There's something undeniably captivating about the intricate plots of bank heists and financial scams. These films not only showcase the ingenuity of criminals but also delve into the psychological and moral dilemmas faced by those who dare to challenge the system. This curated list of 10 crime films focuses on bank-related schemes, offering viewers a mix of suspense, clever twists, and sometimes, a touch of dark humour. Whether you're a fan of the genre or looking to explore it, these films provide a thrilling journey into the world of high-stakes financial crime.
Dog Day Afternoon (1975)
Description: Based on a true story, this film depicts a bank robbery that goes wrong, turning into a hostage situation and media circus, highlighting the desperation and humanity of the robbers.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life "Attica" prison riot, which is referenced in the movie.
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Point Break (1991)
Description: An FBI agent infiltrates a gang of surfers who are also bank robbers, leading to a thrilling mix of action, surfing, and crime.
Fact: Keanu Reeves performed most of his own surfing stunts in the film.
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Heat (1995)
Description: While not solely about bank heists, this film features one of the most iconic bank robbery scenes, showcasing the cat-and-mouse game between a master thief and a relentless cop.
Fact: The bank robbery scene was filmed in real-time, with no cuts, to increase the tension.
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Out of Sight (1998)
Description: A bank robber escapes from prison with the help of a fellow inmate, only to find himself in a romantic entanglement with a U.S. Marshal who's hot on his trail.
Fact: The film features a unique narrative structure, jumping back and forth in time, which was innovative for its time.
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The Thomas Crown Affair (1999)
Description: A wealthy art collector orchestrates an elaborate bank heist for the thrill, only to find himself pursued by an insurance investigator who is as cunning as he is.
Fact: The film includes a famous chess game scene, which was actually played by the actors.
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The Bank Job (2008)
Description: Based on the true story of the 1971 Baker Street robbery, this film follows a group of amateur thieves who plan to rob a bank vault in London, only to find themselves entangled in a web of political intrigue and blackmail.
Fact: The film was banned in the UK for 30 years due to the sensitive nature of the real-life events it portrayed.
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The Italian Job (2003)
Description: A team of thieves pull off an audacious gold heist in Venice, only to have their loot stolen by one of their own. They regroup for a revenge heist in Los Angeles, involving a complex plan with Mini Coopers.
Fact: The film features a memorable chase scene involving Mini Coopers, which became iconic in the genre.
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Inside Man (2006)
Description: A clever bank heist in New York City turns into a hostage situation, with a detective, a negotiator, and a mysterious woman all playing their parts in a game of cat and mouse.
Fact: Spike Lee, the director, was given unprecedented access to film inside the real Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
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The Town (2010)
Description: A group of bank robbers from Charlestown, Boston, execute a series of heists, but one of them falls for a bank manager, complicating their plans.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Boston, adding authenticity to the setting.
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The Score (2001)
Description: A seasoned thief agrees to do one last job, a heist at the Montreal Customs House, but his plan is complicated by a younger, less experienced partner.
Fact: This was Robert De Niro's first film with Marlon Brando, who plays his mentor.
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