10 Must-Watch Crime Films About Underground Dealers

Description: This classic film follows two New York City cops as they uncover a massive heroin smuggling operation. It's a gritty, realistic portrayal of the drug trade and police work.

Fact: The famous car chase scene was shot without permits, leading to real-life chaos on the streets of New York.

Description: Tony Montana's rise from a Cuban refugee to a drug kingpin in Miami is a tale of ambition, excess, and the brutal reality of the drug trade, making it an iconic entry in this list.

Fact: Al Pacino improvised the famous "Say hello to my little friend" line during the climactic scene.

Description: This multi-layered narrative examines the drug trade from various perspectives, including that of a drug czar, a judge whose daughter becomes addicted, and Mexican police officers caught in the web of corruption.

Fact: The film was shot in three different locations: Mexico, Ohio, and California, to reflect the diverse settings of the story.

Description: This film chronicles the real-life story of George Jung, a key figure in the cocaine trade during the 1970s and 1980s. It's a tale of ambition, betrayal, and the American Dream gone awry, making it a perfect fit for our list.

Fact: Johnny Depp, who plays Jung, reportedly turned down the role several times before accepting. The film's title is a slang term for cocaine.

Description: Set in the slums of Rio de Janeiro, this film portrays the lives of two boys who take different paths, one becoming a drug dealer, the other a photographer, highlighting the pervasive influence of the drug trade.

Fact: Most of the cast were non-professional actors from the favelas, giving the film an authentic feel.

Description: While not exclusively about drug dealers, this film involves undercover operations within the Irish mob, which includes drug trafficking, making it a compelling addition to this list.

Fact: Martin Scorsese won his first Best Director Oscar for this film.

Description: Based on the true story of Frank Lucas, a Harlem drug lord who smuggled heroin into the U.S. by hiding it in the coffins of American soldiers, this film explores the rise and fall of a criminal empire.

Fact: Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe, who play Lucas and Detective Richie Roberts respectively, did not meet until the first day of shooting to maintain the authenticity of their characters' first encounter.

Description: While primarily about financial fraud, the film also delves into the drug-fueled lifestyle of Jordan Belfort, making it a fitting entry for its portrayal of excess and illegal activities.

Fact: The film holds the record for the most uses of the F-word in a mainstream film.

Description: This film follows an unnamed drug dealer who wants to retire but gets entangled in one last job, showcasing the complexities of the drug trade and the underworld's code of honor.

Fact: Daniel Craig was cast as James Bond shortly after this film's release, which helped boost its popularity.

Description: While technically a TV series spin-off, this film continues the story of Jesse Pinkman, a methamphetamine cook, as he tries to escape his past and the drug trade.

Fact: Aaron Paul reprised his role as Jesse Pinkman, and the film was directed by Vince Gilligan, the creator of the original series.