10 Movies & Shows Similar to GoodFellas (1990)

Description: 'The Godfather' and 'GoodFellas' are both seminal films in the gangster genre, exploring the dynamics of organized crime families. While 'The Godfather' is more epic in scope, both films delve into themes of power, family, and loyalty. The detailed portrayal of mob rituals and the consequences of a life of crime are central to both stories.

Fact: 'The Godfather' was directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on the novel by Mario Puzo. It won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Marlon Brando's performance as Vito Corleone is one of the most iconic in film history.

Description: Directed by Martin Scorsese, 'Mean Streets' is an early precursor to 'GoodFellas', sharing its focus on small-time criminals and the moral ambiguities of their lives. Both films feature a kinetic visual style and a soundtrack that reflects the characters' world. The themes of loyalty and redemption are also present in both films.

Fact: 'Mean Streets' stars Harvey Keitel and Robert De Niro in early roles. The film is considered a landmark in American independent cinema. It was Scorsese's first collaboration with De Niro.

Description: 'Scarface' shares with 'GoodFellas' a focus on the rise and fall of a criminal protagonist, with both films depicting the allure and ultimate destructiveness of the gangster lifestyle. The themes of ambition, power, and betrayal are central to both stories. While 'Scarface' is more operatic and violent in its tone, it similarly uses a charismatic lead to draw the audience into the world of organized crime.

Fact: 'Scarface' was directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone. Al Pacino's performance as Tony Montana is one of his most iconic roles. The film was initially controversial for its violence and language but has since become a cult classic.

Description: This epic crime film shares with 'GoodFellas' a focus on the rise and fall of gangsters, with a nonlinear narrative that explores memory and regret. Both films depict the brutal realities of organized crime and the personal costs of a life of violence. The use of period detail and a sweeping score are also similarities.

Fact: 'Once Upon a Time in America' was directed by Sergio Leone. It stars Robert De Niro and James Woods. The film was originally over four hours long but was heavily cut for its U.S. release.

Description: Directed by and starring Robert De Niro, 'A Bronx Tale' shares with 'GoodFellas' a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of organized crime. Both films explore the allure of the gangster lifestyle for young men and the moral dilemmas they face. The use of a nostalgic tone and period-specific music are also similarities.

Fact: 'A Bronx Tale' is based on Chazz Palminteri's one-man play of the same name. It was De Niro's directorial debut. The film is set in the 1960s in the Bronx, New York.

Description: Directed by Brian De Palma, 'Carlito's Way' shares with 'GoodFellas' a focus on a criminal trying to go straight but being pulled back into the life. Both films feature charismatic leads and explore themes of redemption and the inescapability of one's past. The use of voice-over narration and a detailed depiction of the criminal underworld are also similarities.

Fact: 'Carlito's Way' stars Al Pacino and Sean Penn. It is based on two novels by Edwin Torres. The film was not a box office success initially but has gained a cult following.

Description: Directed by Martin Scorsese, 'Casino' shares many similarities with 'GoodFellas' in terms of its exploration of organized crime, the rise and fall of its protagonists, and the detailed depiction of the criminal underworld. Both films feature a voice-over narration that provides insight into the characters' thoughts and the inner workings of their operations. The visual style, including the use of tracking shots and a vibrant soundtrack, is also reminiscent of 'GoodFellas'.

Fact: 'Casino' is based on the non-fiction book 'Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas' by Nicholas Pileggi, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Scorsese. Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, who starred in 'GoodFellas', reunited for this film, with Pesci playing a similarly volatile character. The film's budget was $52 million, and it grossed over $116 million worldwide.

Description: 'Donnie Brasco' is similar to 'GoodFellas' in its detailed portrayal of the mob lifestyle and the psychological toll it takes on those involved. Both films are based on true stories and feature undercover agents who become deeply embedded in the criminal world. The themes of identity and loyalty are explored in both films, with a focus on the personal costs of a life of crime.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of FBI agent Joseph D. Pistone, who infiltrated the Bonanno crime family. Johnny Depp and Al Pacino star in the lead roles. The real Donnie Brasco served as a consultant on the film.

Description: Another Martin Scorsese film, 'The Departed' shares with 'GoodFellas' a gritty, realistic portrayal of crime and corruption. Both films feature complex characters who navigate treacherous environments, with themes of loyalty and betrayal at their core. The fast-paced editing and use of music to enhance tension are stylistic similarities between the two films.

Fact: 'The Departed' is a remake of the Hong Kong film 'Infernal Affairs'. It won Scorsese his first Academy Award for Best Director. The film features an all-star cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson.

Description: 'American Gangster' shares with 'GoodFellas' a based-on-a-true-story approach to the gangster genre, with a focus on the rise and fall of a criminal empire. Both films depict the allure of wealth and power and the inevitable downfall that follows. The detailed period setting and strong performances are also similarities.

Fact: 'American Gangster' stars Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. It was directed by Ridley Scott. The film is based on the life of Harlem drug lord Frank Lucas.