Top 10 Crime Films Based on True Stories

Description: Based on the book "Wiseguy" by Nicholas Pileggi, this film follows the life of Henry Hill, a member of the Lucchese crime family. It's a raw, unflinching look at the mob life, from the glamour to the violence, and the inevitable betrayal.

Fact: The famous "Copacabana" tracking shot was done in one take and took three days to set up. Ray Liotta, who played Henry Hill, was actually related to the real Henry Hill through marriage.

Description: Based on the true story of FBI agent Joseph D. Pistone, who infiltrated the Bonanno crime family under the alias Donnie Brasco. This film is a study in undercover work, loyalty, and the moral dilemmas faced by those living a double life.

Fact: Al Pacino, who played Lefty Ruggiero, based his performance on the real-life mobster's mannerisms. The film's ending was changed from the book to provide a more dramatic conclusion.

Description: This film recounts the real-life 1971 Baker Street robbery, where a gang tunneled into a bank vault in London. It's a thrilling heist movie with political intrigue and a touch of scandal.

Fact: The film was inspired by a real event, but many details were changed or fictionalized for legal and dramatic reasons. The actual robbers were never caught.

Description: This film follows the life of George Jung, who became one of the largest cocaine smugglers in the United States during the 1970s and 80s. It's a story of ambition, the allure of the fast life, and the harsh reality of the drug trade.

Fact: Johnny Depp, who played Jung, met with him several times to understand his character better. The film was shot in California and Colombia, reflecting the real locations of Jung's operations.

Description: Based on the life of Frank Abagnale Jr., who before his 19th birthday, successfully performed cons worth millions of dollars by posing as a Pan Am pilot, a doctor, and a legal prosecutor. This film is a cat-and-mouse game between Abagnale and the FBI agent hot on his trail.

Fact: The real Frank Abagnale Jr. served as a consultant on the film, ensuring accuracy in the portrayal of his cons. Leonardo DiCaprio, who played Abagnale, did not meet him until after filming was complete.

Description: Based on the true story of the Zodiac Killer, this film explores the investigation into the serial killer who terrorized Northern California in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It's a tense, methodical look at obsession and the quest for justice.

Fact: The film uses actual police reports, interviews, and letters from the Zodiac Killer. Robert Graysmith, the cartoonist who became obsessed with the case, served as a consultant.

Description: This film tells the story of Frank Lucas, a real-life drug lord who smuggled heroin into the United States on American service planes from Vietnam. It's a tale of ambition, corruption, and the American Dream turned criminal.

Fact: Denzel Washington, who played Lucas, met with the real Frank Lucas to prepare for the role. The film's budget was significantly increased to accommodate the lavish sets and costumes.

Description: This film chronicles the rise and fall of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who engaged in rampant corruption and fraud on Wall Street. It's a wild ride through excess, greed, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

Fact: The film was originally rated NC-17 due to its explicit content, but was edited down to an R rating. Leonardo DiCaprio improvised many of his lines, adding to the film's frenetic energy.

Description: Based on the true story of Mark Whitacre, an executive who turned whistleblower in a price-fixing conspiracy at Archer Daniels Midland. It's a darkly comedic take on corporate espionage and the complexities of truth.

Fact: The film uses a unique narrative style with voice-over from Whitacre, reflecting his unreliable narration in real life. Matt Damon gained weight for the role to better portray Whitacre's physical change over time.

Description: This film delves into the lives of the infamous Kray twins, Ronnie and Reggie, who ruled the London underworld in the 1960s. It's a chilling portrayal of their rise to power and eventual downfall, showcasing the brutal reality of their criminal empire.

Fact: The film was shot on location in London, including at the real-life haunts of the Krays. Both Gary and Martin Kemp, who played the twins, were members of the band Spandau Ballet.