Top 15 Mafia Movies Ever Ranked

Movies have long captivated audiences with tales of gunslingers, bank robbers, and wise guys, fueling our fascination with those who live outside the law. Crime stories have been a staple of entertainment long before cinema, and as soon as movies came into existence, they became one of the earliest and most enduring genres. For enthusiasts eager to explore the shadowy world of organized crime, where individuals craft their own rules and adhere to a unique code, we present a curated list of the best mafia movies of all time.

The phenomenon of organized crime surged in the 20th century, paralleling the rise of mob syndicates across the nation. This era provided fertile ground for filmmakers like Francis Ford Coppola and Martin Scorsese, who became synonymous with the genre due to their iconic portrayals of the mafia. Meanwhile, other esteemed directors have also ventured into this territory, delivering exceptional cinematic experiences.

Our list below encompasses a range of narratives, from the real-life tales of historical mobsters and the law enforcement agents on their trail to enthralling works of fiction designed to captivate and entertain. Dive into our selection of the 15 best mafia movies ever, presented in no particular order.

The 15 Best Mafia Movies

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Best Spy MoviesBest Thriller MoviesBest Netflix MoviesGoodfellas (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

We kick off our list with Martin Scorsese's "Goodfellas," a perennial favorite often hailed as the best mob movie of all time, aside from "The Godfather." This film follows the rise and fall of mob associate Henry Hill, portrayed by Ray Liotta, over several decades. Based on the biography "Wise Guy" by Nicholas Pileggi, "Goodfellas" showcases some of the finest work from its cast and crew, leveraging the iconic status of Scorsese and De Niro to elevate Liotta and Pesci into "made men" in the eyes of cinema-goers.

Donnie Brasco (1997)

Image credit: Sony PicturesDirector: Mike Newell | Writer: Paul Attanasio | Stars: Al Pacino, Johnny Depp, Michael Madsen | Release Date: February 28, 1997 | Review: IGN's Donny Brasco review | Where to watch: Rent from Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and more

"Donnie Brasco" tells the true story of an FBI agent, played by Johnny Depp, who goes deep undercover in the Bonanno crime family. Directed by Mike Newell, the film offers a gripping look at the life of Agent Pistone, alias "Donnie Brasco," and his complex relationship with Lefty, a seasoned enforcer portrayed by Al Pacino. Based on Pistone's autobiography, "Donnie Brasco" distinguishes itself with its cool, compelling narrative and a fresh take on the genre.

A Most Violent Year (2014)

Image credit: A24Director: 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 entry that explores the challenges faced by Abel Morales, a trucking company owner played by Oscar Isaac, as he navigates the corrupt landscape of New York City in 1981. Directed and written by J. C. Chandor, the film delves into the moral dilemmas of doing business in an immoral environment, featuring strong performances from Isaac, Jessica Chastain, and David Oyelowo.

Miller's Crossing (1990)

Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: 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

In the same year as "Goodfellas," the Coen brothers offered a unique take on organized crime with "Miller's Crossing." Set during Prohibition, this film noir masterpiece follows Tom, an Irish mob lieutenant played by Gabriel Byrne, as he navigates a mafia war. Known for its stylized dialogue and sequences, "Miller's Crossing" helped cement Byrne's reputation in American cinema and launched the career of John Turturro.

Casino (1995)

Image credit: Universal PicturesDirector: 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 masterpiece, "Casino" reunites Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, this time as characters inspired by real-life figures in Las Vegas. De Niro plays Ace, based on casino owner Lefty Rosenthal, and Pesci portrays Nicky, inspired by enforcer Tony Spilotro. The film traces their journey from partnership to rivalry, with Sharon Stone delivering a powerful performance that earned her an Oscar nomination.

City of God (2002)

Image credit: MiramaxDirector: 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 crime drama that offers a raw look at the rise of organized crime in Rio de Janeiro's Cidade de Deus neighborhood. Directed by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund, the film features non-professional actors from Rio's low-income areas, adding authenticity to its portrayal of violence and societal decay. Its impact led to a spin-off TV series and film.

The Untouchables (1987)

Image credit: Paramount PicturesDirector: 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

"The Untouchables" is a thrilling depiction of Eliot Ness's campaign against Al Capone in 1930s Chicago. Directed by Brian De Palma and written by David Mamet, the film combines action and drama, with Kevin Costner leading a team of incorruptible lawmen against Robert De Niro's Capone. Sean Connery's portrayal of a veteran police officer earned him an Oscar.

The Departed (2006)

Image credit: Warner Bros. PicturesDirector: Martin Scorsese | Writer: William Monahan | Stars: Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson | Release Date: October 6, 2006 | Review: IGN's The Departed review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and most platforms

"The Departed" is a gripping remake of the Hong Kong thriller "Infernal Affairs," set in Boston and loosely based on the life of crime boss Whitey Bulger. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film follows two moles, played by Leonardo DiCaprio and Matt Damon, as they navigate the dangerous world of crime and law enforcement. Jack Nicholson's portrayal of Bulger adds depth to this complex narrative.

Eastern Promises (2007)

Image credit: Focus FeaturesDirector: David Cronenberg | Writer: Steven Knight | Stars: Viggo Mortensen, Naomi Watts, Vincent Cassel | Release Date: September 14, 2007 | Review: IGN's Eastern Promises review | Where to watch: Paramount+, rentable on most platforms

"Eastern Promises" showcases the talents of Viggo Mortensen and David Cronenberg, following a Russian mob enforcer in London caught between his boss and a midwife trying to protect a baby. Known for its intense sequences, including a memorable bathhouse fight, the film is a testament to Cronenberg's ability to craft compelling crime narratives.

The Godfather (1972)

Image credit: Paramount PicturesDirector: 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 quintessential mafia movie, transforming the genre with its epic storytelling and iconic performances. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on Mario Puzo's novel, the film follows the Corleone family's struggles and Michael's transformation from an outsider to a ruthless mob leader.

The Godfather Part 2 (1974)

Image credit: Paramount PicturesDirector: 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 prequel, offering a dual narrative of Michael Corleone's reign as Don and the early life of his father, Vito. This film, also directed by Francis Ford Coppola, delves deeper into the Corleone family's history and the consequences of their choices, cementing its place as one of the greatest films ever made.

Road to Perdition (2002)

Image credit: DreamWorks PicturesDirector: Sam Mendes | Writer: David Self | Stars: Tom Hanks, Paul Newman, Jude Law | Release Date: July 12, 2002 | Review: IGN's Road to Perdition review | Where to watch: Paramount+, or rentable on most platforms

"Road to Perdition" combines elements of a mobster tale with a father-son road trip, based on a graphic novel. Directed by Sam Mendes, the film follows Michael Sullivan, played by Tom Hanks, as he seeks revenge after his family's murder. The film's blend of beauty and brutality, along with its stellar cast, makes it a standout in the genre.

Scarface (1932)

Image credit: United ArtistsDirector: 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

The original "Scarface," directed by Howard Hawks, is an early masterpiece inspired by Al Capone's rise. Paul Muni stars as Tony Camonte, a gangster navigating the Chicago mob scene. Despite battling censors, the film's stylish visuals and intense violence have secured its place as a classic in the genre.

The Irishman (2019)

Image credit: NetflixDirector: Martin Scorsese | Writer: Steven Zaillian | Stars: Robert DeNiro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci | Release Date: November 1, 2019 | Review: IGN's The Irishman review | Where to watch: Netflix

"The Irishman," another Scorsese gem, is a reflective take on the mafia life, exploring themes of regret and isolation. Robert De Niro plays a truck driver turned hitman, working for a mobster portrayed by Joe Pesci, with Al Pacino as Jimmy Hoffa. This epic film, available on Netflix, offers a poignant look at the cost of a life in crime.

American Gangster (2007)

Image credit: Universal PicturesDirector: 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.

"American Gangster" tells the story of Harlem drug lord Frank Lucas, portrayed by Denzel Washington, and the detective, played by Russell Crowe, tasked with bringing him down. Directed by Ridley Scott, the film offers a compelling look at crime and justice, with strong performances from its leads and supporting cast.

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!)

AnswerSee ResultsThose are our picks of the best mafia movies ever – in no particular order. Did your favorite make the cut? If not, rather than leaving a horse head in our bed, let us know your top picks in the comments.