10 Must-Watch Biopics About Criminal Masterminds

Description: A saga of family, tradition, and the mafia, this film follows the Corleone family's transition from old-world values to the new era of organized crime. It's a cornerstone of mobster biopics, showcasing the inner workings of the mafia.

Fact: Marlon Brando improvised the famous "I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse" line, which was not in the original script.

Description: This film chronicles the rise and fall of Henry Hill, a small-time gangster who becomes part of the Lucchese crime family. It's a quintessential mobster biopic that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the American Dream gone awry.

Fact: The film was based on the book "Wiseguy" by Nicholas Pileggi, and Martin Scorsese famously used real-life mobsters as extras in the film.

Description: Another Scorsese masterpiece, this film explores the life of Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a mobster who runs a casino in Las Vegas, detailing the corruption and violence that comes with the territory.

Fact: The film was based on the book "Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas" by Nicholas Pileggi, who also co-wrote the screenplay.

Description: This film tells the true story of FBI agent Joseph D. Pistone, who infiltrated the Bonanno crime family under the alias Donnie Brasco. It's a deep dive into the life of an undercover agent living among mobsters.

Fact: The real-life Donnie Brasco, Joe Pistone, served as a consultant on the film to ensure authenticity.

Description: The story of George Jung, one of the biggest cocaine smugglers in the United States during the 1970s and early 1980s. It's a cautionary tale of the American Dream turned into a nightmare.

Fact: Johnny Depp, who played Jung, met with him several times to understand his character better.

Description: Based on the life of Frank Lucas, this film delves into how he became one of the most powerful heroin dealers in Harlem by smuggling drugs directly from Southeast Asia. It's a tale of ambition, corruption, and the American Dream.

Fact: Denzel Washington's character, Frank Lucas, was known for his unique method of smuggling drugs inside the coffins of American soldiers.

Description: This film focuses on the last years of notorious bank robber John Dillinger, showcasing his cat-and-mouse game with the FBI. It's a thrilling look at one of America's most infamous criminals.

Fact: The film used digital cameras for a more authentic, gritty look, which was a departure from the typical film stock used at the time.

Description: This biopic focuses on the life of James "Whitey" Bulger, a notorious Boston mobster who became an FBI informant to eliminate his rivals. It's a chilling portrayal of power and corruption.

Fact: Johnny Depp underwent a dramatic physical transformation to play Bulger, including wearing prosthetic teeth.

Description: The film follows the life of John Gotti, the head of the Gambino crime family, from his rise to power to his eventual downfall. It's a story of ambition, family, and the price of power.

Fact: The film was initially planned as a TV miniseries but was later converted into a feature film.

Description: Directed by Martin Scorsese, this film tells the story of Frank Sheeran, a hitman involved with the Bufalino crime family, and his connection to the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa. It's a reflective look at a life of crime.

Fact: The film used de-aging technology to portray the characters at different ages, a process that took years to perfect.