Have you ever wondered what other gripping crime dramas deliver the same raw intensity and compelling storytelling? “Movies Like Kill the Irishman” offer thrilling tales of organized crime, power struggles, and true-life stories that mirror the gritty realism of this Cleveland-set gangster epic
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Introduction: The Appeal of Modern Crime Dramas
Kill the Irishman, released in 2011, tells the extraordinary true story of Danny Greene, an Irish-American mobster who took on the Italian mafia in 1970s Cleveland. For viewers captivated by this blend of historical crime drama and biographical storytelling, there are numerous contemporary movies that offer similar compelling narratives. Today, we’ll explore ten modern films comparable to Kill the Irishman that deliver the same powerful combination of crime, drama, and true-life inspiration.
1. Black Mass (2015)
Black Mass brings to life the chilling story of James “Whitey” Bulger, one of America’s most notorious gangsters. Johnny Depp delivers a transformative performance as Bulger in this gripping crime drama directed by Scott Cooper. Released in September 2015 with a runtime of 123 minutes, the film showcases Cooper’s masterful direction and an all-star cast including Joel Edgerton and Benedict Cumberbatch.
The film earned $99.8 million worldwide against a $53 million budget and garnered critical acclaim, particularly for Depp’s performance. On IMDb, it maintains a solid 7.2/10 rating, with critics praising its authentic portrayal of Boston’s criminal underworld.
Black Mass is currently available for streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video (rental), and HBO Max, making it easily accessible for viewers interested in films similar to Kill the Irishman.
What makes this film particularly compelling is its meticulous attention to historical detail and the complex relationship between crime and law enforcement. Like Kill the Irishman, it explores the fascinating gray area where loyalty, betrayal, and survival intersect in the criminal underworld.
2. The Departed (2006)
Martin Scorsese’s masterpiece follows the intricate web of deception between the Irish mob and Boston Police Department. This modern classic features an ensemble cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson. The film, which hit theaters in October 2006, runs for 151 minutes under Scorsese’s expert direction.
The Departed was both a commercial and critical triumph, grossing over $291 million worldwide and winning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. It holds an impressive 8.5/10 rating on IMDb and a 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
You can currently stream this contemporary movie akin to Kill the Irishman on HBO Max, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video.
The film’s exploration of identity, loyalty, and corruption in Boston’s criminal landscape makes it a perfect companion piece to Kill the Irishman, offering viewers another perspective on Irish-American organized crime.
3. Legend (2015)
Legend presents the fascinating true story of the Kray twins, London’s most notorious gangsters. Tom Hardy delivers an outstanding dual performance as both Ronnie and Reggie Kray in this compelling crime drama. Directed by Brian Helgeland and released in September 2015, the film runs for 132 minutes and provides a unique glimpse into the criminal underworld of 1960s London.
The film’s extraordinary portrayal of the twin gangsters contributed to its commercial success, grossing over $43 million worldwide. On IMDb, Legend maintains a strong 7.0/10 rating, while critics particularly praised Hardy’s remarkable dual performance and the film’s stylish direction.
Currently, viewers can stream this up-to-date film like Kill the Irishman on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, with rental options available on various platforms including iTunes and Google Play.
The film’s exploration of family ties within organized crime, combined with its period setting and focus on true events, makes it an excellent choice for fans of Kill the Irishman. The dynamic between the Kray twins offers a unique perspective on loyalty and betrayal within criminal enterprises.
4. The Irishman (2019)
Martin Scorsese’s epic crime drama The Irishman brings together Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci in a masterful exploration of organized crime in America. This contemporary movie akin to Kill the Irishman spans several decades, following Frank Sheeran’s involvement with the Bufalino crime family and the mysterious disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa. Released in 2019 with a substantial runtime of 209 minutes, the film showcases Scorsese’s unparalleled ability to craft compelling crime narratives.
The film achieved significant critical acclaim and commercial success, despite its primarily streaming release. With a budget of $159 million, it became one of Netflix’s most successful original films. The Irishman holds an impressive 7.8/10 rating on IMDb and received numerous accolades, including ten Academy Award nominations.
Viewers can exclusively stream this recent film comparable to Kill the Irishman on Netflix, where it continues to draw audiences with its masterful storytelling and historical significance.
The film’s examination of loyalty, betrayal, and the toll of a life in organized crime resonates strongly with themes present in Kill the Irishman, making it an essential watch for fans of the genre.
5. American Gangster (2007)
Ridley Scott’s American Gangster stars Denzel Washington as Frank Lucas, a criminal kingpin who built an empire through the drug trade in 1970s Harlem. This gripping crime drama, released in November 2007, runs for 157 minutes and features Russell Crowe as the detective determined to bring Lucas down. The film masterfully combines elements of crime, drama, and biographical storytelling.
The film was both a commercial and critical success, grossing over $266 million worldwide. American Gangster maintains a strong 7.8/10 rating on IMDb and received two Academy Award nominations, with particular praise for Washington’s commanding performance and Scott’s direction.
This modern film similar to Kill the Irishman is available for streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, making it easily accessible to viewers interested in true crime stories.
The film’s exploration of power, corruption, and the American Dream through the lens of organized crime makes it a compelling watch for fans of Kill the Irishman, offering another perspective on the rise and fall of criminal empires.
6. Public Enemies (2009)
Michael Mann’s Public Enemies features Johnny Depp as the legendary bank robber John Dillinger, chronicling his famous crime spree during the Great Depression. Released in July 2009 with a runtime of 140 minutes, the film also stars Christian Bale as FBI agent Melvin Purvis. Mann’s direction brings a modern sensibility to this period crime drama.
The film achieved considerable commercial success, earning $214 million worldwide. It maintains a 7.0/10 rating on IMDb, with critics praising its technical prowess and Depp’s charismatic performance as Dillinger.
Current movies reminiscent of Kill the Irishman can be found across various platforms, and Public Enemies is available for streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Peacock.
The film’s focus on a charismatic criminal figure fighting against established power structures mirrors themes found in Kill the Irishman, making it an engaging watch for fans of the genre.
7. Road to Perdition (2002)
Sam Mendes directs this visually stunning crime drama starring Tom Hanks as Michael Sullivan, a mob enforcer whose life takes a dramatic turn when his family is threatened. Released in July 2002 with a runtime of 117 minutes, the film features exceptional performances from Paul Newman and Daniel Craig in supporting roles. Mendes crafts a powerful narrative about fathers, sons, and the consequences of violence.
The film demonstrated strong commercial performance, earning $181 million worldwide. It received widespread critical acclaim, winning an Academy Award for Best Cinematography, and maintains an impressive 7.7/10 rating on IMDb. Critics particularly praised Conrad Hall’s cinematography and Thomas Newman’s haunting score.
This contemporary film comparable to Kill the Irishman can be streamed on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, with additional rental options available on various platforms.
The film’s exploration of loyalty, family, and the moral complexities of organized crime makes it a compelling watch for those who appreciated the emotional depth of Kill the Irishman.
8. Lawless (2012)
John Hillcoat’s Lawless tells the true story of the Bondurant brothers, who ran a successful moonshine operation during Prohibition. The film features a stellar cast including Tom Hardy, Shia LaBeouf, and Jessica Chastain. Released in August 2012 with a runtime of 116 minutes, this period crime drama captures the gritty reality of rural bootlegging operations.
The film achieved moderate commercial success, grossing $54 million worldwide, and maintains a solid 7.3/10 rating on IMDb. Critics praised the ensemble cast’s performances and the film’s authentic portrayal of the era.
Viewers can find this up-to-date film like Kill the Irishman on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, making it easily accessible for fans of historical crime dramas.
The film’s focus on family bonds, territorial disputes, and standing up to corrupt authority figures parallels many themes found in Kill the Irishman, offering viewers another perspective on criminal enterprises during pivotal moments in American history.
9. The Kitchen (2019)
The Kitchen presents a unique take on the crime genre, following three women who take over their husbands’ criminal operations in 1970s Hell’s Kitchen. Starring Melissa McCarthy, Tiffany Haddish, and Elisabeth Moss, this film was released in August 2019 with a runtime of 102 minutes. Andrea Berloff’s directorial debut offers a fresh perspective on the gangster genre through a female lens.
While the film had modest box office returns of $16 million, it maintains a following among crime drama enthusiasts and holds a 6.2/10 rating on IMDb. Critics particularly praised the lead performances and the film’s exploration of female empowerment within the crime genre.
This recent film comparable to Kill the Irishman is available for streaming on HBO Max and can be rented through various digital platforms including Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
The film’s 1970s setting and exploration of outsiders taking on established criminal organizations makes it particularly relevant for fans of Kill the Irishman.
10. White Boy Rick (2018)
White Boy Rick tells the incredible true story of Richard Wershe Jr., who became an FBI informant and drug kingpin during his teenage years in 1980s Detroit. Starring Matthew McConaughey and Richie Merritt, the film was released in September 2018 with a runtime of 111 minutes. Director Yann Demange crafts a compelling narrative about family, survival, and the complexity of crime and justice.
The film earned $26 million at the box office and maintains a 6.5/10 rating on IMDb, with critics praising its authentic portrayal of 1980s Detroit and the compelling performances of its lead actors.
Current movies reminiscent of Kill the Irishman can be found across various streaming platforms, and White Boy Rick is available on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
The film’s exploration of true crime, family dynamics, and the relationship between law enforcement and criminals makes it a fitting companion piece to Kill the Irishman.
Comparison Table: Movies Like Kill the Irishman
| Movie Title | Release Year | IMDb Rating | Runtime | Director | Lead Actor(s) | Box Office | Primary Streaming Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Mass | 2015 | 7.2/10 | 123 min | Scott Cooper | Johnny Depp | $99.8M | Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime |
| The Departed | 2006 | 8.5/10 | 151 min | Martin Scorsese | Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon | $291M | HBO Max, Netflix |
| Legend | 2015 | 7.0/10 | 132 min | Brian Helgeland | Tom Hardy | $43M | Netflix, Amazon Prime |
| The Irishman | 2019 | 7.8/10 | 209 min | Martin Scorsese | Robert De Niro, Al Pacino | N/A (Netflix) | Netflix |
| American Gangster | 2007 | 7.8/10 | 157 min | Ridley Scott | Denzel Washington | $266M | Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime |
| Public Enemies | 2009 | 7.0/10 | 140 min | Michael Mann | Johnny Depp | $214M | Netflix, Peacock |
| Road to Perdition | 2002 | 7.7/10 | 117 min | Sam Mendes | Tom Hanks | $181M | Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime |
| Lawless | 2012 | 7.3/10 | 116 min | John Hillcoat | Tom Hardy | $54M | Netflix, Hulu |
| The Kitchen | 2019 | 6.2/10 | 102 min | Andrea Berloff | Melissa McCarthy, Elisabeth Moss | $16M | HBO Max |
| White Boy Rick | 2018 | 6.5/10 | 111 min | Yann Demange | Matthew McConaughey | $26M | Netflix, Amazon Prime |
FAQ Section
Are these movies based on true stories like Kill the Irishman?
Several of these films, including Black Mass and The Departed, are based on or inspired by true events. While some take creative liberties with historical facts, they maintain the authentic feel of real-life crime stories.
Which movie is most similar to Kill the Irishman in terms of time period?
Black Mass most closely matches Kill the Irishman’s time period, as it also takes place primarily in the 1970s and depicts the Irish-American criminal underworld of that era.
Can I watch these movies with family?
Most of these films carry R ratings due to violence, language, and adult themes. They’re generally more suitable for mature audiences, similar to Kill the Irishman.
Which streaming service offers the most of these movies?
Netflix and HBO Max currently offer the largest selection of these current movies reminiscent of Kill the Irishman, though availability can vary by region and time.
Are these movies critically acclaimed?
Yes, many of these recent films comparable to Kill the Irishman have received significant critical acclaim, with several winning or being nominated for major awards.
