8 ’90s Gangster Movies That Some Fans Say Beat Goodfellas

Goodfellas is often called one of the greatest gangster movies ever made. Directed by Martin Scorsese and based on Nicholas Pileggi’s book Wiseguy, the 1990 classic earned six Oscar nominations and won Joe Pesci an Academy Award. Many fans even rank it above The Godfather films because of its fast pace, dark humor, and unforgettable dialogue.

However, the success of Goodfellas has overshadowed many other excellent gangster films from the 1990s. Some of these movies offered deeper characters, stronger moral themes, or more unique storytelling. Below are eight ’90s gangster movies that many viewers believe are just as good — or even better — than Goodfellas.

1. A Bronx Tale (1993)

Robert De Niro made his directorial debut with A Bronx Tale, a powerful and emotional gangster drama. The film follows young Calogero, who is torn between the honest values of his father and the tempting lifestyle of local mob boss Sonny.

Unlike Goodfellas, this movie focuses heavily on life lessons, family, and moral choices. Its famous “Door Test” scene remains one of the most memorable moments in gangster cinema.

2. Carlito’s Way (1993)

Often considered a masterpiece, Carlito’s Way reunites Al Pacino with director Brian De Palma. Pacino plays Carlito Brigante, a former criminal who wants to escape his violent past but finds it nearly impossible.

The film shows crime as a trap rather than a fantasy. Strong performances from Pacino and Sean Penn give the story emotional weight that many feel Goodfellas lacks.

3. Bugsy (1991)

Bugsy tells the story of infamous mobster Bugsy Siegel and the rise of Las Vegas. Starring Warren Beatty and Annette Bening, the film blends crime, romance, and Old Hollywood glamour.

With ten Oscar nominations, Bugsy explores the business side of organized crime more deeply than Goodfellas, focusing less on street life and more on power and ambition.

4. Boyz n the Hood (1991)

John Singleton’s Boyz n the Hood offers a different kind of gangster story. Set in South Central Los Angeles, the film shows how crime becomes a survival tool rather than a choice.

With standout performances from Cuba Gooding Jr., Ice Cube, and Laurence Fishburne, the movie delivers a strong social message. Its realism and emotional impact often surpass the glamorized crime world shown in Goodfellas.

5. Donnie Brasco (1997)

Based on a true story, Donnie Brasco stars Johnny Depp as an undercover FBI agent who infiltrates the mafia, and Al Pacino as the aging mobster who trusts him.

While Goodfellas focuses on life inside the mob, Donnie Brasco goes deeper into law enforcement tactics and the emotional cost of betrayal. Its tension and atmosphere make it a standout gangster film.

6. New Jack City (1991)

New Jack City captures the rise of drug empires during the crack epidemic. Wesley Snipes delivers a powerful performance as Nino Brown, one of the most memorable gang leaders of the decade.

The film’s raw energy, iconic dialogue, and intense action scenes give it an edge that Goodfellas never fully reaches.

7. Casino (1995)

Scorsese returned to familiar territory with Casino, starring Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone. The movie explores the mafia’s control over Las Vegas casinos.

Many fans feel Casino improves on Goodfellas with deeper character relationships, especially the toxic marriage between De Niro’s Ace and Stone’s Ginger.

8. Miller’s Crossing (1990)

Directed by the Coen brothers, Miller’s Crossing is a stylish and intelligent gangster film set during Prohibition. Its sharp dialogue, noir visuals, and complex characters make it a cult classic.

The movie offers a traditional mob atmosphere and thoughtful storytelling that some viewers find more engaging than Goodfellas.