10 Movies and Shows Similar to Mesrine: Public Enemy #1 (2008)

Description: 'The French Connection' and 'Mesrine: Public Enemy #1' both depict the gritty reality of crime and law enforcement. Both films are known for their realistic portrayal of their subjects and their intense, action-packed sequences. The protagonists in both films are determined and relentless in their pursuits.

Fact: The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It is based on a true story. The famous car chase scene was filmed without permits and involved real-life stunts.

Description: Like 'Mesrine: Public Enemy #1', 'The Godfather' delves into the world of organized crime and the personal toll it takes on those involved. Both films feature complex characters who are both ruthless and sympathetic, and both explore the themes of loyalty, family, and power.

Fact: Marlon Brando won an Oscar for his role as Vito Corleone. The film was based on Mario Puzo's novel of the same name. It is often cited as one of the greatest films ever made.

Description: Similar to 'Mesrine: Public Enemy #1', 'Scarface' is a crime drama that follows the rise and fall of a notorious criminal. Both films explore themes of power, ambition, and the inevitable downfall that comes with a life of crime. The protagonists in both films are charismatic yet deeply flawed individuals who become consumed by their own hubris.

Fact: Al Pacino's performance as Tony Montana is considered one of the most iconic in film history. The film was initially met with mixed reviews but has since gained a cult following. The famous line 'Say hello to my little friend!' was improvised by Pacino.

Description: 'Carlito's Way' and 'Mesrine: Public Enemy #1' both follow the struggles of a criminal trying to leave his past behind. Both protagonists are charismatic and complex, and both films explore the difficulty of escaping a life of crime. The films also share a similar tone, blending action with deep emotional moments.

Fact: The film was directed by Brian De Palma and stars Al Pacino. It is based on two novels by Edwin Torres. The film was not a box office success initially but has since gained a cult following.

Description: 'Casino' shares with 'Mesrine: Public Enemy #1' a focus on the glamorous yet dangerous world of crime. Both films depict the rise and fall of their protagonists, set against a backdrop of violence and betrayal. The storytelling in both films is rich and detailed, offering a deep dive into the criminal underworld.

Fact: Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film is based on the real-life story of Frank Rosenthal. Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci reunited for this film after their collaboration in 'Goodfellas'. The film's budget was $52 million, making it one of the most expensive films of its time.

Description: Like 'Mesrine: Public Enemy #1', 'Heat' is a crime thriller that focuses on the lives of criminals and the law enforcement officers who pursue them. Both films are known for their realistic portrayal of crime and their deep character studies. The action sequences in both films are intense and meticulously crafted.

Fact: The film features the first on-screen pairing of Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. The famous shootout scene was filmed on location in downtown Los Angeles. Director Michael Mann spent years researching the criminal underworld before making the film.

Description: Both 'Donnie Brasco' and 'Mesrine: Public Enemy #1' are based on true stories of criminals who became infamous. Both films explore the psychological toll of living a double life and the bonds formed within the criminal underworld. The performances in both films are deeply nuanced and compelling.

Fact: Johnny Depp and Al Pacino star in the film. It is based on the memoir of FBI agent Joseph D. Pistone. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: 'Blow' and 'Mesrine: Public Enemy #1' both chronicle the rise and fall of real-life criminals. Both films are biographical and focus on the personal and professional lives of their protagonists. The films also share a similar visual style, with a focus on the glamour and grit of the criminal lifestyle.

Fact: The film stars Johnny Depp as George Jung. It is based on the book by Bruce Porter. The film's soundtrack features music from the 1970s and 1980s.

Description: 'The Departed' and 'Mesrine: Public Enemy #1' both deal with themes of identity, loyalty, and betrayal within the criminal underworld. Both films feature intense, cat-and-mouse dynamics between law enforcement and criminals, and both are known for their high-stakes tension and dramatic twists.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It is a remake of the Hong Kong film 'Infernal Affairs'. Jack Nicholson's character was based on real-life Boston gangster Whitey Bulger.

Description: Both 'American Gangster' and 'Mesrine: Public Enemy #1' are based on true stories of notorious criminals. They explore the duality of their protagonists, who are both family men and ruthless criminals. The films also share a gritty, realistic portrayal of the criminal lifestyle.

Fact: Denzel Washington gained 30 pounds for his role as Frank Lucas. The film was directed by Ridley Scott. It was nominated for two Academy Awards.