Top Crime Movies with the Most Complex Protagonists

Ranking based on votes from the community

1. 

   1

   The Public Enemy

   0 votes

   • Morally ambiguous and fascinating protagonist

     (+3)

   Tom Powers' rise as a prohibition-era mobster explores themes of family loyalty, ambition, and the destructive nature of crime, showcasing a complex character arc.

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2. 

   2

   Taxi Driver

   0 votes

   • Psychologically complex and disturbed protagonist

     (+4)

   The protagonist's descent into madness, fueled by isolation and societal disillusionment, makes for a deeply unsettling yet fascinating character study.

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3. 

   3

   Se7en

   0 votes

   

   

   1.8 M

   • Great performances by Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman

     (+2)

   Detective Mills' impulsive nature contrasts with Somerset's experience, creating a dynamic duo navigating a dark world of crime and moral decay.

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5. 

   4

   Goodfellas

   0 votes

   • Gritty portrayal of mob life

     (+4)

   Henry Hill's rise and fall in the mob offers a candid look at the allure and consequences of a life of crime, showcasing a complex mix of loyalty, greed, and vulnerability.

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6. 

   5

   On the Waterfront

   0 votes

   • Morally ambiguous and conflicted protagonist

     (+4)

   Terry Malloy's struggle between loyalty to his brother and his own moral awakening creates a deeply nuanced character study of redemption and personal growth.

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8. 

   6

   The Godfather

   0 votes

   

   

   

   2 M

   • Most memorable score in film history

     (+4)

   Michael Corleone's transformation from war hero to ruthless mafia leader is a compelling exploration of moral complexity and the corrupting influence of power.

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10. 

    7

    White Heat

    0 votes

    • Morally ambiguous protagonist

      (+3)

    Cody Jarrett's relationship with his mother and his own volatile nature highlight the psychological complexities of a ruthless criminal driven by primal emotions.

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11. 

    8

    No Country for Old Men

    0 votes

    

    

    

    

    2.8 M

    • Inspired the Coen brothers' film of the same name

    Llewelyn Moss's desperate attempt to escape a ruthless hitman showcases a complex interplay of survival instincts, moral dilemmas, and existential crises.

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12. 

    9

    Casino

    0 votes

    • Protagonist with complex ambitions

      (+4)

    Ace Rothstein's character embodies the corrupting influence of power and greed in Las Vegas, highlighting the complexities of loyalty and betrayal in the underworld.

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14. 

    10

    The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

    0 votes

    

    

    

    

    819.5 K

    • Strong and intelligent female protagonist

      (+4)

    Lisbeth Salander's troubled past and unique skills make her a compellingly complex protagonist, navigating dark themes of abuse and corruption.

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