Watching movies has always been an escape from reality to a place unknown, unfamiliar yet intriguing. Best Crime movies give the audience an insight into the lives and minds of criminals and people affiliated with them. This genre of motion pictures is thrilling and can also be called nerve-wracking; it can engage the audiences and keep them wanting more, charmed by its mysterious and hidden aura.
Real crimes are fascinating for audiences to watch and decode how a criminal’s mind works. The best crime movies are a result of combined efforts put in by many talented individuals and artists; it is an ever-evolving genre and hence isn’t limited to any one country.
Here is the list of the best crime movies from all around the world ever to be made:
1 – The Dark Knight (2008)
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The Dark Knight (2008) is a thrilling and intense masterpiece of filmmaking that redefined the superhero genre. Directed by the legendary Christopher Nolan, this film undoubtedly stands out as one of the greatest superhero movies of all time. From the impeccable casting to the epic action sequences, it’s hard not to be enamored with this classic film. The late Heath Ledger’s performance as the Joker was absolutely iconic, and it’s clear that he put his heart and soul into the role.
The film keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish, leaving you with an exhilarating adrenaline rush and a newfound respect for the genius of Nolan’s directing. It’s no surprise that The Dark Knight (2008) has garnered critical acclaim and is still loved by fans all over the world.
It is available on Netflix, YouTube, and GooglePlay Movies.
2 – The City of God (2002)
The City of God, released in 2002, is acclaimed as one of the most stunning portrayals of the raw and gritty reality of urban violence. Set in the slums of Rio de Janeiro, the film follows the lives of young individuals who are entangled in various forms of crime and violence. The movie is gripping, unflinching, and unabashedly realistic in its portrayal of the harsh realities of inner-city life. The cinematography and direction are truly remarkable, capturing the essence of life on the streets with an intensity that is both unnerving and captivating.
Overall, The City of God is a thought-provoking masterpiece that explores the complex issues of poverty, violence, and survival in a way that few films have ever dared to do.
3 – Pulp Fiction (1994)
Pulp Fiction is a film that has become a classic in the world of cinema. Directed by Quentin Tarantino and released in 1994, it tells a series of interwoven stories set in Los Angeles. The film combines violence, humor, and pop culture references in a way that was revolutionary at the time.
The characters are complex and memorable, from hitmen Vincent Vega and Jules Winnfield to the mob boss Marsellus Wallace and his wife Mia. Pulp Fiction is a film that defies easy categorization and continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.
4 – Goodfellas (1990)
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Goodfellas, the 1990 crime drama film, is a cinematic masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Ray Liotta, this movie tells the story of Henry Hill, a member of the Italian-American mafia. From the opening scene, Goodfellas captures your attention with its gritty and raw portrayal of organised crime and the world of the mob.
The film is filled with fantastic performances, intense moments, and gripping storytelling that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Goodfellas is a classic must-watch for anyone who appreciates the art of filmmaking!
5 – Gangs of Wasseypur (2012)
Gangs of Wasseypur is an intense and gripping film that takes you on a wild ride through the dark underbelly of crime and corruption in India. With its sprawling cast of characters and intricate plot, this epic crime saga is a tour-de-force of storytelling that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Set against the backdrop of the coal mafia wars in the town of Wasseypur, the film tells the story of two rival gangs and their ruthless pursuit of power and wealth.
From the gritty streets of the town to the opulent palaces of the wealthy elite, Gangs of Wasseypur is a masterful work of cinema that will leave you breathless. Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas or just looking for a gripping and thought-provoking film, Gangs of Wasseypur is a must-see.
6 – Se7en (1995)
Se7en, directed by David Fincher, is a cinematic achievement in the crime thriller genre. Starring Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, the movie tells the story of two detectives on the hunt for a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as inspiration for his gruesome murders. The eerie and dark atmosphere created by Fincher keeps the audience on the edge of their seats throughout the entire film.
The twists and turns in the plot are unexpected and leave a lasting impact on viewers. Se7en is a film that leaves its mark on its genre and still manages to captivate audiences over 25 years later.
7 – The Irishman (2019)
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The Irishman is a film that has captivated audiences with its powerful performances and compelling storytelling. Produced by Martin Scorsese, the movie focuses on the life of Frank Sheeran, a hitman who worked for some of the most notorious figures in American history, including Jimmy Hoffa. With a star-studded cast featuring the likes of Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci, the film has been praised for its meticulous attention to detail and its ability to transport viewers back to a bygone era of organized crime.
And while the movie deals with themes of violence and betrayal, it also showcases the enduring bonds of friendship and loyalty that can sometimes be found in even the darkest of places.
8 – Joker (2019)
The Joker has always been one of the most iconic comic book villains of all time, and the 2019 film by the same name delves deep into his origins. This movie takes a gritty and realistic approach to the character, showcasing the struggles of Arthur Fleck (played masterfully by Joaquin Phoenix) as he descends into madness and takes on the infamous Joker persona. From stunning cinematography to a haunting original score, Joker captivates audiences from the opening scene to the shocking finale.
This film is a must-see for not only fans of comic book movies, but anyone who appreciates a well-crafted character study with a dark and compelling storyline. All in all, Joker is a masterful piece of cinema that sticks with viewers long after the credits roll.
9 – The Lives of Others (2006)
The Lives of Others is a captivating film that takes us back in time to Cold War-era East Berlin. We follow the story of Gerd Wiesler, a Stasi officer tasked with spying on renowned playwright Georg Dreyman and his lover Christa-Maria Sieland. As the story unfolds, we witness the moral struggle Wiesler faces as he becomes increasingly attached to the lives of his targets. This film is a poignant reminder of the impact that state surveillance and censorship can have on people’s lives, and it leaves us questioning the power dynamics at play in society.
The touching performances and thought-provoking storyline make The Lives of Others a must-see for anyone interested in the complexities of human relationships and the impact of politics on personal lives.
10 – The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
The Silence of the Lambs swept audiences off their feet when it first hit the big screen in 1991. This psychological thriller, based on the novel of the same name by Thomas Harris, introduced us to the infamous Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant psychiatrist with a taste for human flesh, and the determined FBI trainee, Clarice Starling, who seeks his help in solving a serial killer case.
The standout performances by Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins have made them synonymous with their respective roles as Starling and Lecter, and the chilling atmosphere of the film has cemented it as a classic in the horror genre. The Silence of the Lambs remains a must-see film for anyone who loves a good scare and unforgettable characters.
11 – Kill Bill: Volume 1 (2003)
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Kill Bill: Volume 1 marks the beginning of one of the most thrilling revenge stories in cinema history. The film, directed by Quentin Tarantino, follows the character of The Bride, played by Uma Thurman, as she seeks vengeance against those who betrayed her on her wedding day. While the storyline of Kill Bill: Volume 1 may seem simple on the surface, Tarantino brings his signature style and flair to the film through stunning visual effects, unique soundtracks, and expertly choreographed fight scenes.
With a standout performance from Thurman and a supporting cast that includes Lucy Liu, Vivica A. Fox, and Daryl Hannah, Kill Bill: Volume 1 is a must-watch for any fan of action-packed cinema.
It is available on Hulu(free trial) and Prime Video
12 – M (1931)
M (1931) is a true masterpiece in the world of cinema. Directed by Fritz Lang, this German thriller tells the story of a city gripped by fear and terror caused by a serial killer preying on young children. What sets this film apart from other crime movies is its incredible use of sound and cinematography to create a sense of unease and tension throughout the movie. The protagonist, played by Peter Lorre, is both a sympathetic character and a disturbing villain, leaving the audience unsure of how to feel towards him.
The film’s powerful commentary on society’s reaction to crime and punishment is as relevant today as it was almost a century ago. M (1931) is a must-see for any film lover and has rightfully earned its place as one of the greatest movies ever made.
It is available on YouTube and Dvd.netflix.
13 – The Godfather: Part II (1994)
The Godfather: Part II is considered one of the greatest film sequels of all time. Released in 1974, the movie was directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starred Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, and Diane Keaton. The storyline follows the parallel narratives of Michael Corleone (Pacino), who is now the head of the Corleone crime family, and Vito Corleone, played by De Niro, who shows how he rose to power in the 1920s and 1930s. The film is known for its layered and complex themes of power, family, and morality, all set against the backdrop of organized crime in New York City.
It won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring everything from fashion trends to parodies. Even decades after its release, The Godfather: Part II remains a cinematic masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
14 – No Country for Old Men (2007)
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No Country for Old Men made waves when it came out in 2007, and it’s still captivating audiences today. The film, which is based on the novel by Cormac McCarthy, follows the story of a Texan welder named Llewelyn Moss who stumbles upon a drug deal gone wrong in the desert. He decides to abscond with the $2 million that he finds, and the ensuing chase through the backwaters of Texas is a white-knuckled thrill ride. But what really sets No Country for Old Men apart is the stunning performance by Javier Bardem as a ruthless hitman named Anton Chigurh.
He’s a character that’s both terrifying and fascinating, and Bardem’s performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. All in all, No Country for Old Men is a masterful film that’s well worth your time.
15 – Heat (1995)
Heat, the 1995 crime thriller directed by Michael Mann, is a cinematic masterpiece that is not to be missed. Starring Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, the film is an intense and gripping look at the lives of two men on opposite sides of the law. Pacino plays Vincent Hanna, a tough-as-nails cop who is determined to take down a group of professional bank robbers led by De Niro’s character, Neil McCauley.
As the two men try to outsmart each other, the tension builds to an explosive climax that will have you on the edge of your seat. With stunning cinematography and incredible performances from its all-star cast, Heat is a must-see for fans of the crime genre.
16 – Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
“Ocean’s Eleven” (2001) is a heist film that has become a classic in the genre. Directed by Steven Soderbergh and starring a star-studded cast including George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Julia Roberts, this movie is a thrilling adventure that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The film follows Danny Ocean, a recently paroled thief, who recruits a team of specialists to perform an elaborate heist at three casinos in Las Vegas.
The clever and perfectly executed plan involves everything from distracting guards to hacking security systems. “Ocean’s Eleven” is a must-see for those who love a good heist movie filled with suspense, humor, and a touch of glamour.
17 – The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover (1989)
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The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover is a thrilling and controversial movie that was released in 1989. The plot centers around a group of characters whose lives intersect in a small French restaurant. The story is dark and twisted, with themes of infidelity, revenge, and power struggles. The movie is known for its striking cinematography, striking costumes, and bold soundtrack. Although it was met with mixed reviews upon its release, the film has since gained a cult following and is considered a classic masterpiece of British cinema.
If you’re looking for a thrilling and thought-provoking movie to watch, The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover is definitely worth checking out.
CONCLUSION
Indulging yourself in some crime movies gives you a sense of reality with a quotient of drama to binge on. Just the suspense and thriller filled in a crime drama keeps you hooked to the story and makes you understand the characters deeply. More Crime Drama movies are set to come every year with exclusive title releases. These movies are just some of the exemplary criminal movies out there. I hope you enjoy watching them.
