Top 10 Crime Films on Ethnic Gangs

Description: Martin Scorsese's early work, this film focuses on the Italian-American community in New York, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the harsh realities of small-time crime.

Fact: Robert De Niro improvised many of his lines, adding to the film's gritty realism.

Description: While not strictly about ethnic gangs, this cult classic features various street gangs in New York City, each with distinct cultural identities, fighting for survival and territory.

Fact: The film was inspired by the novel of the same name by Sol Yurick, which was loosely based on the ancient Greek tale "Anabasis" by Xenophon.

Description: Sergio Leone's epic crime drama follows the lives of Jewish gangsters in New York, spanning from the Prohibition era to the 1960s, highlighting the rise and fall of their criminal empire.

Fact: The film was originally over six hours long, but was cut down significantly for its theatrical release. It was restored to its full length in later editions.

Description: This film examines the life of three young African-American men growing up in South Central Los Angeles, dealing with gang violence and the struggle to escape the cycle of crime.

Fact: John Singleton became the youngest person ever nominated for Best Director at the Academy Awards for this film.

Description: This film, set in Boston, explores the Irish-American mob and the infiltration by both sides - the police and the mob. It's a masterclass in storytelling about ethnic crime, loyalty, and betrayal.

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

Description: Based on the true story of Frank Lucas, an African-American drug lord who smuggled heroin into the United States on American service planes during the Vietnam War. This film delves into the rise and fall of a criminal empire.

Fact: Denzel Washington's character was inspired by real-life drug kingpin Frank Lucas. The film's budget was significantly increased due to Ridley Scott's insistence on authenticity.

Description: This film delves into the Russian mafia in London, focusing on the brutal world of human trafficking and the complex relationships within the Vory v Zakone.

Fact: Viggo Mortensen learned Russian for his role and got a tattoo of the Vory v Zakone star on his knee, which he later had removed.

Description: Set in the slums of Rio de Janeiro, this film portrays the rise of a young boy into a notorious drug lord, offering a raw look at Brazilian gang culture.

Fact: Most of the actors were non-professionals from the favelas. The film was shot in sequence to help the actors develop their characters naturally.

Description: A cornerstone of Hong Kong cinema, this film explores the Triad underworld, focusing on themes of brotherhood, redemption, and the clash between duty and personal loyalty.

Fact: It was the first film to make Chow Yun-fat a superstar in Hong Kong. The film's success led to a sequel and a remake.

Description: Based on a book by Roberto Saviano, this Italian film provides an unflinching look at the Camorra, the Neapolitan mafia, and its pervasive influence on society.

Fact: The film was shot in real locations, often without permits, to capture the authentic atmosphere of the Camorra's world.