8 Classic Gangster Films on Netflix You Can Finally Tick Off Your Watch List

Gangster films are an immense part of popular culture. Aside from being cited as an inspiration for other filmmakers, they are also often referenced in other works of art outside film. The genre has produced some of the greatest films in history. Although not as popular today, classic gangster films are timeless enough to warrant a viewing event though they are decades old. Here are classic action-packed gangster films you can stream on Netflix that will surely put you at the edge of your seat:

Carlito’s Way (1993)

This early 90s flick is one of the underrated gangster films of the decade. Al Pacino plays Carlito Brigante, a Puerto Rican criminal who gets out of jail early and decides to withdraw from crime and retire at the Caribbean. However, his past proves difficult to escape, as he gets embroiled with the same activities he vowed to stop doing. While it received lukewarm reception during its release, opinion of the film improved over time. It is now considered a cult film. Watch it here.

Public Enemies (2009)

Set during the Great Depression, the film tackles notorious gangster and “public enemy” John Dillinger and the FBI’s pursuit of him, specifically famed agent Melvin Purvis. Several other gangsters are featured in the story, including Baby Face Nelson and Pretty Boy Floyd. Johnny Depp stars as Dillinger, while Christian Bale plays the role of Agent Purvis. Watch it here.

Donnie Brasco (1997)

Loosely based on a true story, Donnie Brasco is the undercover name of FBI agent Joseph Pistone, who infiltrates the Bonanno crime family of New York with the help of Lefty, an aging member of the mob. Donnie rises through the ranks of the family while gathering evidence for the FBI at the same time. The film stars Al Pacino and Johnny Depp. Watch it here.

American Gangster (2007)

The movie is a fictionalized account of 70s Harlem gangster Frank Lucas as he takes over his boss’ business after he dies. He expands the operation to selling pure heroin, getting it directly from the supplier. His product becomes incredibly popular across town, and he becomes Harlem’s biggest crime lord. The film stars Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. Watch it here.

Scarface (1983)

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One of the most popular films on the list, Scarface has been extensively referenced in hip-hop music and other works of art and pop culture. It tells the story of Cuban refugee Tony Montana as he rises from being a penniless man to becoming a powerful drug lord. However, Tony becomes “high in his own supply,” triggering a series of events that endangers his empire. The film was controversial upon its release due to its violence and graphic scenes. But it is now considered one of the best films of its genre. Watch it here.

Road to Perdition (2002)

This film tells the story of mob enforcer Michael Sullivan and his son Michael Jr., who goes on the run after Michael Jr. witnesses a murder committed by his boss. They seek revenge after the mob further retaliates on their family. The film stars Tom Hanks, Paul Newman and Daniel Craig. Watch it here.

The Irishman (2019)

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One of the most anticipated films of 2019, The Irishman is a reunion of legendary mob film actors of the 90s and Martin Scorsese. The film tells the story of truck driver turned hitman Frank Sheeran. He initially worked for Russell Bufalino and the Pennsylvania crime family. As he rises through the ranks, he gets to work with Teamsters Union president Jimmy Hoffa, one of the nation’s powerful people at that time.

The film received critical acclaim, and it was voted as one of the year’s best films. It features a star-studded cast of Robert De Niro, Al Pacino and Joe Pesci, who went out of his acting retirement for this role. Watch it here.

The Godfather I and II

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Of course, no gangster film list is complete without The Godfather and its sequel. The first two films of the trilogy are considered to be not only the best films of the genre, but two of the greatest films ever. The series chronicles the fictional Corleone crime family of New York.

The first film sees Michael Corleone, youngest son of mob boss Don Vito Corleone reluctant to enter the family business. However, when his father’s life gets in danger, Michael takes over the empire.

Part II acts as both sequel and prequel. Michael attempts to expand his empire and legitimize its holdings. It also tackles the rise of Don Vito from a Sicilian refugee in New York to becoming the most powerful figure in organized crime in the city. Watch both here.

Which gangster film are you going to stream for your movie night?