Fancy a bit of a thrill? This curated list of films delves into the murky waters of the criminal underworld, focusing on the clandestine operations of underground businesses. From illegal gambling dens to black market dealings, these films offer a gripping insight into the lives of those who thrive in the shadows. Whether you're a fan of gritty realism or enjoy the thrill of high-stakes crime, this selection promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Bank Job (2008)
Description: Based on the true story of the 1971 Baker Street robbery, this film explores the planning and execution of a heist that uncovers a web of corruption and blackmail.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real event, but many details were changed to protect the identities of those involved.
Watch Now
Snatch (2000)
Description: Guy Ritchie's classic intertwines several criminal plots, including an underground boxing promoter and a diamond heist, making it a quintessential film about the underworld of illegal businesses.
Fact: Brad Pitt learned to box for his role as Mickey O'Neil, and his character's accent was so thick that even his co-stars struggled to understand him.
Watch Now
The Departed (2006)
Description: Martin Scorsese's masterpiece about a mole in the Boston police department and an undercover cop infiltrating the Irish mob, highlighting the complex web of illegal activities.
Fact: The film was originally set in Hong Kong and was a remake of the 2002 film "Infernal Affairs."
Watch Now
The Business (2005)
Description: Set in the '80s, this film follows Frankie, a young man who escapes to Spain to join a lucrative drug smuggling operation. It's a perfect fit for our list as it showcases the allure and dangers of the underground drug trade.
Fact: Danny Dyer, who plays Frankie, actually lived in Spain for a while to prepare for his role.
Watch Now
Eastern Promises (2007)
Description: This film dives into the Russian mafia's control over London's sex trade, showcasing the brutal realities of organized crime and the underground economy.
Fact: Viggo Mortensen learned Russian for his role and even got a tattoo that signifies his character's criminal status.
Watch Now
The Town (2010)
Description: Ben Affleck directs and stars in this tale of bank robbers in Boston, delving into the community's code of silence and the underground economy of crime.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Boston, with many scenes filmed in the actual neighborhoods where the story is set.
Watch Now
RocknRolla (2008)
Description: Another Guy Ritchie film, this one explores the real estate scams and the Russian mafia's influence in London's criminal scene.
Fact: The film was originally planned as the first part of a trilogy, but due to its box office performance, the sequels were never made.
Watch Now
The Drop (2014)
Description: Set in Brooklyn, this film centers on a bar that serves as a "drop" for mob money, exploring the gritty world of organized crime and the personal lives of those involved.
Fact: The film was based on a short story by Dennis Lehane, who also wrote the screenplay.
Watch Now
The Gentlemen (2019)
Description: Guy Ritchie's latest venture into the criminal world, this film follows an American expat who built a highly profitable marijuana empire in London, now looking to sell it off.
Fact: The film features a diverse cast, including Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, and Hugh Grant, showcasing Ritchie's knack for assembling eclectic ensembles.
Watch Now
Layer Cake (2004)
Description: A drug dealer looking to retire gets pulled back into one last job, revealing the layers of the criminal underworld in London.
Fact: Daniel Craig's performance in this film helped him land the role of James Bond.
Watch Now
