Top 10 Action Films About Racket

Description: One of the earliest gangster films, it follows the rise of Tom Powers from a petty criminal to a major player in the bootlegging and racketeering scene during Prohibition.

Fact: The film was controversial for its time due to its depiction of violence and crime, leading to the creation of the Hays Code to regulate film content.

Description: A cornerstone of the gangster genre, "The Godfather" explores the inner workings of the Corleone family, a powerful Italian-American mafia clan, as they navigate the treacherous waters of racketeering, family loyalty, and succession.

Fact: The film was initially offered to Sergio Leone, who turned it down, feeling it was too similar to his previous work. Also, Marlon Brando improvised the famous cat scene, picking up a stray cat from the studio lot.

Description: This film dramatizes the efforts of Eliot Ness and his team to bring down Al Capone during the Prohibition era, focusing on the battle against racketeering and corruption.

Fact: The famous "Union Station" shootout was inspired by the real-life St. Valentine's Day Massacre, and the film's script was written by David Mamet.

Description: Martin Scorsese's masterpiece delves into the life of Henry Hill, a small-time hood who rises through the ranks of the Lucchese crime family, showcasing the allure and dangers of the mob lifestyle.

Fact: The film's famous "Copacabana" tracking shot was done in one take, requiring precise choreography and timing. Also, the real Henry Hill was on set during filming, providing insights to the actors.

Description: The Coen Brothers' take on the gangster genre, "Miller's Crossing" explores the complex relationships between rival gangs, political corruption, and the moral ambiguity of its characters.

Fact: The film was inspired by Dashiell Hammett's novels, particularly "Red Harvest," and features a unique blend of noir and humor not commonly seen in gangster films.

Description: Robert De Niro's directorial debut, this film tells the story of a young boy torn between his honest father and a charismatic local mobster, exploring themes of loyalty, identity, and the allure of the criminal life.

Fact: The film was based on Chazz Palminteri's one-man play, which he performed over 300 times before it was adapted into a movie.

Description: Another Scorsese gem, "Casino" follows the rise and fall of Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a gambling expert who runs a casino for the mob, highlighting the intricate web of racketeering, corruption, and betrayal.

Fact: The film was based on the real-life story of Frank Rosenthal, a sports handicapper and former casino executive. The character of Nicky Santoro was inspired by Anthony Spilotro, a real-life mob enforcer.

Description: Based on the true story of FBI agent Joseph D. Pistone, who infiltrated the Bonanno crime family, this film showcases the complexities of undercover work and the world of organized crime.

Fact: The real Donnie Brasco, Joseph Pistone, served as a consultant on the film, ensuring authenticity in the portrayal of mob life.

Description: Martin Scorsese's modern take on the classic "Infernal Affairs," "The Departed" involves a mole in the police department and an undercover cop infiltrating the Irish mob, with racketeering at its core.

Fact: The film was shot in Boston, where the real-life Whitey Bulger, an inspiration for the character Frank Costello, operated. Also, Scorsese won his first Best Director Oscar for this film.

Description: David Cronenberg's film dives into the Russian mafia in London, focusing on a midwife who uncovers a diary that leads her into the dark world of human trafficking and organized crime.

Fact: Viggo Mortensen learned Russian for his role, and the famous bathhouse fight scene was filmed in one continuous take, showcasing his dedication to the role.