10 Best Movies Like Goodfellas | Similar-List

By Sophia RobertsPublished On: July 13,2024Last Updated: August 21,2024720 words3.6 min read

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10 Best Movies Like Goodfellas

"Goodfellas" isn't merely a film; it stands as a monumental pillar in gangster movies, gripping audiences with its unfiltered depiction of organized crime in 1990s New York. Directed by Martin Scorsese, this masterpiece has left an indelible mark on cinema, inspiring a lineage of gritty narratives and character studies that plunge deep into the underworld of crime.

Clocking in at 146 minutes, "Goodfellas" demands attention with its immersive journey into the lives of mobsters. For those enthralled by its allure but seeking alternatives with varying time commitments, here are cinematic counterparts that explore similar themes and styles, each offering a unique perspective on the complexities of organized crime.

10 Best Movies Like Goodfellas

Casino (1995)

Set against the glittering backdrop of Las Vegas, "Casino" unfolds under Scorsese's masterful direction, co-written by Nicholas Pileggi. Starring Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, the film mirrors the intense camaraderie and brutal realities seen in "Goodfellas," delving into power dynamics, loyalty, and betrayal with relentless pacing and visual splendor.

A Bronx Tale (1993)

Directed by Robert De Niro, "A Bronx Tale" seamlessly blends crime drama with a poignant coming-of-age narrative. Reflecting Scorsese's influence, the film chronicles a young man torn between the seduction of a local mobster and the moral guidance of his hardworking father, showcasing De Niro's dual talent as both director and actor.

Donnie Brasco (1997)

Based on true events, "Donnie Brasco" plunges into the world of FBI infiltration within the mafia, featuring powerhouse performances by Johnny Depp and Al Pacino. The film's exploration of trust, identity, and duty amidst constant loyalty tests adds layers to its narrative, making it a compelling choice for aficionados of gripping crime dramas.

The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

Scorsese directed "The Wolf of Wall Street" and blended dark comedy with crime to portray Wall Street's excesses and ambitions. With dynamic narration and a rapid-fire pace reminiscent of "Goodfellas," Leonardo DiCaprio's portrayal of Jordan Belfort captivates as the film unravels the intoxicating highs and devastating lows of unchecked power.

Once Upon a Time in America (1984)

Sergio Leone's sprawling epic spans decades among Jewish gangsters in New York, with Robert De Niro navigating a labyrinth of crime and survival. Leone's meticulous direction imbues the film with haunting realism, exploring themes of friendship, betrayal, and redemption in a narrative that resonates deeply within the crime genre.

Gomorrah (2008)

Turning to Italy's crime syndicates, "Gomorrah" offers a gritty portrayal of the Camorra in Naples, influenced by American gangster films. Its unflinching realism and multi-layered narrative peel back the layers of organized crime beyond U.S. borders, resonating with fans of intense, character-driven dramas.

The Irishman (2019)

"The Irishman" unfolds as an epic saga spanning decades in the life of hitman Frank Sheeran, portrayed by De Niro alongside Joe Pesci and Al Pacino. Scorsese's direction and the cast's stellar performances delve deep into loyalty, regret, and mortality within a world steeped in crime, reflecting profoundly on the consequences of life choices.

City of God (2002)

Set in Rio de Janeiro's volatile favelas, "City of God" paints a vivid portrait of youth, crime, and survival amidst poverty and violence. This Brazilian masterpiece parallels "Goodfellas" in its kinetic storytelling and morally complex characters, transcending cultural boundaries to deliver a gripping narrative of life on the edge.

Gangs of Wasseypur (2012)

Spanning generations in rural India, "Gangs of Wasseypur" is an epic tale of vengeance and power struggles. With nods to classic crime epics like "The Godfather," the film intricately weaves familial feuds and political intrigue against the backdrop of coal mines and crime syndicates, showcasing an ambitious narrative and cultural richness.

The Godfather: Part II (1974)

Francis Ford Coppola's masterpiece expands the Corleone saga with a dual narrative structure, delving deep into the complexities of power, family, and betrayal. Like "Goodfellas," it offers an uncompromising portrayal of mafia life, cementing its place in cinema history as a timeless exploration of crime and its enduring impacts.

In conclusion, the influence of "Goodfellas" resonates through these cinematic treasures, each offering a distinctive lens into organized crime. Whether drawn to the glamour of Las Vegas or the stark realism of Rio's favelas, these films promise a profound exploration of power dynamics, loyalty, and the consequences of living outside the law. Dive into these movies based on your preferences and time commitments, and discover how Martin Scorsese's seminal work continues to shape and redefine crime cinema worldwide.

About the Author: Sophia Roberts

Sophia Roberts is a freelance writer, novelist, scriptwriter, and editor at similar-list.com. She has a passion for cinema, literature, and culinary arts, and holds strong views on classic films, mystery novels, and artisanal cheeses. As a freelance writer since 2015, Sophia holds a BA in Creative Writing and an MFA in Screenwriting. She is always on the lookout for captivating narratives, whether in books, movies, or everyday life. Sophia has also contributed to The Atlantic, Vulture, Paste Magazine, and other publications.