Top 10 Gang Biopic Films

Description: Sergio Leone's epic tale follows the life of David "Noodles" Aaronson, a Jewish gangster in New York City from the 1920s to the 1960s, exploring themes of friendship, betrayal, and the American Dream.

Fact: The film was initially released in a heavily edited version, but the director's cut, which runs over four hours, provides a more comprehensive narrative. Robert De Niro's performance is often cited as one of his best.

Description: This film recounts the efforts of Eliot Ness and his team to bring down Al Capone during Prohibition, showcasing the clash between law enforcement and organized crime.

Fact: The screenplay was inspired by the book "The Untouchables" by Eliot Ness and Oscar Fraley. The famous "baseball bat" scene was improvised by Sean Connery.

Description: Martin Scorsese's masterpiece about the life of Henry Hill, a small-time gangster who rises through the ranks of the Lucchese crime family, offering an insider's view of the mafia world.

Fact: The film was based on the book "Wiseguy" by Nicholas Pileggi, who co-wrote the screenplay with Scorsese. The famous "Copacabana" tracking shot was done in one continuous take.

Description: While not strictly a biopic, this film is inspired by the real-life Boston Winter Hill Gang and the infiltration of the Massachusetts State Police by the FBI. It explores themes of loyalty, identity, and betrayal.

Fact: Martin Scorsese won his first Best Director Oscar for this film. It was a remake of the Hong Kong film "Infernal Affairs."

Description: This film tells the story of Frank Lucas, a real-life drug kingpin who smuggled heroin into the United States on American service planes from Vietnam, becoming one of the most powerful figures in Harlem.

Fact: Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe both underwent extensive physical transformations for their roles. The film's depiction of Lucas' method of smuggling drugs was based on real events.

Description: Focuses on the last years of notorious bank robber John Dillinger, detailing his life on the run from the law, his criminal exploits, and his eventual demise.

Fact: The film was shot on location in many of the places where Dillinger actually committed his crimes. Johnny Depp underwent extensive training to master Dillinger's mannerisms.

Description: Set in 1949 Los Angeles, this film follows a secret group of police officers who band together to take down Mickey Cohen, a notorious mobster controlling the city's underworld.

Fact: The film was initially set to release in September 2012 but was delayed due to a shooting incident in Aurora, Colorado, which mirrored a scene in the movie.

Description: Another take on the Kray twins, this film focuses on their rise to power in London's criminal underworld during the 1960s, with Tom Hardy playing both Ronnie and Reggie Kray.

Fact: Tom Hardy's dual role required him to switch between characters rapidly, often filming scenes with himself using a body double.

Description: This film chronicles the lives of the infamous Kray twins, Ronnie and Reggie, who ruled the London underworld in the 1960s. It's a deep dive into their criminal empire, their personal lives, and their eventual downfall.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual locations where the Krays operated, including their childhood home. The actors, Gary and Martin Kemp, are real-life brothers, adding authenticity to their portrayal of the twins.

Description: Directed by Martin Scorsese, this film explores the life of Frank Sheeran, a truck driver turned hitman, and his involvement with the Bufalino crime family, including his alleged role in the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa.

Fact: The film used de-aging technology to portray the characters at different ages, a process that took significant time and resources.