Crime films have a unique allure, especially those that delve into the complexities of organized crime. Goodfellas, directed by Martin Scorsese, is often regarded as a benchmark in this genre. Released in 1990, it provided a gritty yet humanistic look at the life of mobsters through the eyes of Henry Hill. For fans seeking similar cinematic experiences, here are 15 notable films that echo the themes and storytelling styles found in Goodfellas.
The Godfather
Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather (1972) reshaped the gangster genre, focusing on the Corleone family and their struggles with crime and loyalty.
The Godfather Part II
This sequel continues the story of the Corleone family, juxtaposing Michael Corleone’s rise with Vito Corleone’s early days in America.
Scarface
Al Pacino stars as Tony Montana in Scarface (1983), a tale of ambition and excess in the Miami drug scene.
Once Upon a Time in America
Sergio Leone’s final film, Once Upon a Time in America (1984), chronicles the lives of Jewish mobsters from the 1920s to the 1960s.
King of New York
Christopher Walken plays Frank White in King of New York (1990), a stylish portrayal of a drug lord’s return to power.
Bugsy
Warren Beatty stars as Bugsy Siegel in this biopic about the mobster’s role in the development of Las Vegas.
Reservoir Dogs
Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs (1992) revolves around a heist gone wrong and the ensuing chaos among the thieves.
A Bronx Tale
Robert De Niro’s directorial debut, A Bronx Tale (1993), explores the conflicting influences of a father and a mob boss on a young boy.
Carlito’s Way
In Carlito’s Way (1993), Al Pacino’s character struggles to escape his past as he attempts to go legitimate.
Casino
Scorsese’s Casino (1995) examines the mob’s influence over Las Vegas through the eyes of a casino manager.
Donnie Brasco
Donnie Brasco (1997) tells the true story of an undercover FBI agent who infiltrates the mafia, highlighting the emotional toll of his deception.
Jackie Brown
Tarantino’s Jackie Brown (1997) features a flight attendant who becomes embroiled in a complex scheme involving smuggling and betrayal.
The Departed
Scorsese’s The Departed (2006) presents a tense cat-and-mouse game between the police and the Irish mob in Boston.
American Gangster
American Gangster (2007) follows the rise of drug lord Frank Lucas during the Vietnam War era.
The Irishman
Scorsese’s The Irishman (2019) explores the life of mob hitman Frank Sheeran and his connection to the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa.
These films not only share thematic elements with Goodfellas but also showcase the genre’s evolution over the decades. For a deeper dive into these recommendations, visit the full article at /slashfilm.com.