Goodfellas is a 1990 American crime film directed by Martin Scorsese. It is an adaptation of the 1986 non-fiction book Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi, who co-wrote the screenplay with Scorsese. The film follows the rise and fall of mob associate Henry Hill and his friends over a period from 1955 to 1980.
If you’re a fan of Goodfellas, then you’ll love these other Movies Like Goodfellas. Check out our list of the best gangster movies below.
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1. The Godfather (1972)
The Godfather is the first film on our list of greatest criminal dramas. It deftly combines the underworld with romantic intrigue and gives us a genuine family drama. Even though this movie has a serious operatic tone, it makes the tale seem more realistic. The legendary portrayals of Marlon Brando as the Godfather and Michael Corleone are ones that will never be forgotten.
The film’s narrative focuses on an Italian-American criminal organization (the Corleone family) with two key figures, Vito and Michael Corleone. The narrative revolves around the family’s experiences up to the end.
This film has some incredible sequences, so it’s both a powerful drama and a rich character study. The original film was so well-received and recognized that the story was continued in the following two installments. As a result, it’s one of the very few and most loved gangster trilogy to date.
2. Scarface (1983)
Scarface is a crime drama following the story of Cuban refugee Tony Montana who arrives in Miami in 1980. He starts out as a dishwasher in a restaurant but quickly works his way up to become a powerful drug lord.
Al Pacino gives an unforgettable performance as Montana, and the film is one of director Brian De Palma’s most well-known works. The movie was a box office success, but it was also controversial for its graphic violence and language.
3. The Untouchables (1987)
The Untouchables is another gangster classic that’s based on a true story. The film follows Treasury Agent Eliot Ness as he assembles a team to take down legendary mob boss Al Capone.
The film has an all-star cast, including Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, and Robert De Niro as Capone. It’s a gripping story with excellent action sequences. If you’re looking for another crime drama with historical significance, then this is the movie for you.
4. Heat (1995)
Heat is a crime drama that focuses on the rivalry between two professional thieves. Robert De Niro stars as Neil McCauley, a seasoned professional who’s planning one last heist. Al Pacino plays Lt. Vincent Hanna, an obsessive cop who’s determined to take down McCauley.
The two actors have great chemistry together, and the movie is full of twists and turns. Heat is a must-watch for any fan of the crime genre.
These are just a few of the best Movies Like Goodfellas. If you’re looking for more gangster classics, then be sure to check out our list below.
5. The Godfather Part II (1974)
The Godfather: Part II is the sequel to the 1972 film The Godfather. It is both a prequel and a sequel, focusing on the Corleone family in two different time periods.
The first part of the movie is a prequel that follows young Vito Corleone as he arrives in America and starts to build his criminal empire. The second part of the movie is a sequel that follows Michael Corleone as he tries to expand the family business.
The Godfather: Part II is widely considered to be one of the greatest sequels ever made. It won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
6. Casino (1995)
Casino is a crime drama set in Las Vegas in the 1970s. The film follows Sam “Ace” Rothstein, a Jewish-American gambler who is hired to run a casino. He quickly gets caught up in the criminal underworld.
Casino is packed with action and features an all-star cast that includes Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone. If you’re looking for a casino movie that’s full of suspense, then this is the film for you.
7. Once Upon a Time in America (1984)
Once Upon a Time in America is a crime drama that follows the lives of Jewish-American gangsters in New York City. The film spans several decades, from the early 1900s to the 1960s.
Once Upon a Time in America is considered to be one of the greatest gangster movies ever made. It’s a must-watch for any fan of the genre.
These are just a few of the best Movies Like Goodfellas. If you’re looking for more gangster classics, then be sure to check out our list below.
8. Public Enemies (2009)
Public Enemies is a crime drama that follows the life of John Dillinger, a notorious bank robber in the 1930s. The film was directed by Michael Mann and stars Johnny Depp and Christian Bale.
Public Enemies is a well-crafted movie with excellent performances from its two leads. If you’re looking for a crime drama that’s based on a true story, then this is the film for you.
9. Donnie Brasco (1997)
Donnie Brasco is a crime drama that tells the true story of an FBI agent who infiltrates the Mafia. Al Pacino stars as Benjamin “Lefty” Ruggiero, a made man in the Mafia. Johnny Depp plays Joseph D. “Donnie” Pistone, the undercover agent who brings down Ruggiero.
Donnie Brasco is an excellent movie that’s based on a true story. If you’re looking for a crime drama with excellent acting, then this is the film for you.
10. Killing Them Softly (2012)
Killing Them Softly is a crime drama that follows a group of criminals who are hired to rob an illegal poker game. The film was directed by Andrew Dominik and stars Brad Pitt.
Killing Them Softly is a dark and violent movie that’s not for the faint of heart. If you’re looking for a crime drama that’s full of action, then this is the film for you.
11. The Untouchables (1987)
The Untouchables is a crime drama that follows a group of law enforcement officers who are tasked with taking down Al Capone. The film was directed by Brian De Palma and stars Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, and Robert De Niro.
The Untouchables is an excellent movie that’s full of action and suspense. If you’re looking for a crime drama that’s based on a true story, then this is the film for you.
