11 Best Gangster Movies on Netflix, Ranked

Since the release of the Godfather movies, the mob genre has become one of the most successful and popular among viewers. Despite the fact that many viewers may not condone criminal behavior in real life, they are drawn to the allure of movies that center around thugs, gangsters, and outlaws. These films offer a form of escapism, allowing viewers to indulge in the dangerous and exciting world of these characters without facing any actual risks.

It could be rebellious curiosity, the lavish lifestyles these characters lead, or the dominance and power they exude that leave many captivated by these gangster films. But one thing is certain: viewers often experience pulsating reactions as they navigate through the restless but fascinating worlds of these thugs and criminals, the rise and fall of their empires, and their never-ending quest for power. Through these best mob movies on Netflix, viewers can experience the thrill of being a gangster without having to get their hands dirty, all while comfortably watching on their couch.

11

‘The Outsider’ (2018)

Directed by Martin Zandvliet

Jared Leto as Nick in The Outsider. — Image via Netflix

Starring Jared Leto in a cold and calculated lead role, this stylized Martin Zandvliet film is set in post-WWII Japan and centers around Nick Lowell, an American soldier who joins the Yazuka after being released from prison. It delves into themes of loyalty, identity, and offers audiences a sneak peak into the brutal world of organized crime.

The Outsider is hardly a top-notch movie, and it has even received mixed reviews criticizing its character development and pacing. However, audiences who are on the lookout for stylish cinematography and atmospheric visuals may find it an appealing and moody watch. Plus, the way it immerses viewers in 1950s Osaka and its unconventional take on the gangster genre are part of its appeal to some.

The Outsider

Release Date: March 9, 2018
Director: Martin Zandvliet
Runtime: 120
Main Genre: Crime

10

‘Black Mass’ (2015)

Directed by Scott Cooper

Johnny Depp as Whitney Bulger in Black Mass. — Image via Warner Bros

Johnny Depp is real-life mobster James “Whitney” Bulger in this gritty 2015 Scott Cooper film. The story centers around his rise as he forms an alliance as an informant with the FBI to take down a Mafia family that has become his rival.

The great performances are definitely the highlight of Black Mass, with Depp sending chills down viewers’ spines with his believable gangster portrayal. Benedict Cumberbatch and Joel Edgerton‘s efforts are worth a nod as well. If fans of the genre are in the mood to sit through a true-crime, thrilling gangster movie and haven’t checked it out yet, Black Mass may be the right pick, as it delivers an intriguing character-driven narrative while also capturing the violent Boston underworld through its moody visuals.

Release Date: September 4, 2015
Runtime: 123minutes

9

‘The Highwaymen’ (2019)

Directed by John Lee Hancock

Kevin Costner as Frank Hamer standing next to Woody Harrelson as Maney Gault in The Highwaymen (2019) movie — Image via Netflix

John Lee Hancock‘s The Highwaymen is a contemporary Western cop drama that offers a unique perspective while illustrating the untold true story of the legendary detectives who brought to justice Bonnie and Clyde. Kevin Costner and Woody Harrelson star in the lead roles.

From Costner and Harrelson’s incredibly nuanced performances (and the rest of its talented cast, which also counts on Kathy Bates and John Carroll Lynch) to its captivating blend of historical events with thrilling, gripping action, The Highwaymen is a valuable addition to your watchlist if you’re in the mood for a great gangster film. Viewers who enjoy historical crime dramas with a focus on the hunt rather than the prey should consider giving this fresh re-examining of the legend a watch.

Release Date: March 29, 2019
Director: John Lee Hancock
Cast: W. Earl Brown
, Emily Brobst
, Kim Dickens
, Jesse C. Boyd
, Kathy Bates
, Sheenan Cole
, Woody Harrelson
, John Carroll Lynch
, Kaley Wheless
, Billy Slaughter
, Jane McNeill
, Kevin Costner
, Thomas Mann
, David Furr
Runtime: 132 minutes
Main Genre: Drama

8

‘Emily the Criminal’ (2022)

Directed by John Patton Ford

Aubrey Plaza as Emily the Criminal. — Image via Roadside Attractions

Starring Aubrey Plaza, Emily the Criminal is a John Patton Ford crime drama that centers around the titular character. When Emily gets involved in a credit card scam, it ultimately leads her to the criminal underworld scene of L.A.

Last year’s feature may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it certainly makes for an engaging watch. The entertaining flick features social critiques, realism, and relatability, all of which are aspects that certainly appeal to modern audiences who are also fans of the genre. All in all, Emily the Criminal is a refreshing crime story that viewers haven’t probably seen before.

Release Date: August 12, 2022
Director: John Patton Ford
Runtime: 97 Minutes

7

‘Ferry’ (2021)

Directed by Cecilia Verheyden

A Ruthless gangster, Ferry Bouman (Frank Lammers) is sent to his native region of Brabant by his boss Brink to avenge an attack on their gang.

Ferry isn’t just about a cold-blooded killer, but it also delves into a gangster’s captivating love story. Fans of the Undercover series will undoubtedly be thrilled to see the origin story of Ferry’s involvement in the ecstasy trade. Even as a standalone film, Ferry is a solid and entertaining choice for audiences, featuring a mix of humor, love, violence, suspense and a talented cast. This crime thriller has something for everyone.

Watch on Netflix

6

‘Bad Boys’ (1995)

Directed by Michael Bay

Martin Lawrence and Will Smith in Bad Boys — Image via Columbia Pictures

Although Bad Boys is not a gangster film in the traditional sense, it features plenty of elements present in the genre and showcases the high-stakes world of crime and law enforcement. Starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence in the lead roles, this buddy cop follows two hip detectives as they protect a witness to a murder while investigating a case of stolen heroin.

Whether because of the electrifying chemistry between Smith and Lawrence, which has cemented the two as one of the best dynamic duos in film, or its action-packed and explosive scenes and entertaining storyline, Michael Bay’s movie is worth checking; its great mix of crime, comedy, and action makes it a great pick for anyone looking for a fun take on gangster films.

Release Date: July 18, 2003
Runtime: 119 Minutes

5

‘El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie’ (2019)

Directed by Vince Gilligan

Robert Forester in vacuum store looking at unseen man with in El Camino a Breaking Bad Movie. — Image via Netflix

In this high-rated Breaking Bad spinoff that is a Vince Gilligan neo-Western crime thriller movie, Aaron Paul steps into the shoes of his character Jesse Pinkman again, this time to run away from his captors, the law, and the past.

A Breaking Bad story through and through, El Camino is guaranteed to pleasantly surprise both fans of the series and those who are completely new to its fictional universe. The film serves as an epilogue to the show and features extraordinary acting (especially from Robert Foster), undoubtedly making for a memorable time in front of the screen.

Release Date: October 11, 2019
Director: Vince Gilligan
Runtime: 122 minutes

4

‘The Gentlemen’ (2019)

Directed by Guy Ritchie

Matthew McConaughey as Mickey Pearson sitting in a bar looking intently ahead in The Gentlemen. — Image via STXfilms

Featuring an ensemble consisting of Oscar-winner Matthew McConaughey, Hugh Laurie, Charlie Hunnam, Succession‘s Jeremy Strong, and Colin Farell, Guy Richie‘s dark comedy follows an American expat who tries to sell off his profitable marijuana empire in London, which triggers plot and blackmail in an attempt to steal his domain.

Stylish and incredibly entertaining, featuring fast-paced editing and memorable performances, The Gentlemen is a must-see when it comes to contemporary gangster cinema. Its high-stakes drama is guaranteed to appeal to anyone looking for a humorous and slick gangster flick, plus the film’s twists and turns, clever plot, and amazing performances keep audiences invested throughout. Viewers who enjoyed Guy Ritchie‘s movie should also be sure to check out the Netflix series of the same name.

Release Date: January 24, 2020
Runtime: 113 minutes

3

‘The Irishman’ (2019)

Directed by Martin Scorsese

Frank Sheeran (Robert De Niro) looking on with concern in "The Irishman" — Image via Netflix

One of the best mafia movies on Netflix is this epic gangster film directed by Martin Scorsese, which follows a truck driver’s rise to become a top hitman and a loyal member of the Bufalino crime family. Now the last man standing, Frank Sheeran (Robert De Niro) recounts all the nefarious activities he participated in as a member of the gang.

Despite the fact this mafia film has a great storyline and fabulous actors, some viewers may find it rather long given the movie’s three-hour runtime. However, this doesn’t change the fact that Martin Scorsese has masterfully created an unforgettable and passionate story about the impact of the life of crime. Among the best gangster movies on Netflix is definitely The Irishman, which offers the thrills of a mobster film along with valuable lessons and of course, a mind-blowing conclusion.

Release Date: November 27, 2019
Cast: Bobby Cannavale
, Jack Huston
, Joe Pesci
, Jesse Plemons
, Sebastian Maniscalco
, Al Pacino
, Kathrine Narducci
, Stephen Graham
, Ray Romano
, Aleksa Palladino
, Anna Paquin
, Robert De Niro
, Harvey Keitel
, Jake Hoffman
Runtime: 210 minutes

2

‘American Gangster’ (2007)

Directed by Ridley Scott

Denzel Washington as Frank Lucas smirking while looking intently in American Gangster. — Image via Universal Pictures

In one of the most iconic mobster movies on Netflix, an incorruptible detective, Richie Roberts, is charged with the responsibility of taking down a drug empire led by Frank Lucas, a notorious heroin kingpin who smuggles drugs into the country using the coffins of soldiers returning from the Vietnam War.

Based on the true story of Frank Lucas, this underrated gangster flick sheds some new light on drug trafficking while staying true to the original story. With its gritty and intense tone, the film showcases gripping characters and outstanding performances by Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, Ruby Dee, Idris Elba, Carla Gugino, Lymari Nadal, Cuba Gooding Jr. and many others, making it a rather enticing package.

Release Date: November 2, 2007
Runtime: 157 minutes

1

‘Scarface’ (1983)

Directed by Brian De Palma

Al Pacino firing an assault rifle in Scarface. — Image via Universal Pictures

Directed by Brian De Palma, this American crime film tells the story of a Cuban refugee Tony Montana whose insatiable desires lead him to become one of Miami’s most influential and ruthless drug lords.

The thrilling Scarface story has a unique charm that makes it hard for viewers not to root for the brutal, yet fearless criminal and villainous protagonist. Tony Montana’s story is quite relatable as he goes from nothing to a feared figure. While there may be mixed feelings about this film, fans of the gangster genre will have a great time seeing it as it is one of the greatest mafia flicks on Netflix. Al Pacino’s outstanding portrayal of Tony Montana undoubtedly makes this flick deserving of even more accolades.