pacino, the iconic ’80s film ‘Scarface’ retells the story of Tony Montana, a Cuban refugee-turned-notorious drug kingpin. With its gritty, authentic approach, this movie rises above the American mafia stereotype, challenging its viewers with an emotional and haunting narrative rooted in crime and tragedy. Despite controversies initially, it has earned its place in Hollywood’s cinematic history. It has become widely accepted as one of the most well-told tales of Mafia life captured on celluloid.

Gomorrah (2008)

In Gomorrah, any expectations of the Mafia as some kind of romanticized criminal organization are bulldozed away with this in-depth exploration of their inner workings and what it means to have absolute power. With its unflinching look into the mobster mentality, this modern Mafia movie presents itself as a masterclass in dismantling an idealized illusion, similar to that of sandcastles forgotten by a coming tide.

Goodfellas (1990)

Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas has been praised for its daring story, witty dialogue, and remarkable characters. Audiences are captivated by Henry Hill’s ambition to be part of the gangster underworld. Yet despite his strong fascination for its illicit ways, his attempts result in disaster instead of success. The movie has successfully maintained an impressive following, particularly because of its artful combination of bold humor, gritty violence, and palpable dynamism.

The Departed (2006)

Another Martin Scorsese’s critically acclaimed mob drama, The Departed, examines the journeys of two men determined to uncover Frank Costello’s criminal underworld, masterfully portrayed by Jack Nicholson. Taking home an Oscar for Best Director, this thrilling journey created an illustrious visual masterpiece, captivating viewers from start to finish. 

Unwavering pacing and unexpected edges further Scorsese’s direction, ensuring each scene remains enthralling as the story progresses.

Sonatine (1993)

This cinematic production provides viewers with a unique opportunity to delve into the realm of Japan’s renowned Yakuza. An infectious synth beat and one of the ultimate soundtracks, crafted by the illustrious Joe Hisaishi, give this movie a bonus. Without a doubt, this is a captivating and stylish film. Visionary filmmaker Takeshi Kitano designed his masterpiece, Sonatine, to resemble a musical Sonata, divided into different sections.

The Godfather: Part II (1974)

This outstanding sequel to the much-lauded ‘Godfather’ trilogy contains plentiful elements that set it apart from its predecessor. Charting the downfall of Michael Corleone (Al Pacino), the youngest offspring of the Corleone family, we watch as he succumbs to the allure of corruption, despite his efforts to flee from the Mafia-driven lifestyle he was born in. The Godfather Part II is indeed an undisputed classic.

The Godfather (1972)

An unequaled feature film by director Francis Ford Coppola, The Godfather stands tall as both a Mafia movie of excellence and one of the finest movies mankind has ever seen. The captivating story-line and lyrical cinematographic work paint a vivid picture of the struggles for dominance and the devastating fate that comes with venturing into the underworld.

The success and acclaim achieved by this movie are quite remarkable, largely due to its hauntingly beautiful soundtrack and the heartfelt themes explored in the narrative.