Money laundering, the process of making illegally-gained proceeds appear legal, has been a staple theme in crime cinema. These films not only entertain but also shed light on the intricate and often dangerous world of financial crime. From high-stakes heists to elaborate schemes, here are ten films that delve into the shadowy realm of money laundering, offering viewers a mix of suspense, action, and a peek into the criminal mind.

The Bank Job (2008)
Description: While not directly about money laundering, this film involves a heist where the robbers inadvertently stumble upon evidence of a money laundering operation, leading to a complex web of intrigue and danger.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the 1971 Baker Street robbery in London.


The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Description: This film follows the rise and fall of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who indulges in a life of excess funded by his illegal financial activities, including money laundering. It's a wild ride through the excesses of Wall Street.
Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Martin Scorsese.


The House of Gucci (2021)
Description: While focusing on the Gucci family, the film touches on the financial machinations and laundering schemes that were part of the family's business practices.
Fact: Lady Gaga underwent extensive training to perfect her Italian accent for the role of Patrizia Reggiani.


The Informant! (2009)
Description: This film tells the story of Mark Whitacre, an executive who becomes an informant for the FBI, exposing price-fixing and money laundering in the agribusiness industry.
Fact: Matt Damon gained 30 pounds for the role to portray Whitacre's physical transformation.


The Infiltrator (2016)
Description: Bryan Cranston stars as a U.S. Customs agent who goes undercover to dismantle a money laundering scheme by infiltrating the inner circle of drug lord Pablo Escobar.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of Robert Mazur, whose book of the same name inspired the movie.


The Big Short (2015)
Description: While primarily about the 2008 financial crisis, this film includes elements of money laundering through the depiction of the housing bubble and the fraudulent practices that led to it.
Fact: The film uses unconventional methods to explain complex financial concepts, including celebrity cameos to break the fourth wall.


The Accountant (2016)
Description: Ben Affleck plays a mathematical savant who works as an accountant for criminal organizations, helping them launder money. His unique skills make him a valuable asset in the underworld.
Fact: The film features a unique blend of action and drama, with Affleck's character using his autism to his advantage in various high-stakes situations.


The Nice Guys (2016)
Description: Set in 1970s Los Angeles, this film involves a private eye and a hired enforcer who uncover a conspiracy involving a pornographic film, murder, and money laundering.
Fact: The film was directed by Shane Black, known for his work on "Lethal Weapon" and "Iron Man


The Square (2017)
Description: Although primarily a satire on the art world, this film includes a subplot where a character uses an art installation to launder money, showcasing the absurdity of the art market.
Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in


The Laundromat (2019)
Description: Based on the Panama Papers scandal, this film explores how a network of lawyers and bankers help the wealthy launder money through offshore accounts, offering a satirical take on the global financial system.
Fact: The film stars Meryl Streep, Gary Oldman, and Antonio Banderas, and was directed by Steven Soderbergh.
