Mafia-themed (or mafia-centered) movies have long been an inseparable part of the world of cinema. They take the audience into the dark and complex world of criminal life, often involving mafia families who wield power and influence. Amidst the stories that unfold, several mafia families have become iconic, known for the power, cruelty, and tension they bring.

Each mafia family, in film fiction, has unique and fascinating characteristics. They not only become part of the plot but also become living entities in the world created by the director and screenwriter. These are the families who play an important role in building a rich and deep narrative.

The following is a list of the eight most iconic mafia families in movie history. Curious? This is the complete review to discuss together.

1. The Chicago Outfit

The most popular mafia family in the movie world is The Chicago Outfit, introduced in The Untouchables. This film, although considered underrated, offers an interesting storyline. Adapted from Eliot Ness's 1957 book, it tells of his efforts to bring down Al Capone.

Eliot Ness, a government agent, fights crime in Capone-controlled Chicago. He formed the Untouchables team, which is determined to resist corruption. Capone, played by Robert De Niro, is depicted as a cruel figure. The Chicago Outfit, the Capone family, was involved in various crimes in Chicago.

2. Irish Mob Family

The Departed, a 2006 film by Martin Scorsese, features several Hollywood A-list stars, such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson, Mark Wahlberg, Martin Sheen, and Alec Baldwin.

Winning four Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director, this film shows the feud between Billy Costigan, a cop infiltrating a mafia organization, and Colin Sullivan, a mobster disguised as a cop.

In their double world, Jack Nicholson is brilliant as Frank Costello, the gangster who forces the police to take radical action. However, behind their deception, both parties infiltrated the opposing camp, emphasizing tensions within the Irish Mob.

3. Bulger Family

Black Mass depicts the life of James “Whitey” Bulger, a Boston mob boss who is allied with FBI agent John Connolly, his childhood friend. With Connolly's help, Bulger evaded arrest and even used the FBI to eliminate mafia rivals.

The film highlights Connolly's dilemma between his professional duties and his relationship with Bulger. Over time, Bulger's crimes are revealed, facing serious consequences for both of them. Bulger's true story as an FBI informant sparked legal controversy. Although Johnny Depp's role is questionable, the film depicts the power of Bulger and his family in New England.

4. Bufalino Family

The Bufalino mob family dominates the big screen in The Irishman, a Martin Scorsese's 2019 film, adapted from the book I Heard You Paint Houses by Charles Brandt. The story centers on Frank Sheeran, Bufalino's hitman, who admits to killing Jimmy Hoffa.

Played by Robert De Niro, Sheeran uncovers his involvement in crime, including his role in Hoffa's disappearance. Joe Pesci plays Chief Bufalino, while Al Pacino plays Hoffa, respectively.

The film transcends the crime genre and explores themes of life and regret. With Scorsese's brilliant direction and the brilliant performances of the actors, especially De Niro and Pesci, The Irishman is an unforgettable epic. Their chemistry lights up the screen perfectly.

5. Soprano Family

In The Sopranos, Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss, struggles to balance his family and criminal life. When facing anxiety, he underwent therapy with Dr. Melfi, his psychiatrist.

Tony must also face internal and external conflicts, maintaining his position in the criminal organization. The series is considered outstanding and appreciated as one of the best.

However, The Many Saints of Newark, a prequel to the series delves deeper into young Tony Soprano's relationship with Dickie Moltisanti. This film enriches Tony's storyline and character, as well as highlighting his relationships with the people around him.

Also Read:

• 9 Video Game-Themed Films on Netflix that Gamers Must Watch!
• 10 Netflix Movies that Failed Even Though They had a Massive Production Budget
• 10 Recommendations for Action Films on Netflix that Are Worth Watching

6. Gambino Family

Goodfellas by Martin Scorsese stars Robert De Niro as James Conway, Ray Liotta as Henry Hill, and Joe Pesci as Tommy DeVito. Based on the true story of Henry Hill, a mobster turned FBI informant, this film is adapted from the book Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi.

The film tells the story of Hill's journey with Conway and DeVito, starting a career in crime, from success to betrayal. The dynamics of the relationships between the characters create tension that continues to grow.

Goodfellas also provides a real picture of the Gambino mafia family. As one of Scorsese's masterpieces, the film stands out in the pantheon of mafia works and is considered the pinnacle of his career.

7. Montana Family

The most famous mafia family in movie history, known as the Montana Family, appeared in Scarface, a 1983 classic film directed by Brian De Palma, and written by Oliver Stone. Under the hands of Al Pacino as Tony Montana, this iconic character was created. The story follows Tony's journey from a poor immigrant to the most powerful drug boss in Miami.

Arriving as a Cuban refugee, Tony quickly plunged into the world of crime. With his intelligence and ruthlessness, he rose to power in the Miami underworld. The Montana family, unlike other mafia families, consists of his sister, Gina, and his mother. However, Tony still protects them like other mafia families. Their existence creates tension and drama which adds to the complexity of the characters in this film. The Montana Family remains an icon in the world of cinema to this day.

8. Corleone Family

Another one of the most famous mafia families in the world of cinema is the Corleone Family in The Godfather, a very influential film in the crime genre. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola in 1972, this film was adapted from Mario Puzo's novel.

The story follows Don Vito Corleone and his Italian-American Mafia family who are faced with enemy attacks and internal conflict after Vito refuses to get involved in drug trafficking. His son, Michael, was forced to take over the reins, diving into the world of crime.

Throughout the film, Michael becomes embroiled in conflict and intrigue, maintaining family power while facing off against enemies. The story highlights internal conflict, war between mafia groups, and betrayal.

The story of a mafia family is always interesting in films, creating a dark atmosphere that arouses the audience's curiosity. Although many mafia families are introduced in films, the Corleone Family remains one of the most remembered and respected.

What do you think? Which mafia family do you like and remember the most in the film industry? As for the author, we pick the Corleone Family.

Stay tuned only on Dunia Games for more content about video games and pop culture. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram as well.

Top-up now only on Dunia Games!