Ritesh Sharma
Gangster movies are one of the most complete genres in cinema, offering a vivid and often brutal look into the world of organized crime. These films don’t just depict the rise and fall of criminals; they explore power, loyalty, betrayal, and the high stakes that come with a life of crime. Directors draw audiences in with the allure of wealth, control, and rebellion — only to flip the coin and reveal the chaos, paranoia, and inevitable downfall that follows. Whether told through pulse-pounding action or slow-burning psychological drama, gangster films always promise one thing: total engagement. If you’re looking for gripping stories about crime lords, ruthless enforcers, and power struggles, Hulu has a strong lineup of gangster movies that capture every facet of this dangerous underworld. We’ve curated a list of the best ones for you — each offering a different yet equally thrilling perspective on life in the mob.
6. American Sicario (2021)
Helmed by RJ Collins, ‘American Sicario’ is a gritty crime thriller that dives into the brutal world of cartel warfare. The film follows Erik Vasquez (Philippe A. Haddad), an ambitious American gangster trying to establish dominance in Mexico’s ruthless drug trade. His rise to power puts him in direct conflict with rival cartels, law enforcement, and even his own allies, leading to a violent and dangerous struggle for survival. Featuring intense action sequences and raw performances, the film paints a dark portrait of power, ambition, and its inevitable consequences. Fans of cartel dramas and violent crime thrillers will find plenty to enjoy here. With its mix of tense storytelling and brutal realism, ‘American Sicario’ offers a thrilling ride into the deadly game of organized crime. You can stream it here.
5. Capone (2020)
Josh Trank’s ‘Capone’ offers a unique and unsettling look at the final days of one of America’s most infamous gangsters. The film follows Al Capone (Tom Hardy) in his later years, suffering from dementia after serving time in prison. Once a feared crime boss, he is now a frail and paranoid man, haunted by his past crimes and fading grip on reality. Rather than focusing on his rise to power, the film presents an intimate and unglamorous portrayal of a man undone by his own empire. Hardy delivers a bold and eerie performance, fully embodying the decaying legend. With its psychological depth and dreamlike storytelling, Capone is a departure from traditional gangster films, offering a haunting perspective on the price of a life spent in crime. Fans looking for a fresh, unconventional take on mob stories will find this film a fascinating watch. Find the movie here.
4. Snakehead (2021)
‘Snakehead’ is a tense crime thriller that follows Sister Tse (Shuya Chang), an undocumented immigrant smuggled into New York’s Chinatown. Forced to work for a powerful crime syndicate led by Dai Mah (Jade Wu), she quickly learns the brutal reality of the human smuggling trade. As she adapts to this ruthless world, she begins to climb the ranks, using her intelligence and survival instincts to carve out her own path.With its gripping storytelling and atmospheric cinematography, the Evan Jackson Leong directorial immerses viewers in the dark underbelly of organized crime. Inspired by real events, Snakehead delivers a grounded and intense portrayal of power, survival, and ambition. Fans of crime dramas that offer both action and depth will find this a compelling watch. The movie can be watched here.
3. Mob Land (2023)
In Nicholas Maggio’s ‘Mob Land’ Shelby (Shiloh Fernandez), a desperate family man, gets involved in a risky robbery targeting a mob-controlled operation. When things go wrong, he finds himself hunted by a relentless enforcer (John Travolta), sent to clean up the mess. With the rise in stakes, Shelby must play a deadly game of survival where every decision could mean life or death. With its moody cinematography and slow-burning tension, the film captures the grim reality of small-town crime. Travolta’s performance adds weight to the story, portraying a lawman caught between justice and corruption. Blending action with psychological depth, Mob Land is a gripping watch for those who enjoy crime thrillers with a gritty, atmospheric edge. You can watch this movie online here.
2. Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead (2007)
‘Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead’ is a gripping crime thriller that explores the devastating consequences of greed and desperation. The story follows two brothers, Andy (Philip Seymour Hoffman) and Hank (Ethan Hawke), who, drowning in financial troubles, plan a seemingly simple heist—robbing their own parents’ jewelry store. However, the plan spirals out of control, setting off a chain of irreversible events that shatter their lives. As tensions rise, betrayal and guilt consume them, leading to a gripping downward spiral. Directed by Sidney Lumet, the film masterfully weaves nonlinear storytelling with intense character-driven drama. Watch this powerful movie here.
1. Heat (1995)
Starring Al Pacino and Robert De Niro in lead roles, Michael Mann’s acclaimed crime drama ‘Heat’ tells the story of criminal mastermind Neil McCauley (De Niro) and LAPD detective Lieutenant Vincent Hanna (Pacino). The paths of these two men cross after a heist planned by McCauley is unintentionally botched by a crew member. As McCauley plans another heist while trying to keep his men in line, Hanna must track down the crew but also has to deal with his wife’s infidelity. Considering the mind games these two intelligent men get into, they develop a mutual respect that lays the foundation for a gripping climax. A must-watch movie starring two acting legends, ‘Heat’ remains one of the most influential flicks of the gangster genre. You can watch it here.
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