Fancy a bit of a thrill? This collection of films will take you on a rollercoaster ride through the shadowy alleys and bustling streets where crime is just another part of daily life. From the neon-lit streets of New York to the grimy backstreets of London, these films offer a raw, unfiltered look at the criminal underworld. Whether you're a fan of gritty realism or just love a good heist, this list has something for everyone.

Get Carter (1971)
Description: Michael Caine stars as a London gangster seeking revenge for his brother's murder. This film set the standard for British crime dramas with its gritty realism and Caine's iconic performance.
Fact: The film was remade in 2000 with Sylvester Stallone, but the original remains a classic. The location of the final showdown was changed from the original script to make it more dramatic.


The Long Good Friday (1980)
Description: This British gangster film is a classic, showcasing the rise and fall of a London mobster whose empire is threatened by an IRA bombing campaign. It's a must-watch for its portrayal of the criminal underworld in the UK.
Fact: Bob Hoskins was nominated for a BAFTA for his role as Harold Shand. The film was initially banned by the BBC due to its IRA content.


The Limey (1999)
Description: Terence Stamp plays a British ex-con seeking revenge in Los Angeles. The film's non-linear storytelling and Stamp's intense performance make it a standout in crime cinema.
Fact: The film's title refers to the slang term for a British person in the U.S. The script was written by Lem Dobbs, who also wrote 'Kafka'.


The Bank Job (2008)
Description: Based on the true story of the 1971 Baker Street robbery, this film blends fact with fiction to tell the tale of a daring heist in London's West End. It's a thrilling ride from start to finish.
Fact: The film's plot includes elements of conspiracy theories involving the British royal family. The real-life robbers were never caught.


Sexy Beast (2000)
Description: This film dives into the life of a retired gangster whose peaceful retirement in Spain is disrupted by a former colleague. It's known for its intense performances and unique narrative style.
Fact: Ben Kingsley's portrayal of Don Logan earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. The film's title comes from a song by The Jam.


Snatch (2000)
Description: Guy Ritchie's follow-up to 'Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels' is a whirlwind of crime, boxing, and diamond heists in London. It's fast-paced, funny, and full of memorable characters.
Fact: Brad Pitt's character, Mickey, speaks in an unintelligible Irish accent. The film was shot in 30 days.


The Business (2005)
Description: Set in the 1980s, this film follows a young man who gets involved in the criminal underworld of the Costa del Sol, Spain. It's a mix of crime, comedy, and coming-of-age drama.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events and characters from the British criminal scene in Spain. Danny Dyer, who stars in the film, also co-wrote the screenplay.


Layer Cake (2004)
Description: A slick, stylish film about a drug dealer looking to retire, only to be drawn into one last job. It's a masterclass in British crime cinema, with a twisty plot and memorable characters.
Fact: Daniel Craig was cast as James Bond after his performance in this film. The film's ending was changed from the book to give it a more open-ended feel.


The Krays (1990)
Description: This biographical crime drama delves into the lives of the notorious Kray twins, Ronnie and Reggie, who ruled the London underworld in the 1960s. It's a fascinating look at real-life crime.
Fact: The film was shot on location in London, including the actual sites where the Krays operated. The twins were played by real-life brothers, Gary and Martin Kemp.


Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998)
Description: Guy Ritchie's debut feature is a wild ride through London's criminal underbelly, involving poker, guns, and a heist gone wrong. It's a film that redefined British crime comedy.
Fact: The film was made on a budget of just £960,000 but grossed over £20 million worldwide. It launched the careers of several actors, including Jason Statham.
