10 Must-Watch Biopics of Crime Bosses

Description: This iconic film delves into the life of Vito Corleone, the head of a powerful New York crime family, and his son Michael's rise to power. It's a cornerstone in the genre, offering a nuanced look at family dynamics within the criminal underworld.

Fact: The film was initially turned down by several studios due to its controversial subject matter. Marlon Brando improvised the famous cat scene, picking up a stray cat from the studio lot.

Description: Although not strictly a biopic, this film is inspired by the life of Al Capone and follows Tony Montana's ruthless ascent in the Miami drug scene.

Fact: The film was initially given an X rating due to its violence and language. Al Pacino improvised the famous "Say hello to my little friend" line.

Description: While focusing on the law enforcement side, this film provides insight into the criminal empire of Al Capone through the eyes of Eliot Ness and his team.

Fact: The film's famous "Untouchables" nickname was actually given to the team by the press. Kevin Costner was not the first choice for the role of Ness; Harrison Ford and Mel Gibson were considered.

Description: Based on the true story of Henry Hill, this film explores the inner workings of the Lucchese crime family, showcasing the allure and the brutal reality of the mob life.

Fact: The film's famous "Copacabana" tracking shot took three days to film. Ray Liotta's mother was so moved by the film that she refused to speak to him for two weeks.

Description: Based on the true story of the Tangiers Casino, this film explores the mafia's control over Las Vegas through the eyes of Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a casino executive.

Fact: The real-life Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal, on whom the character of Ace is based, was a consultant for the film. The movie was shot in the Riviera Hotel and Casino, which was later demolished.

Description: Johnny Depp stars as an FBI agent who infiltrates the Bonanno crime family, offering a unique perspective on the life of a mobster from the inside.

Fact: The real Donnie Brasco, Joseph D. Pistone, served as a consultant on the film. Al Pacino improvised many of his lines, adding depth to his character.

Description: This film tells the story of George Jung, a key figure in the cocaine trade in the 1970s and 1980s, highlighting his rise to wealth and subsequent downfall.

Fact: Johnny Depp's character was based on real-life interviews with Jung. The film's title refers to both the drug and the act of blowing one's life.

Description: This film chronicles the rise and fall of Frank Lucas, a real-life Harlem drug lord who became one of America's most powerful crime bosses by smuggling heroin directly from Southeast Asia.

Fact: Denzel Washington's portrayal of Lucas was so convincing that many believed he was the real Frank Lucas. The film's budget was significantly increased to ensure historical accuracy.

Description: This film captures the life of notorious bank robber John Dillinger, focusing on his final years and his cat-and-mouse game with the FBI.

Fact: The film used digital cameras to capture a more realistic, documentary-like feel. Johnny Depp met with Dillinger's relatives to better understand his character.

Description: Martin Scorsese's latest epic follows Frank Sheeran, a hitman who worked for the Bufalino crime family, and his involvement in the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa.

Fact: The film uses de-aging technology to portray the characters at different ages, a process that took years to perfect. Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci all star together for the first time.