Some movies are so good that they transcend the genre and become classic. These movies are usually labeled as such because they have very little in common with other movies of their own genre, but instead, show qualities that span genres.
So what are the best gangster movies like Lawless?
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1. The Drop (2014)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus
The Drop’s script is one of its many strengths, and it’s dark, witty, and empathetic. It will take you into the Brooklyn criminal scene through the characters and their various more or less delicate situations.
These are the final rays of sunlight before nightfall, and they might be a signal that everything is proceeding according to plan. The excellent showings, on the other hand, soon become the film’s focus and wardrobe. James Gandolfini couldn’t be more at ease in this atmosphere, and his usual menace is evident, yet somehow relatable presence.
Despite the fact that it’s based on a true story, The Drop is far from a documentary. Hardy especially shines as a vulnerable figure who keeps you doubting his vulnerability throughout the film. The Drop is steady right up until the end, with jaw-dropping moments here and there that make it both fascinating and pleasant to watch.
2. The Place Beyond the Pines (2012)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Mubi, MX Player
The Place Beyond the Pines is a prime example of a movie that’s much better than its premise. It’s about two fathers, one white and one black, who live in completely different worlds but are forced to confront each other. The film explores race relations, fatherhood, and masculinity in an incredibly nuanced way.
The acting is top-notch across the board, but it’s Ryan Gosling and Bradley Cooper who really shine. The former gives a career-defining performance as a motorcycle stuntman turned bank robber, and the latter is equally impressive as a rookie police officer.
The Place Beyond the Pines is an atmospheric and deeply engaging film that’s well worth your time.
3. Seven Psychopaths (2012)
Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube (Rent or Buy)
Seven Psychopaths is a black comedy crime film written and directed by Martin McDonagh. The film stars Colin Farrell, Sam Rockwell, Woody Harrelson, Christopher Walken, Abbie Cornish, Tom Waits, and Olga Kurylenko.
The film tells the story of a screenwriter named Marty (Farrell) who gets drawn into the criminal underworld after his friend, Billy (Rockwell), kidnaps a mobster’s dog. The film is a meditation on violence and its consequences, as well as creativity and inspiration.
Seven Psychopaths is an incredibly funny and dark film, with top-notch performances all around. If you’re a fan of Martin McDonagh’s other work, you’ll definitely want to check this one out.
4. In Bruges (2008)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube (Rent or Buy)
In Bruges is a black comedy crime film written and directed by Martin McDonagh. The film stars Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Ralph Fiennes, and Clémence Poésy.
The film tells the story of two Irish hitmen (Farrell and Gleeson) who are sent to the Belgian city of Bruges to hide out after a job goes wrong. The film is a darkly comic look at violence, morality, and redemption.
In Bruges is an incredibly funny and dark film, with top-notch performances all around. If you’re a fan of Martin McDonagh’s other work, you’ll definitely want to check this one out.
5. The Town (2010)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube (Rent or Buy)
The Town is a crime drama film directed by and starring Ben Affleck. The film also stars Jeremy Renner, Jon Hamm, Rebecca Hall, Blake Lively, and Pete Postlethwaite.
The film tells the story of a group of bank robbers from Charlestown, Massachusetts who attempt to rob an armored car. The Town is a tense and thrilling film that’s anchored by strong performances from its cast.
If you’re a fan of crime movies, The Town is definitely worth your time.
6. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)
Where to watch: Netflix
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is a spy thriller film directed by Tomas Alfredson. The film stars Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, John Hurt, Toby Jones, and Benedict Cumberbatch.
The film is set during the Cold War and tells the story of a group of MI-six agents who are tasked with finding a Soviet mole. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is an incredibly dense and complex film, but it’s also one of the most rewarding movies you’ll ever see.
If you’re interested in spy movies, or just want to see a great movie, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is a must-watch.
7. The Killing (2011)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube (Rent or Buy)
The Killing is an American crime drama television series created by Veena Sud. The series stars Mireille Enos, Joel Kinnaman, and Billy Campbell.
The series is set in Seattle, Washington, and follows the detectives of the homicide unit as they investigate various murders. The Killing is a dark and gritty show that’s not for the faint of heart.
8. Pariah (2011)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube (Rent or Buy)
Pariah is a coming-of-age drama film written and directed by Dee Rees. The film stars Adepero Oduye, Kim Wayans, and Aasha Davis.
The film follows the story of Alike (Oduye), a lesbian teenager who is struggling to come to terms with her sexuality. Pariah is a powerful and moving film that’s essential viewing for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider.
If you’re looking for a great drama, or just want to see a movie that represents the LGBT community in a positive light, Pariah is definitely worth
What are some other great gangster movies like Lawless? Let us know in the comments!
Happy streaming!
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