The Best Movies About Arms Dealers

Ranker Film
Updated April 27, 2024 19 items

The best movies about arms dealers are some of the most popular films of all time. These are the top movies about gunrunners, mercenaries, and other shady characters who deal in weapons. Some of these films feature fictional arms dealers while others feature real-life figures.

What is an arms dealer? An arms dealer is a person or company that sells weapons to people or groups. They can be legal or illegal depending on where they operate and what they sell. Arms dealers have been around for centuries and have played a major role in many wars throughout history (the American Civil War, World War I, World War II). The best movies about them are often thrillers with lots of action and suspenseful plot twists (see The Bourne Identity).

Do you have a favorite film about an arms dealer? Give the best ones a vote up! 

  • From Russia with Love
    1

    From Russia with Love

    Sean Connery, Daniela Bianchi, Robert Shaw
    8 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Spy, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Sean Connery returns as James Bond in this spy thriller that pits 007 against a powerful Russian organization known as SPECTRE, which plans to use stolen encryption devices for global domination through arms trafficking. As Bond tracks down these dangerous devices, viewers are treated to thrilling espionage action while gaining perspective on the vital role played by secretive organizations in facilitating illegal weapons exchanges. From Russia with Love remains an excellent choice for moviegoers seeking both entertainment and thought-provoking content centered around arms dealers' influence worldwide.

    In the heart-pounding thriller From Russia with Love, James Bond (Sean Connery) returns, tasked with a high-stakes mission. Bond is sent to assist in the defection of Soviet consulate clerk Tatiana Romanova (Daniela Bianchi), who claims to have fallen for him from afar. Little does he know, it's a trap laid by SPECTRE, an international crime syndicate seeking revenge on 007 for his prior exploits. With exotic Istanbul as a backdrop and featuring a memorable boat chase scene, this film won the BAFTA Award for Best British Art Direction (Color). A classic Bond adventure filled with danger, deceit, and daring escapes.
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  • The Day of the Jackal
    2

    The Day of the Jackal

    Edward Fox, Michaël Lonsdale, Tony Britton
    6 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Historical, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Based on Frederick Forsyth's novel, The Day of the Jackal follows a professional assassin known as "The Jackal" who is hired by a mysterious organization to eliminate France's president. Throughout the film, viewers witness The Jackal's interactions with arms dealers as he acquires tools to carry out his deadly mission. This classic political thriller provides fascinating insight into how assassins and other covert operators rely on illegal weapons trade to conduct their operations.

    An 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.
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  • Licence to Kill
    3

    Licence to Kill

    Timothy Dalton, Carey Lowell, Robert Davi
    11 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Spy, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: A classic James Bond film, Licence to Kill sees 007 (Timothy Dalton) pursuing a brutal drug lord who also deals in dangerous weapons. This gripping action-adventure movie provides insight into the ruthless strategies employed by arms dealers as they manipulate governments, law enforcement agencies, and criminals alike. Filled with exciting stunts and exotic locations, Licence to Kill offers viewers a glimpse into the deadly realm of arms trafficking while enjoying traditional Bond charm.

    James Bond (Timothy Dalton) takes on his most-daring adventure after he turns renegade and tracks down one of the international drug cartel's most-brutal and powerful leaders. After the murder of his just-married friend, he is fighting not only for country and justice, but for personal revenge!
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  • Goldfinger
    4

    Goldfinger

    Sean Connery, Gert Fröbe, Honor Blackman
    11 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Spy, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Another iconic James Bond entry, Goldfinger introduces viewers to Auric Goldfinger – a wealthy businessman with a penchant for gold smuggling and dabbling in international arms trade. Sean Connery's portrayal of 007 highlights his skills as both an investigator and adept combatant against formidable adversaries behind illicit weapon dealings. Goldfinger stands out not only for its memorable villain but also for offering viewers an exciting look at the connection between wealth accumulation, corruption, and arms dealing.

    In the third installment of the James Bond series, Goldfinger, agent 007 (Sean Connery) is pitted against a wealthy and cunning gold magnate, Auric Goldfinger (Gert Fröbe). The plot thickens as Bond uncovers Goldfinger's audacious scheme to irradiate the U.S. gold reserve at Fort Knox, thereby skyrocketing his own wealth. This thrilling spy-adventure, infused with iconic gadgets and high-speed car chases, won an Academy Award for Best Effects/Sound Effects in 1965. A must-watch for fans of classic cinema and espionage thrillers.
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  • Lord of War
    5

    Lord of War

    Nicolas Cage, Jared Leto, Bridget Moynahan
    23 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Lord of War offers a deeply insightful look into the world of international arms dealing, focusing on the morally ambiguous life of Yuri Orlov, portrayed by Nicolas Cage. The film examines the complexities and ethical dilemmas faced by arms dealers as they navigate through war zones and government scrutiny. With intense action sequences and captivating storytelling, Lord of War is a must-watch for those who seek an understanding of the dark underbelly of the global weapons trade.

    The 20-year arms dealing career of Queens, N.Y., outcast Yuri Orlov (Nicolas Cage) serves as a window onto the end of the Cold War and the emergence of worldwide terrorism. He finds himself reassuring his more ethically challenged younger brother, Vitaly (Jared Leto), while adeptly sidestepping the pursuit of federal agent Jack Lawrence (Ethan Hawke). The globetrotting arms dealer also pursues the woman of his dreams, supermodel Ava Fontaine (Bridget Moynahan).
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  • War Dogs
    6

    War Dogs

    Jonah Hill, Miles Teller, Ana de Armas
    24 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Biographical, Crime, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Based on true events, War Dogs tells the story of two young men who become unlikely arms dealers during the Iraq War, landing a $300 million contract with the U.S. government. The film showcases their meteoric rise and eventual downfall while providing an intriguing perspective on the lucrative yet dangerous world of arms dealing. Jonah Hill and Miles Teller deliver powerful performances that leave viewers questioning moral boundaries and pondering the consequences of unchecked greed.

    With the war in Iraq raging on, a young man (Jonah Hill) offers his childhood friend a chance to make big bucks by becoming an international arms dealer. Together, they exploit a government initiative that allows businesses to bid on U.S. military contracts. Starting small allows the duo to rake in money and live the high life. They soon find themselves in over their heads after landing a $300 million deal to supply Afghan forces, a deal that puts them in business with some very shady people.
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  • Ronin
    7

    Ronin

    Robert De Niro, Jean Reno, Natascha McElhone
    15 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Thriller, Spy, Crime
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Centered on a team of mercenary operatives tasked with recovering a mysterious briefcase, Ronin delves into the murky world of arms trading and international espionage. The film features an all-star cast including Robert De Niro and Jean Reno, who navigate a treacherous web of deception and danger in their quest for the valuable prize. With its intricate plotlines and high-octane action sequences, Ronin is an exhilarating watch that showcases the dangerous nature of arms dealing.

    In Ronin, an intricate dance of intrigue and deception unravels. A motley crew of former intelligence operatives, led by the stoic Sam (Robert De Niro), is assembled to intercept a mysterious briefcase. The team includes the enigmatic Vincent (Jean Reno), the sharpshooter Larry (Skipp Sudduth), and the tech wizard Gregor (Stellan Skarsgård). As they navigate through treacherous Parisian streets, their loyalties become questionable. Directed by John Frankenheimer, this thriller delights with its high-octane car chases and strategic mind games. Ronin is a masterclass in suspense, where not everything is as it seems.
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  • Free Fire
    8

    Free Fire

    Sharlto Copley, Armie Hammer, Brie Larson
    15 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Comedy, Crime, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Set in 1978 Boston, Free Fire centers around a high-tension illegal arms deal gone awry within an abandoned warehouse. The movie brilliantly captures both humor and chaos through its relentless shootouts as various factions vie for control over valuable weapons. With a talented ensemble cast including Brie Larson, Armie Hammer, and Cillian Murphy, Free Fire offers thrilling entertainment while demonstrating just how volatile and precarious arms deals can be.

    When a black-market arms deal goes outrageously wrong, Justine finds herself caught in the crossfire, forced to navigate through a warehouse full of trigger-happy madmen who are all hanging on for dear life.
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  • The Odessa File
    9

    The Odessa File

    Jon Voight, Maximilian Schell, Maria Schell
    7 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Thriller, Historical, Spy
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Set in post-World War II Germany, The Odessa File revolves around a journalist who stumbles upon a secret organization of former SS officers involved in illegal arms trading. The film masterfully blends historical events with tense action sequences as it delves into the complexities surrounding political power plays and hidden networks that fuel wars across the globe. The Odessa File serves as an engaging examination of how far-reaching and influential arms dealing can be throughout history.

    A Holocaust victim's diary inspires a German journalist to embark on a dangerous hunt for postwar Nazis.
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  • The International
    10

    The International

    Clive Owen, Naomi Watts, Armin Mueller-Stahl
    19 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Delving into corporate corruption and shady financial dealings that fuel global conflicts, The International follows Interpol agent Louis Salinger (Clive Owen) as he uncovers an international bank's involvement in illegal arms trading. This suspenseful thriller exposes viewers to a rarely seen side of weapons trafficking, revealing the intricate connections between financial institutions and war profiteers. The International is an intriguing watch for anyone curious about the covert world of arms dealers and their powerful backers.

    Interpol agent Louis Salinger (Clive Owen) joins forces with New York prosecutor Eleanor Whitman (Naomi Watts) to put an end to a powerful bank's funding of terrorism. As they follow the money from Germany to Italy to New York to Turkey, Salinger and Whitman find their own lives are at risk from those who will stop at nothing to protect their interests.
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  • The Man with the Golden Gun
    11

    The Man with the Golden Gun

    Roger Moore, Christopher Lee, Britt Ekland
    11 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Spy, Adventure, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Roger Moore's portrayal of James Bond takes him on a dangerous mission to find the infamous assassin Francisco Scaramanga, known for his signature weapon - a custom golden gun. This iconic installment in the 007 series showcases how the clandestine arms trade caters not only to warring factions but also individual assassins seeking unique weapons tailored for their deadly pursuits. The Man with the Golden Gun delivers nail-biting action sequences and intriguing insights into the world of bespoke weaponry created solely for contract killers.

    Cool government operative James Bond (Roger Moore) searches for a stolen invention that can turn the sun's heat into a destructive weapon. He soon crosses paths with the menacing Francisco Scaramanga (Christopher Lee), a hit man so skilled he has a seven-figure working fee. Bond then joins forces with the swimsuit-clad Mary Goodnight (Britt Ekland), and together they track Scaramanga to a tropical isle hideout where the killer-for-hire lures the slick spy into a deadly maze for a final duel.
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  • Extraction
    12

    Extraction

    Chris Hemsworth, Patrick Newall, Rayna Campbell
    11 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Thriller, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Extraction follows black-market mercenary Tyler Rake (Chris Hemsworth) as he is hired to rescue the kidnapped son of an international crime lord. Throughout the film, viewers are exposed to a world where arms dealers and mercenaries operate in tandem, highlighting intricate connections between criminal organizations and those providing deadly weapons. With intense action sequences and a pulse-pounding plot, Extraction offers a thrilling glimpse into the high-stakes underworld of arms dealing.

    A black-market mercenary who has nothing to lose is hired to rescue the kidnapped son of an imprisoned international crime lord. But in the murky underworld of weapons dealers and drug traffickers, an already deadly mission approaches the impossible.
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  • The Dogs of War
    13

    The Dogs of War

    Christopher Walken, Tom Berenger, Colin Blakely
    12 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Drama, War
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Based on Frederick Forsyth's best-selling novel, The Dogs of War follows a group of mercenaries hired by a businessman who plans to overthrow an African government for personal gain. As they prepare for their mission, they rely on illegal arms suppliers who provide them with advanced weaponry necessary for their perilous operation. By showcasing complex relationships between war profiteers, mercenaries, and arms dealers, The Dogs of War offers moviegoers an eye-opening look at how greed fuels global conflict.

    Mercenary soldiers Jamie (Christopher Walken) and Drew (Tom Berenger) are hired by a large corporation to liberate Zangaro, a small African nation, from an iron-fisted despot. Once there, Jamie ends up in jail. After being brutally tortured, he is helped by Dr. Okoye (Winston Ntshona), a political prisoner, and learns more about the plight of the country's people. After Jamie is freed, he becomes disillusioned with his wealthy employers and joins the Zangaro people on the revolutionary front.
  • The Last Thing He Wanted
    14

    The Last Thing He Wanted

    Anne Hathaway, Ben Affleck, Willem Dafoe
    9 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Anne Hathaway stars as Elena McMahon, a journalist who becomes entangled in her father's illicit arms-dealing business while investigating political corruption during the 1980s Iran-Contra scandal. The film provides a fascinating examination of how arms dealers manipulate international politics and covertly shape world events. With a strong performance by Hathaway, The Last Thing He Wanted makes for an engaging exploration of the murky world that surrounds global arms trafficking.

    The Last Thing He Wanted is a 2020 British-American political thriller film directed by Dee Rees, based on the book of the same name by Joan Didion. A veteran D.C. journalist (Anne Hathaway) loses the thread of her own story when a guilt-propelled errand for her father (Willem Dafoe) who is dying, thrusts her from byline to unwitting subject in the very story she’s trying to break.
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  • Mission: Impossible III
    15

    Mission: Impossible III

    Tom Cruise, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Ving Rhames
    7 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Thriller, Spy
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt in this thrilling installment of the Mission: Impossible series, which sees him pursuing ruthless arms dealer Owen Davian (Philip Seymour Hoffman). The film sheds light on the intricate networks and harrowing dangers surrounding the illegal weapons trade while delivering heart-stopping action sequences that fans have come to expect from this iconic franchise. Mission: Impossible III is a must-see for viewers seeking both entertainment and deeper insights into the world of arms dealing.

    Mission: Impossible III is an adrenaline-fueled action thriller, the third installment in the globally acclaimed franchise. The film pivots around super-spy Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise), who is pulled back into action after a period of semi-retirement. Hunt's mission, should he choose to accept it, involves stopping a ruthless arms dealer named Owen Davian (Philip Seymour Hoffman). Amidst high-stakes espionage and heart-stopping stunts, Hunt must also protect his beloved Julia Meade (Michelle Monaghan) from danger. Directed by J.J. Abrams, this movie adds a layer of personal stakes to the usual explosive spectacle that defines the Mission: Impossible series.
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  • Traffic
    16

    Traffic

    Michael Douglas, Don Cheadle, Benicio Del Toro
    7 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: While primarily focused on the international drug trade, Traffic delves into the complex web of crime and corruption that ties arms dealing and drug trafficking together. The film's multiple storylines offer viewers an engrossing examination of how different factions, including law enforcement agencies and criminal cartels, are deeply intertwined in a world driven by profit and power. With its relevant themes, stellar ensemble cast, and gripping storytelling, Traffic is an essential watch for those seeking to understand the nexus between drug smuggling and arms dealing.

    Traffic, a complex and gripping drama, weaves together three intertwined stories of the international drug trade. In Washington, D.C., Robert Wakefield (Michael Douglas), a conservative judge, is appointed to spearhead the war against drugs only to discover his daughter is an addict. In San Diego, undercover DEA agents, Montel Gordon (Don Cheadle) and Ray Castro (Luis Guzman), face moral dilemmas as their job infiltrates their personal lives. Lastly, in Mexico, Javier Rodriguez (Benicio Del Toro), a state cop struggles with corruption all around him. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, this Oscar-winning film intricately explores the far-reaching effects of the narcotics industry.
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  • I Spy
    17

    I Spy

    Eddie Murphy, Owen Wilson, Famke Janssen
    7 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Spy
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: This comedy-action film featuring Eddie Murphy as professional boxer Kelly Robinson and Owen Wilson as spy Alex Scott sees them teaming up to retrieve a stolen stealth fighter jet from an international arms dealer. While providing laughs throughout, I Spy also offers an entertaining take on the high-stakes operations that intelligence agencies undertake when dealing with dangerous criminals involved in weapons smuggling. Viewers who enjoy humor infused with action will find I Spy an enjoyable look into the lighter side of combating illegal arms trade.

    When the Switchblade, the most sophisticated prototype stealth fighter created yet, is stolen from the U.S. government, one of the United States' top spies, Alex Scott (Owen Wilson), is called to action. What he doesn't expect is to get teamed up with a cocky civilian, World Class Boxing Champion Kelly Robinson (Eddie Murphy), on a dangerous top secret espionage mission. Their assignment: using equal parts skill and humor, catch Arnold Gundars, one of the world's most successful arms dealers.
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  • Lethal Weapon 3
    18

    Lethal Weapon 3

    Mel Gibson, Danny Glover, Joe Pesci
    4 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Crime, Thriller, Comedy.
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Iconic duo Mel Gibson and Danny Glover reprise their roles as Riggs and Murtaugh in this action-packed installment of the Lethal Weapon series, which sees them taking down black market gun sales linked to corrupt law enforcement officials. The film offers not only thrilling action sequences but also insightful commentary on the role insider corruption plays in perpetuating illegal weapon trades. Viewers will appreciate how Lethal Weapon 3 combines high-octane entertainment with thought-provoking themes centered around arms dealing.

    Veteran police detective Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover) is only days away from retiring when he and his tough partner, Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson), are roped into an important internal affairs case. Working with the beautiful, no-nonsense Sergeant Lorna Cole (Rene Russo) and aided by the shifty informant Leo Getz (Joe Pesci), Murtaugh and Riggs begin to close in on a black-market weapons operation involving corrupt cop and arms dealer Jack Travis (Stuart Wilson).
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  • The Man
    19

    The Man

    Samuel L. Jackson, Eugene Levy, Luke Goss
    4 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Comedy, Crime
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Arms Dealers: Samuel L. Jackson stars as ATF agent Derrick Vann who must partner up with dental supply salesman Andy Fiddler (Eugene Levy) after he is mistaken for an infamous gun runner. This comedic buddy-cop flick not only delivers humor but also highlights serious issues surrounding undercover operations against illicit weapon suppliers and crime syndicates. The Man offers moviegoers both laughter and food for thought regarding law enforcement efforts against illegal arms dealers.

    Seeking the gunrunners who killed his partner, undercover cop Derrick Vann (Samuel L. Jackson) sets up a sting. He arranges to meet an arms dealer at a diner, where he'll be the only one reading USA Today. But dentist Andy Fiddler (Eugene Levy), who's in Detroit for a conference, is there reading the same paper, and the dealer mistakes him for Vann and sets up the deal. When Vann realizes this, he drags the baffled Andy into the operation, forcing him to pose as the fake buyer.
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