Ambition can be a powerful motivator, but when it's paired with crime, the results are often explosive and morally complex. This curated list of 10 crime films delves into the lives of characters whose ambition leads them down dangerous paths. From the gritty streets of New York to the high-stakes world of Wall Street, these movies offer a fascinating look at what people are willing to do to achieve their dreams, no matter the cost. Whether you're a fan of classic gangster tales or modern-day heists, this collection promises to keep you on the edge of your seat with its portrayal of ambition gone awry.
The Godfather (1972)
Description: This iconic film follows Vito Corleone, the head of a powerful New York crime family, and his son Michael, who rises to power through ambition and ruthlessness. It's a tale of family, loyalty, and the American Dream, but with a criminal twist.
Fact: The film was initially offered to Sergio Leone, who turned it down because he felt it was too similar to his own work. Marlon Brando improvised the famous line "I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse."
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Scarface (1983)
Description: Tony Montana's relentless ambition to become the kingpin of Miami's drug trade is both his rise and his downfall. This film explores the dark side of the American Dream, showing how ambition can corrupt and destroy.
Fact: Al Pacino was initially reluctant to take on the role, fearing it would be too similar to his character in "The Godfather." The film's famous "Say hello to my little friend!" line was improvised by Pacino.
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Goodfellas (1990)
Description: Henry Hill's ambition to become a made man in the mafia leads him into a life of crime, luxury, and paranoia. This film is a gritty, fast-paced look at the allure and the cost of ambition within the mob.
Fact: The film was based on the book "Wiseguy" by Nicholas Pileggi, who also co-wrote the screenplay. The famous "Layla" scene was shot in one continuous take.
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Casino (1995)
Description: Sam "Ace" Rothstein's ambition to run the Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas leads him into a world of mob control, corruption, and personal betrayal. This film is a detailed look at ambition in the gambling industry.
Fact: The film was based on the book "Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas" by Nicholas Pileggi. The character of Ginger McKenna was inspired by real-life showgirl Geri McGee.
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Heat (1995)
Description: Neil McCauley, a professional thief, and Vincent Hanna, a relentless cop, are both driven by ambition in their respective fields. Their cat-and-mouse game is a study in ambition, obsession, and the thin line between right and wrong.
Fact: The film's famous diner scene was improvised by Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. Michael Mann had been developing the story for over 20 years before making the film.
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Blow (2001)
Description: George Jung's ambition to become the biggest cocaine smuggler in America leads him from small-time deals to international operations. This film is a cautionary tale of ambition, success, and the inevitable downfall.
Fact: Johnny Depp was initially reluctant to take the role because he felt it was too similar to his previous work. The film's title refers to both the drug cocaine and the act of blowing one's chance at a normal life.
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The Departed (2006)
Description: In this tale of ambition, loyalty, and betrayal, both a cop and a criminal infiltrate each other's organizations, each driven by their own ambitions for success and survival. The film is a thrilling exploration of ambition in the criminal underworld.
Fact: The film was a remake of the Hong Kong film "Infernal Affairs." It was Martin Scorsese's first Best Director Oscar win.
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American Gangster (2007)
Description: Frank Lucas's ambition to control the heroin trade in Harlem leads him to create an empire, but his rise attracts the attention of a determined detective. This film showcases ambition in the criminal underworld and the law enforcement's response.
Fact: Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe reportedly did not get along during filming, which added to the tension on screen. The real Frank Lucas was a consultant on the film.
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The Town (2010)
Description: Doug MacRay's ambition to leave his life of crime in Charlestown, Boston, is tested when he falls for a bank manager he took hostage. This film blends ambition with romance and the harsh realities of criminal life.
Fact: Ben Affleck, who directed and starred in the film, grew up in Cambridge, Massachusetts, near Charlestown. The film was shot on location in Boston.
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The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Description: Jordan Belfort's ambition to become the richest stockbroker on Wall Street leads him into a world of excess, fraud, and corruption. This film is a wild ride through the highs and lows of unchecked ambition.
Fact: The film was based on Belfort's memoir, and he himself appears in a cameo. The movie set a Guinness World Record for the most swearing in a film, with over 500 uses of the F-word.
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