Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of crime, power struggles and intense action as we bring you the ultimate list of the best new gangster movies and crime dramas hitting screens in 2024. From classic tales of organized crime to gritty depictions of street gangs, these films are sure to satisfy your appetite for thrilling entertainment. So, grab some popcorn and settle in as we take you on a journey through the underworld with our handpicked selection of must-watch movies!
The Irishman
“The Irishman” is a remarkable crime drama that explores the dark and gritty underworld of organized crime in America. Directed and produced by Martin Scorsese, the film boasts an all-star cast that includes Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci, among others. It is based on the real-life story of Frank Sheeran, a hitman who worked for the mob and was involved in the disappearance of the labor union leader Jimmy Hoffa.
At the heart of “The Irishman” is the character of Frank Sheeran, played masterfully by Robert De Niro. Sheeran is a complex and multifaceted character who is torn between his loyalty to the mob and his own sense of morality. As the movie progresses, we see Sheeran’s transformation from a truck driver to a ruthless killer who is willing to do anything to protect his interests.
The movie spans several decades and explores various themes, including the relationships between men, the role of loyalty in organized crime, and the corrupt nature of politics. Through Sheeran’s experiences, we see the brutal reality of life in the mob, where power and money are the ultimate goals, and there is little room for sentimentality or compassion.
One of the most striking aspects of “The Irishman” is its use of digital de-aging technology to make the actors appear younger in certain scenes. This innovative technique is seamlessly integrated into the film, allowing the audience to see the characters at different points in their lives. The technology is so convincing that at times, it is easy to forget that the actors are not actually in their prime.
Goodfellas
“Goodfellas” is a classic American crime film directed by Martin Scorsese and released in 1990. Based on the real-life story of Henry Hill, the movie follows the rise and fall of a group of gangsters in the Italian-American mafia.
It is known for its fast-paced editing, gritty realism, and dark humor. It features an all-star cast that includes Ray Liotta as Henry Hill, Robert De Niro as Jimmy Conway, and Joe Pesci as Tommy DeVito. The performances are outstanding, with Pesci winning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of the unpredictable and violent DeVito.
“Goodfellas” is a character-driven film that explores the complex relationships between the gangsters and their families. Through Henry Hill’s eyes, we see the seductive allure of a life of crime, with its fast cars, fancy clothes, and seemingly unlimited wealth. But we also see the dark side of this world, with its violence, betrayal, and constant fear of getting caught.
One of the standout features of “Goodfellas” is its use of music. The movie is scored with a selection of classic rock and roll and pop songs from the 1950s and 60s, which adds to the film’s energy and mood. The use of music also highlights the cultural context of the story, as it reflects the time period and the influence of the Italian-American community on American popular culture.
Casino
Casino is a brilliant new gangster movie starring Robert De Niro and directed by Martin Scorsese. The film is set in Las Vegas during the 1970s, and follows the story of casino boss Sam “Ace” Rothstein (De Niro) as he tries to run the most successful casino in town.
It also features some great performances from other big names such as Joe Pesci, Sharon Stone and James Woods. If you’re a fan of gangster movies or crime dramas, then Casino is definitely one to watch out for.
Scarface
In the early 1980s, crime dramas began to emerge as a popular genre in Hollywood. One of the most iconic and influential films of this era was Scarface. Starring Al Pacino as Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant who quickly rises to the top of Miami’s drug underworld, Scarface is a gritty and violent tale of ambition, power, and betrayal. The film was a critical and commercial success, and its influence can still be felt in many modern gangster films and TV shows.
The Godfather
“The Godfather” is a masterpiece of American cinema, directed by Francis Ford Coppola and released in 1972. Based on the novel by Mario Puzo, the film tells the story of the Corleone family, a powerful mafia clan in New York City. It stars Marlon Brando as Vito Corleone, the patriarch of the family, and Al Pacino as Michael Corleone, his youngest son.
At its core, “The Godfather” is a story about power, loyalty, and family. The film explores the complex relationships between the members of the Corleone family, and the lengths they are willing to go to protect their interests. The movie is known for its iconic scenes and memorable dialogue, including the famous line “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse.”
The performances in “The Godfather” are outstanding, with Marlon Brando delivering an Oscar-winning performance as the aging Vito Corleone. Al Pacino is also excellent as Michael, the reluctant heir to the family business, who transforms from an innocent outsider to a ruthless mob boss.
Once Upon a Time in America
“Once Upon a Time in America” is a 1984 epic crime drama film directed by Sergio Leone. The movie tells the story of a group of Jewish gangsters in New York City from the 1920s to the 1960s. The film stars Robert De Niro as David “Noodles” Aaronson, who is haunted by his past and the loss of his friends.
It is known for its nonlinear narrative structure and its exploration of themes such as memory, time, and identity. The story is told through a series of flashbacks and dream sequences, which adds to the film’s dreamlike and surreal quality.
“Once Upon a Time in America” is a visually stunning film that features breathtaking cinematography and art direction. The movie captures the spirit of the time period it depicts and offers a nostalgic look at the New York City of the past.
