Betrayal is a theme that resonates deeply within the crime genre, offering a rich tapestry of suspense, drama, and unexpected twists. This selection of films delves into the dark corners of human loyalty, showcasing how betrayal can unravel lives, relationships, and criminal empires. Whether it's a double-cross in a heist, a lover's deceit, or a betrayal within the ranks of law enforcement, these movies will keep you on the edge of your seat, exploring the complex dynamics of trust and treachery.

The Friends of Eddie Coyle (1973)
Description: This film examines the life of a small-time gunrunner who, facing a long prison sentence, betrays his criminal associates in a desperate bid for freedom.
Fact: The film is noted for its realistic portrayal of Boston's criminal underworld and its influence on the crime genre.


The Godfather Part II (1974)
Description: This epic saga delves into the betrayal within the Corleone family, both in the past with Vito Corleone and in the present with Michael Corleone, showing how betrayal can destroy even the strongest of bonds.
Fact: It's one of the few sequels to win the Best Picture Oscar.


The Long Good Friday (1980)
Description: A British gangster film where the protagonist's empire is threatened by an unknown enemy, leading to a series of betrayals that unravel his criminal world.
Fact: Bob Hoskins was nominated for a BAFTA for his role as Harold Shand.


Reservoir Dogs (1992)
Description: Quentin Tarantino's debut feature film explores the aftermath of a botched diamond heist, where suspicion and betrayal among the crew members lead to a violent unraveling.
Fact: The film was made on a budget of just $


Heat (1995)
Description: Michael Mann's epic crime drama features a complex relationship between a professional thief and the detective obsessed with catching him, culminating in a betrayal that affects both their lives deeply.
Fact: The film's bank robbery scene was filmed in real-time, and the shootout was inspired by an actual event in North Hollywood.


The Usual Suspects (1995)
Description: Known for its twist ending, this film revolves around a group of criminals who are betrayed by one of their own, leading to a legendary tale of deception and the elusive criminal mastermind, Keyser Söze.
Fact: The famous line "The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist" was improvised by Kevin Spacey.


Donnie Brasco (1997)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows an FBI agent who infiltrates the mafia, leading to a deep bond with a mobster, which ultimately results in betrayal and tragedy.
Fact: Johnny Depp's character was based on real-life FBI agent Joseph D. Pistone.


The Italian Job (2003)
Description: A heist film where the betrayal comes from within the crew, leading to a revenge-driven plot to reclaim their stolen gold. The film showcases the consequences of greed and betrayal in a thrilling manner.
Fact: The iconic Mini Cooper chase scene was filmed in real locations across Los Angeles.


The Departed (2006)
Description: This film is a masterclass in betrayal, featuring a cat-and-mouse game between an undercover cop infiltrating the Irish mob and a mole in the police department. The intricate plot explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the moral ambiguity of betrayal.
Fact: Martin Scorsese won his first Best Director Oscar for this film. It's a remake of the Hong Kong film "Infernal Affairs."


The Town (2010)
Description: In this film, a group of bank robbers from Charlestown, Boston, face internal betrayal as one of them falls for a hostage, leading to a series of events that unravel their criminal enterprise.
Fact: Ben Affleck, who directed and starred in the film, grew up in Charlestown, which adds authenticity to the setting.
