The 90s were a golden era for crime films, where directors and writers pushed the boundaries of storytelling to deliver some of the most memorable and influential movies in the genre. This collection showcases ten films that not only defined the decade but also continue to captivate audiences with their compelling narratives, unforgettable characters, and stylish execution. Whether you're a fan of gritty realism, psychological thrillers, or dark comedy, these films offer a rich tapestry of the criminal underworld.

Goodfellas (1990)
Description: Martin Scorsese's epic tale of the rise and fall of mobster Henry Hill is a vivid portrayal of the allure and pitfalls of the gangster lifestyle. Its fast-paced narrative, memorable soundtrack, and iconic performances make it a cornerstone of the genre.
Fact: The film's famous "Copacabana" tracking shot took three days to film and involved over 150 extras. Ray Liotta's character was based on real-life mobster Henry Hill, who was in the Witness Protection Program at the time.


Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Description: Quentin Tarantino's directorial debut is a masterclass in tension and dialogue, focusing on a heist gone wrong and the aftermath among the surviving criminals. Its non-linear storytelling and sharp, witty exchanges make it a standout in crime cinema.
Fact: The film was made on a budget of just $


The Fugitive (1993)
Description: This action-thriller follows Dr. Richard Kimble as he searches for the one-armed man who killed his wife, while being pursued by a relentless U.S. Marshal.
Fact: The film was based on the 1960s TV series of the same name. The iconic dam jump scene was performed by stuntman Tommy Harper, who was paid $10,000 for the stunt.


True Romance (1993)
Description: Written by Quentin Tarantino and directed by Tony Scott, this film follows a couple on the run after a drug deal goes awry, blending romance with the gritty world of crime.
Fact: The film was originally written for Roger Avary to direct, but Tarantino sold the script to fund "Reservoir Dogs." The role of Clarence was initially offered to Christian Slater, who turned it down.


Pulp Fiction (1994)
Description: Another Tarantino masterpiece, "Pulp Fiction" intertwines several stories with a mix of humor, violence, and philosophical musings, redefining the crime genre with its eclectic style and unforgettable characters.
Fact: John Travolta's dance scene with Uma Thurman was inspired by a scene in Jean-Luc Godard's "Bande à part." The film's non-linear structure was influenced by the French New Wave.


Heat (1995)
Description: Michael Mann's epic crime drama pits Al Pacino's relentless detective against Robert De Niro's master thief in a cat-and-mouse game that explores themes of obsession, duty, and the thin line between law and crime.
Fact: This was the first time Pacino and De Niro shared the screen together, although they had previously appeared in "The Godfather Part II" but never in the same scenes. The film's bank heist scene was meticulously planned and shot over several days.


The Usual Suspects (1995)
Description: Bryan Singer's neo-noir thriller revolves around a group of criminals and the elusive, almost mythical figure of Keyser Söze. Its twist ending has become one of the most discussed in film history.
Fact: The film was shot in 35 days, and Kevin Spacey's character, Verbal Kint, was inspired by the real-life criminal mastermind, John List. The movie's title comes from a line in the film "Casablanca."


Fargo (1996)
Description: The Coen Brothers' dark comedy-crime film about a kidnapping gone wrong in the snowy Midwest is known for its unique blend of humor, violence, and regional authenticity.
Fact: The film was shot in sequence, which is rare for movies, to help the actors maintain the emotional continuity of their characters. The woodchipper scene was inspired by a real-life incident.


L.A. Confidential (1997)
Description: Curtis Hanson's adaptation of James Ellroy's novel delves into corruption, scandal, and the dark side of Hollywood in the 1950s, with a complex plot and rich character development.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Los Angeles, with many scenes filmed in the actual locations mentioned in the book. The character of Jack Vincennes was inspired by real-life LAPD officer Jack Webb, who later created "Dragnet."


Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998)
Description: Guy Ritchie's debut feature is a fast-paced, darkly comedic look at London's criminal underworld, with a plot involving a card game, stolen guns, and a heist.
Fact: The film was made on a budget of £960,000, and its success led to the creation of "Snatch." The title refers to the slang term for a shotgun and a poker term for a large amount of money.
