Top 10 True Crime Films: Real Stories of Infamous Criminals

Description: This classic film captures the notorious crime spree of Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow during the Great Depression. It's a romanticized yet gritty look at the lives of two outlaws who became folk heroes.

Fact: The film was controversial for its depiction of violence and sexuality, leading to changes in film censorship. Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty had to learn to drive stick shift for their roles.

Description: Based on the life of George Jung, this film traces his journey from a small-time marijuana dealer to a major player in the cocaine trade. It's a cautionary tale of ambition, betrayal, and the American Dream.

Fact: Johnny Depp's character was originally offered to Brad Pitt. The film's title refers to the slang term for cocaine.

Description: This film tells the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., a con artist who impersonated a pilot, doctor, and lawyer to cash millions in fraudulent checks. It's a thrilling cat-and-mouse game between Abagnale and the FBI agent determined to catch him.

Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio met the real Frank Abagnale Jr. before filming to better understand his character. The film's title was inspired by a challenge Abagnale made to the FBI.

Description: Charlize Theron delivers an Oscar-winning performance as Aileen Wuornos, a prostitute turned serial killer. The film explores her descent into violence and the tragic circumstances that led her there.

Fact: Theron gained 30 pounds and wore prosthetic teeth to transform into Wuornos. The film was shot in chronological order to capture the character's physical and emotional deterioration.

Description: This film examines the complex relationship between Jesse James and Robert Ford, culminating in Ford's betrayal and James's murder. It's a slow-burning, beautifully shot exploration of fame, betrayal, and the myth of the American outlaw.

Fact: The film's title is taken from the headline of a newspaper article about the assassination. Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck underwent extensive training to handle firearms authentically.

Description: David Fincher's film delves into the hunt for the Zodiac Killer, a serial murderer who terrorized San Francisco in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It's a meticulous and suspenseful portrayal of obsession and the quest for truth.

Fact: The film uses real letters sent by the Zodiac Killer, and the production team even recreated the original ciphers for authenticity.

Description: Based on the life of Harlem drug lord Frank Lucas, this film explores his rise to power through the heroin trade and his eventual downfall. It's a gritty, stylish portrayal of the American Dream gone wrong.

Fact: Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe did not meet until the first day of shooting to keep their characters' dynamic fresh. The real Frank Lucas served as a consultant for the film.

Description: This film chronicles the rise and fall of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who engaged in rampant corruption and fraud on Wall Street. It's a wild ride through excess, greed, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

Fact: The film holds the record for the most uses of the F-word in a mainstream movie. Leonardo DiCaprio improvised many of his scenes, including the infamous "I'm not leaving!" speech.

Description: Michael Mann's film follows the last years of John Dillinger, one of America's most famous bank robbers, as he evades capture by the FBI. It's a stylish, fast-paced look at the end of the gangster era.

Fact: The film was shot using digital cameras to give it a more contemporary feel, despite being set in the 1930s. Johnny Depp met with Dillinger's relatives to prepare for his role.

Description: This film tells the chilling story of Richard Kuklinski, a contract killer who led a double life as a family man. It's a deep dive into the psyche of a man who could compartmentalize his life so effectively.

Fact: Michael Shannon gained weight for the role to better portray Kuklinski's physical presence. The film was based on interviews Kuklinski gave before his death.