The gangster genre has long been a staple of cinema, charming audiences with its gritty tales of crime and corruption. While many iconic films have gained recognition, there are also numerous underrated gangster movies that deserve attention. These films offer a unique perspective on the gangster world and the characters who inhabit it.
One such film is “Miller’s Crossing” (1990), directed by Joel and Ethan Coen. The movie tells the story of a bookie protected by Irish mob boss Leo Bannon, who refuses to give him up even when the Italian mafia threatens to take over. The film’s intricate plot explores the complexities of loyalty and betrayal. The story is a masterclass in storytelling, with well-developed characters and a complex narrative.
Another underrated gangster film is “Point Blank” (1967), directed by John Boorman. The movie follows a ruthless criminal, played by Lee Marvin, who is betrayed by his friend and left for dead on Alcatraz Island. Years later, he returns to seek revenge and becomes entangled in a web of crime and corruption. The film is a gritty and intense exploration of the consequences of crime and betrayal.
A Still From Eastern Promises (2007) (Via IMDB)
In addition to these two films, there are other notable gangster movies that are worth mentioning. For example, “The Drop” (2014) is a crime thriller starring Tom Hardy as a bartender caught up in a world of organized crime. “Eastern Promises” (2007) explores the dark underbelly of the Russian mafia.
“King of New York” (1990) stars Christopher Walken as a drug kingpin trying to go legitimate, while “Kill the Irishman” (2011) tells the true story of Danny Greene, a union official turned crime boss. “The General” (1998) is a biopic about Irish mobster Martin Cahill, and “Lansky” (2021) explores the life of notorious underworld mobster Myer Lansky. “State of Grace” (1990) follows an undercover officer as he takes down a local crime boss, and “Hoodlum” (1997) tells the story of gangster Bumpy Johnson.
These films showcase a range of styles and themes that will appeal to fans of the gangster genre, from gritty crime dramas to complex character studies.
