Best Italian Mafia Movies

Italian mafia movies have been a popular genre for many years, giving us an insight into the criminal underworld and the workings of the mafia. These movies are not just about crime, but also about loyalty, family, and betrayal.

What makes Italian mafia movies so exciting is their portrayal of organized crime and the inner workings of the mafia. They can be fascinating to watch, as they give us a glimpse into a world that is very different from our own.

From the rise of the Godfather to the fall of Goodfellas, these movies are full of memorable characters, gripping storylines, and outstanding performances.

Italian Mafia Movies

If you are looking to explore the world of Italian organized crime, then look no further. Our list of the 15 best Italian mafia movies will guide you through some of the best movies ever made in this genre.

So let’s jump into it!

1. The Godfather Part II (1974)

The original “The Godfather” movie is a masterful piece of work and takes the top spot on our list of Italian mafia movies. The movie offers a captivating glimpse into the world of the mafia from an insider’s perspective. The film revolutionized the public perception of organized crime and introduced an array of compelling characters who are far from virtuous.

Its sequel, “The Godfather Part II”, is even more impressive, receiving acclaim as the best movie ever made. The story revolves around Michael Corleone’s reign as the most powerful criminal in the world, and it interweaves the rise of his father, Vito, in the New York mafia. The script contains clever underworld sayings, while the plot is thick and convoluted.

“The Godfather Part II” is not just a movie about the mafia; it portrays a man’s lifelong struggle as Michael’s control over his empire gradually slips away, leaving him increasingly paranoid and distrustful. The film’s true genius lies in its exploration of the conflict between the two Corleone generations – the love and respect that built Vito’s empire versus the fear and violent betrayal that are the foundation of Michael’s.

“The Godfather Part II” is a must-see film worth every minute of its three-and-a-half-hour running time.

2. The Godfather (1972)

Regarded as one of the greatest films of all time, “The Godfather” is a true cinematic masterpiece. The story follows the rise of the Corleone family in the New York Mafia, led by patriarch Vito Corleone, played brilliantly by Marlon Brando. However, it is Al Pacino’s portrayal of Vito’s son Michael, who transforms from a reluctant outsider to a ruthless leader, that steals the show.

The film’s exploration of human nature is one of its greatest strengths. Themes of jealousy, betrayal, anger and revenge are woven into the narrative, punctuated by graphic and shocking violence that makes the story all the more gritty and realistic. Director Francis Ford Coppola masterfully elicits pitch-perfect performances from the talented cast, including Robert Duvall and James Caan.

Despite its lengthy runtime and slow pacing in parts, “The Godfather” remains riveting throughout. It is a movie that not only entertains but also offers a meditation on the human condition. This powerful combination has made it stand the test of time and cement its status as the greatest gangster film ever made.

3. Goodfellas (1990)

“Goodfellas” charts the story of Henry Hill, a young man growing up in a neighborhood in 1950s New Jersey, who is fascinated by the wise guys in his neighborhood and the power and respect they wield. With limited prospects and an abusive father, Henry sees no other way but to join them. The film follows him on his journey, as he becomes a part of their gang, carries out crimes, gets married, goes to jail, takes drugs, and ends up testifying against his former friends.

Martin Scorsese’s crime epic stars Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, and Joe Pesci in the lead roles. Pesci, in the role of the wildly psychotic Tommy, steals the show. The film makes use of the camera in new ways, using long and lingering shots as well as still shots, often accompanied by a 50s soundtrack.

The film’s story works on two levels, exposing the similarities between the gangster world and normal people while also showing why people are drawn to that life. The film spans four decades and allows the viewer to get to know the characters intimately.

“Goodfellas” is one of the most memorable Italian mob movies ever and is an absolute masterpiece worth your time.

4. Casino (1995)

“Casino” is one of the best Italian mafia movies of all time. It portrays the story of Sam “Ace” Rothstein, who runs the fictional Tangiers casino for the mob in Las Vegas. Rothstein is not a member of the mafia but their most successful sports handicapper. He is supported by his partner in crime, Nicky Santoro, and his unpredictable wife, Ginger. The film shows that not all gamblers are fools and that Rothstein and his team make the most of the many who are.

The strong cast is led by Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone, and the movie is well-acted. If you know the world of gambling or the culture of the mafia, you’ll understand the film without explanation. The true story behind the film shows what happened when the mafia tried to take over a casino and why they have never tried it again.

The movie is a nod to the lost era of Las Vegas when the mafia and the old-school types made Vegas great. Rothstein’s character might not be likable, but he ensures that his casino runs smoothly, and his watchful eye makes sure that guests have a great stay. “Casino” accurately reflects how Vegas has changed since those days and the sadness that comes with it.

5. Donnie Brasco (1997)

Despite being an unusual director choice for a Mafia film, Mike Newell delivered one of the best gangster movies ever made with “Donnie Brasco”. Johnny Depp stars as FBI agent Joseph Pistone who assumes the identity of Donnie Brasco to infiltrate a mob family and gather evidence against them. Al Pacino, Anne Heche, and Michael Madsen also deliver top-notch performances.

As Pistone gains the trust of a hitman named Lefty Ruggiero (Pacino), he finds himself drawn into the violent Mob lifestyle and his marriage begins to suffer.

The film is outstanding not only for its performances but also for its impeccably captured 70s period details and raw, realistic dialogue. The moral dilemma faced by Depp’s character is powerfully conveyed, leading the audience to question what decisions they would make in the same situation.

Few movies inspire this level of reflection on the main character and their actions, making “Donnie Brasco” an exceptional and involving picture, taking the fifth spot on our list of best Italian mafia movies.

6. The Irishman (2019)

The movie “The Irishman” was made possible thanks to Netflix, as it was the only distributor willing to fund it. Although the set and screen may be smaller due to it being released on a streaming site, it’s still worth watching.

This gangster film may not be flawless, but it’s easily one of the best of its kind. The acting is the main focus, and with legends like Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci, it’s hard not to be excited. De Niro’s performance is particularly impressive as the hitman Frank Sheeran. The CGI de-aging is also noteworthy, as it’s the best seen in a film.

The movie may not be innovative, but it’s a last big hurrah for these living legends and a love letter to the genre. It’s more grounded and subtle than “Goodfellas” and similar to “The Godfather: Part II” from De Niro’s perspective. The cinematography and technical aspects are not jaw-dropping, but the editing and score are great. The film is long, but time flies by except for the unapologetically slow final hour.

In conclusion, “The Irishman” is a fantastic film and is one of the best Italian mafia movies on Netflix.

7. A Bronx Tale (1993)

“A Bronx Tale”, a film by Chazz Palmentiri, depicts life in New York City in the 1960s, particularly in the Bronx, which is known for its Italian-American community. Despite the borough being now predominantly Latino, the film gives the Bronx a distinct identity of its own.

The movie tells the story of a young boy named Calogero Anello, who witnesses a murder committed by a local gangster and is taken under his wing. As he grows up, Calogero becomes interested in a black girl, which is considered taboo in his community. The story comes to a head one night in 1968, amidst the racial tensions, assassinations, and war in Vietnam.

The film’s comparison to “Goodfellas” is evident, with both films showcasing young men taken under the wing of a neighborhood boss and growing into their roles as gangsters. Robert De Niro, who is typically associated with gangster roles, plays the father of the main character and does an excellent job. However, it is Palmentiri’s portrayal of the gangster boss that steals the show.

The film provides a glimpse into life in the Bronx during the 1960s and how it has changed over time.

8. The Untouchables (1987)

“The Untouchables” is a classic crime drama that tells the story of Eliot Ness, a federal agent tasked with exposing mobster Al Capone’s illegal liquor business during the Prohibition era in the United States. Based on an autobiographical memoir by Ness himself, the film boasts a talented cast, including Sean Connery, Kevin Costner, Robert De Niro, and Andy Garcia.

The movie is a thrilling production that delivers action and suspense, with gunfights, chases, and fights that keep the audience on the edge of their seats. The story also offers a strong emotional connection to the characters, allowing viewers to empathize with their struggles and feel their pain.

The movie’s commitment to accuracy and excellence is evident in the care and polish put into its production, including the involvement of Albert H. Wolff, the last survivor of the real-life Untouchables, as a consultant to help Kevin Costner with his portrayal of Ness.

The film grossed over $100 million at the box office, despite a budget of only $25 million, and earned an Oscar for Sean Connery from its four total Academy Award nominations.

“The Untouchables” is a true classic of vintage entertainment, showcasing the best of Italian mafia movies with exceptional performances and production.

9. Gotti (1996)

“Gotti” tells the story of the rise and fall of John Gotti, the head of the Gambino crime family. Gotti was a hard-working, charming mobster who climbed his way to the top of the organization, but his vanity and missteps ultimately led to his downfall.

The film features great acting by Armando Assante, William Forsythe, and Anthony Quinn, with Quinn stealing the scenes he’s in. The writers, Gene Mustain, Jerry Capeci, and Steve Shagan, deserve credit for their portrayal of Gotti’s excesses and brutality, showing the hard work and violence that ultimately led to his demise.

The wealth and power that mob bosses amass ultimately weaken their ties and sow doubt about motives and loyalty. Gotti’s success was fleeting, as it takes rationality and a constant awareness of potential threats to maintain power in the mob.

The film is a great introduction to the life and times of John Gotti, who was a household name in New York City during his reign.

10. The Godfather Part III (1990)

Francis Ford Coppola’s “The Godfather” trilogy is widely regarded as the standard of Italian mafia movies, with each film making a significant impact in its own time.

However, the third film has sparked debates about its necessity, with some believing it was a necessary continuation of the story, while others think it was made solely for commercial purposes. However, “The Godfather Part III” is an important part of the overall story, despite standing out noticeably from the other films due to the significant time gap between releases.

The aging of the characters and the changing world is well-demonstrated by the director, although there is a noticeable difference in Michael Corleone’s character. He no longer exudes the dangerous charisma of his father, making the attempt to give him a more noble persona seem forced. Nonetheless, the film has its strengths, such as excellent acting, directing, and script. The atmosphere and ending are both intense and gripping, making it a satisfying conclusion to the saga.

Overall, “The Godfather Part III” remains an integral part of Italian mob movies, with its own unique strengths and story that explores the concept of “family” in new ways.

11. The Funeral (1996)

Abel Ferrara’s “The Funeral” is a deeply philosophical film that delves into the minds of gangsters during a Catholic funeral. The movie is not for those who dislike the genre or are easily offended by blasphemy, as it is full of it.

The central character, played by Christopher Walken, is trying to figure out his moral code in life and how it pertains to his criminal activities. His brother’s funeral acts as a pivot point in his life, forcing him to confront his beliefs on justice and ethics.

The movie suggests that ethics can come from something other than the law and that everything is debatable. The female characters in the movie represent the machismo endured by wives and how they react to their husbands’ criminal lifestyles. The setting of the movie is crucial, as it symbolizes the coffin, which represents the family’s fate.

Overall, “The Funeral” is a great film and deserves a spot on our list of Italian mobster movies.

12. Gomorrah (2008)

“Gomorrah”, directed by Matteo Garrone, is a film that takes place in a decaying housing project that serves as a visual metaphor for the Camorra crime institution in Naples.

The film follows several storylines, including a young boy who wants to join the gangsters running the project and an aging money runner who gets caught in the crossfire between factions. Other characters include a college graduate working for a corrupt waste disposal scheme and a talented designer who takes a risky job for a Chinese factory boss.

The film is a patient exploration of the ruthlessness of the gangster culture, and the director observes the gangsters with contempt, rejecting any phony glorification of their lifestyle. “Gomorrah’s” style is influenced by early Italian Neo-Realists and has a documentary feel with hand-held camera shots.

The film slowly unravels its stories, which may frustrate viewers looking for more conventional gangster movie pacing.

Despite this, “Gomorrah” won the Grand Prix at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival and was Italy’s official entry for the Best Foreign Film category at the 2009 Academy Awards. With its unique approach to the genre, the film is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who watch it.

13. Boss of Bosses (2001)

“Boss Of Bosses” is a biographical film that focuses on the life of Paul Castellano, the former leader of the Gambino crime family. The movie follows Castellano from his childhood in the Lower East Side to his eventual downfall, which occurred outside Spark’s Restaurant on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.

Chazz Palminteri delivers a captivating performance in the titular role, portraying Castellano as a tragic figure whose success in the criminal underworld ultimately led to his demise. One of the themes explored in the film is the paradox of success in organized crime. The more successful a gangster becomes, the more they attract the attention of law enforcement, which ultimately leads to their downfall. Castellano’s story is no exception.

Although he was a “good earner,” he sought to move his crime family away from drug dealing and into the more lucrative field of construction. However, as he distanced himself from the rank and file, he set himself up for trouble.

The film also highlights the efforts of the FBI agents who pursued Castellano. Their activities included bugging his home on Staten Island and gathering evidence of his illicit activities.

Despite the efforts of these agents, Castellano’s rise and fall remain an enduring part of gangland lore, and “Boss Of Bosses” is a well-told story of his life. The movie is one of the best Italian mobster movies of all time.

14. The Valachi Papers (1972)

“The Valachi Papers” is an excellent film that is underrated due to the greatness of “The Godfather” which was released in the same year, and both films deal with the same subject. Unlike “The Godfather,” “The Valachi Papers” is based on real mob figures, making it a more straightforward story.

The film’s length of over two hours is a plus point, allowing enough time to tell the long and complicated story of Joseph Valachi’s life in the mob from the 1930s to his arrest. Charles Bronson, who played Valachi, was too old for the role, but the excellent supporting cast, especially Lino Ventura’s portrayal of Genovese, a cold and tough mobster, more than made up for it.

The script is good, although not as human and interesting as “The Godfather.” The film is gritty, exciting, and fascinating, with minor issues like anachronistic elements in the film and some scenes with blood and nudity that made it unsuitable for a PG rating.

Overall, “The Valachi Papers” is an excellent production that deserves more recognition.

15. From Corleone to Brooklyn (1979)

Last on the list of movies about the Italian mafia is “From Corleone to Brooklyn”. It is a gripping movie from the late 1970s. The film follows an Italian cop, played by the charismatic Maurizio Merli, who is on the hunt for a mafia-connected killer. He must bring a witness to the United States to testify against the suspect so that the suspect can be extradited back to Italy.

Written and directed by Umberto Lenzi, who directed several great police films in the 70s, the movie moves quickly, and the viewer is kept on edge as Merli and his witness are constantly under attack by Mafia killers. The film’s pulsating, police-funk soundtrack is a classic of the euro-crime genre, and the ending is dark and fatalistic.

Van Johnson delivers a solid performance as the New York police lieutenant who works with Merli. The movie is shot on location in New York with snow on the ground, creating a unique atmosphere.

Overall, “From Corleone to Brooklyn” is a must-watch for fans of 70s Italian crime films and is a shining example of the golden age of Euro-crime cinema.

Best Italian Mafia Movies – Top 15 List