When the sun sets, the city awakens with a different kind of life. Nighttime brings out the shadows, the secrets, and the criminals. This curated list of 10 films delves into the world of nocturnal crime, where the darkness provides cover for the most sinister activities. From heists to murders, these movies capture the essence of crime under the cloak of night, offering a thrilling experience for fans of suspense, action, and intrigue.

Heat (1995)
Description: This film is a masterclass in crime cinema, featuring a cat-and-mouse game between a professional thief and a relentless detective, all set against the backdrop of Los Angeles' night life.
Fact: The iconic coffee shop scene was improvised by Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, making it one of the most memorable moments in film history.


Insomnia (2002)
Description: A detective from Los Angeles investigates a murder in Alaska, where the midnight sun plays tricks on his mind, but the night still holds its secrets.
Fact: The film was shot in Canada, using Vancouver to double for Alaska, with many scenes set in the perpetual daylight, contrasting with the dark themes of the story.


Collateral (2004)
Description: A taxi driver unwittingly becomes the accomplice of a hitman, driving him around Los Angeles at night to execute his targets.
Fact: The film was shot in sequence to capture the progression of the night, enhancing the realism of the narrative.


The Departed (2006)
Description: Set in Boston, this film explores the murky world of undercover operations, with much of the action taking place under the cover of darkness.
Fact: Martin Scorsese won his first Best Director Oscar for this film, which also took home Best Picture.


The Dark Knight (2008)
Description: While not exclusively a crime film, this Batman movie features numerous night-time sequences where Gotham's criminal underworld thrives.
Fact: Heath Ledger's portrayal of the Joker won him a posthumous Oscar, and his performance was largely filmed at night.


Drive (2011)
Description: A Hollywood stunt driver moonlights as a getaway driver, with the film's nocturnal scenes providing a moody, atmospheric backdrop to the crime.
Fact: The film's soundtrack, featuring Cliff Martinez's synth score, became iconic and is often associated with the movie's night-time aesthetic.


The Town (2010)
Description: In this gripping tale, a group of bank robbers in Boston execute their heists at night, showcasing the city's darker side and the intense personal lives of the criminals.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Boston, with many scenes filmed at night to capture the authentic atmosphere of the city's criminal underworld.


Nightcrawler (2014)
Description: Jake Gyllenhaal stars as a freelance crime journalist who exploits the night's criminal activities for profit, blurring the lines between observer and participant.
Fact: Gyllenhaal lost 30 pounds for the role to portray the character's gaunt, driven appearance.


The Night of the Hunter (1955)
Description: A chilling tale of a preacher with "LOVE" and "HATE" tattooed on his knuckles, who terrorizes a family at night in search of hidden money.
Fact: This film noir classic was directed by Charles Laughton, who never directed another film due to its initial poor reception.


Gone in 60 Seconds (2000)
Description: A retired master car thief is forced back into the game for one last heist, with many of the car thefts occurring under the cover of night.
Fact: The film features a record-breaking number of car chases, with many shot at night to enhance the thrill.
