Mafia movies hold a special place in cinema history. From power struggles and loyalty to betrayal and violence, these films dive deep into the dark, seductive world of organized crime. Each of the following mafia films offers a unique perspective on what it means to live—and sometimes die—by the code of the mob. Whether you’re new to the genre or a seasoned fan, these 15 must-watch mafia movies will keep you hooked from start to finish.
1. Goodfellas (1990)
Goodfellas is the kind of movie that, even after you’ve seen it multiple times, you can’t help but get sucked in again. Martin Scorsese’s raw, unflinching look at the life of Henry Hill (played by Ray Liotta) pulls no punches. From the moment Henry utters, “As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a gangster,” you know you’re in for a wild ride. What makes Goodfellas stand out is its portrayal of mafia life from the inside—it’s not always about the grand schemes or loyalty. Sometimes, it’s just about survival and greed. Joe Pesci’s portrayal of Tommy DeVito is one of the most unhinged, terrifying characters ever—who could forget his “Funny how?” moment?
Scorsese brilliantly contrasts the glamour of the mob lifestyle with its inevitable consequences. The rise-and-fall arc of Henry Hill is portrayed with such realism that you almost forget you’re watching a movie and not a documentary. For more on how Scorsese brings these themes to life, check out our detailed Goodfellas review, where we explore the real story behind the mobsters.
2. Once Upon a Time in America (1984)
Sergio Leone’s Once Upon a Time in America is more than just a mafia movie—it’s an epic saga that spans decades, delving deep into themes of friendship, betrayal, and the passage of time. Robert De Niro and James Woods are unforgettable as childhood friends turned mobsters, and the film’s non-linear storytelling adds a unique layer of complexity. Unlike many mafia films that focus purely on the violence or the power struggles, Once Upon a Time in America is also about nostalgia and regret.
It’s a slow-burn movie, but that’s part of its charm. Leone takes his time to tell the story, and in doing so, you really feel the weight of the characters’ choices over the years. Some scenes are so emotionally charged they leave a lasting impact. Want to learn more about this emotional epic? Our Once Upon a Time in America plot summary covers everything from Leone’s unique directing style to the film’s lasting legacy.
3. The Godfather (1972)
What can I say about The Godfather that hasn’t already been said? It’s the king of mafia movies and possibly one of the greatest films ever made. From the iconic opening scene at Don Vito Corleone’s (Marlon Brando) daughter’s wedding to Michael Corleone’s (Al Pacino) rise to power, The Godfather is a perfect blend of family drama and mafia politics. The way it tackles themes of loyalty, family, and power is unmatched. I mean, who doesn’t remember Brando’s gravelly “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse”?
What really struck me on my first (and second, and third) viewing of The Godfather was how deeply it explores the moral complexities of its characters. If you’re a fan of Al Pacino movies, this film is essential viewing. If you’re looking to dive into the intricate family dynamics and the deeper meaning behind the film’s iconic scenes, our Godfather summary and spoilers are a must-read.
4. The Godfather Part II (1974)
Many sequels fail to live up to the original, but The Godfather Part II is a rare exception. In some ways, it’s even better than the first. The parallel storytelling between Michael Corleone’s tightening grip on power and Vito Corleone’s (Robert De Niro) rise to prominence gives the film a deep, mythic quality. De Niro’s portrayal of young Vito is mesmerizing, showing a man who starts out with good intentions but is slowly corrupted by the world around him.
What I find most fascinating about The Godfather Part II is watching Michael’s transformation into a ruthless leader who’s willing to sacrifice everything—even his family—to protect his empire. Curious about how the sequel expands the Corleone saga? You’ll find our Godfather Part II review dives deep into both timelines and their intricate connections.
5. The Departed (2006)
While The Departed focuses on the Irish mafia, it’s still one of the best modern crime films out there, blending themes of loyalty, deception, and power. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film follows the dual lives of an undercover cop (Leonardo DiCaprio) and a mole within the police force (Matt Damon), both connected to the mob. The film’s intense cat-and-mouse game builds up to a jaw-dropping climax that leaves you questioning everyone’s loyalties.
Scorsese masterfully builds the tension, making every scene feel like it could explode at any second. If you’re curious about the film’s intricate plot twists and how it compares to the original Hong Kong movie Infernal Affairs, be sure to check our Departed plot summary.
6. Casino (1995)
Casino is one of those films that just sticks with you long after you’ve watched it. Scorsese takes us into the glamorous world of Las Vegas, but as always, he’s much more interested in what’s happening behind the scenes. Robert De Niro plays Sam “Ace” Rothstein, the man running the casino, but it’s not all about blackjack and high-rollers. What really makes Casino unforgettable is Joe Pesci’s explosive role as Nicky Santoro—he’s terrifying, violent, and completely unpredictable.
Sharon Stone absolutely steals the show as Ginger, a woman who’s just as manipulative as she is tragic. The film really nails how greed, power, and betrayal can tear people apart. If you liked Goodfellas and want more of Martin Scorsese’s movies that explore the mafia world, this is definitely a must-watch. The tension between De Niro’s controlled, methodical approach and Pesci’s raw aggression makes every scene feel electric.
Scorsese doesn’t just focus on the glamour of Vegas—he digs deep into the corruption that fuels it. Want to dive deeper into the gritty details? You can check out more on how the mafia controlled Vegas in our Casino review.
7. Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs may not follow a traditional mafia narrative, but its portrayal of a group of criminals falling apart after a botched robbery earns it a spot on any crime film list. The movie is an intense, character-driven drama, focusing on the psychological unraveling of a crew of professional thieves. Tarantino’s razor-sharp dialogue and non-linear storytelling make every interaction between the characters a masterclass in tension.
The infamous “ear-cutting” scene is both shocking and iconic, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. To learn more about how Tarantino revolutionized crime cinema with this film, check out our Reservoir Dogs summary.
8. The Irishman (2019)
Scorsese’s The Irishman is a reflective, melancholic take on the mafia genre. Starring Robert De Niro as Frank Sheeran, the film chronicles his life as a hitman for the mob, as well as his complicated relationship with union boss Jimmy Hoffa (played by Al Pacino). What sets The Irishman apart from other mafia films is its reflective tone—it’s not just about the rise and fall of a mobster, but the deep loneliness that comes with a life of crime.
The film’s use of de-aging technology sparked a lot of discussion, but beyond that, it’s the poignant exploration of loyalty and regret that stands out. For a deeper analysis of the themes and how the film connects to real historical events, explore our Irishman review.
9. Scarface (1983)
Al Pacino’s portrayal of Tony Montana in Scarface is legendary. Directed by Brian De Palma, the film follows Tony’s meteoric rise from a Cuban immigrant to a ruthless drug lord in Miami. Scarface is all about excess—excessive violence, ambition, and desire for power. It’s both a cautionary tale and a thrilling ride through the dark side of the American Dream.
The film’s over-the-top nature has made it a cult classic, with the final shootout scene remaining one of the most memorable in cinema history. If you’re interested in the cultural impact of Scarface, our Scarface plot summary covers everything from Tony Montana’s rise to his explosive downfall.
10. A Bronx Tale (1993)
Directed by Robert De Niro, A Bronx Tale is a more intimate, coming-of-age mafia story. It’s about a young boy named Calogero who grows up in a Bronx neighborhood ruled by a charismatic mobster, Sonny, played brilliantly by Chazz Palminteri. The movie explores themes of loyalty and identity, as Calogero is torn between the honest life his father (De Niro) wants for him and the allure of the mafia lifestyle.
This film strikes a balance between crime drama and a poignant reflection on how our choices shape our lives. To delve deeper into Calogero’s journey and the moral dilemmas in the film, check out our Bronx Tale summary.
11. Gomorrah (2008)
Gomorrah isn’t your typical glamorous mafia movie. Directed by Matteo Garrone, it dives deep into the brutal, everyday realities of the Camorra, a crime syndicate in Naples. Forget the suits and luxury—this film shows the gritty, harsh impact of organized crime on ordinary lives. It follows multiple characters, from a boy getting drawn into the criminal world to a tailor who makes a dangerous mistake.
What really hit me about Gomorrah is how real and raw it feels. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s eye-opening. If you’re looking for a different take on mafia films, this one’s essential. For more insights into the true stories behind the movie, check out our Gomorrah review and spoilers.
12. Donnie Brasco (1997)
Based on a true story, Donnie Brasco is one of the most emotionally charged mafia movies out there. Johnny Depp stars as Joe Pistone, an undercover FBI agent who infiltrates the mafia under the alias Donnie Brasco. Al Pacino plays Lefty Ruggiero, a low-level mobster who takes Donnie under his wing, not knowing that Donnie is gathering evidence to bring him down.
The bond between Donnie and Lefty is the heart of the film. It’s heartbreaking to watch, knowing that it’s all built on a lie. To understand more about the real-life operation and the film’s emotional weight, dive into our Donnie Brasco plot analysis.
13. American Gangster (2007)
Ridley Scott’s American Gangster tells the real-life story of Frank Lucas (played by Denzel Washington), a drug lord who built a heroin empire in 1970s Harlem. The film does an excellent job contrasting Lucas’s organized and calculated rise with the chaotic, sometimes corrupt efforts of law enforcement to bring him down, led by Russell Crowe’s character, Richie Roberts.
Denzel Washington’s portrayal of Lucas as a businessman with a moral code sets this film apart from other crime dramas. The meticulous way Lucas operates his empire is fascinating to watch, and for more on the real Frank Lucas, check out our American Gangster review.
14. Infernal Affairs (2002)
This Hong Kong crime thriller served as the blueprint for Scorsese’s The Departed. Infernal Affairs focuses on an undercover cop working within a criminal gang and a criminal mole embedded in the police force. Both sides race to uncover each other’s identity, leading to a tense psychological game that keeps the audience on edge throughout.
For more on how this tightly crafted thriller laid the foundation for its Hollywood remake, our Infernal Affairs summary offers an in-depth comparison and analysis.
15. The Untouchables (1987)
Brian De Palma’s The Untouchables is a stylish retelling of Eliot Ness’s (Kevin Costner) efforts to take down Al Capone (played by Robert De Niro) during Prohibition. With its iconic set pieces and memorable performances, the film stands out as a grand, operatic take on the mafia’s hold over American society in the early 20th century.
The famous train station shootout scene is pure De Palma, mixing suspense and action beautifully. To get the full scoop on this iconic film, check out our Untouchables review.
Each of these mafia films offers something different, whether it’s a grand epic about the rise and fall of an empire or an intimate story of personal betrayal. From the glamorous heights of The Godfather to the gritty streets of Goodfellas, these movies define the genre and showcase the complex, often tragic world of organized crime.