10 Movies and Shows Like The Untouchables (1987)

Description: Like The Untouchables, The Godfather delves into the world of organized crime, focusing on the Corleone family's rise and struggles. Both films explore themes of power, loyalty, and morality within the criminal underworld. The Godfather also shares a similar period setting, with both films depicting the early to mid-20th century. The storytelling in both movies is rich and character-driven, with a strong emphasis on family dynamics and the consequences of a life of crime.

Fact: Marlon Brando won an Oscar for his role as Vito Corleone but famously refused to accept it, sending a Native American activist in his place to protest Hollywood's treatment of Native Americans. The famous line 'I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse' was voted as the second-greatest movie quote in AFI's 100 Years...100 Movie Quotes list. Francis Ford Coppola initially didn't want to direct the film, fearing it would glorify the Mafia.

Description: The Sting shares with The Untouchables a Depression-era setting and a focus on the criminal underworld, though with a more lighthearted, con-artist approach. Both films feature elaborate set pieces, charismatic performances (Newman and Redford in The Sting, De Niro and Connery in The Untouchables), and intricate plots. The period detail and nostalgic tone are strong elements in both films.

Fact: The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The ragtime piano score, using Scott Joplin compositions, sparked a revival of interest in Joplin's music. Paul Newman and Robert Redford's chemistry led to their pairing in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

Description: Scarface shares with The Untouchables a focus on the rise and fall of a criminal figure, though from the perspective of the criminal rather than the law enforcement. Both films depict the violent and glamorous aspects of organized crime, with strong themes of ambition, corruption, and the American Dream gone awry. The visual style of both films is bold and dramatic, with memorable set pieces and intense action sequences.

Fact: Al Pacino's performance as Tony Montana is considered one of the most iconic in film history, despite initial mixed reviews. The film was originally set in Miami during the 1980s cocaine boom, updating the 1932 original's Prohibition-era Chicago setting. The famous 'Say hello to my little friend' line was improvised by Pacino during filming.

Description: Once Upon a Time in America, like The Untouchables, is an epic crime saga spanning decades, exploring the rise and fall of criminal figures. Both films feature complex narratives, rich character development, and a melancholic reflection on the costs of a life of crime. The period settings (Prohibition-era America) and themes of friendship, betrayal, and the passage of time are central to both films.

Fact: The film was originally over 4 hours long but was drastically cut for its U.S. release. Robert De Niro learned to play the saxophone for his role as Noodles. Sergio Leone considered this his masterpiece and his only true American film.

Description: Miller's Crossing, like The Untouchables, is a Prohibition-era crime drama featuring intricate plots, moral ambiguity, and stylish violence. Both films explore the complex relationships within criminal organizations and the personal codes that govern their characters. The Coen brothers' film shares with The Untouchables a strong sense of period atmosphere and a mix of brutal violence with dark humor.

Fact: The film's famous hat-chasing sequence was inspired by a dream Joel Coen had. Gabriel Byrne's performance as Tom Reagan is considered one of his best. The film was a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following.

Description: Casino, like The Untouchables, is a Martin Scorsese film that explores organized crime, though focusing on the Las Vegas casino industry rather than Prohibition-era Chicago. Both films feature meticulous attention to period detail, complex character studies, and a narration-driven storytelling style. The themes of greed, power, and the inevitable downfall of criminal enterprises are central to both movies.

Fact: Robert De Niro prepared for his role as Sam 'Ace' Rothstein by spending time with real-life casino executives. The film's budget was $52 million, making it one of the most expensive films of

Description: L.A. Confidential shares with The Untouchables a period setting (1950s Los Angeles vs. 1920s Chicago) and a focus on police corruption and organized crime. Both films feature intricate plots, morally complex characters, and a blend of crime drama with elements of noir. The themes of justice, corruption, and redemption are central to both movies.

Fact: Kim Basinger won an Oscar for her role as Lynn Bracken, a Veronica Lake look-alike. The film was adapted from James Ellroy's novel, the third in his L.A. Quartet series. Russell Crowe's performance as Bud White launched his Hollywood career.

Description: Road to Perdition shares with The Untouchables a Depression-era setting and a focus on organized crime, though from the perspective of a hitman and his son. Both films feature stunning cinematography and a melancholic tone, exploring themes of family, loyalty, and redemption. The visual style of both films is painterly, with careful attention to period detail.

Fact: This was Paul Newman's final live-action film role before his retirement and subsequent death. The film is based on a graphic novel of the same name. Tom Hanks' character is one of his few villainous or morally ambiguous roles.

Description: The Departed shares with The Untouchables a cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and organized crime, though with the added complexity of moles on both sides. Both films explore themes of loyalty, identity, and moral ambiguity within their respective crime worlds. The tension-filled narratives and strong ensemble casts are hallmarks of both movies.

Fact: The film is a remake of the 2002 Hong Kong film Infernal Affairs. Jack Nicholson improvised many of his lines, including the famous 'I don't want to be a product of my environment, I want my environment to be a product of me.' Martin Scorsese won his first Oscar for Best Director for this film.

Description: American Gangster, like The Untouchables, is based on true events and follows the parallel stories of a criminal kingpin and the lawman determined to bring him down. Both films are period pieces that meticulously recreate their respective eras (1970s Harlem in American Gangster, 1920s Chicago in The Untouchables). The themes of corruption, justice, and the American Dream are explored in both films.

Fact: Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe share no scenes together until the film's final moments. Frank Lucas, the real-life gangster portrayed by Washington, served as a consultant on the film. The film was originally developed in the 1970s with Sidney Lumet attached to direct.