The 80+ Best Movies About Police, Ranked
- 1Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Peña, Natalie Martinez
End of Watch, released in 2012, is a gripping police drama that delves deep into the lives of two LAPD officers, played by Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Peña. Directed by David Ayer, the film utilizes a unique found-footage style that adds an extra layer of realism to the story. End of Watch explores themes such as loyalty, sacrifice, and the bond between partners in law enforcement. The chemistry between Gyllenhaal and Peña is palpable throughout the film, making their friendship feel authentic and emotional. The movie received widespread critical acclaim for its intense portrayal of life on the streets for police officers.
- 2Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson
The Departed marks director Martin Scorsese’s return to his crime roots with this tense thriller centered around two undercover operatives – one infiltrating Boston’s criminal underworld (Leonardo DiCaprio), and the other acting as a mole within law enforcement (Matt Damon). Featuring powerful performances from an all-star cast including Jack Nicholson and Mark Wahlberg, who received an Oscar nomination for his supporting role, The Departed delves into themes such as loyalty, betrayal, and identity. A critical darling that won Best Picture at the Oscars along with several other awards; its influence can be felt throughout modern crime cinema.
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The Lethal Weapon franchise launched in 1987 starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover as mismatched LAPD detectives Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh. The films stand out for their perfect balance between explosive action sequences and humorous banter, propelling the buddy-cop genre to new heights. Through the course of four installments, Riggs and Murtaugh's evolving partnership tackles themes like trust, redemption, and family. The franchise's immense success spawned a television series and influenced numerous other action-comedies in its wake.
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- 4Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, Gwyneth Paltrow
In 1995's Seven, director David Fincher crafts a dark tale revolving around two homicide detectives - seasoned veteran Morgan Freeman and his impulsive partner Brad Pitt - who embark on a chilling investigation involving murders inspired by the seven deadly sins. This psychological thriller has become iconic for its unsettling atmosphere and shocking twist ending that still resonates with audiences today. Seven highlights themes such as obsession, justice, and morality while maintaining an unrelenting sense of dread throughout its runtime. Its impact on pop culture can be observed through numerous parodies and references across various forms of media.
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- 5Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Scott Glenn
Training Day stars Denzel Washington in an unforgettable Oscar-winning performance as Alonzo Harris - a corrupt LAPD narcotics detective who takes rookie cop Jake Hoyt (Ethan Hawke) under his wing for a twisted day of lessons in the dark side of law enforcement. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film is lauded for its morally grey characters and intense exploration into the corrupt underbelly of policing. Washington's portrayal of Harris remains one of his most iconic roles to date.
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The Die Hard franchise spans across five films with Bruce Willis at its core as NYPD detective John McClane. What began in 1988 turned into one of Hollywood's most celebrated action series thanks to its non-stop thrills combined with Willis' charismatic performance. The films follow McClane as he engages in high-stakes battles against various terrorists threatening innocent lives often during festive seasons which made phrases like "Yippee-ki-yay!" synonymous with Christmas time for many viewers. Die Hard not only set new benchmarks for the action genre but also contributed to shaping how future cop movies were made.
- 7Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Val Kilmer
Heat showcases an epic duel between LAPD lieutenant Vincent Hanna (Al Pacino) and master criminal Neil McCauley (Robert De Niro). Directed by Michael Mann, this sprawling crime saga examines themes like obsession, honor amongst thieves, and blurred lines between good and evil. Notably featuring De Niro and Pacino sharing a screen for the first time in their illustrious careers, Heat has since been remembered as one of cinema's greatest cop films.
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- 8Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, Robert De Niro
Brian De Palma's 1987 film The Untouchables is an expertly crafted crime drama which focuses on the efforts of a group of incorruptible lawmen led by Kevin Costner's Eliot Ness as they attempt to bring down notorious mob boss Al Capone, played with captivating menace by Robert De Niro. Set against the backdrop of Prohibition-era Chicago, this ensemble piece weaves themes such as morality within law enforcement and the fight for justice amidst rampant corruption. Boasting an Academy Award-winning performance from Sean Connery as veteran police officer Jim Malone, The Untouchables remains a revered classic within the cop movie genre.
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- 9Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn
The Silence of the Lambs, directed by Jonathan Demme, features Jodie Foster as ambitious FBI trainee Clarice Starling who seeks assistance from imprisoned cannibalistic serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins) in order to catch another murderer on the loose. This chilling psychological horror film delves into themes such as manipulation, identity, and hidden darkness within individuals. Both Foster and Hopkins were awarded Oscars for their riveting performances, with The Silence of the Lambs earning Best Picture - making it one of only three movies to achieve a "Big Five" sweep at the Academy Awards.
- 10Harrison Ford, Tommy Lee Jones, Sela Ward
Based on a true story, The Fugitive stars Harrison Ford as Dr. Richard Kimble – a man wrongfully accused of murder who goes on the run to prove his innocence while pursued relentlessly by U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard (Tommy Lee Jones). This thrilling cat-and-mouse chase explores themes such as perseverance against injustice and determination in search for truth. Jones' performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor while solidifying The Fugitive as an enduring classic within its genre.
The Dirty Harry franchise, starring Clint Eastwood as the titular character and spanning five films from 1971 to 1988, follows San Francisco Police Inspector Harry Callahan, a tough-talking cop whose unorthodox methods often clash with bureaucratic red tape. Known for its iconic catchphrase "Do you feel lucky, punk?", this series delves into themes like crime-fighting vigilance and the conflict between personal principles and professional duty. The Dirty Harry movies had a lasting influence on action cinema and police dramas alike by paving the way for future anti-hero protagonists.
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The Beverly Hills Cop franchise stars Eddie Murphy as wisecracking Detroit detective Axel Foley who finds himself clashing with criminals and Beverly Hills law enforcement alike. Spanning three movies starting from 1984, this action-comedy series showcases Murphy's quick wit and comedic timing while touching on themes like the disparity between the haves and have-nots, as well as overcoming personal tragedy. Beverly Hills Cop is often celebrated for its memorable soundtrack featuring Harold Faltermeyer's infectious "Axel F" theme.
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The Bad Boys franchise commenced in 1995 with Will Smith and Martin Lawrence portraying Miami detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett respectively. The series is renowned for its high-octane action sequences, witty banter between the leads, and visually stunning cinematography that captures the distinct style of director Michael Bay. With three installments released over 25 years – most recently being Bad Boys For Life (2020) – this buddy-cop action-comedy examines themes such as friendship, loyalty, and redemption while remaining an exhilarating ride throughout.
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- 14Patrick Swayze, Keanu Reeves, Gary Busey
Point Break, directed by Kathryn Bigelow, chronicles the story of undercover FBI agent Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves) who infiltrates a gang of bank-robbing surfers led by enigmatic thrill-seeker Bodhi (Patrick Swayze). This adrenaline-pumping film combines intense chase scenes both on land and sea with philosophical discussions about finding one's purpose in life. Point Break masterfully explores themes like self-discovery amidst adversity while leaving an indelible mark on pop culture through aspects such as Swayze's charismatic portrayal of Bodhi.
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- 15Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce
L.A. Confidential, based on James Ellroy's novel of the same name, transports audiences to 1950s Los Angeles where three contrasting policemen - played by Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, and Guy Pearce - investigate a series of interconnected crimes. Directed by Curtis Hanson, this neo-noir crime thriller delves into themes like police corruption, sensationalism in media, and the dark underbelly of Hollywood glitz and glamour. The film boasts an ensemble cast that includes Kim Basinger's Oscar-winning performance and has since become a benchmark in its genre.
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- 16Chris Tucker, Jackie Chan, Tzi Ma
The Rush Hour franchise pairs Jackie Chan's Hong Kong detective Inspector Lee with Chris Tucker's fast-talking LAPD officer James Carter for three movies filled with comedic banter and exhilarating martial arts-infused action. Beginning in 1998 and directed by Brett Ratner, the series explores themes such as cultural differences, friendship, and trust as the duo thwarts various criminal schemes across Los Angeles, Hong Kong, and Paris. Rush Hour's blend of humor and action helped popularize the buddy-cop movie genre to a wider international audience.
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- 17Sean Penn, Robert Duvall, Maria Conchita Alonso
Colors, helmed by Dennis Hopper, presents an unflinching look at the Los Angeles gang scene through the eyes of two LAPD officers portrayed by Sean Penn and Robert Duvall. As veteran cop Bob Hodges passes on his streetwise wisdom to rookie Danny McGavin, the film tackles themes such as mentorship, navigating cultural tensions, and confronting urban decay with a raw authenticity that ensures its lasting relevance within the cop movie canon.
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- 18Al Pacino, John Randolph, Jack Kehoe
Serpico presents Al Pacino in one of his most iconic roles as Frank Serpico, a real-life NYPD officer who famously exposed rampant corruption within the police force. Directed by Sidney Lumet, this gripping biographical drama delves into themes such as whistleblowing, moral courage amidst adversity, and the struggle against systemic injustice. Praised for its raw depiction of New York City in the 1960s and 70s alongside Pacino's powerful performance, Serpico remains an influential cop film that echoes through generations.
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- 19Steve McQueen, Robert Vaughn, Jacqueline Bisset
Bullitt, starring Steve McQueen as San Francisco detective Frank Bullitt, is celebrated for its revolutionary car chase sequence which set a new standard for action filmmaking. Directed by Peter Yates, this iconic cop film encapsulates themes like personal integrity amidst political machinations while weaving a thrilling tale centered around protecting a mob informant. With McQueen's effortlessly cool persona driving its legacy forward, Bullitt remains one of cinema's most influential cop movies.
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- 20Keanu Reeves, Dennis Hopper, Sandra Bullock
Speed, directed by Jan de Bont, is a high-stakes action thriller that follows LAPD officer Jack Traven (Keanu Reeves) and passenger Annie Porter (Sandra Bullock) as they scramble to defuse a bomb on board a speeding city bus. The film keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with its relentless pacing and inventive action sequences, while exploring themes like teamwork under pressure and resourcefulness in dire situations. Speed became an instant classic, launching Sandra Bullock's career and further solidifying Keanu Reeves' status as an action star.
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- 21Sylvester Stallone, Harvey Keitel, Ray Liotta
Cop Land is set in Garrison, New Jersey – a small town where NYPD officers reside – and features an ensemble cast including Sylvester Stallone, Harvey Keitel, Ray Liotta, and Robert De Niro. Directed by James Mangold, this crime drama delves into themes such as police corruption, the abuse of power, and the struggle between personal loyalties and moral obligations. Stallone's performance as Freddy Heflin – the partially deaf sheriff caught in the middle of colliding forces – received critical acclaim for showcasing his acting range.
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The RoboCop franchise launched in 1987 with director Paul Verhoeven's original film set in dystopian Detroit where slain officer Alex Murphy is resurrected as part-human, part-machine law enforcer RoboCop. This science fiction-action series ambitiously tackles themes like corporate greed, human identity within technology-driven society, and vengeance against injustice while delivering spectacular special effects for its time. The franchise spans three films along with numerous television adaptations including a 2014 reboot starring Joel Kinnaman.
- 23Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, Chiwetel Ejiofor
American Gangster, directed by Ridley Scott, chronicles the rise and fall of Harlem drug kingpin Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington) while detailing his pursuit by detective Richie Roberts (Russell Crowe). Based on a true story, this crime drama delves into themes like ambition at any cost, police corruption, and redemption amidst moral decay. American Gangster boasts remarkable performances from its leads while examining the complexities of illicit business empires during their prominence.
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- 24Tommy Lee Jones, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin
No Country for Old Men, written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen based on Cormac McCarthy's novel, is a bleak neo-western thriller that follows Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin) after he stumbles upon drug deal money leading to relentless assassin Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem) pursuing him relentlessly. With Sheriff Ed Tom Bell (Tommy Lee Jones) providing a moral compass, the film addresses themes such as fate, existentialism, and the inescapable nature of violence. No Country for Old Men won four Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Supporting Actor for Bardem.
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- 25Frances McDormand, Steve Buscemi, William H. Macy
Fargo, written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, masterfully interweaves crime elements with dark humor in its tale about a botched kidnapping plot that spirals out of control. Set against Minnesota's frigid landscape, this black comedy-thriller stars Frances McDormand as Marge Gunderson – a pregnant police chief who doggedly investigates these crimes with unwavering determination. Fargo went on to win two Academy Awards for Best Original Screenplay and Best Actress while spawning a successful anthology TV series inspired by its unique style.
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- 26Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Michael Madsen
Reservoir Dogs marks Quentin Tarantino's explosive debut as both writer and director in this riveting heist-gone-wrong tale about a group of criminals trying to uncover who among them is an undercover cop. Known for its nonlinear narrative structure, sharp dialogue, and iconic ear-slicing scene set to "Stuck in the Middle with You", Reservoir Dogs explores themes such as trust amid lawlessness, violence begetting violence, and loyalty under duress. This groundbreaking indie film paved the way for Tarantino's illustrious career while leaving an indelible mark on modern cinema.
- 27Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme
Super Troopers is an irreverent comedy that follows a group of juvenile Vermont state troopers who scheme to save their department from budget cuts amid hilarious antics. Directed by Jay Chandrasekhar – who also stars with his fellow members of comedy troupe Broken Lizard – Super Troopers explores themes like camaraderie among outcasts and finding purpose in unexpected ways. The film has since amassed a cult following that led to a sequel in 2018.
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- 28Sidney Poitier, Rod Steiger, Warren Oates
In the Heat of the Night pairs Sidney Poitier as Philadelphia detective Virgil Tibbs with Rod Steiger's Mississippi Police Chief Bill Gillespie to solve a murder mystery in racially tense Southern America. Directed by Norman Jewison, this groundbreaking film examines issues such as racial prejudice and collaboration across divides while earning five Academy Awards including Best Picture. In the Heat of the Night challenged societal norms at the time while cementing Poitier's status as one of Hollywood's finest actors.
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- 29Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jim Broadbent
Hot Fuzz, helmed by Edgar Wright with Simon Pegg and Nick Frost in leading roles as mismatched British police officers, is a riotous comedy that parodies and pays homage to the action-cop movie genre. The film sees Pegg's overzealous Sergeant Nicholas Angel transferred to a seemingly idyllic rural village where sinister events unfold. Hot Fuzz blends humor with thrilling action while examining themes like conspiracy theories, false appearances, and unlikely alliances.
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- 30Stephen Baldwin, Gabriel Byrne, Chazz Palminteri
The Usual Suspects, directed by Bryan Singer and written by Christopher McQuarrie, is a neo-noir crime thriller that follows a group of criminals brought together for an intricate heist. The film's labyrinthine plot, narrated primarily through the unreliable perspective of Kevin Spacey's character Verbal Kint, explores themes like deception, manipulation, and the nature of mythmaking. With its iconic twist ending involving the enigmatic Keyser Söze, The Usual Suspects has become a classic in modern cinema and earned McQuarrie an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
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- 31Harrison Ford, Kelly McGillis, Alexander Godunov
Witness, directed by Peter Weir, follows Philadelphia detective John Book (Harrison Ford) who goes undercover in an Amish community to protect a young boy named Samuel (Lukas Haas) who witnessed a murder. Amidst stark contrasts between urban life and rural tranquility, Witness explores themes like cultural adaptation, forbidden romance, and confronting past traumas while delivering thrilling suspense. Harrison Ford received his only Oscar nomination to date for his standout performance in this unique fusion of crime thriller and heartfelt drama.
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The Police Academy franchise spans seven comedic films from 1984 to 1994 featuring an ensemble cast of misfit police recruits training under strict instructors while getting embroiled in various hilarious situations. This lighthearted comedy series touches upon themes like unity among diverse personalities and overcoming obstacles through humor and ingenuity rather than brute force. The success of Police Academy led to spin-off TV shows and cartoons while leaving its mark on popular culture.
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- 33Gene Hackman, Fernando Rey, Roy Scheider
The French Connection, directed by William Friedkin, stars Gene Hackman as relentless NYPD detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle who becomes obsessed with taking down an international drug-smuggling operation. Based on true events, this gritty crime thriller features one of cinema's most memorable car chases while addressing themes like obsession in the pursuit of justice and the blurred lines between heroes and villains. The French Connection won five Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Actor for Hackman.
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- 34Samuel L. Jackson, Colin Farrell, Michelle Rodriguez
S.W.A.T., directed by Clark Johnson, is an action-packed film based on the 1970s television series of the same name. The movie follows an elite LAPD S.W.A.T. team, led by Samuel L. Jackson and Colin Farrell, tasked with transporting a dangerous international crime lord who has offered a massive bounty for his escape. With high-octane action sequences and thrilling set pieces, S.W.A.T. explores themes like teamwork, honor within the force, and staying true to one's ideals despite overwhelming odds.
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- 35Sean Penn, Tim Robbins, Kevin Bacon
Mystic River, directed by Clint Eastwood and based on the novel by Dennis Lehane, is an emotionally charged drama that focuses on three childhood friends – played by Sean Penn, Tim Robbins, and Kevin Bacon – whose lives intersect following the murder of Penn's character's daughter. As the investigation unfolds, long-buried secrets surface among them. Mystic River explores themes such as grief, revenge, and the impact of past traumas on present lives. The film earned Academy Awards for Sean Penn and Tim Robbins for their powerful performances.
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- 36Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Spacey, David Morse
The Negotiator, directed by F. Gary Gray, stars Samuel L. Jackson as Chicago hostage negotiator Danny Roman who finds himself framed for corruption and takes matters into his own hands by taking hostages while demanding that another negotiator (Kevin Spacey) prove his innocence. This tense thriller delves into themes like trust, betrayal within institutions, and maintaining integrity under extreme circumstances while showcasing standout performances from its lead actors.
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- 37Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, John Huston
Chinatown, directed by Roman Polanski and starring Jack Nicholson as private investigator Jake Gittes, is a seminal neo-noir film set in 1930s Los Angeles amid a web of intrigue involving water rights and political corruption. As Gittes unravels the mystery behind a seemingly simple case of infidelity, he discovers dark secrets that transcend his expectations. Chinatown delves into themes such as deception, power dynamics, and confronting unspeakable truths while securing its place as one of cinema's most influential films.
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- 38Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young
Blade Runner, directed by Ridley Scott and based on Philip K. Dick's novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, stars Harrison Ford as Rick Deckard – a former police officer tasked with hunting down rogue humanoid androids known as replicants in dystopian Los Angeles. This seminal science fiction film delves into themes such as artificial intelligence, humanity's relationship with technology, and the question of what it means to be human. Blade Runner has garnered immense acclaim over time for its visual style and philosophical depth while inspiring countless other films within the genre.
- 39Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, Jodie Foster
Inside Man, directed by Spike Lee with an ensemble cast including Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, Jodie Foster positions itself as a clever heist thriller revolving around a seemingly perfect bank robbery. As Washington's detective character tries to resolve the tense hostage situation, unexpected twists emerge. Inside Man explores themes like moral ambiguity, hidden motives while delivering an intelligent and suspenseful narrative that keeps audiences guessing till the end.
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- 40Denzel Washington, Angelina Jolie, Queen Latifah
The Bone Collector, based on Jeffery Deaver's novel and directed by Phillip Noyce, stars Denzel Washington as a quadriplegic forensic investigator who partners with rookie cop Amelia Donaghy (Angelina Jolie) to track down a serial killer who leaves clues within his grisly crime scenes. The film delves into themes like overcoming personal limitations and collaboration in pursuit of justice with its two powerhouse actors leading the charge in this thrilling cat-and-mouse game.
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- 41Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Brie Larson
21 Jump Street, inspired by the eponymous 1980s TV show but taking a comedic spin on it features Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill as former high school classmates turned rookie cops who go undercover at a high school to bust a drug ring. Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, this action-comedy touches upon themes like friendship amidst adversity while poking fun at conventional cop movie tropes which led to its successful sequel 22 Jump Street.
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- 42Mel Gibson, Joanne Samuel, Hugh Keays-Byrne
Mad Max, directed by George Miller introduces audiences to post-apocalyptic Australia where Mel Gibson stars as Max Rockatansky – a leather-clad cop turned vigilante seeking vengeance against brutal motorbike gangs. This influential dystopian action film explores themes like survival amidst societal collapse along with raw retribution while setting new standards for vehicular action sequences. Mad Max would go on to spawn three sequels including the critically acclaimed Mad Max: Fury Road released in 2015.
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- 43Leslie Nielsen, Priscilla Presley, O. J. Simpson
The Naked Gun franchise is a trilogy of hilarious satirical cop comedies beginning with 1988's The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! starring Leslie Nielsen as bumbling detective Frank Drebin. Directed by David Zucker, these films are known for their slapstick humor, outrageous sight gags, and comedic twists on conventional police dramas. The Naked Gun movies explore themes like maintaining order despite incompetence while spoofing numerous popular films in a lighthearted parody that has inspired countless other comedy projects since its release.
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- 44Joaquin Phoenix, Mark Wahlberg, Eva Mendes
We Own the Night, written and directed by James Gray, stars Joaquin Phoenix as a nightclub manager entangled in conflict between his family's law enforcement background and his loyalty to the Russian mob. As he becomes an informant for his brother (Mark Wahlberg) and father (Robert Duvall), both NYPD officers, this crime drama explores themes such as divided loyalties, redemption through sacrifice, and choosing between blood ties or underworld allegiances.
- 45
Brooklyn's Finest
Richard Gere, Don Cheadle, Ethan HawkeBrooklyn's Finest, directed by Antoine Fuqua, features an ensemble cast including Richard Gere, Don Cheadle, and Ethan Hawke as police officers dealing with personal crises and moral dilemmas while working in the crime-infested streets of Brooklyn. The film delves into themes like corruption within law enforcement agencies, redemption amidst despair, and the struggle to maintain ethical standards under pressure from both internal and external forces.
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- 46Paul Newman, Ed Asner, Ken Wahl
Fort Apache, The Bronx, directed by Daniel Petrie, is set in New York City's crime-ridden South Bronx neighborhood where Paul Newman stars as a conflicted police officer trying to maintain order while battling corruption within his own precinct. This gritty drama tackles themes like personal integrity amidst adversity, racial tensions, and the struggle for justice in a seemingly lawless world. Fort Apache, The Bronx received critical acclaim for its stark portrayal of urban decay during that time period.
- 47Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola DavisIn the heart-pounding thriller Prisoners, Keller Dover (Hugh Jackman) faces every parent's worst nightmare when his six-year-old daughter and her friend go missing. As minutes turn into hours, panic sets in, and Detective Loki (Jake Gyllenhaal) is assigned to the case. However, with no solid leads, Dover takes matters into his own hands. The film masterfully explores themes of desperation and morality during a frantic race against time. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, Prisoners received an Oscar nomination for Best Cinematography. It's a tense exploration of human nature under extreme pressure.More Prisoners
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- 48Samuel L. Jackson, Vincent Cassel, Gianni CapaldiWhen a sadistic murderer surfaces in Scotland, terrified local authorities call on a Chicago detective who investigated a killing spree with the same horrific pattern five years earlier.More Damaged
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- 49William Petersen, Willem Dafoe, John PankowWhen his longtime partner on the force is killed, reckless U.S. Secret Service agent Richard Chance (William L. Petersen) vows revenge, setting out to nab dangerous counterfeit artist Eric Masters (Willem Dafoe). Along with his new, straitlaced partner, John Vukovich (John Pankow), Chance sets up a scheme to entrap Masters, resulting in the accidental death of an undercover officer. As Chance's desire for justice becomes an obsession, Vukovich questions the lawless methods he employs.
- #283 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #51 of 96 onThe 90+ Best Movies Of 1985, Ranked
- #397 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 50Mark Wahlberg, Kevin Bacon, John GoodmanTragedy strikes on April 15, 2013, when two bombs explode during the Boston Marathon. In the aftermath of the attack, police Sgt. Tommy Saunders (Mark Wahlberg), FBI Special Agent Richard DesLauriers (Kevin Bacon) and Commissioner Ed Davis (John Goodman) join courageous survivors, first responders and other investigators in a race against the clock to hunt down the suspects and bring them to justice.More Patriots Day
- 51Esra Bilgic, Osman Alkas, Árpád AntolikAfter learning that the art thief she has been chasing is her ex-lover, an officer working for Interpol concocts a plan to catch him in the act.More Art of Love
- #22 of 22 onGreat Movies About Non-Violent Crimes
- #13 of 191 on190+ Movies And Shows With Art In The Title
- #115 of 139 onThe 100+ Best New & Recent Drama Films, Ranked
- 52Dolph Lundgren, Kelsey Grammer, Michael ParéHoping to save his job, an aging detective travels to Mexico to extradite a woman who witnessed the murders of two DEA agents. Once there, he realizes that bad hombres on both sides of the border are now gunning for him.More Wanted Man
- #187 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #154 of 308 onThe 295+ Best Movies For Guys
- #46 of 84 onThe Best Movies Directed by the Star
- 53Charles Durning, Louis Gossett, Perry King
The Choirboys, directed by Robert Aldrich based on Joseph Wambaugh's novel, follows a group of off-duty LAPD officers who engage in wild escapades to cope with their stressful jobs. This dark comedy-drama showcases themes such as camaraderie among law enforcement officers, the challenges of dealing with trauma, and finding solace in unconventional ways. The Choirboys presents a unique blend of humor and drama while offering an unvarnished look at the lives of police officers beyond their line of duty.
- 54Morgan Freeman, Monica Potter, Michael WincottA psychological suspense thriller adapted from James Patterson's first highly acclaimed novel in the Alex Cross series, Morgan Freeman reprises his role as the Washington, D.C. police detective and psychologist who is through playing mind games with criminals -- that is until a methodical predator, Gary Soneji (Michael Wincott) commits a daring kidnapping and lures Cross into the case.More Along Came a Spider
- #159 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #30 of 113 onThe Best Movies Of 2001
- #29 of 81 onThe 75+ Best Whodunit Murder Mystery Movies
- 55Edward Fox, Michaël Lonsdale, Tony BrittonAn underground French paramilitary group is intent on eliminating President Charles de Gaulle (Adrien Cayla-Legrand), but when numerous attempts on his life fail, they resort to hiring the infamous hit man known as "The Jackal" (Edward Fox). As the enigmatic assassin prepares to shoot de Gaulle, he takes out any problematic people along the way. Meanwhile, Lebel (Michel Lonsdale), a savvy Parisian police detective, begins to solve the mystery of the killer's identity.
- #175 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #242 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #238 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 56
The Mule
Clint Eastwood, Bradley Cooper, Laurence FishburneBroke, alone and facing foreclosure on his business, 90-year-old horticulturist Earl Stone takes a job as a drug courier for a Mexican cartel. His immediate success leads to easy money and a larger shipment that soon draws the attention of hard-charging DEA agent Colin Bates. When Earl's past mistakes start to weigh heavily on his conscience, he must decide whether to right those wrongs before law enforcement and cartel thugs catch up to him. - 57Tom Cruise, Colin Farrell, Samantha MortonBased on a story by famed science fiction writer Philip K. Dick, "Minority Report" is an action-detective thriller set in Washington D.C. in 2054, where police utilize a psychic technology to arrest and convict murderers before they commit their crime. Tom Cruise plays the head of this Precrime unit and is himself accused of the future murder of a man he hasn't even met.More Minority Report
- #29 of 167 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #22 of 93 onThe 95+ Greatest Dystopian Action Movies
- #146 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 58Frances McDormand, Woody Harrelson, Sam RockwellAfter months have passed without a culprit in her daughter's murder case, Mildred Hayes makes a bold move, painting three signs leading into her town with a controversial message directed at William Willoughby, the town's revered chief of police. When his second-in-command, Officer Dixon -- an immature mother's boy with a penchant for violence -- gets involved, the battle is only exacerbated.
- 59Ray Liotta, Jason Patric, Chi McBrideTells the dark story of suspended undercover narcotics officer, Nick Tellis (Jason Patric), who is reluctantly drawn back onto the force to find the truth behind the murder of a young police officer killed in the line of duty. He is teamed with Henry Oak (Ray Liotta), the slain officer's partner, a rogue cop who will stop at nothing to avenge his friend's death. As Tellis and Oak unravel the case, the dark underbelly of the narcotics world reveals itself in surprising ways.More Narc
- #28 of 55 onThe Best Movies About Corrupt Cops
- #77 of 97 onThe 90+ Best Drug Movies of All Time
- #49 of 65 onThe Best Slow Burn Movies That Won't Burn You Out
- 60Richard Gere, Andy Garcia, Nancy TravisIn the Los Angeles Police Department, Officer Dennis Peck (Richard Gere) is a divisive figure, loved by those who are loyal to him and looked on with suspicion by others. His disreputable behavior and dubious finances arouse the suspicion of Internal Affairs, and Sgt. Raymond Avila (Andy Garcia) and his partner (Laurie Metcalf) are assigned to investigate. When a series of witnesses are murdered, Avila realizes his life is in danger, along with that of his wife's (Nancy Travis).More Internal Affairs
- #43 of 90 onThe Best Movies of 1990
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