10 Gripping Movies & Shows Like Cross of Fire

Description: One of the earliest and most influential gangster films, showing the rise and fall of a criminal during Prohibition.

Fact: The famous grapefruit scene was completely improvised. The film helped establish many conventions of the gangster genre.

Description: Revolutionary in its depiction of criminal antiheroes, this film combines romance with violent crime, set against the backdrop of the Great Depression.

Fact: The film's graphic violence was controversial at the time and helped usher in the New Hollywood era. Faye Dunaway's fashion in the movie sparked a 1930s revival in women's clothing.

Description: A detailed recreation of one of the most infamous gangland killings in history, showcasing the brutal power struggles of organized crime.

Fact: Roger Corman directed this as his most expensive film at the time. The film uses a documentary-style narration to tell its story.

Description: An epic exploration of organized crime families, blending brutal violence with deep examinations of power, loyalty, and family dynamics.

Fact: The famous horse head scene used a real decapitated head from a dog food factory. Marlon Brando stuffed his cheeks with cotton wool for the audition.

Description: A raw, violent portrayal of America's most famous bank robber, focusing on his criminal exploits and the law enforcement pursuit.

Fact: The film was shot in many of the actual locations where Dillinger committed his crimes. It features one of the first major film scores by Jerry Goldsmith.

Description: This film shares a focus on law enforcement's pursuit of notorious criminals during the Prohibition era, blending historical drama with intense action sequences.

Fact: The famous train station shootout scene was inspired by the Odessa Steps sequence in Battleship Potemkin. The film won Sean Connery an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Description: A complex, dialogue-rich gangster film that examines loyalty and betrayal within criminal organizations during Prohibition.

Fact: The film's iconic hat motif was inspired by Dashiell Hammett's novels. The Coen brothers wrote the script in just three weeks.

Description: A lavish, violent depiction of the connections between organized crime and the casino industry in 1970s Las Vegas.

Fact: Many scenes were shot in the actual casinos where the events occurred. The film's budget was $52 million, making it one of the most expensive films of its time.

Description: A visually stunning crime drama that explores themes of family loyalty and revenge within the organized crime world of the 1930s.

Fact: The film's cinematography was heavily influenced by graphic novels. It features one of Paul Newman's final film performances.

Description: A gritty, character-driven crime drama that explores the complex relationship between lawmen and outlaws during the Depression era, featuring detailed period settings.

Fact: Director Michael Mann used high-definition digital cameras to create a more immediate, documentary-like feel. The film features several authentic locations where the real events occurred.