Get ready to delve into the shadowy world of underground business where the stakes are high, and the action is relentless. This curated list of action-packed films not only showcases the gritty side of illegal enterprises but also explores the moral dilemmas, power struggles, and the adrenaline-fueled escapades of those involved. From the dark alleys of organized crime to the high-stakes gambling dens, these movies will keep you on the edge of your seat, offering a blend of suspense, action, and sometimes, a touch of dark humor.

The Godfather (1972)
Description: While not strictly about underground business, this epic saga of the Corleone family is foundational in depicting the inner workings of the mafia, from family loyalty to business dealings.
Fact: Marlon Brando improvised the famous "I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse" line. The film was initially offered to Sergio Leone, who turned it down.


Casino (1995)
Description: This film dives into the world of Las Vegas casinos, showcasing the rise and fall of a casino manager and his ties to the mob. It's a masterclass in how organized crime operates behind the glitz and glamour of the gambling world.
Fact: The film was based on the real-life story of Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal, a former Las Vegas casino executive. The character of Ginger McKenna was inspired by Geri McGee, Rosenthal's wife.


Heat (1995)
Description: This film explores the cat-and-mouse game between a professional thief and the detective obsessed with catching him, set against the backdrop of Los Angeles' criminal underworld.
Fact: The bank heist scene was filmed in one take, and the coffee shop scene between De Niro and Pacino was improvised.


Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998)
Description: Another Guy Ritchie classic, this film revolves around a card game gone wrong, leading to a series of comedic and violent events in London's criminal underworld.
Fact: The film was made on a budget of just £960,000 and became a surprise hit, launching Ritchie's career. The title refers to the weapons used in the film.


Snatch (2000)
Description: Guy Ritchie's fast-paced crime comedy about a diamond heist gone wrong, involving a colorful cast of characters from the boxing world to the Russian mafia. It's a whirlwind tour of London's underground business scene.
Fact: Brad Pitt's character, Mickey, speaks in an unintelligible Irish accent, which was intentionally done to add humor. The film was shot in 28 days.


The Italian Job (2003)
Description: A slick heist movie where a team of thieves plans to steal gold from a former associate, showcasing the intricacies of planning and executing an underground operation.
Fact: The film features a memorable Mini Cooper chase scene through the streets of Los Angeles. The original 1969 film was set in Turin, Italy.


The Departed (2006)
Description: A gripping tale of an undercover cop infiltrating the Irish mob and a mole in the police department, both trying to outsmart each other in a deadly game of cat and mouse. This film perfectly captures the essence of the underground business world with its intense action and psychological warfare.
Fact: Martin Scorsese won his first Best Director Oscar for this film. The movie is a remake of the Hong Kong film "Infernal Affairs."


Eastern Promises (2007)
Description: A midwife uncovers a diary that leads her into the dark world of the Russian mafia in London, where she encounters a driver with a mysterious past.
Fact: Viggo Mortensen learned Russian for his role and did many of his own stunts, including the famous bathhouse fight scene.


The Town (2010)
Description: Set in Boston, this film follows a group of bank robbers who are forced to pull off one last heist, delving into themes of loyalty, family, and the inescapable pull of the criminal life.
Fact: The film was based on the novel "Prince of Thieves" by Chuck Hogan. Ben Affleck, who also directed, did extensive research on Charlestown, known for its high rate of bank robberies.


Layer Cake (2004)
Description: A drug dealer looking to retire gets pulled back into the criminal world for one last job, navigating through London's drug trade with its inherent risks and betrayals.
Fact: Daniel Craig's performance in this film helped him land the role of James Bond. The film's title refers to the idea that the criminal underworld is like a layer cake, with different levels of involvement and risk.
