Top 10 Night City Crime Films

Description: This classic follows two NYPD detectives on the trail of a massive heroin shipment from France to New York. The gritty realism and the famous car chase under the elevated train tracks make it a quintessential night city crime film.

Fact: The film's famous car chase was done without permits, leading to real-life chaos and near accidents. Also, the film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: A mentally unstable Vietnam War veteran works as a nighttime taxi driver in New York City, where the city's nocturnal life becomes a backdrop to his descent into madness.

Fact: The film was shot on location in New York, with many scenes filmed at night to capture the city's raw energy. Also, Robert De Niro improvised the famous "You talkin' to me?" line.

Description: In a dystopian future Los Angeles, a blade runner must pursue and terminate four replicants who have escaped to Earth. The film's depiction of a perpetually dark, neon-lit city is unforgettable.

Fact: The film was initially a box office disappointment but has since become a cult classic. Also, the cityscape was heavily inspired by the work of Syd Mead, a renowned futurist and concept artist.

Description: A meticulous bank robber and a determined LAPD detective play a deadly game of cat and mouse in the sprawling city of Los Angeles. The film's night scenes are some of the most memorable, showcasing the city's underbelly.

Fact: The film features one of the longest shootouts in cinema history. Also, the diner scene between De Niro and Pacino was improvised.

Description: Set in the slums of Rio de Janeiro, this film follows the lives of two boys growing up in a violent environment, with the city's night scenes providing a stark contrast to their daily struggles.

Fact: The film was shot with a mix of professional actors and real-life residents of the favelas. Also, it was nominated for four Academy Awards.

Description: A taxi driver finds himself the unwilling host to a contract killer on a night-long ride through Los Angeles, where each stop is another hit. The film perfectly captures the eerie beauty of LA at night, with its neon signs and empty streets.

Fact: Tom Cruise's character, Vincent, was originally written for Robert De Niro. Also, the film was shot in sequence over the course of 52 nights.

Description: In Boston, an undercover cop and a mole in the police attempt to identify each other while infiltrating an Irish gang. The film's night scenes are filled with tension and the city's atmosphere adds to the film's gritty feel.

Fact: Martin Scorsese won his first Best Director Oscar for this film. Also, the film was a remake of the Hong Kong film "Infernal Affairs."

Description: Batman faces off against the chaotic Joker in Gotham City, where the night scenes are filled with tension, chaos, and the city's dark aesthetic.

Fact: Heath Ledger's performance as the Joker won him a posthumous Oscar. Also, the film was shot in Chicago, with many iconic scenes filmed at night.

Description: A Hollywood stunt driver moonlights as a getaway driver, finding himself embroiled in a heist gone wrong. The film's use of neon lighting and minimal dialogue captures the essence of LA's night life.

Fact: The film's soundtrack, featuring Cliff Martinez's synth score, has become iconic. Also, Ryan Gosling did most of his own driving stunts.

Description: Jake Gyllenhaal stars as a freelance crime journalist who becomes increasingly involved in the crimes he covers, capturing the dark side of Los Angeles at night. The film delves into the moral decay of chasing sensationalism.

Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal lost 30 pounds for the role to portray the gaunt, desperate look of his character. Also, the film was shot on location in LA, often using real crime scenes.