100+ Movies like GoodFellas
Gotti
Both "GoodFellas" and "Gotti" follow the rise and fall of Italian-American mobsters in New York City. The protagonists, Henry Hill in "GoodFellas" and John Gotti in "Gotti", are drawn into the criminal underworld from a young age and work their way up the ranks of their respective crime families. They engage in various illegal activities like hijacking, drug dealing, and murder. The movies depict the glamorous lifestyle of the mobsters, their lavish spending, and their relationships with wives and families. However, their criminal activities eventually catch up with them, leading to arrests, betrayals, and imprisonment. The movies portray the internal power struggles within the crime families and the constant threat of violence and retribution. Both films end with the protagonists' downfall and their lives being forever changed by their involvement in organized crime.
Rob the Mob
Both "GoodFellas" and "Rob the Mob" revolve around the lives of small-time criminals who become entangled with the Italian-American Mafia. The protagonists, Henry Hill in "GoodFellas" and Tommy Uva in "Rob the Mob", are drawn to the glamorous lifestyle of the mobsters from a young age and gradually work their way up the criminal ladder. However, their involvement with the Mafia ultimately leads to their downfall. The movies share similar themes of greed, betrayal, and the consequences of a life of crime. Both films depict the violent and ruthless nature of the Mafia, with unsanctioned murders and retributions being a common occurrence. The protagonists' relationships with their significant others, Karen in "GoodFellas" and Rosie in "Rob the Mob", are also strained due to their criminal activities. The climax of both movies revolves around a major heist or robbery that brings the protagonists into direct conflict with the Mafia. In "GoodFellas", it's the Lufthansa heist, while in "Rob the Mob", it's the robberies of Mafia social clubs. These events ultimately lead to the protagonists becoming informants and entering witness protection programs to escape the wrath of the Mafia.
The Irishman
Both "The Irishman" and "GoodFellas" are crime dramas that chronicle the lives of Italian-American mobsters over several decades. They follow the rise of working-class men who become involved with the Mafia, detailing their criminal activities and the inner workings of organized crime. The protagonists, Frank Sheeran in "The Irishman" and Henry Hill in "GoodFellas", start as low-level associates and gradually work their way up the ranks, becoming trusted members of powerful crime families. Both films depict the glamorous lifestyle of the mobsters, their lavish spending and carousing, as well as the brutal violence and murders they commit. A central plot point in each movie involves the protagonists being tasked with killing a high-ranking mobster who has become a liability, leading to their eventual downfall and disillusionment with the criminal life. The films also explore themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of living outside the law.
We Own the Night
"We Own the Night" parallels "GoodFellas" in its depiction of a young man, Bobby, drawn into the criminal underworld and mob activities in his neighborhood, similar to Henry Hill's story. Both movies explore the seductive allure of the gangster lifestyle and the conflicts that arise between family members on opposite sides of the law. Like Henry, Bobby becomes an informant and turns against his former criminal associates, including his best friend, to bring them down. The movies share themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of criminal choices, as well as the difficulty of leaving that life behind. The climactic confrontations between the protagonists and their former mob connections mirror each other, highlighting the personal stakes involved.
Wannabes
"Wannabes" closely parallels the plot and themes of "GoodFellas". Both films follow the rise of young men in working-class Italian-American neighborhoods who become seduced by the glamorous criminal lifestyle and join the ranks of the local mob. They depict the protagonists starting as low-level criminals and gradually working their way up the hierarchy through violence and illegal activities like bookmaking, racketeering, and drug dealing. The films explore themes of greed, betrayal, and the ultimate downfall of the criminal protagonists as they become embroiled in conflicts with rival mobsters. The story arcs culminate in brutal mob hits and the protagonists being forced into witness protection programs to escape retribution. The films realistically portray the gritty, violent world of organized crime from an insider's perspective.
Empire State
"Empire State" parallels "GoodFellas" in its depiction of working-class Italian-Americans in New York drawn into a life of crime and the mafia. Both films follow the rise of a young man seduced by the glamour and money of the criminal underworld, leading to involvement in major heists - the Lufthansa heist in "GoodFellas" and the record-breaking $11 million cash robbery in "Empire State". The protagonists betray their criminal associates and become informants to avoid retribution. The films explore themes of greed, loyalty, and the consequences of a life of crime, with the protagonists ultimately losing their ill-gotten wealth and facing imprisonment or witness protection.
Run All Night
Both "Run All Night" and "GoodFellas" revolve around the lives of men involved in organized crime, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of a life of violence. The protagonists, Jimmy Conlon and Henry Hill, are former hitmen for the Irish mob and Italian mafia, respectively, who become entangled in conflicts within their criminal organizations. The central plot of "Run All Night" mirrors the climactic events of "GoodFellas" where Henry Hill becomes an informant to escape retribution from his former associates. Similarly, Jimmy Conlon is forced to turn against his lifelong friend Shawn Maguire to protect his son Mike, ultimately providing evidence to the authorities to clear Mike's name. Both films depict the glamorous yet dangerous lifestyle of mobsters, with scenes of lavish nightclubs, carousing with women, and the ever-present threat of violence. The protagonists' relationships with their families are strained by their criminal activities, with their wives and children caught in the crossfire of their dangerous professions. Ultimately, both films explore the idea of breaking free from the cycle of violence and crime, with the protagonists seeking redemption and a chance at a normal life through witness protection or by turning informant, even if it means leaving behind their former lives and identities.
American Gangster
Both "GoodFellas" and "American Gangster" follow the rise and fall of gangsters in the criminal underworld. The protagonists, Henry Hill and Frank Lucas, start as low-level criminals and work their way up to become powerful figures in organized crime through drug trafficking and other illegal activities. They achieve immense wealth and success but ultimately face downfall due to law enforcement investigations and betrayals within their organizations. The movies depict the glamorous yet dangerous lifestyles of gangsters, their relationships with family and loved ones, and the internal power struggles and violence within criminal enterprises. Both films also explore themes of greed, loyalty, and the consequences of a life of crime.
Kill the Irishman
Both "GoodFellas" and "Kill the Irishman" follow the rise and fall of gangsters in the organized crime world. The protagonists, Henry Hill in "GoodFellas" and Danny Greene in "Kill the Irishman", start as low-level criminals and work their way up the ranks through theft, violence, and illegal activities. They become involved with the Italian-American Mafia, forming alliances and rivalries with various crime families and bosses. The movies depict the glamorous lifestyle of the gangsters, their lavish spending, and their relationships with women. However, their criminal activities eventually catch up with them, leading to betrayals, conflicts with the Mafia, and ultimately their downfall. The movies explore themes of loyalty, greed, and the consequences of a life of crime, while providing a gritty and realistic portrayal of the criminal underworld.
Wisegal
Both "Wisegal" and "GoodFellas" follow the rise and fall of characters deeply involved in organized crime. The protagonists, Henry Hill in "GoodFellas" and Patty Montanari in "Wisegal", are drawn into the criminal underworld through their associations and gradually work their way up the ranks. They witness brutal violence and murders committed by their criminal associates. The films depict the lavish lifestyles and glamour that come with success in the mob, as well as the constant threat of betrayal and retribution. Ultimately, both protagonists are forced to become informants to escape the dangerous life they once embraced, leaving behind their criminal pasts to enter witness protection programs.
Carlito's Way: Rise to Power
Both "GoodFellas" and "Carlito's Way: Rise to Power" follow the rise and fall of gangsters in the criminal underworld. The protagonists, Henry Hill in "GoodFellas" and Carlito in "Carlito's Way", start as low-level criminals and gradually work their way up the ranks, becoming involved in more serious crimes like drug dealing and robbery. They experience the glamorous lifestyle of the mob, with its wealth and power, but also face the constant threat of violence and betrayal from within their own organizations. The movies depict the internal power struggles and conflicts between different crime families and factions, as well as the protagonists' eventual downfall and disillusionment with the criminal life. Both films explore similar themes of loyalty, greed, and the seductive yet ultimately destructive nature of the gangster lifestyle.
Chicago Overcoat
Both "GoodFellas" and "Chicago Overcoat" revolve around the lives of aging mobsters and hitmen in the criminal underworld. The protagonists, Henry Hill in "GoodFellas" and Lou Marazano in "Chicago Overcoat", are former feared hitmen who get drawn back into the mob life due to financial struggles. They carry out hits and murders for the current mob bosses, Paulie Cicero and Lorenzo Galante respectively, despite being past their prime. The movies depict the gritty realities of the mob life, including betrayals, power struggles, and the constant threat of violence. Both protagonists eventually turn against their bosses and become targets themselves, leading to climactic showdowns. The movies also explore the consequences of the criminal lifestyle on the protagonists' families and personal lives.
Deuces Wild
Both "GoodFellas" and "Deuces Wild" depict the lives of young men involved in organized crime and street gangs in working-class Italian-American neighborhoods. The protagonists are drawn into a life of crime from a young age, seduced by the glamour and power of the criminal underworld. The movies follow their rise through the ranks, involvement in violent conflicts with rival gangs, and eventual downfall due to their criminal activities. Key themes include loyalty, betrayal, the lure of easy money, and the consequences of a life of crime. The movies portray the gritty realities of gang life, including drug dealing, turf wars, and brutal violence. Ultimately, both films show how the criminal lifestyle, while initially appealing, leads to tragedy and the loss of innocence.
The Iceman
Both "The Iceman" and "GoodFellas" depict the lives of ruthless contract killers working for the Italian-American Mafia. The protagonists, Richard Kuklinski and Henry Hill, lead double lives - presenting themselves as ordinary family men while secretly carrying out brutal murders for mob bosses. They are drawn into a life of crime from a young age, seduced by the money and power of the criminal underworld. The films chronicle their rise through the ranks of organized crime, the violent acts they commit, and the eventual downfall as they become ensnared in the web of betrayal and retribution within the Mafia. Key parallels include the themes of loyalty, greed, and the corrosive effects of a life of crime on family and relationships. The movies also explore the psychological toll of leading such a dark double life, with the protagonists struggling to reconcile their violent actions with their desire for a normal family life.
The Legend of Al, John and Jack
"The Legend of Al, John and Jack" parallels "GoodFellas" in its depiction of the criminal underworld and mafia life. Both films follow a group of gangsters involved in various illegal activities like murder, theft, and deception. The protagonists, Al, John, and Jack, mirror the trio of Henry Hill, Jimmy Conway, and Tommy DeVito from "GoodFellas" in their camaraderie and willingness to engage in violent crimes. The plots revolve around betrayals, power struggles within the mafia hierarchy, and the consequences of unsanctioned killings. Memory loss and witness protection elements in "The Legend of Al, John and Jack" echo Henry Hill's eventual turn as an informant in "GoodFellas". Both films explore the seductive allure of the gangster lifestyle contrasted with its inherent dangers and moral compromises.
Brooklyn's Finest
Both "GoodFellas" and "Brooklyn's Finest" depict the gritty underworld of crime and corruption in New York City. The movies follow the lives of law enforcement officers who become entangled in criminal activities, driven by financial desperation and moral compromise. Like Henry Hill in "GoodFellas", characters like Sal Procida and Tango Butler in "Brooklyn's Finest" cross ethical lines, engaging in theft, drug deals, and violence to secure their financial futures or seek vengeance. The movies explore the seductive allure of the criminal lifestyle and the consequences of succumbing to greed and ambition. Themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the blurring of lines between cops and criminals are prevalent in both films, showcasing the moral decay that can result from immersion in the city's underbelly.
Rage
"Rage" parallels "GoodFellas" in its depiction of a former mobster trying to leave his criminal past behind and build a legitimate life, only to be drawn back into the violent underworld due to past transgressions. Both films follow the protagonist's rise in organized crime from a young age, their eventual desire to go straight, and the consequences of their criminal actions catching up to them years later, leading to tragedy. The movies explore similar themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the inescapable pull of the mob life. Key plot points like the fateful heist that sparks a mob war, the protagonist informing on former associates, and the brutal retaliation from the mob are present in both stories. The overall narrative arc traces the protagonist's journey from ambitious criminal to family man seeking redemption, only to succumb to their violent nature in the end.
Black Mass
Both "Black Mass" and "GoodFellas" are crime dramas depicting the rise and fall of real-life gangsters in the Italian-American organized crime world. The movies follow a similar narrative arc, chronicling the protagonists' ascent through the ranks of the criminal underworld, their lavish lifestyles fueled by illegal activities, and their eventual downfall due to internal conflicts, betrayals, and law enforcement intervention. The central characters, Henry Hill in "GoodFellas" and Whitey Bulger in "Black Mass", are charismatic yet ruthless gangsters who become informants for the FBI, exploiting their relationships with corrupt agents to eliminate rivals and expand their criminal empires. Their personal lives are intertwined with their criminal activities, with their families and loved ones both benefiting from and suffering the consequences of their actions. The movies explore themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the corrupting influence of power within organized crime families. They depict the violent methods employed by the gangsters to maintain control and eliminate threats, including brutal murders of fellow mobsters and informants. Both films also highlight the complicity of law enforcement officials who enable and protect the criminal enterprises for personal gain. Ultimately, the protagonists' downfalls are precipitated by their own greed, paranoia, and disregard for the rules of the criminal underworld, leading to their eventual arrests and incarceration. The movies provide a gritty and unflinching portrayal of the seductive yet destructive world of organized crime, drawing parallels between the two real-life stories of criminal empires built on violence, corruption, and betrayal.
The Kitchen
"The Kitchen" parallels "GoodFellas" in its depiction of the rise of ordinary people in the criminal underworld. Like Henry Hill in "GoodFellas", the three wives Kathy, Ruby, and Claire are drawn into the mob lifestyle when their husbands are imprisoned. They take over the family's operations, similar to how Henry worked his way up from petty crimes to more serious offenses. Both films explore themes of greed, power struggles, and the seductive allure of the criminal life. The wives face internal conflicts and betrayals akin to those in "GoodFellas", culminating in violent resolutions. The movies share a gritty, realistic portrayal of organized crime and the moral compromises required to survive in that world.
No Sudden Move
"No Sudden Move" parallels "GoodFellas" in its depiction of the criminal underworld and the lives of gangsters and mobsters. Both films follow a group of criminals who become embroiled in a complex scheme involving theft, betrayal, and violence. The protagonists are low-level gangsters who get caught up in a larger criminal operation orchestrated by more powerful figures in the mob. The plots revolve around a heist or theft that goes awry, leading to a web of deception, double-crosses, and brutal killings. The films explore themes of greed, loyalty, and the consequences of a life of crime. The narratives are non-linear, with flashbacks and time jumps, and feature a gritty, realistic portrayal of the criminal underworld and its seedy characters. Both films culminate in the downfall of the main characters, either through death, imprisonment, or being forced to abandon their criminal lifestyles.