Donnie Brasco is not on the level of Godfather, Godfather 2, Goodfellas or the 1996 Gotti for that matter. Especially especially GF 1 and 2. I would have ranked it as "ok". I just watched it for the first time in like 10 years when I moved into a new place and didn't have my internet hooked up yet. I still have the DVD. I was a little underwhelmed watching it again. I think Bronx Tale might have been better overall too.
Yeah, it was sooo long, but one of my favorites. Watched a couple months ago on UA-cam. Lots of different twists and turns. Won't generally watch DeNiro anymore.
Don't like it. Sergio Leone feels out of place when he tries to make a gangster/maffia movie. Not his thing, imo. Unlike his Eastwood trilogy... oh man. 💯
Road to Perdition is such an underrated gem. I hardly ever see it mentioned when discussing all time great mob movies. It definitely deserves more recognition.
To me, the problem with Road to Perdition was that it was losely based on what I would see as one of the greates stories I have read in my whole life. Compared to that, it was a bit of a disappointment. On it's own? Yeah, probably underrated.
@@TheNotoriousMrDee It was losely based on the manga series "Kozure Okami" (english title: "Lone Wolf and Cub") which played in feudal Japan. Protagonist was a high ranking official and swordsmaster who was disgraced because of an intrigue against his family. He travels through Japan with his small child and works on funding his revenge by being hired as an assassin. It is a very well researched piece of historic fiction that drew its strength through all the scenarios of his assignments, the circumstances of why he is being hired and all the strengths and weaknesses of the society around him that he uses to reach his goals.
Good fellas is one of my all time favorite movies. I can watch it 100 times and it feels like the first time everytime. First time I watched it I was maybe 10 years old and I was amazed
Michael, My favorite mob movie is The Godfather. I’m 100% Italian, my mom’s parents were from Sicily and my dad’s parent from Italy. My mom loved part 2 because she said Robert De Niro spoke the language perfectly. He mastered the dialect and she loved to watch him speak it in the movie. It made her so happy. She’s with the Lord now, my dad too. Oh how I wish I could sit with her now and enjoy the movie again❤️✝️
Michael is so authentic. when I saw him in Rhode Island last December, just in our quick meet and greet he told me to stay out of trouble, wrote a Bible verse for me to read. Thank you so much Michael!
I admire Francese in a dubious way simply forgetting out of the mafia alive. I’m sure he just paid his way out. But as far as his commitment to religion… I find that laughable! All convicts facing life in prison suddenly find Christianity. It’s hilarious to me. Michael Francese is just a con man.
Michael is a con man. He didn’t just make millions for the mafia he made billions. How do you think he did that? Extortion, stealing, beating people up and murder… Now suddenly has found religion? Give me a break. The guy is a con man. Just like every other TV preacher he is a con man.
1 Corinthians 1:18 New International Version (NIV) For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
@@conniejenni5504 i mean bro, when you’re in literal Hell where else could you turn? You look for meaning in life, and he found that meaning. I don’t believe it’s an act in the slightest. He showed he could truly change and i believe that came from his faith. I do not claim any religion by the way.
"Kill the Irishman" about Danny Greene, made in 2011, is a movie that absolutely should be on this list. Ray Stevenson played an excellent Danny Greene. Review this one Mike!
I would love to have your take on the TV series “Crime Story”! It was set in 1950’s Chicago and starred Dennis Farina as a detective (perfect casting) trying to stop a young man’s rise through organized crime. I thought it lost a bit when they moved the story to Las Vegas, but it was an incredible series during its run. I would love to get your take on it! Thank you for all you do! It is so very much appreciated!
You have gone from someone to be warned about to someone to aspire to be. It’s really quite amazing. What a story- you’re actually going to be quite an important person historically- we even briefly discussed you in my Organized Crime class at Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada. You have certainly made your mark.
I totally agree with the Gotti movies… The one with Travolta was absolutely atrocious but the one with Armand Asante was absolutely magnificent…. And Godfather one is my absolute favorite movie of all time.
LOVE that Bronx Tale take, I've seen many dismiss that film but to me its one of the best "Mob story" Movies ever, Chaz is so good in that film if he wasn't nominated for an Academy Award I'd bw shocked. DeNiro really showed up for making that film, Acting, Directing, He was amazing. A couple more fantastic gangster movies i think you need to review on here would be The Departed, One of my favorite Scorsese movies, And another one that is absolutely incredible that gets super overlooked is City Of God. One of my favorite films ever, Would def recommend if you haven't seen.
Great video! You should do a follow-up where you rank some more movies like that. Please do include Once Upon a Time in America, The Departed, Miller's Crossing and Eastern Promises.
@@GAURAV25855ify the departed is better but that doesnt take anything from how good black mass was. also its useless to compare them sincer the plot is totally different. black mass is biographical while the departed is more on the undercover spy side of a story.
Watched Scarface so many times. Its such a watchable movie, even though its 3h long, it takes you on the wild journey, in a way every scene is interesting and progresses the plot. Music, fashion style, Miami in that period. Everything was at the peak
If you like Departed. you should check out "State of Grace" 1990 Sean Penn Ed Harris Gary Oldman and many other familiar faces. Blows Departed out of the water in my opinion
A bit sad "Kill the Irishman" didn't make it to the list, I think it deserves more love, and if I'm not mistaken, you even had a pretty warm dedicated review video of it in the past. Ray Stevenson, who sadly passed away recently, did a terrific job in that movie too.
Youre a standup guy Michael. Always glad to tune in to your takes on various topics. The Sopranos is my favorite TV show of all time and at a guess Ive binge watched the show from start to finish about ten times all up over the years. God bless, and Merry Christmas. ~
The Robert De Niro movie you touched on is called Alto Knights, and he'll be playing the dual roles of Vito Genovese and Frank Costello. It's due for release on the 21st of March.
I don't have high hopes. Post 1996 after his last good role in Casino............................Irish Bobby has churned out garbage movie after garbage movie. Anything for a pay day. He's nothing but a clown now. I predict "Alto Knights" is a much bigger disappointment than The Irishman was.
Good Fellas, American gangster, Road to perdition, Godfather 1 and Scarface. Michael thanks for your review. May God bless you and your family richly with health and favor.
I agree 100% with your rankings. Did you see the last don? There's a sequel but like the 3rd godfather... It was interesting to see what happened next but at the same time it didn't need to be made. I hope everyone is doing well.
Something that I would like to recommend, you've mentioned mostly American with some British content, but I would like to recommend some Australian movies and tv shows, including Chopper starring Eric Bana, Dirty Deeds featuring Bryan Brown, John Goodman, and Sam Neill, Two Hands featuring Bryan Brown and the late, great Heath Ledger, and the TV series Underbelly.
Donnie Brasco is one of my favorite mob movies of all time, it's right up there with Godfather 1&2 and Goodfellas for me. Now do I think the cinematography, acting, music, etc. is at the same level as those movies? No, but for some reason I just love it. I appreciate Michael showing it a lot of love.
Scarface, A Bronx Tale, The Godfather, Godfather 2 All have gotta be the most iconic and realistic mob movies Ever made. Thank you 💛 Michael for your ratings! They are All up there. ❤
@@luiseduardotorres1 Scarface movie could happen in real life dealing with heavy weight like that yes realistic but obviously fake.... But yes its possible
Two mob movies you have never ranked, but in my opinion are worth commenting: "Miller's Crossing" and "Things to do in Denver when you're dead". Wish you can watch them and maybe comment, John Tuturro and Andy García did great on each one.
@@conniejenni5504you think a nba player can tell you what the greatest basketball movie is and you have to agree? No it’s all subjective at the end of the day. Mind you I 98% agree with his ranking and I’ve never spent a day in the mob. But I spent years in the streets rain sleet and snow it didn’t matter. I would put Board Walk Empire in the greatest of all time and Mike or nobody else could tell me any different. Be a leader not a follower
Once Upon A Time in America, The Departed, Kill the Irishman, Lawless, Miller’s Crossing, The Original Scarface, The Public Enemy, White Heat, etc. Definitely left out a few good films
Never seen Millers Crossing( atleast I don’t think I have) and I just checked it out. It was made by the Coen brothers I’m excited. They made two of the best films of all time already .
The offer was so good that even my wife who doesnt like mob styff absolutely loved it so much. Maybe even a bit more than me and i thought jt was incredible.
If you haven't ever watched the Italian series Gomorrah you are missing a whole other entry for your "greatest of all time" category! You may need the subtitles even more than you did with Peaky Blinders lol but it is an amazing mob show. Also the limited series Zero Zero Zero. Both shows featured director Stefano Sollima, who also directed the Sicario sequel. Check them out if you haven't already. I'm sure you'll love them and thank me later.
Al Pacino is the only actor in the universe that could pull off the role of Italian, Puerto Rican, and Cuban gangster. He is a legend. Tom Hanks was the last person I thought would have played a gangster, but he was unbelievable. Another legend (and let's not forget about Paul Newman in that movie). I loved both "Road to Perdition" and "Carlito's Way". They both suffered from poor marketing, but I've watched them multiple times. Bronx Tale was another classic that I love watching. Great list!
Michael, I like your list. Please post reviews of the following: The Long Good Friday, Once Upon a time in America, Men of Respect, Kill the Irishman (if you haven’t already), The Traitor(2019 Italian movie).
Absolutely on the money. You're better at this than paid movie critics. I didn't come from the life, but I grew up around a number of family members who were involved, including guys I know you knew.
Amazing film. Written by a NY/NJ judge who put many "gangsters" away. Every character is based on someone he knew, he says. There are some interviews of him out there, I believe he has since passed on. Bless 🙏
He should review Eastern promises. I grew up in Russia and watched it over there and they said it was very realistic, one of the best and most poignant movies one can watch, Viggo Mortensen is incredible in it
Love you hear your take on some of the others referenced above also Valachi Papers, Gomorrah the series, Chicago outfit, mean streets, the sicilian girl (la siciliana ribelle), and the ruthless (lo spietato)
A list of movies to watch. Not necessarily "about" The Mafia but there is some aspect of the Mafia that is portrayed. They are in order of what to watch ... A Man Apart, Boondock Saints, Savages, Payback, Highway Men, Snatch, Equalizer 1, Equalizer 3, Get the Gringo, Suicide Kings, Desperado
Mr. Franzese, what about these and why were they not on the list???? 1. MY BLUE HEAVEN 2. PUBLIC ENEMIES 3. MILLERS CROSSING 4. MOBSTERS 5. LAWLESS 6. THE PROFESSIONAL 7. EASTERN PROMISES 8. THE FRESHMAN 9. ONCE UPON A TIME IN AMERICA 10. SLEEPERS I was really shocked not to see these on the list. I greatly appreciate what you do and your video content.
One great movie about the Westies was not mentioned „STATE OF GRACE“ from 1990 with Sean Penn. In my opinion a very great movie! Another great movie not mentioned was „KING OF NEW YORK“ from 1990 with a great Christopher Walken.
Michael, this isn't related to the video neccessarily, but I just wanted to let you know that you inspired me to pick up my Bible and read it. Thank you.
You Should give Gomorrah (both film and the show), a chance. I personally found these very enjoyable and good to watch, it takes on the Neapolitian Camorra.
Yeah there’s a few good Italian ones worth watching. Corleone/Capo Di Capi about Toto Riina, Romanzo Criminale -the series and the films, and I think there’s one called something like Undercover that was really good. Gomorrah is great- the film and the series and also for something a bit more cerebral and realistic “il divo” is true and about the corruption in politics.
I enjoyed your rankings. A few more that I'd be interested to hear your comments on are: Mobsters, Reservoir Dogs, Public Enemies, We Own the Night, and The Departed. Thanks for the videos!
Godfather of Harlem is in my GOAT category. I just binged the 3 seasons in one week... It's been a while I watched a good "historical" show like that one.
Great video, Michael! I completely agree with your picks for the best mafia films, but it would be fascinating to see you explore some international mafia and crime films as well. There are incredible stories and perspectives from European cinema. For instance, the Polish films Młode Wilki and series Blinded by the Lights, or the Italian series Gomorrah, offer unique takes on organized crime. Also, you might enjoy Brigada from Russia, A Prophet and Mesrine from France, Pusher from Denmark, or Pitbull from Poland. For Bulgarian crime films, Ogledaloto na dyavola, Bandit, The Bulgarian (2018), and The Last Cop (2017) all dive deep into the criminal underworld. It would be interesting to hear how these compare to the American classics!❤❤❤
1. The departed 2. Kill the irishman 3. Hoodlum 4. Mobsters 5. Once upon a time in America 6.Capone (1976 if I'm not mistaken with sylvester stallone in it) 7. Casino 8. Carlito's Way 9. The Krays 1990 10. Charlie 2004 Some of the movies as far as i can remember can do a Review
This isn't a very good list! Mobsters the film with Christian Slater as Lucky Luciano is probably just as bad 👎 as the Travolta Gotti film! Hoodlum had its moments, but, overall it was pretty cheesy. Tim Roth as Dutch Schultz saved a pretty corny and low-budget film!
You're such an interesting person to listen to. Not just because of your past life, but in general also. You're a great story teller. I just watched your videos w/Gravano and he confirmed what I've always thought about him -- he's a pig of a man. You demonstrated great restraint in your back & forth with him by not rising to his bait. After all, it was being televised. You're a class act Mr. Franzese. 👍❤️
Irish Gangster Martin Cahill from Dublin has a few films about him. The General is a good film, (john voight and brendan gleeson), also, Vicious Circle was about him. A troubled and poor upbringing in dublin, he ended up robbing some quite famous things and making enemies with the IRA. He had an interesting life
Can you review the cult classic in the Mexican/American community movie Blood in Blood out. Considering your wife is Mexican i think she’ll enjoy your review too
Jeez. I was just on my favorite Italian food channel and read a similar comment to yours. "Can you make some Mexican dishes?" Are you people desperate for attention or validation or something? It's becoming overwhelming and very annoying.
I really appreciate the video. I am torn on Godfather 3, Came out when I was in high school and really enjoyed being able to see it on the big screen. Now that the new cut was released a few years ago, Coda really helps the story come together. Not the greatest but a really good movie.
Unfortunately it has to be compared to the 2 greatest movies of all time, which it definitely falls short of. I agree that it was good and people's vitriol towards it is unfair.
True, I just wish it more respect for the story that it was meant to be, the Coda telling helped but unfortunately people will always judge it off the first version. @ascendant95
Have you ever thought of looking at Once Upon A Time in america by sergio leone. Its a bit daunting at 4hrs30m but i think its one of the best gangster films. Robert Deniro, James Woods, William Forsythe. Great gangster film.
Awesome to see the love for A Bronx Tale! I just love that movie man. Glad I'm not the only one that put it that high. Black Mass was indeed too dark but also not really watchable. Today I finally got the movie "At Close Range" from Arrow Video, watched it and I really like it. Also a very dark "based on" a true story. I think Michael will like that one too. Christopher Walken and the Penn brothers nailed it!
Shocked to see me and a real mobster has the same exact rating for every movie and tv show. I was so happy to see him put Peaky Blinders in the GOAT. I’ve seen everything except the Offer so I have something new to watch. I would put Board Walk Empire is the GOAT section but everything else I agree with.
Hello Mr. Franzese. Much respect and love. Two movies I’d love for you to see and review, and both are Irish gangster films: Miller’s Crossing, and in my opinion the greatest Irish gangster film ever made: State of Grace. Great acting, directing, story, etc. just a classic. Much love from Detroit.
I hope you read these comments cos I highly recommend Gangs of London (about London gangsters) actually it was my old man who got me into this show he's pretty much the same age as you & from East London
Michael, you should review "29th Street" with Danny Aiello and Anthony Lapaglia. Wonderful Christmas movie with a mob element and based on a true story. Very underappreciated movie. It's like a Christmas Bronx Tale. More people should know about this great film!
I will forever love the respect you give Donnie Brasco. Too underrated.
Good movie.
Top 3 for me
Donnie Brasco is not on the level of Godfather, Godfather 2, Goodfellas or the 1996 Gotti for that matter. Especially especially GF 1 and 2. I would have ranked it as "ok". I just watched it for the first time in like 10 years when I moved into a new place and didn't have my internet hooked up yet. I still have the DVD. I was a little underwhelmed watching it again. I think Bronx Tale might have been better overall too.
That's a fugazi!
It was the best !!!!
I can't believe you've left out "ONCE UPON A TIME IN AMERICA" thats the ultimate Greatest Gangster Movie of all time.
Without a doubt
One of my favorites but damn is it long
Yeah, it was sooo long, but one of my favorites. Watched a couple months ago on UA-cam. Lots of different twists and turns. Won't generally watch DeNiro anymore.
@@TerryKeeverespecially seeing how he sold out for the democrats
Don't like it. Sergio Leone feels out of place when he tries to make a gangster/maffia movie. Not his thing, imo. Unlike his Eastwood trilogy... oh man. 💯
Road to Perdition is such an underrated gem. I hardly ever see it mentioned when discussing all time great mob movies. It definitely deserves more recognition.
To me, the problem with Road to Perdition was that it was losely based on what I would see as one of the greates stories I have read in my whole life.
Compared to that, it was a bit of a disappointment.
On it's own? Yeah, probably underrated.
Who wrote it? I'd heard it was adapted from a graphic novel but I've never seen it anywhere.
@@TheNotoriousMrDee It was losely based on the manga series "Kozure Okami" (english title: "Lone Wolf and Cub") which played in feudal Japan. Protagonist was a high ranking official and swordsmaster who was disgraced because of an intrigue against his family. He travels through Japan with his small child and works on funding his revenge by being hired as an assassin. It is a very well researched piece of historic fiction that drew its strength through all the scenarios of his assignments, the circumstances of why he is being hired and all the strengths and weaknesses of the society around him that he uses to reach his goals.
@windsaw151 Sounds good. I've always liked Japanese stories and culture. I had no idea that was the origin of one of my favorite movies. Cheers 🍻
Read Max Allan Collins's original graphic novel. It's even better.
Good fellas is one of my all time favorite movies. I can watch it 100 times and it feels like the first time everytime. First time I watched it I was maybe 10 years old and I was amazed
List of whats missing from my perspective:
- White Heat
- Dillinger
- Public Enemies
- Once Upon A Time In America
- Scarface (1932)
- Dillinger
- Public Enemies
- Once Upon A Time In America
Greatest of All Time ✅
The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre 1967
Departed
Michael, My favorite mob movie is The Godfather. I’m 100% Italian, my mom’s parents were from Sicily and my dad’s parent from Italy. My mom loved part 2 because she said Robert De Niro spoke the language perfectly. He mastered the dialect and she loved to watch him speak it in the movie. It made her so happy. She’s with the Lord now, my dad too. Oh how I wish I could sit with her now and enjoy the movie again❤️✝️
@@marciamatteini7604 you’re not 100% Italian. Nobody is 100% anything. Jesus Christ with you wannabe sopranos jerk offs
HBO Gotti is right up there with the best
You are not 100% italian
@@andrewlillo8618 And why do you say that I’m not?
Whatever people think of Robert De Niro, his commitment to each role is spectacular
Michael is so authentic. when I saw him in Rhode Island last December, just in our quick meet and greet he told me to stay out of trouble, wrote a Bible verse for me to read. Thank you so much Michael!
🤍🤍sᴇɴᴅ🤍🤍ᴍᴇ🤍🤍ᴀ🤍🤍ᴅɪʀᴇᴄᴛ🤍🤍ᴛᴇxᴛ🤍±𝟷𝟸𝟻𝟺𝟺𝟽𝟸𝟺𝟻𝟽𝟺
I admire Francese in a dubious way simply forgetting out of the mafia alive. I’m sure he just paid his way out. But as far as his commitment to religion… I find that laughable! All convicts facing life in prison suddenly find Christianity. It’s hilarious to me. Michael Francese is just a con man.
Michael is a con man. He didn’t just make millions for the mafia he made billions. How do you think he did that? Extortion, stealing, beating people up and murder… Now suddenly has found religion? Give me a break. The guy is a con man. Just like every other TV preacher he is a con man.
1 Corinthians 1:18 New International Version (NIV)
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
@@conniejenni5504 i mean bro, when you’re in literal Hell where else could you turn? You look for meaning in life, and he found that meaning. I don’t believe it’s an act in the slightest. He showed he could truly change and i believe that came from his faith. I do not claim any religion by the way.
"Kill the Irishman" about Danny Greene, made in 2011, is a movie that absolutely should be on this list. Ray Stevenson played an excellent Danny Greene. Review this one Mike!
Brilliant movie! One of my favorites!
Yes!!
Great movie indeed. I loved Ray Stevenson's acting.
He did that's how I learned of it's existence.
He does have a review up on this one
I would love to have your take on the TV series “Crime Story”! It was set in 1950’s Chicago and starred Dennis Farina as a detective (perfect casting) trying to stop a young man’s rise through organized crime. I thought it lost a bit when they moved the story to Las Vegas, but it was an incredible series during its run. I would love to get your take on it!
Thank you for all you do! It is so very much appreciated!
Glad to see you put my favorite movie, Casino, in the "good" category 🙂 I know everyone prefers Goodfellas, but I just prefer Casino.
solid rankings. Always rooting for you Michael!!
He should review (the drop) cast tom hardy and James Gandolfini.
Gangster related.
You have gone from someone to be warned about to someone to aspire to be. It’s really quite amazing. What a story- you’re actually going to be quite an important person historically- we even briefly discussed you in my Organized Crime class at Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada. You have certainly made your mark.
I totally agree with the Gotti movies… The one with Travolta was absolutely atrocious but the one with Armand Asante was absolutely magnificent…. And Godfather one is my absolute favorite movie of all time.
I have to agree with you. Travolta actually believed he would win an academy award for that movie. It was God awful.
LOVE that Bronx Tale take, I've seen many dismiss that film but to me its one of the best "Mob story" Movies ever, Chaz is so good in that film if he wasn't nominated for an Academy Award I'd bw shocked. DeNiro really showed up for making that film, Acting, Directing, He was amazing. A couple more fantastic gangster movies i think you need to review on here would be The Departed, One of my favorite Scorsese movies, And another one that is absolutely incredible that gets super overlooked is City Of God. One of my favorite films ever, Would def recommend if you haven't seen.
Great video! You should do a follow-up where you rank some more movies like that. Please do include Once Upon a Time in America, The Departed, Miller's Crossing and Eastern Promises.
Casino needs to be in the GOAT category
Yep came here to comments just to say that! Rewatched it recently. It’s iconic, one of the very best mob movies
It would go in Very Good if he had that category because it's too good for just Good, but not Greatest of all time.
Damn straight it does. It is right there at the same level as Good Fellas.
@@jbenz1990 Pesci
Exactly.
loved Black Mass exactly because it was so dark and definitely the most chilling performance from Depp.
🤍🤍sᴇɴᴅ🤍🤍ᴍᴇ🤍🤍ᴀ🤍🤍ᴅɪʀᴇᴄᴛ🤍🤍ᴛᴇxᴛ🤍±𝟷𝟸𝟻𝟺𝟺𝟽𝟸𝟺𝟻𝟽𝟺
And im about to go see it for the same reason
It was terrible the departed was better
@@GAURAV25855ify the departed is better but that doesnt take anything from how good black mass was. also its useless to compare them sincer the plot is totally different. black mass is biographical while the departed is more on the undercover spy side of a story.
@@GAURAV25855ify the Departed is complete fiction. Black Mass is far better.
Watched Scarface so many times. Its such a watchable movie, even though its 3h long, it takes you on the wild journey, in a way every scene is interesting and progresses the plot. Music, fashion style, Miami in that period. Everything was at the peak
Extremely watchable, quotable, and iconic.
BUT overall, it's not a very GOOD movie.
It's not 3 hours long. Why do people always exaggerate a film's running time? It's no more than about 2 hrs 35 mins.
Should’ve made the movie about sosa tho he was the real G
Tony was a HASSAH!
You know what a hassah is??
The early 80s is almost the co-star alongside Pacino. It really captures the era that's for sure.
My man, you are supposed to be 73 years old, why are you this jacked?
Test and HCG, not joking, a few shots a week.
Genes. Look at his late father Sonny. He lived until 104 if i remembered good? And he was same structure. High,big,strong.
It’s called hormone replacement therapy.
Sorry but where was the departed
Yeah the Departed should 100% be right up there.
The departed robbed yet again
it departed from the list
Good question, definitely an oversight, but we'll cut Michael some slack
Yes public enemies, the departed, eastern promises, miller's crossing, once upon a time in America, Dillinger, french connection...
Departed?????
Up there with any of those flicks.
Agreed, I think that's a big miss. Also Mean Streets
True full of Boston Irish, no Italians.
@@altfiwithleighlommen310I really was surprised he missed out mean streets. Both mean streets and the departed should be on the list.
If you like Departed. you should check out "State of Grace" 1990 Sean Penn Ed Harris Gary Oldman and many other familiar faces. Blows Departed out of the water in my opinion
What, no "The King of New York" ranking?
Darn it!
That aside...
100% agreement with the rankings.
A bit sad "Kill the Irishman" didn't make it to the list, I think it deserves more love, and if I'm not mistaken, you even had a pretty warm dedicated review video of it in the past. Ray Stevenson, who sadly passed away recently, did a terrific job in that movie too.
Youre a standup guy Michael. Always glad to tune in to your takes on various topics. The Sopranos is my favorite TV show of all time and at a guess Ive binge watched the show from start to finish about ten times all up over the years. God bless, and Merry Christmas. ~
The Robert De Niro movie you touched on is called Alto Knights, and he'll be playing the dual roles of Vito Genovese and Frank Costello. It's due for release on the 21st of March.
The early test screening folks thought it was terrible !!
Giant bomb
May 2025
March-21st, 2025
I don't have high hopes. Post 1996 after his last good role in Casino............................Irish Bobby has churned out garbage movie after garbage movie. Anything for a pay day. He's nothing but a clown now. I predict "Alto Knights" is a much bigger disappointment than The Irishman was.
Very few people talk about Frank Costello, and or even know who he is.
Happy Halloween 🎃, Michael Franzese
Good Fellas, American gangster, Road to perdition, Godfather 1 and Scarface. Michael thanks for your review. May God bless you and your family richly with health and favor.
Exactly! My mom had one sentence about Godfather 3... "We don't discuss it."
Carlitos way the irishmen the departed
I agree 100% with your rankings. Did you see the last don? There's a sequel but like the 3rd godfather... It was interesting to see what happened next but at the same time it didn't need to be made. I hope everyone is doing well.
Something that I would like to recommend, you've mentioned mostly American with some British content, but I would like to recommend some Australian movies and tv shows, including Chopper starring Eric Bana, Dirty Deeds featuring Bryan Brown, John Goodman, and Sam Neill, Two Hands featuring Bryan Brown and the late, great Heath Ledger, and the TV series Underbelly.
Wow, I'm the second viewer. I'm a big fan mr.F. Keep up the good work ❤
Huge fan from India! 🎉 Great content Mr. Franzese
Happy Diwali!!! 🎉
with the current situation of inida... you are scary lol
@@raxyznkJ What current situation?
Gangs of new york
What about "My Blue Heaven"? Didn't you review that one? Love that film!
Donnie Brasco is one of my favorite mob movies of all time, it's right up there with Godfather 1&2 and Goodfellas for me. Now do I think the cinematography, acting, music, etc. is at the same level as those movies? No, but for some reason I just love it.
I appreciate Michael showing it a lot of love.
Happy to see you do something like this thank you
Scarface, A Bronx Tale, The Godfather, Godfather 2
All have gotta be the most iconic and realistic mob movies Ever made. Thank you 💛 Michael for your ratings! They are All up there. ❤
Scarface realistic 😂😂😂
Scarface realistic 😂😂😂
Donnie does not belong at top
Godfather is hardly realistic is it lol
@@luiseduardotorres1 Scarface movie could happen in real life dealing with heavy weight like that yes realistic but obviously fake.... But yes its possible
Two mob movies you have never ranked, but in my opinion are worth commenting: "Miller's Crossing" and "Things to do in Denver when you're dead". Wish you can watch them and maybe comment, John Tuturro and Andy García did great on each one.
Denver is such a good movie... makes me tear up every time.
Denver added
I’ve seen all from 1980-Now I’m from NY 🇮🇹 what a life throughout the decades we’ve lived Michael
A Bronx Tale was legendary... Will never forget some of those lines in that movie.
Don’t you think that if anyone would understand “the life” portrayed in the movies it would be Michael Francese?
@@conniejenni5504you think a nba player can tell you what the greatest basketball movie is and you have to agree? No it’s all subjective at the end of the day. Mind you I 98% agree with his ranking and I’ve never spent a day in the mob. But I spent years in the streets rain sleet and snow it didn’t matter. I would put Board Walk Empire in the greatest of all time and Mike or nobody else could tell me any different. Be a leader not a follower
Big fan of your content from Glasgow Scotland.
Once Upon A Time in America, The Departed, Kill the Irishman, Lawless, Miller’s Crossing, The Original Scarface, The Public Enemy, White Heat, etc. Definitely left out a few good films
The St. Valentine's Day Massacre also was great.
Never seen Millers Crossing( atleast I don’t think I have) and I just checked it out. It was made by the Coen brothers I’m excited. They made two of the best films of all time already .
I think you nailed these rankings....100%
The offer was so good that even my wife who doesnt like mob styff absolutely loved it so much. Maybe even a bit more than me and i thought jt was incredible.
If you haven't ever watched the Italian series Gomorrah you are missing a whole other entry for your "greatest of all time" category! You may need the subtitles even more than you did with Peaky Blinders lol but it is an amazing mob show. Also the limited series Zero Zero Zero. Both shows featured director Stefano Sollima, who also directed the Sicario sequel. Check them out if you haven't already. I'm sure you'll love them and thank me later.
Al Pacino is the only actor in the universe that could pull off the role of Italian, Puerto Rican, and Cuban gangster. He is a legend. Tom Hanks was the last person I thought would have played a gangster, but he was unbelievable. Another legend (and let's not forget about Paul Newman in that movie). I loved both "Road to Perdition" and "Carlito's Way". They both suffered from poor marketing, but I've watched them multiple times. Bronx Tale was another classic that I love watching. Great list!
Michael, I like your list. Please post reviews of the following: The Long Good Friday, Once Upon a time in America, Men of Respect, Kill the Irishman (if you haven’t already), The Traitor(2019 Italian movie).
He reviewed Kill The Irishman
I might have included ‘My Blue Heaven’ somewhere in your rankings. Great idea of a list… from a very very credible reviewer. Thanks for the video.
I love how both My Blue Heaven and Goodfellas came from the same source material.
Happy Halloween Mr mike
Who is going to deny Michael on this list. I mean foghetabout it. Well done!
Absolutely on the money. You're better at this than paid movie critics.
I didn't come from the life, but I grew up around a number of family members who were involved, including guys I know you knew.
Carlito’s way was such a great film often overlooked. I’m not sure how accurate it is, but in terms of movie magic it’s almost unmatched
You say not sure how accurate it is, but I never knew it was based on a true story.
Amazing film. Written by a NY/NJ judge who put many "gangsters" away. Every character is based on someone he knew, he says. There are some interviews of him out there, I believe he has since passed on. Bless 🙏
He should review Eastern promises. I grew up in Russia and watched it over there and they said it was very realistic, one of the best and most poignant movies one can watch, Viggo Mortensen is incredible in it
Мужик, ты в своём уме? 😂
You can add A History of Violence since we're taking about Viggo.
It has nothing common with reality. Nothing.
Love you hear your take on some of the others referenced above also Valachi Papers, Gomorrah the series, Chicago outfit, mean streets, the sicilian girl (la siciliana ribelle), and the ruthless (lo spietato)
I think Carlito's Way and Casino belong in GOAT category. Bronx Tale as a movie is Good but not GOAT. Glad you reviewed Peaky and put it in GOAT.
A list of movies to watch. Not necessarily "about" The Mafia but there is some aspect of the Mafia that is portrayed.
They are in order of what to watch ...
A Man Apart, Boondock Saints, Savages, Payback, Highway Men, Snatch, Equalizer 1, Equalizer 3, Get the Gringo, Suicide Kings, Desperado
Only critique I have is to put Black Mass in "Ok" instead of "Not Good". Purely for Johnny Depp's performance.
Yep.. literally the only reason. Joel Edgerton just annoys me to death as an actor. Dude has one facial expression.
The darkness of the movie is one of the qualities that help it stand out IMO
Mr. Franzese, what about these and why were they not on the list????
1. MY BLUE HEAVEN
2. PUBLIC ENEMIES
3. MILLERS CROSSING
4. MOBSTERS
5. LAWLESS
6. THE PROFESSIONAL
7. EASTERN PROMISES
8. THE FRESHMAN
9. ONCE UPON A TIME IN AMERICA
10. SLEEPERS
I was really shocked not to see these on the list. I greatly appreciate what you do and your video content.
Can I add Sexy Beast to the list? I'd also like to hear Michaels opinion on the great James Cagney's body of work in the gangster genre.
The Drop belongs on the list. Loved Eastern Promises
A couple more... The Long Good Friday (Bob Hoskins) and Brother Orchid (Edward G. Robinson)
Don’t forget true romance.
You are so right. I too forgot about these titles. He should definitely watch and rank these.....and Sexy Beast as someone else mentioned.
One great movie about the Westies was not mentioned „STATE OF GRACE“ from 1990 with Sean Penn. In my opinion a very great movie! Another great movie not mentioned was „KING OF NEW YORK“ from 1990 with a great Christopher Walken.
MAJOR W for putting Peaky Blinders in the GOAT category
Michael, this isn't related to the video neccessarily, but I just wanted to let you know that you inspired me to pick up my Bible and read it. Thank you.
You Should give Gomorrah (both film and the show), a chance.
I personally found these very enjoyable and good to watch, it takes on the Neapolitian Camorra.
Yeah there’s a few good Italian ones worth watching.
Corleone/Capo Di Capi about Toto Riina, Romanzo Criminale -the series and the films, and I think there’s one called something like Undercover that was really good.
Gomorrah is great- the film and the series and also for something a bit more cerebral and realistic “il divo” is true and about the corruption in politics.
That show suuuucks
@manuel_winde I agree the capo di tutti capi was a indeed a good Documentary show. Haven't seen the other so can't speak of it.
@SullyReviews5000 Well that is your opinion, still don't hurt to see it
@@SullyReviews5000No it doesn't, it's a great show. I really enjoyed it.
8:03 LOL! I remember how mad you got at David Chase, "Chase if I see you on the street... I'm gonna wish I was still a mob guy."
I stayed up till midnight to watch it on HBO.. very disappointed
13:48 A Stargate Atlantis reference is the one thing I never expected to see on this channel, ever 🤣
I enjoyed your rankings. A few more that I'd be interested to hear your comments on are: Mobsters, Reservoir Dogs, Public Enemies, We Own the Night, and The Departed. Thanks for the videos!
Godfather of Harlem is in my GOAT category. I just binged the 3 seasons in one week... It's been a while I watched a good "historical" show like that one.
Hey mikey I’ve been binge watching your videos for about a month now and I love your content man
That Gotti 2018 reaction was hilarous man.
Nuh Uh! They had Pitbull music and the guy from Look Who's Talking in it. That movie is on the same level as Godfather 1 and 2. Maybe even better!
Ran out of mob movies? I've been waiting for months or years for you to do a Mob Movie Monday for State Of Grace.
Good call. That's a great film.
He could have done once upon a time in America mob movie Monday as well.
Thanks for the new mob film with a great rotten tomatoes score💯
Hey Michael, I highly recommend a review of the first 2 mafia games. Two very well written and produced games with very engaging stories.
Honestly I would love to just see you talk about movies in general, crime related or not. I just like watching that stuff.
God bless you Michael.
At 13:41 he cracked me up talking about that Travolta Gotti movie. 🤣😂🤣
Great video, Michael! I completely agree with your picks for the best mafia films, but it would be fascinating to see you explore some international mafia and crime films as well. There are incredible stories and perspectives from European cinema. For instance, the Polish films Młode Wilki and series Blinded by the Lights, or the Italian series Gomorrah, offer unique takes on organized crime. Also, you might enjoy Brigada from Russia, A Prophet and Mesrine from France, Pusher from Denmark, or Pitbull from Poland. For Bulgarian crime films, Ogledaloto na dyavola, Bandit, The Bulgarian (2018), and The Last Cop (2017) all dive deep into the criminal underworld. It would be interesting to hear how these compare to the American classics!❤❤❤
Gomorrah is magnificent. Both the movie and the series.
Gomorrah the movie and the series are magnificent. Blood on Rome also excellent.
Capo dei capi, or Corleone, in italian is a masterpiece also.
A mob movie with joe pesic is always is good especially casino
Who?
My Cousin Vinny was no slouch either. :)
I agree with all your takes. Especially Godfather 1&2
Michael you are the best!
1. The departed
2. Kill the irishman
3. Hoodlum
4. Mobsters
5. Once upon a time in America
6.Capone (1976 if I'm not mistaken with sylvester stallone in it)
7. Casino
8. Carlito's Way
9. The Krays 1990
10. Charlie 2004
Some of the movies as far as i can remember can do a Review
This isn't a very good list! Mobsters the film with Christian Slater as Lucky Luciano is probably just as bad 👎 as the Travolta Gotti film!
Hoodlum had its moments, but, overall it was pretty cheesy. Tim Roth as Dutch Schultz saved a pretty corny and low-budget film!
@zroy9263 Well I haven't watch John Travolta's GOTTI yet I might give it a try even I've read the review is so bad
Goodfellas is better than all of these.
I hope he's reviewed the two RAY SHARKEY products, WISEGUY and that AL CAPONE movie he did!
Dam he didn't cover those :(
Oh and what about the TOM HARDY CAPONE movie?!
You're such an interesting person to listen to. Not just because of your past life, but in general also. You're a great story teller.
I just watched your videos w/Gravano and he confirmed what I've always thought about him -- he's a pig of a man. You demonstrated great restraint in your back & forth with him by not rising to his bait. After all, it was being televised. You're a class act Mr. Franzese. 👍❤️
First class glazzer. I got a napkin so you can wipe your mouth
That guitar riff in the intro - I see what you did there!
A very good ranking, I love Scarface & The Godfather series also The Sopranos
Irish Gangster Martin Cahill from Dublin has a few films about him. The General is a good film, (john voight and brendan gleeson), also, Vicious Circle was about him. A troubled and poor upbringing in dublin, he ended up robbing some quite famous things and making enemies with the IRA. He had an interesting life
13:14
14:47 15:18
Can you review the cult classic in the Mexican/American community movie Blood in Blood out. Considering your wife is Mexican i think she’ll enjoy your review too
Jeez. I was just on my favorite Italian food channel and read a similar comment to yours. "Can you make some Mexican dishes?" Are you people desperate for attention or validation or something? It's becoming overwhelming and very annoying.
City of God is a great mob/gangster film. So is New Jack City. Can you react to those two films?
I really appreciate the video. I am torn on Godfather 3, Came out when I was in high school and really enjoyed being able to see it on the big screen. Now that the new cut was released a few years ago, Coda really helps the story come together. Not the greatest but a really good movie.
Unfortunately it has to be compared to the 2 greatest movies of all time, which it definitely falls short of. I agree that it was good and people's vitriol towards it is unfair.
True, I just wish it more respect for the story that it was meant to be, the Coda telling helped but unfortunately people will always judge it off the first version. @ascendant95
Underrated mob movies… must see -Johnny Brasco” & “Carlitos Way”
Make sure your producers show you The Penguin tv show. Its basically The Sopranos with DC comic characters. Perfect fit for your channel.
Agreed
The Sopranos is so much better than The Penguin though lol don't get his hopes up
Have you ever thought of looking at Once Upon A Time in america by sergio leone. Its a bit daunting at 4hrs30m but i think its one of the best gangster films. Robert Deniro, James Woods, William Forsythe. Great gangster film.
Definitely
Awesome to see the love for A Bronx Tale!
I just love that movie man. Glad I'm not the only one that put it that high.
Black Mass was indeed too dark but also not really watchable.
Today I finally got the movie "At Close Range" from Arrow Video, watched it and I really like it.
Also a very dark "based on" a true story.
I think Michael will like that one too.
Christopher Walken and the Penn brothers nailed it!
Shocked to see me and a real mobster has the same exact rating for every movie and tv show. I was so happy to see him put Peaky Blinders in the GOAT. I’ve seen everything except the Offer so I have something new to watch. I would put Board Walk Empire is the GOAT section but everything else I agree with.
Hello Mr. Franzese. Much respect and love. Two movies I’d love for you to see and review, and both are Irish gangster films: Miller’s Crossing, and in my opinion the greatest Irish gangster film ever made: State of Grace. Great acting, directing, story, etc. just a classic. Much love from Detroit.
I agree with all the rankings accept for casino thats one of my top 5 all time
Heat even better than casino
@@quasar4601 heat not good
@ , I though H is considered a great movie
@@quasar4601 i would say equal both great
Road to Perdition is probably one of the most underrated gangster movies in my lifetime.
I hope you read these comments cos I highly recommend Gangs of London (about London gangsters) actually it was my old man who got me into this show he's pretty much the same age as you & from East London
I enjoyed this as well
Michael, you should review "29th Street" with Danny Aiello and Anthony Lapaglia. Wonderful Christmas movie with a mob element and based on a true story. Very underappreciated movie. It's like a Christmas Bronx Tale. More people should know about this great film!
Thanks for this one. I enjoy mob movies and some I have not seen yet. I'm definitely checking many of them out based on what you thought of them.
I must be the only person that liked Godfather 3 😅
Yup
WTF 73 years old?
This list really needed a great rank between GOAT and Good
None of these movies belong on the same tier as Godfather 1 or Godfather 2. I will die on that hill.
You missed "Dinner Rush" & "Things to do in Denver When You're Dead" - both fantastic & underatted movies!!
From Montreal ❤I love your show,