Crime movies aren't always just action-packed films; sometimes, they may include a bit of comedy, mystery, or suspense, depending on the style. Most crime movies follow the law enforcement's perspective, while some are taken from the bad guys' point of view. Regardless of how the plot is narrated, they do a great job of giving the viewers an adrenaline rush.
From cat-and-mouse chases to suspenseful mysteries, crime movies will keep you on your toes with heart-racing entertainment. So, if you're looking for some good crime flicks, this article is a great place to start. We will help you narrow down your search with a viewer's guide and a list of the 10 best crime movies that you can watch right away.
Quick List - Top Crime Movies
Steven Spielberg
Embark on a Cat and Mouse Chase Around the Globe With a Con Artist
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Still need a hand with choosing what movie to watch? We'd love to help you make a great pick! So, we've rounded up some points to consider as you search for the best crime movies to watch online.
Crime movies come with different themes and settings. To dive into the best crime movie that clicks with your mood and piques your interest, below are some sub-genres that you can explore.
If shootouts, intense fistfights, and frantic chases keep you glued to your couch and screen, then crime-action movies are your cup of tea. They usually revolve around the rise and fall of a group of criminals or a criminal mastermind who operates outside the law. These criminals can be gangsters, robbers, murderers, or drug dealers, and their actions often result in violence.
Looking for something that will turn your frown upside down? Perhaps crime-comedy movies are what you need. They feature hilarious characters, funny scenes, and humorous plotlines that will make you chuckle and giggle for hours. Plus, there's nothing funnier than silly villains ending up with awful results as they try to execute their desperate plans.
Crime-mystery movies are also known as detective movies. They're very entertaining as they intrigue viewers with uncertainty about the truth behind a crime. This type of crime movie is often full of hidden and obvious clues that will help you solve the mystery yourself. But a crime film is even more satisfying if the case is hard to figure out and predict, leaving you guessing until the very end.
Want to immerse yourself in a suspenseful experience? Crime-thriller movies will surely keep you at the edge of your seat. They tend to focus on fear-inducing situations and nail-biting scenes that will make you think about the consequences of the characters' actions and decisions.
They build tension by emphasizing the danger that the protagonist faces. They also take the audience on a roller coaster ride with a lot of unexpected turns of events and escalating conflicts that make the plot more intriguing and exciting.
Even though everyone spends most of their time at home, most people don't have a lot of spare time to watch a movie, as they're either occupied with work or online classes. So, before pressing the play button, make sure you've got enough time to finish a whole movie by checking its runtime.
Considering its length is also helpful when planning a movie night with loved ones or when you're on a tight schedule but want to unwind for a while. Most movies are 1 hour and 30 minutes long, while some lengthy films take over 2 or 3 hours to finish.
Not sure whether to watch the movie or not? When in doubt, checking out its trailer and synopsis comes in handy. You can look at official trailers on YouTube or check movie ratings on sites like IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes. If you want to know more, reading a spoiler-free synopsis can also give you insights into a film's characters and storyline.
Since crime movies often contain violence, adult themes, and strong language, most crime movies are suitable for mature audiences only. So, if you're going to watch it with other people, especially with kids, don't forget to check its maturity rating and content warning so that you know what to expect from it.
Now that you know the points you need to consider, the last thing you have to do is choose what platform you'll use to watch. To assist you in this task, here are the three different ways you can watch a movie.
With streaming sites and applications like Netflix and iFlix, you don't have to download and wait for a long time to watch a movie. You get to choose from a variety of titles, and they allow you to save movies for offline viewing if you want to watch without an internet connection.
These streaming apps can be installed on your tablet, phone, laptop, or desktop, so you can use them anytime and anywhere. However, note that they come with subscription plans that you need to purchase to have access. If you want to try them first before subscribing, you can use their free trial offer.
If you have a favorite movie and you want to watch it whenever you want, then buying a movie on YouTube, iTunes, or Google Play is a good choice. It allows you to watch at your own pace. Plus, you get to access bonus features or content such as commentaries, bloopers, and even deleted scenes.
Renting a movie is a great alternative if you don't want to spend a lot. It's also perfect if you don't have enough space on your device. You can do this on YouTube, iTunes, or Google Play as well. However, keep in mind that a rented movie is only available for a limited time. For instance, once you've rented a movie, you'll only have 24 hours or 30 days to finish it.
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Sub-Genre | Runtime | Age Rating | Starring | IMDb Rating | Rotten Tomatoes | |||||
1 | David O. Russell American Hustle|2013 | ![]() | A Tale of Deceit, Love, and Ambition in the '70s | Drama | 2 Hours, 18 Minutes | 16+ | Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper | 7.2 | 92% | |
2 | Martin Scorsese The Irishman|2019 | ![]() | An Epic Film About Crime and Politics | Drama | 3 Hours, 29 Minutes | 16+ | Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci | 7.8 | 95% | |
3 | Todd Phillips Joker|2019 | ![]() | See Through the Lenses of a Supervillain | Drama | 2 Hours, 2 Minutes | 18+ | Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz | 8.4 | 69% | |
4 | Steven Spielberg Catch Me If You Can|2002 | ![]() | Embark on a Cat and Mouse Chase Around the Globe With a Con Artist | Drama | 2 Hours, 21 Minutes | 13+ | Leonardo Di Caprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher Walken | 8.1 | 96% | |
5 | Rian Johnson Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery|2022 | ![]() | Uncover a Web of Deceit and Secrets With This Gripping Murder Mystery | Mystery, Comedy | 2 Hours, 21 Minutes | 13+ | Danie Craig, Edward Norton, Janelle Monae | 7.1 | 92% | |
6 | David Fincher Gone Girl|2014 | ![]() | Marriage Turns to Shambles When Wife Goes Missing | Thriller | 2 Hours, 28 Minutes | 16+ | Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike, Neil Patrick Harris | 8.1 | 88% | |
7 | Martin Scorsese The Wolf of Wall Street|2013 | ![]() | A Stockbroker Rises to Excessive Wealth Through Financial Fraud | Comedy | 2 Hours, 52 Minutes | 18+ | Leonardo Di Caprio, Jonah Hill, Matthew McConaughey | 8.2 | 80% | |
8 | David Fincher Se7en|1995 | ![]() | Two Detectives Investigate Seven Deadly Sins-Inspired Murders | Mystery | 2 Hours, 7 Minutes | 18+ | Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, Kevin Spacey | 8.6 | 82% | |
9 | Joe Berlinger Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile|2019 | ![]() | A Biographical Crime-Drama About a Notorious Killer | Drama | 1 Hour, 49 Minutes | 16+ | Zac Efron, Lily Collins, Kaya Scodelario | 6.7 | 55% | |
10 | J Blakeson I Care a Lot|2021 | ![]() | An Unscrupulous Legal Guardian Picks on the Wrong Victim | Thriller, Comedy | 1 Hour, 59 Minutes | 16+ | Rosamund Pike, Peter Dinklage, Eliza Gonzales | 6.3 | 78% |
Sub-Genre | Drama |
---|---|
Runtime | 2 Hours, 18 Minutes |
Age Rating | 16+ |
Starring | Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper |
IMDb Rating | 7.2 |
Rotten Tomatoes | 92% |
The Irishman starts with Frank Sheeran, an Irish-American World War II veteran who recounts his life story while in a retirement home. Through a series of flashbacks set in Philadelphia in the 1950s, he recounts his long and colorful mob career with the Bufalino crime family. He also reveals the truth behind his lifelong friend Jimmy Hoffa's disappearance.
Directed by Martin Scorsese and featuring Robert De Niro, this movie takes a more contemplative tone than the typical Mafia movie. It's not just about crime; it's also about universal themes like loss, aging, and regret. The result is a masterpiece in storytelling, supported further by high-quality production, top-notch acting, and brilliant soundtracks. Set aside 3 hours in your schedule and sit back for a cinematic and epic viewing experience!
Sub-Genre | Drama |
---|---|
Runtime | 3 Hours, 29 Minutes |
Age Rating | 16+ |
Starring | Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci |
IMDb Rating | 7.8 |
Rotten Tomatoes | 95% |
Joker is a psychological crime-thriller film that allows viewers a glimpse into the life of a supervillain. The story revolves around a failed comedian named Arthur Fleck, who walks the streets of Gotham City. He works as a clown-for-hire to make a living, and he gets bullied and disregarded by society because of his strange personality and mental illness. He then transforms from an ordinary and misunderstood man into the iconic villain and criminal mastermind known as The Joker.
The movie received good reviews for its story and cinematography and a stellar performance by lead actor Joaquin Phoenix. Even if you're not a fan of the Batman franchise, this one is worth watching for its interesting take on the Joker's worldview. The film's dark and gritty portrayal of the iconic villain is unsettling and thought-provoking, leaving audiences both captivated and disturbed. Note that it could trigger some viewers, as it involves abuse, depression, and suicide.
Sub-Genre | Drama |
---|---|
Runtime | 2 Hours, 2 Minutes |
Age Rating | 18+ |
Starring | Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz |
IMDb Rating | 8.4 |
Rotten Tomatoes | 69% |
Sub-Genre | Drama |
---|---|
Runtime | 2 Hours, 21 Minutes |
Age Rating | 13+ |
Starring | Leonardo Di Caprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher Walken |
IMDb Rating | 8.1 |
Rotten Tomatoes | 96% |
Sub-Genre | Mystery, Comedy |
---|---|
Runtime | 2 Hours, 21 Minutes |
Age Rating | 13+ |
Starring | Danie Craig, Edward Norton, Janelle Monae |
IMDb Rating | 7.1 |
Rotten Tomatoes | 92% |
Gone Girl is a gripping film directed by David Fincher, adapted from Gillian Flynn's best-selling novel. On the morning of their fifth wedding anniversary, Nick Dunne reports his wife, Amy missing. As the investigation unfolds, dark secrets and lies surface, and the media frenzy surrounding the case intensifies.
The film delves into the complexities of human relationships, the power of perception, and the dangerous allure of deceit. Aside from powerful performances and directing, this film stands out for constantly keeping its viewers guessing. The screenplay’s twists and turns are executed flawlessly, leaving a lasting impact long after the credits roll.
Sub-Genre | Thriller |
---|---|
Runtime | 2 Hours, 28 Minutes |
Age Rating | 16+ |
Starring | Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike, Neil Patrick Harris |
IMDb Rating | 8.1 |
Rotten Tomatoes | 88% |
Sub-Genre | Comedy |
---|---|
Runtime | 2 Hours, 52 Minutes |
Age Rating | 18+ |
Starring | Leonardo Di Caprio, Jonah Hill, Matthew McConaughey |
IMDb Rating | 8.2 |
Rotten Tomatoes | 80% |
Sub-Genre | Mystery |
---|---|
Runtime | 2 Hours, 7 Minutes |
Age Rating | 18+ |
Starring | Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, Kevin Spacey |
IMDb Rating | 8.6 |
Rotten Tomatoes | 82% |
For true crime fans, you don’t want to miss this one! It tells the story of Ted Bundy—one of the most notorious killers to walk on the planet. The movie offers a fresh take by adding the perspective of his longtime girlfriend, Liz. During the years they spent together, she thought that she had found her one true love. However, her life gets complicated when Ted gets accused of heinous crimes.
Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil, and Vile offers a chilling portrayal of serial killer Ted Bundy, played convincingly by Zac Efron. The film delves into the charismatic facade Bundy presented to the world, leaving audiences unsettled by the dichotomy of his charm and monstrous deeds. A gripping and haunting examination of what evil is!
Sub-Genre | Drama |
---|---|
Runtime | 1 Hour, 49 Minutes |
Age Rating | 16+ |
Starring | Zac Efron, Lily Collins, Kaya Scodelario |
IMDb Rating | 6.7 |
Rotten Tomatoes | 55% |
This comedy thriller will suit your taste if you enjoy dark humor. It centers on Marla Grayson, a con artist who preys on vulnerable elderly folk by using the legal system. When she unknowingly selects the wrong victim, the cat-and-mouse game ensues, keeping you hooked from start to finish.
You can bank on the solid performances from the ensemble cast, which includes Rosamund Pike, Dianne Wiest, and Peter Dinklage. Pike's portrayal of Marla Grayson even earned her the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Comedy or Musical. With unexpected twists, this wickedly entertaining watch is perfect on a lazy weekend for the ideal balance of humor and suspense!
Sub-Genre | Thriller, Comedy |
---|---|
Runtime | 1 Hour, 59 Minutes |
Age Rating | 16+ |
Starring | Rosamund Pike, Peter Dinklage, Eliza Gonzales |
IMDb Rating | 6.3 |
Rotten Tomatoes | 78% |
With a lot of binge-worthy movies to watch online, you can keep yourself occupied and entertained for the rest of the weekend. If you're looking for more guides and movie recommendations, go ahead and read our articles below!
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Author: Erika Nollora Ceguerra
Re-Editors: R. Umlas, J Ausa
Our viewer's guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the viewer's guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the movie recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different movie streaming platforms.
No. 1: David O. Russell|American Hustle|2013
No. 2: Martin Scorsese|The Irishman|2019
No. 3: Todd Phillips|Joker|2019
No. 4: Steven Spielberg|Catch Me If You Can|2002
No. 5: Rian Johnson|Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery|2022
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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