10 Movies & Shows Similar to King of New York (1990)

Description: Like 'King of New York,' 'The Godfather' explores the complexities of organized crime, family loyalty, and power struggles. Both films depict the duality of their protagonists—charismatic yet brutal leaders. The themes of respect, betrayal, and the cost of ambition are central to both narratives.

Fact: Marlon Brando won an Oscar for his role as Vito Corleone. Francis Ford Coppola's direction and the film's screenplay are often cited as among the best in cinema history. The movie was based on Mario Puzo's novel of the same name.

Description: Similar to 'King of New York' in its portrayal of a ruthless criminal's rise and fall, 'Scarface' delves into themes of power, greed, and the American Dream. Both films feature antiheroes who navigate the violent underworld, with a strong focus on their personal demons and eventual downfall. The gritty, urban settings and intense action sequences are also common elements.

Fact: Al Pacino's performance as Tony Montana is iconic, with many of his lines becoming pop culture staples. The film was initially controversial for its graphic violence and drug use but has since become a cult classic. Directed by Brian De Palma, with a screenplay by Oliver Stone.

Description: This epic crime film shares with 'King of New York' a focus on the rise and fall of criminal figures, set against the backdrop of a changing urban landscape. Both films explore themes of friendship, betrayal, and the passage of time, with a non-linear narrative style that adds depth to the storytelling.

Fact: Directed by Sergio Leone, known for his spaghetti westerns. Stars Robert De Niro and James Woods. The film's original cut was over four hours long.

Description: Like 'King of New York,' 'The Untouchables' is a crime drama that pits law enforcement against a powerful criminal empire. Both films highlight the determination to bring down a notorious figure, with a mix of action and moral storytelling. The period settings and ensemble casts are also similar.

Fact: Directed by Brian De Palma, with a screenplay by David Mamet. Kevin Costner stars as Eliot Ness, with Robert De Niro as Al Capone. The film's famous train station shootout is a cinematic highlight.

Description: Both 'A Bronx Tale' and 'King of New York' are set in New York and explore the allure and dangers of organized crime. The films focus on young men navigating a world of violence and power, with strong moral lessons about choices and consequences. The coming-of-age elements in a criminal context are key similarities.

Fact: Directed by and starring Robert De Niro in his directorial debut. Based on Chazz Palminteri's one-man play. The film blends crime drama with heartfelt storytelling about family and loyalty.

Description: This film shares with 'King of New York' a focus on a criminal trying to escape his past but being pulled back into the life. Both protagonists are charismatic figures who struggle with their morality and the inevitability of violence in their worlds. The urban crime settings and themes of redemption are also similar.

Fact: Al Pacino stars as Carlito Brigante, a role that contrasts with his earlier 'Scarface' character. Directed by Brian De Palma, known for his stylish crime dramas. The film is based on two novels by Edwin Torres.

Description: Both 'Casino' and 'King of New York' delve into the organized crime world, showcasing the opulence and violence that come with power. The films' protagonists are charismatic yet flawed, navigating a world where trust is scarce. The detailed portrayal of criminal operations and their eventual unraveling are key similarities.

Fact: Directed by Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci. Based on the true story of the Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas. Known for its meticulous attention to period detail and narration style.

Description: This film shares with 'King of New York' a deep dive into the criminal underworld, focusing on loyalty, betrayal, and the personal cost of a life of crime. Both films feature undercover operations and the moral dilemmas faced by their protagonists. The tension and psychological depth are comparable.

Fact: Stars Johnny Depp as an undercover FBI agent and Al Pacino as a mobster. Based on the true story of Joseph D. Pistone. The film was praised for its authentic portrayal of mob life.

Description: Like 'King of New York,' 'The Departed' is a gritty crime drama with a focus on betrayal, loyalty, and the blurred lines between cops and criminals. Both films feature intense performances and a high-stakes narrative set in a criminal underworld. The themes of identity and survival under pressure are central to both.

Fact: Directed by Martin Scorsese, it won the Academy Award for Best Picture. The film is a remake of the Hong Kong movie 'Infernal Affairs.' Features an all-star cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson.

Description: Both 'American Gangster' and 'King of New York' are based on real-life crime figures and explore the drug trade's impact on urban communities. The films highlight the protagonists' rise to power, their operational brilliance, and the inevitable law enforcement crackdown. The moral ambiguity and complex characterizations are key similarities.

Fact: Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe star in this Ridley Scott-directed film. The movie is inspired by the life of Frank Lucas, a Harlem drug lord. It was praised for its authentic 1970s period detail.