Since the introduction of The Godfather films, the gangster genre has become a highly successful and popular genre among viewers. While many may not approve of criminal behavior in the real world, they are captivated by the films that focus on criminals, thugs, and gangsters. These films provide an escape for viewers, allowing them to immerse themselves in the perilous and thrilling list of best gangster movies on Netflix.
It could be the rebellious curiosity of the characters, the luxurious lifestyles, or the superiority and power they possess that draw viewers in. Regardless of the reason, viewers often find themselves captivated by the chaotic yet captivating worlds of these criminals, the growth and decline of their kingdoms, and their relentless pursuit of power.
Viewers can also enjoy the best psychological thrillers on Netflix without having to dirty their hands, all from the comfort of their own homes. Also a vast list of the best teen movies on Netflix available to stream in 2023.
Emily the Criminal
 | Emily the Criminal | |
| Genre Crime, Drama, Thriller | Runtime 1 Hour 37 Minutes | |
| Director John Patton Ford | 6.7/10 | |
| Cast Aubrey Plaza, Theo Rossi, Bernardo Badillo | ||
Aubrey Plaza stars in John Patton Ford’s Emily the Criminal, a crime drama set in the criminal underworld of Los Angeles. The film follows the protagonist, Emily, as she navigates her way through a credit card scam.
While last year’s installment may not have been everyone’s favorite, this year’s installment is sure to be an enjoyable watch. The film is full of social critique, realism, and relatable characters, making it an appealing choice for modern audiences who also enjoy crime dramas. In the end, Emily the Criminal stands out as a fresh crime story that viewers may not have seen before.
Ferry
 | Ferry | |
| Genre Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller | Runtime 1 Hour 46 Minutes | |
| Director Cecilia Verheyden | 7.0/10 | |
| Cast Frank Lammers, Elise Schaap, Huub Stapel | ||
Frank Lammers plays Ferry Bouman, a ruthless gangster sent back to his hometown of Brabant to avenge an assault on their gang by his boss, Brink. Ferry is not only a killer but also a love story of a gangster. Fans of Undercover will be delighted to learn how Ferry got involved in the ecstasy trade in the first place.
Even as a stand-alone film, Ferry is an enjoyable one to watch. It has humor, love scenes, violence, suspense, and a great cast. There is something for everyone in this crime thriller.
El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie
 | El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie | |
| Genre Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller | Runtime 2 Hours 2 Minutes | |
| Director Vince Gilligan | 7.3/10 | |
| Cast Aaron Paul, Jonathan Banks, Matt Jones | ||
In this highly rated Breaking Bad spin-off, which is a neo-western crime thriller directed by Vince Gilligan, Aaron Paul reprises his role as Jesse Pinkman as he escapes from his enemies, law enforcement, and his past.
El Camino tells the Breaking Bad story from beginning to end, and fans of the show, as well as those who are new to the world of Breaking Bad, are sure to be pleasantly surprised. The movie serves as an ending to the show, and the acting (particularly from Robert Foster) is outstanding, making it an unforgettable experience to watch.
The Raid: Redemption
 | The Raid: Redemption | |
| Genre Action, Crime, Thriller | Runtime 1 Hour 41 Minutes | |
| Director Gareth Evans | 7.6/10 | |
| Cast Iko Uwais, Ananda George, Ray Sahetapy | ||
The Raid: Redemption is an action-packed Indonesian action-thriller that follows a SWAT team that is caught in a trap after their cover is blown during an assault on the hideout of Tama, a powerful and deadly drug lord.
With limited ammunition, the surviving team is forced to fight their way through a brutal and blood-soaked battle for the survival of their lives. This action-packed Indonesian martial arts film is sure to leave you feeling like a real badass after watching it.
The Irishman
 | The Irishman | |
| Genre Biography, Crime, Drama | Runtime 3 Hour 29 Minutes | |
| Director Martin Scorsese | 7.8/10 | |
| Cast Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci | ||
The Irishman is one of the best Mafia movies on Netflix. It follows the story of a truck driver’s journey to become a master hitman and a loyal member of a crime family. The last man standing is now the leader of the mob. Robert De Niro plays the role of Sheeran, a gangster who talks about all the bad things he did as a member.
The Irishman has a great plot and great actors, but some people might find it a bit too long for a three-hour movie. That doesn’t matter, though, as Martin Scorsese has crafted an unforgettable and emotional story about the consequences of life in the world of crime. The Irishman is the best mafia movie on Netflix. It has all the thrills you’d expect from a mobster movie, plus some valuable lessons and, of course, an amazing ending.
American Gangster
 | American Gangster | |
| Genre Biography, Crime, Drama | Runtime 2 Hours 37 Minutes | |
| Director Ridley Scott | 7.8/10 | |
| Cast Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, Chiwetel Ejiofor | ||
In one of the most renowned gangster films on Netflix, Richie Roberts, an irrepressible detective, is tasked with the task of dismantling the drug trafficking empire of Frank Lucas, a renowned heroin kingpin who used the coffins of returning soldiers from the Vietnam War to transport his drugs into the United States.
Adapted from the true story of Lucas, this underappreciated gangster film sheds new light on the issue of drug trafficking while adhering to the original narrative. With its raw and intense atmosphere, the film features captivating characters and remarkable performances from Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe, with Ruby Dee and Idris Elba joining the cast, as well as Carla Gugin, Lymari NADAL, Cuba Gooding, Jr., and many more.
Wrapping it up!
Gangster films have long been a popular source of entertainment for audiences, providing insight into the intricate and dangerous lives of criminals, criminals, and gangsters. Gangster films offer viewers a captivating and immersive experience, allowing them to immerse themselves in the intricate yet dangerous lives of these individuals without incurring any personal risk, despite the prohibition of criminal behavior in real life.
