Top 10 Crime Films About Youth Gangs

Description: While not strictly about youth gangs, this film explores themes of violence, youth culture, and societal control through the story of Alex, a charismatic delinquent leading his gang in acts of "ultra-violence."

Fact: Stanley Kubrick removed the film from UK distribution for over 25 years due to concerns about copycat violence.

Description: This cult classic follows a New York City gang, the Warriors, as they fight their way back to their home turf after being framed for a murder. It's a thrilling journey through the city's underworld, showcasing the dynamics of gang warfare.

Fact: The film was inspired by the novel of the same name by Sol Yurick, which was loosely based on the ancient Greek tale "Anabasis" by Xenophon.

Description: Based on S.E. Hinton's novel, this film captures the rivalry between two rival youth gangs, the Greasers and the Socs, in 1960s Oklahoma, highlighting themes of class conflict and brotherhood.

Fact: The cast included future stars like Tom Cruise, Patrick Swayze, and Rob Lowe, many of whom were just starting their careers.

Description: Set in South Central Los Angeles, this film explores the lives of three young men navigating the dangers of gang life, drugs, and violence. It's a poignant look at the impact of environment on youth.

Fact: John Singleton, the director, was only 24 when he wrote and directed this film, making him the youngest person ever to be nominated for the Best Director Oscar.

Description: This film provides an unflinching look at life in Watts, Los Angeles, through the eyes of a young man caught between the allure of gang life and the desire for a better future.

Fact: The Hughes brothers, who directed the film, were only 22 years old when they started working on it, bringing a fresh perspective to the genre.

Description: This New Zealand film focuses on an urban Maori family dealing with poverty, domestic violence, and gang culture, offering a stark portrayal of youth in crisis.

Fact: The film was adapted from Alan Duff's novel of the same name and became one of New Zealand's highest-grossing films.

Description: Martin Scorsese's epic tale of gang warfare in 19th-century New York City, where young men from different backgrounds clash in a brutal fight for control of the Five Points neighborhood.

Fact: The film was originally set to be directed by Michael Cimino, but after his departure, Scorsese took over, significantly altering the script.

Description: This Brazilian film depicts the growth of organized crime in the Cidade de Deus suburb of Rio de Janeiro from the early 1960s to the 1980s, focusing on two boys who take different paths in life amidst the gang violence.

Fact: Most of the actors in the film were non-professionals from the favelas, giving the movie an authentic feel.

Description: This British film delves into the lives of a group of teenagers in West London, dealing with drugs, violence, and the pressures of gang life over a single day.

Fact: The film was followed by two sequels, "Adulthood" and "Brotherhood," continuing the story of the characters.

Description: Set in the early 1980s, this film follows a young boy who becomes involved with a skinhead gang, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the rise of far-right politics among youth.

Fact: The film spawned a successful TV series that continued the story of the characters.