The 70+ Best Crime Romance Movies, Ranked

Ranker Film
Updated May 1, 2024 31.2K views 76 items
Ranked By
2.1K votes
397 voters
3 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite crime movies that feature a love (or steamy) story.
Latest additions: Wild Canaries, Marmalade
Most divisive: Natural Born Killers
Over 300 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 70+ Best Crime Romance Movies, Ranked

The best crime romance movies split their focus between hair-raising crimes and a love story. The best crime romance films come in many forms. Some crime romance movies involve life and death situations while other good crime romance films are about robbing banks. There are also detective romance movies where the investigator can't help but falling in love. A few of the best crime romance films even took home Academy Awards.

 

What films will you find on this top crime romance movies list? Natural Born Killers has to be at the top. This 1994 movie – written by Quentin Tarantino and directed by Oliver Stone – follows the criminal couple Mickey and Mallory Knox as they wreak havoc on everyone they come in contact with. True Romance – which is another Tarantino-penned screenplay – is also a romantic tale full of felonies and misdemeanors.

Perhaps the film adaptation Bonnie and Clyde is the most iconic portrayal of a criminal couple to ever hit the silver screen. Other good romantic crime movies include Rear Window, Basic Instinct, and Out of Sight.

How will we ever determine which crime romance film is the best? Take a look at this list and vote up your favorites to make sure they end up in the No. 1 spot.

  • Bonnie and Clyde
    1

    Bonnie and Clyde

    Warren Beatty, Faye Dunaway, Michael J. Pollard
    88 votes

    It's hard not to fall in love with the thrilling tale of two lovers who become infamous outlaws during the Great Depression. Their daring bank heists and cross-country crime spree capture the imagination, while their deep adoration for one another is at once touching and tragic. As the law closes in on them, it becomes clear there's no turning back, and the audience can't help but root for this ill-fated romance. A timeless classic that's bound to steal your heart!

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  • Mr. & Mrs. Smith
    2

    Mr. & Mrs. Smith

    Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Vince Vaughn
    58 votes

    A seemingly ordinary married couple discovers they're both secretly working as assassins for rival agencies - talk about a recipe for marital strife! The sparks fly as they try to keep up appearances while plotting against each other, only to eventually come together in an explosive partnership. There's plenty of action-packed fun and witty banter throughout, making it a wildly entertaining ride from start to finish.

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  • North by Northwest
    3

    North by Northwest

    Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason
    51 votes

    This Hitchcock masterpiece follows an unsuspecting man drawn into a web of espionage and danger after being mistaken for a secret agent. Along the way, he crosses paths with a captivating femme fatale, and their steamy chemistry adds a layer of sensuality to the high-stakes intrigue unfolding around them. With its breathtaking cinematography and jaw-dropping suspense, it's no wonder this influential film has stood the test of time.

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  • Rear Window
    4

    Rear Window

    James Stewart, Grace Kelly, Wendell Corey
    49 votes

    In this suspenseful Hitchcock thriller, a wheelchair-bound photographer with nothing better to do starts snooping on his neighbors from the confines of his apartment. Soon enough, he becomes convinced that one neighbor has committed a sinister crime - and enlists his girlfriend's help to investigate further. With its gripping plot and undeniable chemistry between the two leads, it's easy to see why this classic continues to captivate audiences today.

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  • Vertigo
    5

    Vertigo

    James Stewart, Kim Novak, Barbara Bel Geddes
    56 votes

    Another Hitchcock classic, this psychological thriller delves deep into obsession, deception, and identity. A retired detective suffering from debilitating acrophobia finds himself drawn into the twisted life of a woman he's been hired to follow. As their connection intensifies, so does the uneasy sense that things aren't what they seem - culminating in a mind-bending twist that'll leave you reeling. A haunting exploration of love in all its complexity.

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  • True Lies
    6

    True Lies

    Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jamie Lee Curtis, Tom Arnold
    29 votes

    A seemingly mild-mannered salesman turns out to be a government spy leading a double life, unbeknownst to his wife and family. When his latest assignment threatens to unravel the web of lies he's carefully woven, they're thrust into an extraordinary game of deceit and survival. With its electrifying action sequences and an irresistibly charming lead duo, this film guarantees an adrenaline-fueled ride with just the right touch of romance thrown into the mix!

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  • Desperado
    7

    Desperado

    Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Joaquim de Almeida
    32 votes

    A gun-wielding mariachi seeks revenge against a ruthless drug lord who murdered his lover - but finds solace in the arms of another beautiful woman along the way. As they navigate the treacherous world of crime and corruption, their passion for each other only grows stronger. Packed with explosive action, breathtaking visuals, and sizzling chemistry, this film will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

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  • Baby Driver
    8

    Baby Driver

    Ansel Elgort, Kevin Spacey, Lily James
    106 votes

    This high-octane film follows a skilled getaway driver looking for an escape from his life of crime, only to find solace in the arms of a charming waitress. As their affection for each other grows, so too does the pressure to take on one last job before riding off into the sunset together. With exhilarating car chases and an unforgettable soundtrack, it's no wonder this stylish movie raced straight into viewer's hearts.

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  • Focus
    9

    Focus

    Will Smith, Margot Robbie, Adrian Martinez
    101 votes

    When a seasoned conman takes a talented protégée under his wing, the lines between business and pleasure start to blur. Their relationship heats up as they become involved in risky schemes requiring ultimate trust and coordination, which ultimately tests their loyalty to one another. With its slick style and electrifying chemistry, this film proves that crime, passion, and deception make one heck of a combination.

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  • The Thomas Crown Affair
    10

    The Thomas Crown Affair

    Pierce Brosnan, Rene Russo, Denis Leary
    25 votes

    When a suave millionaire art thief catches the eye of a cunning insurance investigator, their flirtatious cat-and-mouse game quickly escalates to thrilling extremes. As they become increasingly entangled in one another's lives, the question arises - can love truly conquer all, even crime? With its sexy banter, jaw-dropping heists, and undeniable chemistry between the leads, this stylish caper will leave you utterly entranced.

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  • L.A. Confidential
    11

    L.A. Confidential

    Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce
    33 votes

    Set against the glamorous backdrop of 1950s Hollywood, this neo-noir crime thriller follows a group of LAPD detectives as they navigate the seedy underbelly of corruption, deceit, and scandal plaguing their city. Amidst all the danger and intrigue, a captivating relationship blossoms between one detective and the beautiful femme fatale caught in the middle of it all. With its twisty plot and stellar ensemble cast, this award-winning film remains an iconic addition to the genre.

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  • Grosse Pointe Blank
    12

    Grosse Pointe Blank

    John Cusack, Minnie Driver, Dan Aykroyd
    41 votes

    In this darkly comedic gem, a hitman attends his high school reunion in hopes of reconnecting with his long-lost love but finds that his past - and profession - may be catching up with him. As he grapples with the consequences of his actions and contemplates a future without violence, the chemistry between him and his former flame ignites once more. Filled with witty banter, tender moments, and electrifying action, this cult favorite is a delight from start to finish.

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  • Chinatown
    13

    Chinatown

    Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, John Huston
    29 votes

    A gritty crime drama set in 1930s Los Angeles, this film follows a private detective hired to uncover evidence of infidelity but instead finds himself ensnared in a web of deceit, corruption, and murder. As he becomes intimately entwined with a femme fatale at the center of the mystery, their torrid affair only serves to deepen the intrigue. This masterpiece showcases both exceptional performances and a masterful script, making it a must-watch for fans of noir and romance alike.

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  • To Catch a Thief
    14

    To Catch a Thief

    Cary Grant, Grace Kelly, Jessie Royce Landis
    18 votes

    This captivating caper follows a reformed cat burglar attempting to clear his name by catching the thief who's mimicked his signature style. Along the way, he encounters a wealthy socialite whose interest in him runs deeper than mere curiosity. As their romantic tension simmers against the backdrop of the stunning French Riviera, it becomes increasingly difficult to separate truth from deceit in this thrilling game of cat and mouse.

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  • Basic Instinct
    15

    Basic Instinct

    Michael Douglas, Sharon Stone, George Dzundza
    52 votes

    There's never a dull moment in this steamy neo-noir thriller. When a troubled detective is tasked with investigating a brutal murder, he's drawn into an ambiguous relationship with the sultry prime suspect, who just so happens to be a best-selling author with a penchant for crime fiction. As their attraction deepens and his obsession intensifies, the line between reality and fantasy becomes increasingly blurred. A provocative tale of desire and danger that'll leave you breathless.

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  • The Big Sleep
    16

    The Big Sleep

    Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Martha Vickers
    21 votes

    In this classic film noir, a hard-boiled private detective is hired to protect a wealthy family against a blackmailing scandal only to find himself embroiled in a deadly game of deception, mystery, and murder. Along his journey, he encounters a femme fatale with secrets of her own, adding depth and allure to the nail-biting plot. Darkly atmospheric and sensually charged, this timeless drama remains an essential piece of cinematic history.

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  • True Romance
    17

    True Romance

    Christian Slater, Patricia Arquette, Dennis Hopper
    54 votes

    A comic book store employee and a call girl fall head over heels for each other after a whirlwind romance - but their love story takes an unexpected turn when they inadvertently become entwined in the criminal underworld. As they embark on a cross-country adventure filled with quirky characters, shootouts, and heart-pounding chases, their unwavering devotion to one another shines through. A raw, exhilarating, and utterly romantic cinematic experience.

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  • Klute
    18

    Klute

    Jane Fonda, Donald Sutherland, Roy Scheider
    21 votes

    When a small-town detective investigates the disappearance of his friend, he enlists the help of a seductive call girl in New York City who may hold the key to solving the case. As they delve deeper into the seedy underbelly of the city, an unlikely romance blossoms between them - even as danger encircles their every move. With its thrilling plot and mesmerizing performances, this film is a tantalizing exploration of love amidst darkness.

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  • Out of Sight
    19

    Out of Sight

    George Clooney, Jennifer Lopez, Ving Rhames
    40 votes

    When a career criminal crosses paths with a tough US Marshal during his escape from prison, their heated connection leads to an unlikely partnership. As they become entangled in each other's lives and evade capture, their steamy chemistry heightens the stakes. With its witty dialogue, compelling performances, and thrilling sequences, this film offers an intoxicating mix of crime and passion.

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  • The Postman Always Rings Twice
    20

    The Postman Always Rings Twice

    Lana Turner, John Garfield, Cecil Kellaway
    36 votes

    This gritty and sensational adaptation of the James M. Cain novel delves into dark and dangerous territory as a drifter becomes ensnared by the deadly allure of a married woman looking to escape her humdrum life at a roadside diner. As their steamy affair intensifies, so too does the sinister plot they hatch to murder her husband - with unforeseen consequences lurking around every corner. It's a tale of desperation, obsession, and betrayal that'll leave you breathless.

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  • Sin City
    21

    Sin City

    Jessica Alba, Devon Aoki, Alexis Bledel
    45 votes

    Set in the dark and gritty world of Basin City, this visually stunning crime anthology interweaves multiple storylines featuring complex characters seeking redemption, revenge, or both. Amidst the rampant violence and corruption, unexpected connections and passionate encounters arise - painting a mesmerizing picture of love in unlikely places. Bold, stylized, and unforgettable, this groundbreaking film pushes the boundaries of cinema.

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  • Dark Passage
    22

    Dark Passage

    Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Bruce Bennett
    22 votes

    In this atmospheric noir classic, an escaped convict wrongly accused of murder goes on the run with the help of a beautiful stranger. As they grow closer while evading capture, their love story is complicated by danger, deception, and mounting paranoia. With memorable performances, stunning cinematography, and a gripping plot, this masterful film captivates audiences from start to finish.

  • The Lady from Shanghai
    23

    The Lady from Shanghai

    Rita Hayworth, Orson Welles, Everett Sloane
    15 votes

    This noir classic tells the story of an Irish sailor who becomes entangled in a web of deceit and manipulation after agreeing to work on a mysterious yacht owned by a wealthy couple. As he's drawn further into the twisted world of the bickering pair - particularly the enigmatic wife - it becomes clear that everyone has something to hide. With its dazzling cinematography and riveting performances, this stylish film will captivate fans both old and new.

  • Twilight
    24

    Twilight

    Paul Newman, Susan Sarandon, Gene Hackman
    13 votes

    While far removed from the vampire-infused teenage drama many associate with the title, this 1998 crime thriller boasts an impressive ensemble cast and a captivating story. An aging private investigator becomes embroiled in a complex case involving old friends, a mysterious femme fatale, and a deadly secret from his past. As the various threads of the story intertwine, he's forced to confront not only the truth but also his own feelings for the beguiling woman caught in the web of deceit. With its intricate plot and film noir-inspired atmosphere, this underrated gem is well worth a watch.

  • Mickey Blue Eyes
    25

    Mickey Blue Eyes

    Hugh Grant, James Caan, Jeanne Tripplehorn
    27 votes

    When an Englishman gets engaged to the daughter of a mob boss, he unwittingly becomes entangled in the family's criminal activities. As he struggles to navigate the treacherous world of organized crime while maintaining his relationship, humorous antics ensue. With its charming blend of romance, comedy, and mobster mayhem, this lighthearted film is sure to entertain.

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  • Badlands
    26

    Badlands

    Martin Sheen, Sissy Spacek, Warren Oates
    38 votes

    Inspired by actual events, this haunting crime drama follows a young couple on a murder spree across the rural landscapes of South Dakota. Their intense love affair amidst the violence and chaos paints a portrait of infatuation gone terribly awry. Featuring captivating performances and breathtaking visuals, this chilling love story lingers long after the credits roll.

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  • The Whole Nine Yards
    27

    The Whole Nine Yards

    Bruce Willis, Matthew Perry, Rosanna Arquette
    28 votes

    When a hitman moves in next door to an unsuspecting man seeking solace from his mundane life, an unlikely - and often humorous - friendship ensues. However, things become complicated when romance sparks between him and the hitman's estranged wife. Filled with sharp wit and plenty of twists, this action-packed comedy highlights the chaos that unfolds when love, loyalty, and crime collide.

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  • The Big Easy
    28

    The Big Easy

    Dennis Quaid, Ellen Barkin, Ned Beatty
    30 votes

    In this sultry crime drama set in New Orleans, a carefree detective becomes embroiled in a web of corruption, murder, and drug trafficking - while also falling for the passionate district attorney assigned to investigate him. As their professional partnership turns personal amidst the chaos, it's unclear whether their love can survive the storm. With its steamy romance and captivating intrigue, this intoxicating film draws viewers into its spell.

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  • Body Heat
    29

    Body Heat

    William Hurt, Kathleen Turner, Richard Crenna
    35 votes

    When a sleazy lawyer sets out to seduce the wife of a wealthy businessman, their torrid affair quickly spirals out of control as they hatch a plot to murder him and inherit his fortune. As the lovers' deadly scheme unfolds, one can't help but think that things may not end well for them. A steamy and atmospheric homage to classic film noir, this tale of lust, betrayal, and greed is a must-see.

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  • Fun with Dick and Jane
    30

    Fun with Dick and Jane

    Jim Carrey, Téa Leoni, Alec Baldwin
    32 votes

    When a wealthy couple finds themselves penniless after the husband loses his job due to corporate scandal, they resort to a life of crime to maintain their extravagant lifestyle. As they embark on a series of increasingly outlandish heists, their love for each other is put to the test. Blending crime, comedy, and romance, this quirky film offers plenty of laughs and just the right amount of heart.

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