Gangster films have held a firm fascination for audiences for as long as the genre itself has been around. These films, oscillating between gritty realism and stylized storytelling, make a dent at the box office, bag coveted awards, and carve a lasting place in the sphere of pop culture. Notably, the legendary actor Robert De Niro returns to his roots in the world of organized crime with his latest performance in Barry Levinson’s The Alto Knights. The movie, which premiered on March 21, sees De Niro portray two complex mafia personalities: Vito Genovese and Frank Costello, whose friendship turns sour in their quest for power.
This film presents an opportune moment to look back at some of the greatest gangster films that have graced the silver screen. Of course, the finest among them could easily fill a top-seven list from the works of only four directors: Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, Quentin Tarantino, and Brian De Palma. Yet, to diversify this compilation, the criterion followed is to include only one film per director. Hence, apologies to classics like The Departed, The Godfather Part II, Reservoir Dogs, and Scarface, as they won’t be getting their customary mention here.
Anyone exiting the hall after viewing Shot Caller would likely have been struck by two thoughts: firstly, that the film was impressively good, and secondly, why it didn’t attract a larger viewership upon being released. The latter query finds its roots in real-world circumstances: Shot Caller’s production company, Relatively Media, filed for bankruptcy in just before its release in July 2015. The movie thus had to shelve its plans of hitting the screens for the following two years until Saban Films chose to issue a low-key release in August 2017.
Road to Perdition holds a special place as it serves as the ultimate testament to the talents of two cinematic stalwarts. Paul Newman treated the audience to his final live-action role in this film, and it also marked the last movie that Conrad L. Hall contributed to as a cinematographer. Newman’s exemplary performance earned him an Oscar nomination, and Hall took home the Oscar for his cinematography. Such recognition seems apt for a film that speaks of introspection in the twilight years of one’s life.
Eastern Promises stands apart as an exemplary crime thriller, masterfully interweaving the lines distinguishing good and evil into an engrossing mystery. One of the film’s defining moments involves a combat scene set within a sauna, a scene that drives viewers to the edge of their seats. Although the erratic charm of Scarface’s gangster may appeal to some, Brian De Palma’s superior contribution to the gangster canon rests with The Untouchables. Set against the backdrop of Prohibition-era Chicago, this film is an intriguing exploration of the local crime scene.
Pulp Fiction stands out owing to its non-linear storytelling style that provides a snapshot view of the intertwining lives of various characters, including two hitmen, a mobster with his wife, a prizefighter, and a duo of criminals. This blend of diverse characters gifts audiences an engaging series of episodes characterized by Tarantino’s distinctive blend of violence, humor, and the unexpected. Special consideration goes to the film’s dialogue which is unparalleled in its unique narrative style and execution.
Fair warning, I hold a personal preference for The Godfather Part II over its predecessor. Despite this, it’s undeniable that The Godfather paved the way for the genre and certainly the iconic sequel. Without the early establishment of this franchise, we wouldn’t have had the sequels that followed. This seminal masterpiece not only dominates the gangster genre but is considered one of the most influential films of all time. Quite a feat for a film that was on the brink of cancellation.
Francis Ford Coppola’s epic saga, The Godfather, is an adaptation of the riveting novel penned by Mario Puzo. The story offers a window into the lives of the Corleone family, a mafia organization thriving in New York City. Helmed by the patriarch Vito Corleone, portrayed by Marlon Brando, the plot takes a twisted turning point when Vito’s youngest son, Michael, a decorated military war veteran who has stayed clear of the family’s underworld dealings, is drawn into the family business due to an unfortunate tragedy.
As viewers follow Michael’s descent into a life dominated by crime, they are treated to a story that powerfully juxtaposes themes of familial bonds, vengeance, and duplicity. This transformation leaves an indelible impact on viewers, establishing the film as one of the great narratives of its time. However, one cannot rank the best gangster films without throning the deserving top honoree: Goodfellas. The undisputed No.1 on this list, the movie derives its merit not just from its depiction of an aspirant gangster’s life but also because of its holistic excellence.
Martin Scorsese’s reputed masterpiece, Goodfellas, outlines the relentless rise and eventual downfall of Henry Hill, a man with strong ambitions to ascend the mafia ladder. Supported by three exceptional performances from Henry Liotta, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci (which garnered him an Oscar), Goodfellas stands as a testament to cinematic brilliance in the genre of crime thrillers. Even talking about industry recognition, the fact that Dances with Wolves trumped Goodfellas for the Best Picture category at the Oscars continues to baffle viewers and critics alike.
Scorsese’s genius lies not merely in the strength of the narrative but also in the director’s design of the film. Goodfellas is a taut, stylish crime drama that maintains a relentlessly adrenaline-infused pace from start to finish. It leaves the viewers breathless, caught in a whirlwind journey into Henry Hill’s turbulent life. The film’s lasting impact is such that it remains a benchmark even in the competitive world of gangster cinema.
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