13 Movies Like Kill The Irishman You Should Watch Next

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but marvel at the enduring appeal of crime films – a genre that’s practically as ancient as film itself! These cinematic masterpieces often draw inspiration from real-life notorious criminals, gracing our screens even as their larger-than-life counterparts eluded capture by the authorities.

The allure of gangsters has transcended generations, with their opulent lifestyles, unmatched charisma, and nail-biting climactic gunfights serving as key ingredients for a thrilling cinematic experience. It’s no wonder these films continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

In 2011, director Jonathan Hensleigh led the production of a new action-thriller titled “Kill the Irishman.” This film is based on the true story of Danny Greene, an Irish gangster who made his base in Cleveland, Ohio. The late Ray Stevenson played Greene, with Val Kilmer, Christopher Walken, and Vincent D’Onofrio contributing to an impressive ensemble cast. “Kill the Irishman” offers a raw portrayal of Greene’s intense battle against rival mafia bosses. If you found yourself wanting more after the credits ended, we’ve put together a list of 13 movies similar to “Kill the Irishman” that you might enjoy watching next.

The Irishman

Apart from sharing similar titles, “Kill the Irishman” and “The Irishman” have more in common: both are adaptations of Charles Brandt’s book “I Heard You Paint Houses,” a true crime account about the life of mobster Frank Sheeran. In 2019, the film adaptation was released in cinemas, directed by Martin Scorsese, who is well-known for his career in directing crime dramas based on real events. The Irishman has four films on this list, as it joins the ranks of other true-crime dramas he’s made over the years.

In a runtime of approximately three and a half hours, “The Irishman” debuted on Netflix following its release, only a few years after Scorsese voiced strong criticisms against streaming platforms for allegedly undermining cinema. However, this movie carries the grandeur of any timeless cinematic masterpiece, boasting an ensemble cast headed by Robert De Niro, one of Scorsese’s longtime associates, in the lead role. For the film’s extensive flashback scenes, the director employed state-of-the-art CGI technology to portray De Niro in a younger appearance.

The ten-time Oscar-nominated drama starts with Sheeran resuming his peaceful existence in Philadelphia following his service in World War II. It is here that he encounters the Bufalino crime clan, led by Russell Bufalino (Joe Pesci). Over the subsequent two decades, Sheeran climbs up the ranks of the criminal organization, working as a painter or assassin for the family. However, one learns that to attain a position of trust within the mafia, one must make significant compromises.

Gangs of New York

In the era before our modern concept of organized crime emerged, during the American Civil War, the urban landscape of “Gangs of New York” was established. Although distant from the battlefields that ravaged the nation, the streets of New York City remained unquiet as rival gangs fiercely competed for dominance over their respective territories within the expanding city. This raw and authentic portrayal of the era is a masterpiece directed by Martin Scorsese.

In the Five Points district, which is modern-day lower Manhattan, a longstanding conflict between the Confederation of American Natives, a politically powerful and xenophobic group, and the predominantly Irish Dead Rabbit gang is simmering. However, upon the arrival of “Amsterdam” Vallon (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), who aims to inherit his father’s criminal empire in that area, a desire for retribution stirs within him.

The climax occurs during the infamous Draft Riots, a genuine historical event where many New Yorkers rebelled against the government’s conscription orders. During this violent upheaval, there were confrontations between protesters and authorities on the streets. The story reaches its peak with a decisive battle between rival groups, although it’s important to note that the events depicted are purely fictional. The movie “Gangs of New York” skillfully blends real-life incidents and captivating gangster narratives.

Road to Perdition

2002’s “Road to Perdition” offers something unique compared to most movies in our catalog that delve into the seedy underworld activities of notorious mobsters. Instead, it is inspired by a series of graphic novels, rather than historical events. Max Alan Collins, who gained prominence for continuing Mickey Spillane’s Mike Hammer book series, and artist Richard Piers Rayner are the creators behind this work.

In this movie, Tom Hanks portrays Michael Sullivan, a violent, gun-toting criminal and merciless killer active during Prohibition. When his 12-year-old son accidentally witnesses a brutal mob hit, it sets them on a journey to evade Michael’s previous boss, the real-life gangster John Rooney (Paul Newman), who is out for revenge.

Though loosely based on real events, “Road to Perdition” remains an engaging watch for fans of the genre. The movie exudes tension and has a somber, moody atmosphere, with Conrad Hall’s exceptional cinematography – his last, Academy Award-winning work – enhancing its visual elements particularly well. What sets it apart is that our protagonist isn’t fleeing from the law but rather from former criminal associates, making it an intriguing choice worth checking out.

Public Enemies

Despite Al Capone being synonymous with crime during the Prohibition Era in Chicago and earning the title as one of history’s most notorious gangsters, numerous others have contested for this position. One such figure is John Dillinger, whose string of bank robberies throughout the Midwest earned him the nickname “Public Enemy Number One.” Whether his enduring fame stems from media attention, his knack for eluding law enforcement, or public support during his time remains a mystery. However, it’s clear that filmmakers continue to be fascinated by Dillinger, as evidenced by Michael Mann, director of “Heat,” producing the 2009 movie “Public Enemies,” which is one of many cinematic portrayals of Dillinger’s captivating life.

Titled “Public Enemies,” this film features Johnny Depp portraying the notorious bank robber Dillinger. The movie chronicles Dillinger’s crime spree during the Great Depression, starting with his daring prison escape. It’s a game of cat and mouse as Dillinger evades the FBI, led by J. Edgar Hoover, portrayed by Billy Crudup. If you enjoyed “Kill the Irishman” or are seeking a well-crafted gangster film, consider adding Mann’s “Public Enemies” to your viewing list.

Goodfellas

Numerous top-notch crime movies are inspired by the actual lives of mobsters, and the 1990 masterpiece “Goodfellas” is no different. The film presents a cinematic rendition of Henry Hill’s existence, with Ray Liotta brilliantly embodying Hill, as he pursues and ultimately fulfills his ambition to join the Lucchese crime family in New York City. For a time, life thrives for him due to his association with the gang, offering him a lifestyle of vices and indulgences. However, the adage “what goes up must come down” holds true, as he becomes increasingly enmeshed in the gang’s activities and everything begins to unravel. Eventually, he finds himself cornered, with few avenues for extricating himself from this criminal life.

Among all the movies listed, “Goodfellas” might be the most fitting choice to watch following “Kill the Irishman.” This Martin Scorsese masterpiece is frequently compared to in reviews that criticize director Jonathan Hensleigh’s work. Robert Abele of the LA Times even referred to it as a “knockoff” of “Goodfellas.” While there are undeniable similarities between the two films, it’s clear that “Goodfellas” stands out as the superior production.

1990 wasn’t just the year for Henry Hill’s story in movies; another film, “My Blue Heaven” with Steve Martin, also told it as a comedy. While each of these films has its own appeal (with “Blue Heaven” being recognized as an underrated gangster movie), “Goodfellas” stands out as the finest and could very well claim the title of the best gangster movie overall.

Casino

Despite not being a direct biographical account, “Casino” is influenced significantly by the illicit activities of Frank Rosenthal, a powerful casino owner in Las Vegas during the 1970s. The film follows Sam Rothstein, played by Robert De Niro, as he progressively strengthens the mob’s control over the city, engaging in various criminal acts such as skimming profits from the casinos and resorting to brutal, violent tactics to force compliance from others.

Martin Scorsese’s latest addition to his impressive filmography, “Casino,” demonstrates the director’s knack for crafting compelling mobster tales. Though all of Scorsese’s films bear his signature style, they each adopt unique tones that make them stand out and enduring. Unlike his grittier productions like “Goodfellas” and “The Irishman,” “Casino” opts for a flashier, more flamboyant narrative style to suit its Las Vegas backdrop. However, it’s worth noting that despite being based on a true gangster story, the movie deviates significantly from the real events that inspired it.

The Godfather

Among the most cherished films in global cinema, “The Godfather” stands out even among top gangster movies. This movie, while not Francis Ford Coppola’s first filmmaking endeavor, significantly boosted his fame and reputation. He further solidified this legacy with “The Godfather Part II,” a remarkable sequel that is often considered superior to the original.

After the war, Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) comes back home to New York City and finds that life with his family is as violent as what he experienced on the battlefield. His father, Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando), heads the Corleone crime syndicate and wants Michael to join the family business. Initially resistant, Michael finds it difficult to resist being pulled into the illegal activities of the organization.

Originally released about 50 years back, “The Godfather” is renowned for revolutionizing the gangster movie genre. Most films from Hollywood’s Golden Age that are worth watching remain so, but the category was largely filled with less sophisticated examples until Coppola’s legendary film arrived. Every aspect of it, including the acting and the music, felt new, which led to 11 Academy Award nominations and left an indelible mark on popular culture.

Donnie Brasco

Instead of the usual perspective from criminals in our favorite gangster movies, “Donnie Brasco” provides a unique twist by focusing on Donnie Brasco (played by Johnny Depp), an undercover FBI agent who poses as a criminal, as the main character. This film is set in New York City during the late ’70s and features Lefty Ruggiero (portrayed exceptionally by Al Pacino from “The Godfather”), one of the top enforcers in the criminal group Brasco infiltrates. However, as the story progresses, Brasco, whose real name is Joseph Pistone, develops a genuine friendship with Ruggiero, which creates challenges for his mission to dismantle the entire operation permanently.

Similar to several films in our selection and akin to “Kill the Irishman,” “Donnie Brasco” is film adapted from a book, authored by the real Joseph Pistone this time. The movie’s success was largely due to Depp’s outstanding performance – one of his finest roles ever – but it’s the compelling dynamic between Depp’s character and Pacino’s Lefty Ruggiero that truly establishes “Donnie Brasco” as a classic within its genre. Regrettably, despite Depp delivering an exceptional portrayal, Pacino was awarded an Oscar for another film instead, even though many believe Depp deserved recognition for his role as well.

Legend

In the heart of the mid-20th century, Reggie and Ronnie Kray, two identical twins, emerged as notorious criminals, causing havoc in London’s East End for numerous years. Before they gained such prominence in their home country, they had already encountered legal troubles, serving time in prison after evading their military service duties. Their tale was previously depicted in the 1990 UK film “The Krays,” starring real-life siblings Martin and Gary Kemp. Remarkably, this film was released while the twin brothers were either imprisoned or under psychiatric care.

The movie “Legend,” directed by Brian Helgeland, marked Hollywood’s initial attempt at recounting the true story of the Kray twins, filled with depravity and violence. In a unique twist, Tom Hardy embodies both Reggie and Ronnie Kray as the film delves into the brothers’ rising power in London’s criminal underworld. By employing raw force, these two ascend to the top of the hierarchy, engaging in robberies and cold-blooded killings to preserve their position. Although critical and audience feedback on this film leans towards average, the widespread acclaim for Hardy’s dual performances makes “Legend” a compelling watch, despite Tom Hardy adopting one of his more unusual accents for the double roles.

The Untouchables

As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but appreciate the iconic roles Kevin Costner has embodied on the silver screen. From the rugged cowboy of “Silverado” and “Dances with Wolves,” to his gripping portrayal in Taylor Sheridan’s “Yellowstone,” spanning over four seasons, he’s undeniably left a lasting impression. However, it was his portrayal of Eliot Ness, the 1930s prohibition-era crime fighter in Brian de Palma’s “The Untouchables” that catapulted him to stardom.

In the crime-ridden streets of 1920s Chicago, “The Untouchables” centers around FBI agent Elliott Ness (Costner) who endeavors to put together a band of honest law enforcement officers. This team aims to accomplish his mission: bringing down Al Capone (Robert De Niro), the most infamous mobster in history. Despite a severely corrupt police force, Ness manages to gain the confidence of veteran Irish-American cop Jimmy Malone (Sean Connery) and the ambitious rookie George Stone (Andy Garcia).

Under the leadership of a stellar ensemble of well-known actors, “The Untouchables” shares similarities with “Kill the Irishman,” as it revolves around a thrilling manhunt targeting a notorious criminal mastermind. While boasting less overt violence compared to many other films on this list, “The Untouchables” combines elements of contemporary film noir, action, and tense suspense. It is De Palma’s sophisticated direction that sets the movie apart, with Connery delivering an Academy Award-winning performance – a unique achievement in his distinguished career.

Black Mass

Despite being widely recognized for his portrayal of the swashbuckling Captain Jack Sparrow and his role as a contemporary successor to roguish characters like Indiana Jones (played by Harrison Ford), Johnny Depp has demonstrated versatility throughout his career. Following roles in “Donnie Brasco” and “Public Enemies”, he revisited the gangster film genre with the 2015 release, “Black Mass,” which retold a true story from the FBI’s history books. Regrettably, viewers missed out on another potential Oscar-winning performance by Daniel Day-Lewis, as he dropped out after the original director, Jim Sheridan, also left the production.

In the 1970s, the movie ‘Black Mass’ portrays the intense enmity between the criminal gangs of North and South Boston, which ruled over the city’s underbelly. Whitey Bulger (played by Depp), a relentless career criminal who once served time in Alcatraz, leads the Winter Hill Gang on the South Side. When an old acquaintance, FBI agent John Connolly (Joel Edgerton), presents him with a unique proposition, Whitey is given the chance to operate freely from the law as long as he helps the agency to eliminate his adversaries. However, things are seldom straightforward, and this arrangement eventually reshapes both men’s lives, causing Connolly to question the boundaries between law enforcement and criminal activity.

Eastern Promises

It’s clear that organized crime has become a significant part of American popular culture, with iconic figures like Al Capone helping to shape the stereotype of a cigar-smoking bootlegger associated with the mafia. However, it’s also recognized that criminal groups and syndicates are not exclusive to America; they exist globally. Few movies delve into the international aspect as effectively as David Cronenberg’s “Eastern Promises.

Following the unfortunate demise of a young mother during childbirth in London, a journal left behind by the deceased could potentially hold the key to understanding her death. The woman who assisted with the delivery, named Anna (portrayed by Naomi Watts), feels compelled to investigate this mystery and provide a brighter future for the newborn. However, instead of finding answers, she finds herself delving into a labyrinth of espionage, suspicious Russian gangsters, and heinous crimes that put her own life at risk as she unearths the hidden truth.

In a departure from his characteristic style, renowned director Cronenberg, known for producing films that are both nauseatingly gruesome and heavily reliant on sci-fi and body horror, opts for a grounded approach in “Eastern Promises”. Despite being based in reality, it doesn’t shy away from delivering unsettling scenes, demonstrating that the real world can be just as chilling as a work of fiction.

American Gangster

In the gritty streets of Harlem during the era of the Vietnam War, “American Gangster” introduces us to Denzel Washington as Frank Lucas, a shrewd gangster who takes over a criminal empire following his boss’s unexpected demise. Ambitious, Lucas doesn’t settle for just ruling New York; he transforms into one of the world’s most powerful drug lords by exploiting the U.S. military to smuggle his goods back home undetected. As the story unfolds, Detective Richie Roberts (played by Russell Crowe) grapples with unraveling Lucas’s criminal web while confronting the collapse of his personal life. Remarkably, both “American Gangster” and “Kill The Irishman” are based on real-life events.

As a gamer, I’ve gotta say, Ridley Scott’s “American Gangster” is often overlooked in his impressive catalog, but man, does it pack a punch! While it might not take us to the cosmos like “Alien” or back to ancient Rome like “Gladiator,” it sure doesn’t fall short when it comes to delivering a raw, morally grey narrative. The characters are far from the typical black-and-white crime film stereotypes, making every scene feel fresh and intriguing. And let me tell you, Washington and Crowe deliver performances that are nothing short of stellar!

2025-01-28 20:32