Top 10 Crime Films of the 80s

Description: A Cuban refugee named Tony Montana rises to power in Miami's drug trade, only to fall victim to his own excesses. This film is a quintessential 80s crime epic, known for its intense performances and iconic lines.

Fact: Al Pacino improvised the famous "Say hello to my little friend" line during filming. The film was initially given an X rating due to its graphic violence.

Description: A hitman and his partner are sent to Spain to kill a former mobster who turned informant. The film explores themes of betrayal, redemption, and the inevitability of fate.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Spain, adding authenticity to its setting. John Hurt's performance as the informant is often cited as one of his best.

Description: A Secret Service agent, seeking revenge for his partner's murder, gets involved in a dangerous counterfeiting ring. The film is known for its stylish visuals and intense car chase scenes.

Fact: The car chase was filmed in reverse to give the illusion of driving at high speeds. Director William Friedkin also directed "The French Connection."

Description: Two low-level mobsters are sent on a mission to kill each other, leading to a series of comedic misadventures. This film blends crime with comedy, offering a lighter take on the genre.

Fact: Danny DeVito and Joe Piscopo, who star in the film, were both part of the original cast of "Saturday Night Live."

Description: A New Orleans detective falls for a district attorney investigating police corruption, leading to a complex web of crime and romance. The film showcases the vibrant culture of New Orleans.

Fact: Dennis Quaid and Ellen Barkin had such great chemistry that they later married in real life. The film's title refers to the nickname for New Orleans.

Description: Eliot Ness and his team of incorruptible federal agents take on Al Capone during Prohibition in Chicago. This film captures the essence of the era with its stylish direction and memorable performances.

Fact: The film's famous "staircase" scene was inspired by the Odessa Steps sequence from "Battleship Potemkin." Sean Connery won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Jim Malone.

Description: Henry Hill's rise through the ranks of the mob in New York City, his fall, and his eventual cooperation with the FBI. Although released in 1990, its roots are firmly in the 80s crime film tradition.

Fact: The film was based on the book "Wiseguy" by Nicholas Pileggi. Martin Scorsese used freeze frames and voice-over narration to give the film a documentary-like feel.

Description: A struggling comedian kidnaps a late-night talk show host to achieve fame. While not a traditional crime film, its themes of obsession and the dark side of fame fit well within the genre.

Fact: Robert De Niro's character was inspired by real-life stalker John Hinckley Jr. The film was a box office flop but has since gained cult status.

Description: Two cousins from New York's Little Italy get involved in a heist that goes terribly wrong. This film captures the essence of the neighborhood and the complexities of family ties.

Fact: The film was based on a novel by Vincent Patrick. Mickey Rourke's performance as Charlie was critically acclaimed.

Description: A seasoned detective and a professional bank robber find themselves on a collision course in Los Angeles. This film is notable for its realistic portrayal of crime and the cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and criminals.

Fact: The film was remade in 1995 with Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, but the original 1986 version is a lesser-known gem. It was directed by Dick Richards.