Top 10 Crime Films Featuring Honest Cops

Description: Detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle, an unorthodox cop, uncovers a heroin smuggling ring, leading to one of the most iconic car chases in cinema history.

Fact: The famous car chase was shot without permits, adding to its raw, gritty feel. Gene Hackman won an Oscar for his role.

Description: This film follows the true story of Frank Serpico, an NYPD officer who exposed widespread corruption within the force. It's a testament to one man's fight for justice and integrity.

Fact: Al Pacino's performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film was shot on location in New York City, giving it an authentic feel.

Description: Detective Danny Ciello, a member of an elite NYPD unit, turns informant against his corrupt colleagues, battling his own conscience and the system he once served.

Fact: The film was based on the true story of Robert Leuci. It was one of the longest films ever released by a major studio at the time, clocking in at over three hours.

Description: Eliot Ness, a Treasury agent, forms a team of incorruptible lawmen to bring down Al Capone during Prohibition. It's a classic tale of good versus evil.

Fact: The famous "baseball bat" scene was improvised by Sean Connery. Kevin Costner was cast as Ness after Tom Cruise and Jeff Bridges turned down the role.

Description: While not exclusively about an honest cop, the film features Vincent Hanna, a dedicated detective, who is as committed to his job as the criminal he's chasing, showcasing the thin line between law and lawlessness.

Fact: The bank heist scene was shot in real-time, with no cuts. Michael Mann had been developing the story for over 20 years.

Description: Sheriff Freddy Heflin, played by Sylvester Stallone, uncovers corruption within his own police force, leading to a confrontation with his fellow officers.

Fact: Stallone took a pay cut to star in this film, which was originally intended for Robert De Niro. The film was shot in New Jersey, giving it a real small-town feel.

Description: An FBI agent goes undercover to infiltrate the mafia, facing the moral dilemma of his dual life as he grows closer to the criminals he's supposed to betray.

Fact: The film is based on the real-life experiences of FBI agent Joseph D. Pistone. Johnny Depp and Al Pacino had to learn the Sicilian dialect for authenticity.

Description: Set in the 1950s, this film delves into the lives of three LAPD officers, each with their own moral compass, as they unravel a web of corruption and deceit in Hollywood.

Fact: The film was adapted from James Ellroy's novel of the same name. It was nominated for nine Academy Awards, winning two.

Description: While the protagonist, Detective Alonzo Harris, is far from honest, the film explores the moral dilemmas faced by rookie cop Jake Hoyt, who must navigate through a day of corruption to find his path to righteousness.

Fact: Denzel Washington won an Oscar for Best Actor for his role as Alonzo Harris. The film was originally intended to be a vehicle for Samuel L. Jackson.

Description: In this modern-day retelling of "Infernal Affairs," an honest cop infiltrates the Irish mob, while a mole within the police force tries to uncover him. It's a thrilling cat-and-mouse game of loyalty and betrayal.

Fact: Martin Scorsese won his first Best Director Oscar for this film. The movie was set in Boston, but much of it was filmed in New York.