Best Movies About New York City

From Francis Ford Coppola, starring Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Diane Keaton
Rated R

The Godfather is a 1972 American crime film directed by Francis Ford Coppola and produced by Albert S. Ruddy. The film stars Marlon Brando and Al Pacino as the leaders of a powerful New York Mafia family. The story follows the aging patriarch Vito Corleone (Brando) and his successors, his youngest son Michael (Pacino), as they struggle to maintain their criminal empire amid mob wars, shifting allegiances and betrayal. The Godfather chronicles the story of a family of criminals and their struggle for power as they try to protect their business interests and the legacy of their patriarch. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest films ever made and is frequently cited as one of the most influential films in history.

From Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci, Lorraine Bracco
Rated R

Goodfellas (1990) is a crime drama directed by Martin Scorsese. The story follows the rise and fall of mob associate Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), from his early days as a petty thief to his eventual membership in the Lucchese crime family. Along the way, Henry befriends fellow mobsters Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci) and Jimmy Conway (Robert De Niro). He also falls in love with Karen (Lorraine Bracco), who admires his lifestyle and becomes his wife. However, his criminal activities eventually catch up with him, leading to a series of tragic events. The film paints an unvarnished portrait of the criminal underworld, and its famous cast of characters and vibrant visuals have earned it a place in cinematic history.

From Sergio Leone, starring Robert De Niro, James Woods, Elizabeth McGovern, Treat Williams
Rated R

Once Upon a Time in America chronicles the lives of a group of Jewish gangsters from 1920s New York City to the 1960s. It follows childhood friends "Noodles" (Robert De Niro) and Max (James Woods), as they climb the ranks of organized crime. Along the way, they experience friendship, betrayal, unrequited love, revenge, and violence. Despite their criminal lifestyle, they remain loyal to each other and their dreams of making it big. As they age, they must come to terms with the changing world, their own mistakes, and the consequences of their actions.

From Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro, Jodie Foster, Cybill Shepherd, Albert Brooks
Rated R

Taxi Driver is a 1976 American psychological thriller film directed by Martin Scorsese and written by Paul Schrader. The film stars Robert De Niro as Travis Bickle, a troubled Vietnam veteran who works as a taxi driver in New York City. The film follows Travis's descent into loneliness, isolation and ultimately violence as he becomes increasingly disillusioned with the people and society of the city. Along the way, he also becomes infatuated with a young woman, played by Jodie Foster, who works as a prostitute. The film won the Palme d'Or at the 1976 Cannes Film Festival and has since become a classic of American cinema.

From Woody Allen, starring Woody Allen, Diane Keaton, Tony Roberts, Carol Kane
Rated PG

Annie Hall is a romantic comedy film directed by Woody Allen and starring Allen and Diane Keaton. The story follows the ups and downs of the relationship between neurotic comedian Alvy Singer (Allen) and the free-spirited Annie Hall (Keaton). The couple meet, fall in love and break up over the course of their relationship. Along the way, Alvy must confront his fears and anxieties about both himself and his relationship with Annie. The film is filled with witty, self-deprecating humor and serves as a commentary on the complexities of modern relationships. Annie Hall won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress and Best Original Screenplay.

From Roman Polanski, starring Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes, Ruth Gordon, Sidney Blackmer
Rated Approved

Rosemary’s Baby is a 1968 psychological horror film directed by Roman Polanski and based on the 1967 novel of the same name by Ira Levin. The film stars Mia Farrow as Rosemary Woodhouse, a young wife who is pregnant and living with her husband in a New York City apartment building occupied by peculiar neighbors. As her pregnancy progresses, Rosemary becomes increasingly suspicious that her husband has made a secret pact with their neighbors, who practice satanic rituals. As her fear and paranoia worsen, Rosemary begins to believe that the cult members intend to use her unborn baby for their dark purposes. The film is a chilling exploration of psychological terror and one of the most iconic horror films of all time.

From Sidney Lumet, starring Al Pacino, John Cazale, Penelope Allen, Sully Boyar
Rated R

Dog Day Afternoon is a 1975 crime drama film directed by Sidney Lumet. The movie follows Sonny (Al Pacino), a man desperate for money who attempts to rob a bank in Brooklyn, New York. As his plan unravels and the police arrive, Sonny and his partner Sal (John Cazale) find themselves caught in the middle of a chaotic stand-off. As the situation unfolds and the media swarm, Sonny attempts to use the spotlight to his advantage while dealing with his own inner turmoil. In the end, Sonny is forced to confront the reality of his situation and the consequences of his actions.

From Woody Allen, starring Woody Allen, Diane Keaton, Mariel Hemingway, Michael Murphy
Rated R

Manhattan is a romantic comedy-drama film set in New York City, directed by Woody Allen and starring Allen and Diane Keaton. The story follows Isaac Davis, a middle-aged television comedy writer who is struggling with his relationships, career, and life. When Isaac meets Mary Wilke, a young college student, the two quickly develop a strong connection, even though she is involved with another man. Isaac's relationships with his best friend and ex-wife are complicated and strained, but he finds solace in his friendships with other people. Ultimately, Isaac must decide what kind of future he wants to pursue and how he can be true to himself and others.

From Spike Lee, starring Danny Aiello, Ossie Davis, Ruby Dee, Richard Edson
Rated R

Do the Right Thing is a critically acclaimed 1989 American comedy-drama film written, produced, and directed by Spike Lee. Set on a hot summer day in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, the film follows the lives of multiple characters, focusing primarily on Mookie (Spike Lee), a pizza deliveryman, and his relationship with his employer Sal (Danny Aiello). The film follows Mookie as he navigates the racial tensions between the Italian-American and black residents of the neighborhood, while Sal struggles to keep his pizzeria open. As the day progresses and the temperature rises, a scuffle between local residents results in tragedy. The film ultimately explores the complexities of race relations in America and encourages viewers to think critically about the issues it raises.

From Brian De Palma, starring Al Pacino, Sean Penn, Penelope Ann Miller, John Leguizamo
Rated R

Carlito's Way is a 1993 crime drama directed by Brian De Palma and starring Al Pacino as the titular character, Carlito Brigante. Set in the 1970s in New York City, the film follows Carlito's attempt to break away from his criminal past and start a new life. After serving a five-year prison sentence, Carlito is released and determined to stay away from the underworld, but is quickly drawn back in due to pressure from his old associates and their attempts to usurp his former business. To make matters worse, Carlito's lawyer, Dave Kleinfeld (Sean Penn), is an unreliable partner who frequently gets in the way. In order to make an escape, Carlito must make a difficult decision that could mean sacrificing his freedom and his life.

From Ivan Reitman, starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Sigourney Weaver, Harold Ramis
Rated PG

Ghostbusters is a 1984 American supernatural comedy film starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson. Written by the team of Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis and directed by Ivan Reitman, the film follows three parapsychologists as they set up shop in New York City and attempt to rid the city of paranormal spirits. The Ghostbusters are assisted by their secretary, Janine Melnitz, and the eccentric musician, Ray Stantz. After their business takes off, the Ghostbusters must battle an ancient Sumerian demigod known as Gozer and its minions, the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man and the Slime Blower. With the help of the mayor, the team manages to defeat Gozer, saving New York City from destruction.

From John Schlesinger, starring Dustin Hoffman, Jon Voight, Sylvia Miles, John McGiver
Rated R

Midnight Cowboy is a 1969 drama film directed by John Schlesinger and based on the 1965 novel of the same name by James Leo Herlihy. The film follows Joe Buck (Jon Voight), a naive Texan who moves to New York City in search of success as a gigolo. When his plans fail, Joe befriends Ratso Rizzo (Dustin Hoffman), a destitute con man who becomes his unlikely companion and friend. Together, they navigate the city's seedy underworld in pursuit of the American Dream. Along the way, they encounter a variety of people, some of whom help and some of whom hinder their efforts. In the end, Joe and Ratso must come to terms with the stark reality of their lives and try to find some measure of acceptance and dignity.

From Robert Benton, starring Dustin Hoffman, Meryl Streep, Jane Alexander, Justin Henry
Rated PG

Kramer vs. Kramer is a 1979 American drama film written and directed by Robert Benton, based on the novel by Avery Corman. It stars Dustin Hoffman, Meryl Streep, Jane Alexander and Justin Henry. The film tells the story of a couple's divorce and its impact on everyone involved, including the couple's young son. It won 5 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor (Hoffman), Best Supporting Actress (Streep), Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay. The film focuses on Ted Kramer (Hoffman), a workaholic advertising executive who is unaware of the gradual dissolving of his marriage to Joanna (Streep), until she abruptly moves out. Ted and his wife must then grapple with the effects of their divorce and the custody of their son Billy (Henry). Through the adversities of their personal struggles, both Ted and Joanna emerge with a greater understanding of themselves and what really matters in life.

From Sidney Lumet, starring Al Pacino, John Randolph, Jack Kehoe, Biff McGuire
Rated R

Serpico is a 1973 crime drama directed by Sidney Lumet and starring Al Pacino. It is based on the true story of New York City policeman Frank Serpico, who uncovered corruption within the NYPD while risking his own safety and career. The film follows Serpico as he uncovers the rampant police corruption, at the risk of his own life and career. He refuses bribes, leading to threats and even an attempted set-up of his own death. Despite all the obstacles he faces, Serpico remains determined to expose the corruption, eventually succeeding in bringing down the entire system. The film is an inspiring look at a man of integrity who refused to compromise his principles.

From Mike Newell, starring Al Pacino, Johnny Depp, Michael Madsen, Bruno Kirby
Rated R

Donnie Brasco is a 1997 crime drama film directed by Mike Newell and starring Johnny Depp and Al Pacino. The film follows FBI undercover agent Joe Pistone, who goes undercover as jeweler Donnie Brasco in order to infiltrate the mafia. Joe (Donnie) slowly gains the trust of mafia associate Lefty Ruggiero, while also becoming close to him. As the investigation progresses, Joe struggles with the moral dilemmas of his undercover work, while his marriage and his loyalty to the mob become increasingly strained. In the end, Joe (Donnie) is forced to choose between his loyalty to the mafia and his loyalty to the FBI.

From Rob Reiner, starring Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan, Carrie Fisher, Bruno Kirby
Rated R

When Harry Met Sally... is a romantic comedy directed by Rob Reiner and starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan. It follows Harry and Sally as they become friends and eventually fall in love. The film follows the two protagonists over the course of twelve years as they meet, drift apart, and eventually reconnect. Along the way, they discuss topics such as love and relationships, debating whether men and women can ever really be just friends. They also go through a series of romantic relationships, often finding themselves in awkward situations. The film culminates with Harry and Sally finally admitting their true feelings for each other. Despite the odds, they are able to make it work, and the film ends with them happily in love.

From Spike Lee, starring Edward Norton, Barry Pepper, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Rosario Dawson
Rated R

25th Hour is a 2002 crime drama directed by Spike Lee, starring Edward Norton as Monty Brogan. 25th Hour tells the story of a man facing his final 24 hours of freedom before beginning a seven-year prison sentence for drug dealing. Monty spends his last day taking stock of his life and making peace with those he has hurt, including his father, his girlfriend, and his two closest friends. As he embarks on his journey to prison, Monty must ultimately confront his own fear of the unknown and the guilt he feels for his choices. The film is a powerful exploration of morality, loyalty, and the consequences of regret.

From Blake Edwards, starring Audrey Hepburn, George Peppard, Patricia Neal, Buddy Ebsen
Rated Approved

Breakfast at Tiffany's is a romantic comedy-drama directed by Blake Edwards, based on the novella by Truman Capote. The film tells the story of independent, eccentric, and vivacious New York City socialite Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn), who has a penchant for high society and men of means. She meets and falls for a struggling writer, Paul Varjak (George Peppard), who lives in her building and is under the patronage of a wealthy older woman. As their relationship develops, it is revealed that Holly is running away from a troubled past, and Paul is fighting his own inner demons. They lean on each other for comfort and support, ultimately discovering the power of true love. The film is noted for its iconic opening scene in which Holly Golightly is seen eating breakfast outside of Tiffany & Co. on Fifth Avenue in New York City.

From Mary Harron, starring Christian Bale, Justin Theroux, Josh Lucas, Bill Sage
Rated R

American Psycho is a 2000 black comedy horror film directed by Mary Harron and written by Harron and Guinevere Turner, based on Bret Easton Ellis’s novel of the same name. The film follows the story of Patrick Bateman, a wealthy and emotionally unstable investment banker living in 1980s Manhattan. By day, Bateman works and socializes with his colleagues at an investment firm, but at night he descends into a world of psychotic, violent behavior. Along the way, he deals with his inner demons, an increasingly suspicious police detective, and a co-worker's mysterious disappearance. The film stars Christian Bale as Bateman and features an ensemble cast including Willem Dafoe, Jared Leto, Reese Witherspoon, Samantha Mathis, and Chloë Sevigny. American Psycho garnered several awards and critical acclaim, and is now seen as a cult classic of the horror genre.

From Sam Raimi, starring Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, Willem Dafoe, James Franco
Rated PG-13

From Oliver Stone, starring Charlie Sheen, Michael Douglas, Tamara Tunie, Franklin Cover
Rated R

From Penny Marshall, starring Tom Hanks, Elizabeth Perkins, Robert Loggia, John Heard
Rated PG

From Directors: Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly, starring Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, Betty Garrett, Ann Miller
Rated Passed

From John Landis, starring Eddie Murphy, Paul Bates, Garcelle Beauvais, Feather
Rated R

From John Badham, starring John Travolta, Karen Lynn Gorney, Barry Miller, Joseph Cali
Rated R