All 7 Martin Scorsese Gangster & Crime Saga Films Ranked from Worst to Best
Martin Scorsese’s name is synonymous with crime cinema, his gangster films weaving tales of power, betrayal, and redemption with unmatched intensity. From raw street stories to grand mob epics, he’s crafted a legacy that keeps audiences hooked.
Even Scorsese’s crime sagas vary in impact, though. Some shine brighter with tighter focus or bolder characters, while others stretch a bit thin. Here’s my ranking of all seven of his gangster and crime films, starting from the least gripping and ending with the one that rules them all.
7. The Irishman (2019)
This late-career epic is a slow, reflective mob tale. Robert De Niro’s Frank Sheeran, a hitman tied to Jimmy Hoffa, delivers quiet pain alongside Al Pacino’s fiery Hoffa and Joe Pesci’s subtle Russell Bufalino.
The long runtime and de-aging CGI can feel clunky, but its meditation on regret hits hard. It’s a somber effort that doesn’t quite match Scorsese’s more vibrant classics.
6. Mean Streets (1973)
Scorsese’s early gem pulses with raw energy. Harvey Keitel’s Charlie wrestles with guilt and loyalty in Little Italy, while Robert De Niro’s reckless Johnny Boy lights up the screen.
Its low-budget grit and killer soundtrack make it feel alive, but it lacks the polish of later works. It’s a fierce debut that set the stage for greatness.
5. Gangs of New York (2002)
This 1860s New York saga is bold and bloody. Daniel Day-Lewis’ Bill the Butcher is a towering villain, and Leonardo DiCaprio’s Amsterdam Vallon fuels a revenge-driven plot.
The sprawling story can drag, and some side plots feel unfocused, but its vivid world and brutal energy shine. It’s a messy but powerful epic.
4. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
This chaotic dive into greed is a wild ride. Leonardo DiCaprio’s Jordan Belfort, a corrupt stockbroker, revels in excess, with Jonah Hill’s sidekick adding dark laughs.
Its three-hour length and relentless pace can exhaust, but the biting satire and electric performances grip you. It’s a crime story that’s both fun and unsettling.
3. Casino (1995)
This Vegas mob tale dazzles with glitz and grit. Robert De Niro’s Sam Rothstein runs a casino with cool precision, while Joe Pesci’s unhinged Nicky Santoro and Sharon Stone’s Ginger spark chaos.
The long runtime and dense plot can overwhelm, but its style and raw emotion hit hard. It’s a flashy, tragic saga that’s almost perfect.
2. The Departed (2006)
This Boston thriller crackles with suspense. Leonardo DiCaprio’s undercover cop and Matt Damon’s mob mole play a deadly game, with Jack Nicholson’s crime boss adding menace.
The tight pacing and shocking twists keep you glued, though the emotional depth is lighter than Scorsese’s best. It’s a lean, thrilling crime tale that delivers.
1. Goodfellas (1990)
This mob epic is Scorsese’s crown jewel. Ray Liotta’s Henry Hill pulls you into the mafia’s seductive world, with Robert De Niro’s Jimmy Conway and Joe Pesci’s explosive Tommy DeVito stealing every scene.
Its sharp pacing, iconic music, and mix of humor and violence make it untouchable. It’s the ultimate gangster film, alive with heart and danger.
Which Scorsese mob flick is your favorite, or did I rank these wrong? Share your take in the comments!