Movies About Corruption

From Martin Scorsese, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson, Mark Wahlberg
Rated R

The Departed is a 2006 crime thriller directed by Martin Scorsese. It follows the story of two men, Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon), on opposite sides of the law. Billy is a cop undercover in an Irish American organized crime gang headed by crime boss Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson). Colin, meanwhile, is an undercover mobster working for Costello in the Massachusetts State Police. As the men try to outsmart each other, the tension and violence mount and the stakes become higher and higher. The film ultimately culminates in a bloody showdown and a shocking conclusion.

From Luc Besson, starring Jean Reno, Gary Oldman, Natalie Portman, Danny Aiello
Rated R

Léon: The Professional is a 1994 French-American crime thriller film written and directed by Luc Besson. It stars Jean Reno as a professional hitman, or "cleaner", codenamed Léon, and Natalie Portman as a young girl named Mathilda, whose family is murdered by corrupt DEA agents. Mathilda, who is just entering her teenage years, seeks revenge and protection from Léon. As Mathilda begins to learn the hitman's trade, the two develop a close relationship, and Léon decides to help her avenge the murder of her family. The film follows the pair as they take on the corrupt authorities, while also dealing with Mathilda's feelings of loneliness and rage.

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

Once Upon a Time in America is a classic gangster epic directed by Sergio Leone. The film stars Robert De Niro, James Woods, and Elizabeth McGovern and follows the lives of childhood friends Noodles, Max, and Carol as they navigate their lives and careers as Jewish gangsters in New York City. Set in the 1930s–1960s, the film follows the characters through their changing fortunes and relationships as they face violence, betrayal, and the consequences of time. Along the way, their lives intertwine with the events of American history. As the film progresses, Noodles is forced to confront his past and come to terms with the person he has become. The film is a powerful exploration of friendship, loyalty, and shared history.

From George Roy Hill, starring Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Robert Shaw, Charles Durning
Rated PG

The Sting is a 1973 American caper film set in 1936, directed by George Roy Hill and written by David S. Ward. The film tells the story of two professional grifters, played by Paul Newman and Robert Redford, who attempt to con a mob boss. The duo set up a complicated scheme to scam the boss, involving fake betting parlors and an elaborate con artist plan. The film is noted for its intricate storyline, witty dialogue, and its use of ragtime music as a backing score. The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. It was a major critical and box office success, becoming the highest-grossing film of 1973.

From James McTeigue, starring Hugo Weaving, Natalie Portman, Rupert Graves, Stephen Rea
Rated R

V for Vendetta is a 2005 dystopian political thriller film directed by James McTeigue and written by the Wachowskis, based on the 1988 DC/Vertigo Comics limited series of the same name by Alan Moore and David Lloyd. The film takes place in a future British society where a fascist government has come to power. An anarchist revolutionary known only as "V" (Hugo Weaving) wears a Guy Fawkes mask and has grand plans to bring down the oppressive regime. He embarks on a mission to ignite a revolution by inspiring the people of Britain to stand up for their freedom and overthrowing the government. Along the way, V meets a young woman named Evey Hammond (Natalie Portman) and the two of them form an unlikely alliance as they join forces to fight against the tyranny of the government. In the end, V succeeds in inspiring the masses and brings an end to the fascist regime.

From Frank Capra, starring James Stewart, Jean Arthur, Claude Rains, Edward Arnold
Rated Passed

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington is a 1939 American political comedy-drama directed by Frank Capra, starring James Stewart as Jefferson Smith, a naive, idealistic, newly appointed United States Senator who clashes with the corrupt political establishment. When Smith is appointed to fill a vacancy in the Senate, he discovers a web of bribery and corruption that threatens to derail his plans for a national boys' camp. He is aided in his quest to fight the system by his mentor, Senator Joseph Paine (Claude Rains), and his secretary, Clarissa Saunders (Jean Arthur). Along the way, Smith learns valuable lessons about the power of democracy and the importance of speaking out for what is right. In the end, he proves victorious, and the boys' camp is saved.

From Elia Kazan, starring Marlon Brando, Karl Malden, Lee J. Cobb, Rod Steiger
Rated Approved

On the Waterfront is a 1954 American crime drama film directed by Elia Kazan, and written by Budd Schulberg. It stars Marlon Brando and features Karl Malden, Lee J. Cobb, Rod Steiger, Pat Henning, and Eva Marie Saint in her film debut. The story revolves around Terry Malloy, a former prize fighter who gets involved in illegal activities at the hands of corrupt union bosses on the waterfront of Hoboken, New Jersey. Through his relationship with a young woman, Edie Doyle, and with the help of Father Barry, he overcomes the corruption and ultimately stands up for his rights as a worker. The film was a box office success and won 8 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Director, Actor (Marlon Brando), Supporting Actress (Eva Marie Saint), and Screenplay.

From Hal Ashby, starring Peter Sellers, Shirley MacLaine, Melvyn Douglas, Jack Warden
Rated PG

Being There is a 1979 comedy-drama film directed by Hal Ashby and starring Peter Sellers as Chance, a simple-minded gardener who is thrust into the political and social spotlight following the death of his employer. Through a series of improbable events, Chance is mistaken for a powerful political figure and ascends to a position of great influence. As he navigates the complex world of the Washington power elite, Chance displays a wisdom and insight that no one else seems to possess. With his simple philosophy of life, Chance gradually gains influence among the powerful and wealthy, ultimately exposing the shallowness of their world. Themes of chance, power, and perception are explored in this satirical and thought-provoking classic.

From Orson Welles, starring Charlton Heston, Orson Welles, Janet Leigh, Joseph Calleia
Rated PG-13

Touch of Evil is a classic noir thriller directed by Orson Welles and released in 1958. In the film, a Mexican police officer, Miguel Vargas (Charlton Heston), is investigating a car bombing in a small border town. He is assisted by a local detective, Hank Quinlan (played by Orson Welles himself). The investigation leads them to uncover a complex web of corruption, deceit and murder, involving a powerful narcotics kingpin, a shady motel owner and a mysterious woman. This leads to a thrilling climax that tests the limits of loyalty and justice. Along the way, Welles' masterful direction, artful cinematography and groundbreaking use of long tracking shots create a captivating and unforgettable viewing experience.

From Alan J. Pakula, starring Dustin Hoffman, Robert Redford, Jack Warden, Martin Balsam
Rated PG

All the President's Men is a 1976 political thriller directed by Alan J. Pakula. It stars Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman as Washington Post reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein, respectively. The film follows their investigation into the Watergate scandal, which ultimately led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon. With the help of an anonymous source known as "Deep Throat", the two uncover evidence of a conspiracy linking the president and his aides to the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters in 1972. The film also focuses on their struggles to get the story published and the risk they take by pursuing the truth. The film was a commercial and critical success, earning eight Academy Award nominations and winning four, including Best Screenplay for William Goldman.

From Brian De Palma, starring Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, Robert De Niro, Charles Martin Smith
Rated R

The Untouchables is a 1987 crime drama directed by Brian De Palma and starring Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, Robert De Niro, Andy Garcia, and Charles Martin Smith. Set in 1930s Chicago, the film follows federal agent Eliot Ness (Costner) and his team of incorruptible law enforcers as they battle the notorious gangster Al Capone (De Niro). The Untouchables chronicles Ness’ mission to bring down Capone and his criminal empire by any means necessary. With the help of a seasoned veteran cop (Connery), an accountant (Smith), and a rookie (Garcia), Ness takes on the seemingly insurmountable task of taking down Capone and his organization. Along the way, he and his team must face off against corrupt cops, trigger-happy mobsters, and a ruthless city. With his team of “Untouchables”, Ness takes the fight to Capone and brings him to justice.

From Michael Mann, starring Russell Crowe, Al Pacino, Christopher Plummer, Diane Venora
Rated R

The Insider is a 1999 crime drama directed by Michael Mann and starring Al Pacino and Russell Crowe. The film follows Jeffrey Wigand (Crowe), a former tobacco executive, who is approached by a 60 Minutes producer (Pacino) to go public with insider knowledge of the dangerous and deadly effects of cigarettes. Despite the immense pressure from his former employers, Wigand reluctantly agrees to the interview and soon finds himself in the midst of a legal battle against Big Tobacco and their manipulation of the media. The Insider is a gripping and powerful look at the cost of standing up for what’s right and the corruption of big business.

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

Serpico is a 1973 crime drama film directed by Sidney Lumet and starring Al Pacino. The film is based on the true story of the courageous New York City police officer Frank Serpico, who exposed the corruption and brutality rampant within the New York City Police Department in the early 1970s. The film follows Serpico's journey as he risks his life to report the rampant corruption within the police force. Serpico is ostracized by his fellow officers for his refusal to take bribes and for his insistence on upholding the law. He is attacked and shot in the line of duty and left to die. Despite the overwhelming odds, Serpico still continues in his mission to expose the truth. The film is a powerful portrayal of the struggle of individual morality versus institutionalized corruption, as well as a testament to the courage and dedication of one man who risked his life to do what was right.

From Antoine Fuqua, starring Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Scott Glenn, Tom Berenger
Rated R

Training Day is a 2001 American crime thriller directed by Antoine Fuqua, starring Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke. The film follows two LAPD narcotics officers over a 24-hour period in the gang-ridden neighborhoods of Los Angeles. Washington plays Alonzo Harris, a veteran detective who uses questionable methods to gain information and manipulate people, while Hawke plays rookie cop Jake Hoyt, who is tasked with infiltrating Harris' crew. Throughout the day, Hoyt must decide if he is willing to compromise his morals to get ahead, or if he should stay true to his principles. The film follows the two officers on their journey, as they grapple with power, loyalty, ambition, and corruption.

From Ron Howard, starring Frank Langella, Michael Sheen, Kevin Bacon, Sam Rockwell
Rated R

Frost/Nixon is a 2008 film directed by Ron Howard, and starring Frank Langella and Michael Sheen. The film is based on the play of the same name by Peter Morgan, which tells the story of the infamous 1977 television interviews between British journalist David Frost and former President Richard Nixon. In the interviews, Frost attempts to uncover the truth behind Nixon's involvement in the Watergate scandal. After months of negotiation, Frost finally gets Nixon to confess to his wrongdoing. The film follows Nixon and Frost's behind-the-scenes dealings as well as the actual interviews, culminating in one of the most significant and revealing moments in American political history.

From Rob Reiner, starring Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, Demi Moore, Kevin Bacon
Rated R

A Few Good Men is a 1992 American legal drama film directed by Rob Reiner, starring Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson and Demi Moore. The film follows the court-martial of two U.S. Marines accused of the murder of a fellow Marine at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba. Navy lawyer Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee (Cruise), is assigned to the case and must defend the two Marines, Private First Class Louden Downey (Wolfgang Bodison) and Lance Corporal Harold Dawson (James Marshall). With the help of fellow lawyer Lieutenant JoAnne Galloway (Moore) and a supportive superior (Kevin Bacon), Kaffee discovers a cover-up involving a "code red" unauthorized punishment. In a dramatic courtroom showdown, Kaffee cross-examines the base commander (Nicholson) and forces him to reveal the truth. In a surprise ending, the two Marines are found not guilty of murder, but guilty of a lesser charge of following an unlawful order.

From Steven Soderbergh, starring Michael Douglas, Benicio Del Toro, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Jacob Vargas
Rated R

Traffic, directed by Steven Soderbergh, follows multiple storylines which are connected by the trafficking of illegal drugs. In Mexico, a newly appointed drug enforcement officer works to take down a powerful cartel, while in Washington D.C., a high-level cabinet official fights to bring the drug war out of the shadows and make it a priority for the government. In San Diego, a wealthy family deals with the consequences of a drug-addicted daughter. Through these intersecting stories, Traffic paints a powerful portrait of the war on drugs and its effects on society. The film was a critical and commercial success, winning four Academy Awards, including Best Director for Soderbergh.

From Andrew Niccol, starring Nicolas Cage, Ethan Hawke, Jared Leto, Bridget Moynahan
Rated R

Lord of War is a 2005 crime drama film written, produced and directed by Andrew Niccol and starring Nicolas Cage. It follows the life of Ukrainian-born illegal arms dealer Yuri Orlov (Cage), from his early days in the early 1990s as a small-time gunrunner, to his ascension through the years of the 1990s and 2000s to the upper echelons of the international arms trade. Throughout his career, Yuri deals with numerous international criminals, corrupt government officials, and ruthless dictators, while trying to balance his business and personal life. As his career escalates, he is pursued by Interpol agent Jack Valentine (Ethan Hawke) who seeks to put an end to his illegal activities. The film also stars Jared Leto as Yuri's brother, Vitaly, Bridget Moynahan as Ava, Yuri's wife, and Ian Holm as Simeon Weisz, Yuri's mentor.

From Sidney Lumet, starring Treat Williams, Jerry Orbach, Richard Foronjy, Don Billett
Rated R

From Oliver Stone, starring James Woods, Jim Belushi, Michael Murphy, John Savage
Rated R

From Fernando Meirelles, starring Ralph Fiennes, Rachel Weisz, Danny Huston, Hubert Koundé
Rated R

From George Clooney, starring David Strathairn, George Clooney, Patricia Clarkson, Jeff Daniels
Rated PG

From James Bridges, starring Jane Fonda, Jack Lemmon, Michael Douglas, Scott Brady
Rated PG

From Steven Soderbergh, starring Julia Roberts, Albert Finney, David Brisbin, Dawn Didawick
Rated R

From Roger Donaldson, starring Kevin Costner, Bruce Greenwood, Shawn Driscoll, Drake Cook
Rated PG-13