If you're a fan of gripping narratives, intense action, and the dark allure of the criminal underworld, this collection is for you. Here, we've handpicked ten films that delve into the lives of professional killers, showcasing their skills, motivations, and the moral dilemmas they face. Each film offers a unique perspective on the assassin's world, making this list a must-watch for any crime movie enthusiast.

The Day of the Jackal (1973)
Description: A professional assassin, known only as The Jackal, is hired to kill French President Charles de Gaulle. This film is a masterclass in suspense and meticulous planning.
Fact: The film was based on the novel by Frederick Forsyth, and it was one of the first to depict a fictional assassination attempt on a real-life political figure.


Léon: The Professional (1994)
Description: This film follows Léon, a hitman with a heart, who takes in a young girl named Mathilda after her family is killed. Their unlikely bond leads to a tale of revenge, mentorship, and the complexities of human relationships in the world of crime.
Fact: Natalie Portman's breakout role was in this film, and she was only 12 years old when she played Mathilda. The film was initially banned in some countries due to its depiction of violence involving a child.


Collateral (2004)
Description: A cab driver finds himself the hostage of an assassin on a night-long killing spree in Los Angeles. This film showcases the tension between ordinary life and the criminal underworld.
Fact: Tom Cruise played against type as the villain, and the film was shot almost entirely at night.


The Mechanic (2011)
Description: Arthur Bishop, a meticulous hitman, trains his late friend's son in the art of assassination. The film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the mechanics of murder, making it a standout in the genre.
Fact: The film is a remake of the 1972 film of the same name, and Jason Statham's character was originally played by Charles Bronson.


In Bruges (2008)
Description: Two Irish hitmen hide out in Bruges, Belgium, after a job goes wrong. The film combines dark humor with existential questions, making it a unique entry in the hitman genre.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on location in Bruges, and Colin Farrell won a Golden Globe for his performance.


The American (2010)
Description: An aging assassin, Jack, seeks solace in a small Italian town, but his past catches up with him. This film is more about the internal struggle of a killer than the action, offering a slow-burn narrative.
Fact: George Clooney learned Italian for his role, and the film's quiet, contemplative nature contrasts with typical action-packed assassin movies.


The Iceman (2012)
Description: Based on the true story of Richard Kuklinski, a notorious contract killer who led a double life as a family man. The film explores the chilling duality of his existence.
Fact: Michael Shannon's portrayal of Kuklinski was critically acclaimed, and the film was praised for its chilling realism.


John Wick (2014)
Description: After the death of his wife, John Wick, a retired hitman, is drawn back into the criminal underworld when his car is stolen and his puppy is killed. This film blends high-octane action with a poignant story of loss and revenge.
Fact: Keanu Reeves did most of his own stunts, and the film has spawned a franchise due to its popularity.


The Killer (1989)
Description: A hitman, after a botched job, seeks redemption by saving the life of a woman he accidentally blinded. John Woo's film is known for its balletic gunplay and emotional depth.
Fact: This film helped popularize the "heroic bloodshed" genre, and it was remade in Hollywood as "The Replacement Killers."


Mr. Brooks (2007)
Description: Earl Brooks, a successful businessman, has a dark secret: he's a serial killer. This psychological thriller delves into the mind of a man torn between his urges and his desire for normalcy.
Fact: Kevin Costner's performance was noted for its depth, and the film was one of the first to explore the concept of a "nice guy" serial killer.
