Random Best Police Movies (86 items)

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  (#1) End of Watch

  • Anna Kendrick, Jake Gyllenhaal, America Ferrera, Natalie Martinez, Michael Peña, Frank Grillo, Cody Horn, Candace Smith, Eric Garcetti, David Harbour, Ron Roggé, Kristy Wu, Maurice Compte, Shondrella Avery, Cle Shaheed Sloan, Tony Sagastizado I, Hugh Daly, Michael Monks, Ted Hollis, DTeflon, Diana Laura, Ramon Camacho, Danielle Hartnett, Gene Hong, David Fernandez Jr., Kevin Dunigan, Everton Lawrence, Patrizia Barretto, Richard Cabral, McKinley Freeman, Manuel Jimenez Jr., Tatiana Sarasty, Jaime FitzSimons, Corina Calderon, Chivonne Hill, Nikki Nicholle Barreras, Jeannie Aguilar, Clyde Broom Jr., Ruben Roberto Gomez, Curtis Jermaine, Judy Echavez, Flakiss, Patrick Gaines, Serene Branson, David Castaneda, Mauricio Solis, Diamonique, Alvin Norman, Nelly Castillo, Zone, Tom Spencer, Sli Lewis, John A. Russo, James 'Pistol' McNeal, Leequwid 'Devil' Wilkens, Kevin Vance

  End of Watch, released in 2012, is a gripping police drama that delves deep into the lives of two LAPD officers, played by Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Peña. Directed by David Ayer, the film utilizes a unique found-footage style that adds an extra layer of realism to the story. End of Watch explores themes such as loyalty, sacrifice, and the bond between partners in law enforcement. The chemistry between Gyllenhaal and Peña is palpable throughout the film, making their friendship feel authentic and emotional. The movie received widespread critical acclaim for its intense portrayal of life on the streets for police officers.
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  (#2) Lethal Weapon Franchise

  The Lethal Weapon franchise launched in 1987 starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover as mismatched LAPD detectives Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh. The films stand out for their perfect balance between explosive action sequences and humorous banter, propelling the buddy-cop genre to new heights. Through the course of four installments, Riggs and Murtaugh's evolving partnership tackles themes like trust, redemption, and family. The franchise's immense success spawned a television series and influenced numerous other action-comedies in its wake.
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  (#3) Seven

  • Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, Gwyneth Paltrow, R. Lee Ermey, Richard Roundtree, John C. McGinley, Julie Araskog, Mark Boone, John Cassini, Reg E. Cathey, Peter Crombie, Kevin Spacey, Hawthorne James, Michael Massee, Leland Orser, Richard Portnow, Richard Schiff, Pamala Tyson

  In 1995's Seven, director David Fincher crafts a dark tale revolving around two homicide detectives - seasoned veteran Morgan Freeman and his impulsive partner Brad Pitt - who embark on a chilling investigation involving murders inspired by the seven deadly sins. This psychological thriller has become iconic for its unsettling atmosphere and shocking twist ending that still resonates with audiences today. Seven highlights themes such as obsession, justice, and morality while maintaining an unrelenting sense of dread throughout its runtime. Its impact on pop culture can be observed through numerous parodies and references across various forms of media.
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  (#4) Die Hard Franchise

  The Die Hard franchise spans across five films with Bruce Willis at its core as NYPD detective John McClane. What began in 1988 turned into one of Hollywood's most celebrated action series thanks to its non-stop thrills combined with Willis' charismatic performance. The films follow McClane as he engages in high-stakes battles against various terrorists threatening innocent lives often during festive seasons which made phrases like "Yippee-ki-yay!" synonymous with Christmas time for many viewers. Die Hard not only set new benchmarks for the action genre but also contributed to shaping how future cop movies were made.
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  (#5) Training Day

  • Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Scott Glenn, Tom Berenger, Harris Yulin, Raymond J. Barry, Cliff Curtis, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Macy Gray, Charlotte Ayanna, Eva Mendes, Nick Chinlund, Jaime Gomez, Raymond Cruz, Noel Gugliemi

  Training Day stars Denzel Washington in an unforgettable Oscar-winning performance as Alonzo Harris - a corrupt LAPD narcotics detective who takes rookie cop Jake Hoyt (Ethan Hawke) under his wing for a twisted day of lessons in the dark side of law enforcement. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film is lauded for its morally grey characters and intense exploration into the corrupt underbelly of policing. Washington's portrayal of Harris remains one of his most iconic roles to date.
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  (#6) The Departed

  • Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson, Mark Wahlberg, Martin Sheen, Ray Winstone, Vera Farmiga, Alec Baldwin, James Badge Dale, David O'Hara, Mark Rolston, Kevin Corrigan, Anthony Anderson, Amanda Lynch, Tracey Paleo, Kristen Dalton, Tom Kemp, Gary Lockwood

  The Departed marks director Martin Scorsese’s return to his crime roots with this tense thriller centered around two undercover operatives – one infiltrating Boston’s criminal underworld (Leonardo DiCaprio), and the other acting as a mole within law enforcement (Matt Damon). Featuring powerful performances from an all-star cast including Jack Nicholson and Mark Wahlberg, who received an Oscar nomination for his supporting role, The Departed delves into themes such as loyalty, betrayal, and identity. A critical darling that won Best Picture at the Oscars along with several other awards; its influence can be felt throughout modern crime cinema.
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  (#7) Heat

  • Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Val Kilmer, Jon Voight, Tom Sizemore, Diane Venora, Amy Brenneman, Ashley Judd, Mykelti Williamson, Wes Studi, Ted Levine, Dennis Haysbert, William Fichtner, Natalie Portman, Tom Noonan, Kevin Gage, Hank Azaria, Susan Traylor, Kim Staunton, Danny Trejo

  Heat showcases an epic duel between LAPD lieutenant Vincent Hanna (Al Pacino) and master criminal Neil McCauley (Robert De Niro). Directed by Michael Mann, this sprawling crime saga examines themes like obsession, honor amongst thieves, and blurred lines between good and evil. Notably featuring De Niro and Pacino sharing a screen for the first time in their illustrious careers, Heat has since been remembered as one of cinema's greatest cop films.
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  (#8) The Silence of the Lambs

  • Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn, Ted Levine, Anthony Heald, Brooke Smith, Diane Baker, Kasi Lemmons, Charles Napier, Roger Corman, George A. Romero

  The Silence of the Lambs, directed by Jonathan Demme, features Jodie Foster as ambitious FBI trainee Clarice Starling who seeks assistance from imprisoned cannibalistic serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins) in order to catch another murderer on the loose. This chilling psychological horror film delves into themes such as manipulation, identity, and hidden darkness within individuals. Both Foster and Hopkins were awarded Oscars for their riveting performances, with The Silence of the Lambs earning Best Picture - making it one of only three movies to achieve a "Big Five" sweep at the Academy Awards.
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  (#9) The Fugitive

  • Harrison Ford, Tommy Lee Jones, Sela Ward, Julianne Moore, Joe Pantoliano, Jeroen Krabbé, Andreas Katsulas, Daniel Roebuck, L. Scott Caldwell

  Based on a true story, The Fugitive stars Harrison Ford as Dr. Richard Kimble – a man wrongfully accused of murder who goes on the run to prove his innocence while pursued relentlessly by U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard (Tommy Lee Jones). This thrilling cat-and-mouse chase explores themes such as perseverance against injustice and determination in search for truth. Jones' performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor while solidifying The Fugitive as an enduring classic within its genre.
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  (#10) The Untouchables

  • Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, Robert De Niro, Andy Garcia, Charles Martin Smith, Billy Drago, Richard Bradford, Jack Kehoe

  Brian De Palma's 1987 film The Untouchables is an expertly crafted crime drama which focuses on the efforts of a group of incorruptible lawmen led by Kevin Costner's Eliot Ness as they attempt to bring down notorious mob boss Al Capone, played with captivating menace by Robert De Niro. Set against the backdrop of Prohibition-era Chicago, this ensemble piece weaves themes such as morality within law enforcement and the fight for justice amidst rampant corruption. Boasting an Academy Award-winning performance from Sean Connery as veteran police officer Jim Malone, The Untouchables remains a revered classic within the cop movie genre.
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  (#11) Dirty Harry Franchise

  The Dirty Harry franchise, starring Clint Eastwood as the titular character and spanning five films from 1971 to 1988, follows San Francisco Police Inspector Harry Callahan, a tough-talking cop whose unorthodox methods often clash with bureaucratic red tape. Known for its iconic catchphrase "Do you feel lucky, punk?", this series delves into themes like crime-fighting vigilance and the conflict between personal principles and professional duty. The Dirty Harry movies had a lasting influence on action cinema and police dramas alike by paving the way for future anti-hero protagonists.
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  (#12) Bad Boys Franchise

  The Bad Boys franchise commenced in 1995 with Will Smith and Martin Lawrence portraying Miami detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett respectively. The series is renowned for its high-octane action sequences, witty banter between the leads, and visually stunning cinematography that captures the distinct style of director Michael Bay. With three installments released over 25 years – most recently being Bad Boys For Life (2020) – this buddy-cop action-comedy examines themes such as friendship, loyalty, and redemption while remaining an exhilarating ride throughout.
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  (#13) Beverly Hills Cop Franchise

  The Beverly Hills Cop franchise stars Eddie Murphy as wisecracking Detroit detective Axel Foley who finds himself clashing with criminals and Beverly Hills law enforcement alike. Spanning three movies starting from 1984, this action-comedy series showcases Murphy's quick wit and comedic timing while touching on themes like the disparity between the haves and have-nots, as well as overcoming personal tragedy. Beverly Hills Cop is often celebrated for its memorable soundtrack featuring Harold Faltermeyer's infectious "Axel F" theme.
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  (#14) Point Break

  • Patrick Swayze, Keanu Reeves, Gary Busey, Lori Petty, John C. McGinley, James LeGros, John Philbin, Bojesse Christopher

  Point Break, directed by Kathryn Bigelow, chronicles the story of undercover FBI agent Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves) who infiltrates a gang of bank-robbing surfers led by enigmatic thrill-seeker Bodhi (Patrick Swayze). This adrenaline-pumping film combines intense chase scenes both on land and sea with philosophical discussions about finding one's purpose in life. Point Break masterfully explores themes like self-discovery amidst adversity while leaving an indelible mark on pop culture through aspects such as Swayze's charismatic portrayal of Bodhi.
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  (#15) L.A. Confidential

  • Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, James Cromwell, David Strathairn, Kim Basinger, Danny DeVito, Graham Beckel, Simon Baker, Matt McCoy, John Mahon, Paul Guilfoyle, Ron Rifkin, Paolo Seganti, Amber Smith, Gwenda Deacon

  L.A. Confidential, based on James Ellroy's novel of the same name, transports audiences to 1950s Los Angeles where three contrasting policemen - played by Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, and Guy Pearce - investigate a series of interconnected crimes. Directed by Curtis Hanson, this neo-noir crime thriller delves into themes like police corruption, sensationalism in media, and the dark underbelly of Hollywood glitz and glamour. The film boasts an ensemble cast that includes Kim Basinger's Oscar-winning performance and has since become a benchmark in its genre.
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  (#16) Rush Hour Franchise

  • Chris Tucker, Jackie Chan, Tzi Ma

  The Rush Hour franchise pairs Jackie Chan's Hong Kong detective Inspector Lee with Chris Tucker's fast-talking LAPD officer James Carter for three movies filled with comedic banter and exhilarating martial arts-infused action. Beginning in 1998 and directed by Brett Ratner, the series explores themes such as cultural differences, friendship, and trust as the duo thwarts various criminal schemes across Los Angeles, Hong Kong, and Paris. Rush Hour's blend of humor and action helped popularize the buddy-cop movie genre to a wider international audience.
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  (#17) Colors

  • Sean Penn, Robert Duvall, Maria Conchita Alonso, Randy Brooks, Grand Bush, Don Cheadle, Rudy Ramos, Trinidad Silva, Damon Wayans

  Colors, helmed by Dennis Hopper, presents an unflinching look at the Los Angeles gang scene through the eyes of two LAPD officers portrayed by Sean Penn and Robert Duvall. As veteran cop Bob Hodges passes on his streetwise wisdom to rookie Danny McGavin, the film tackles themes such as mentorship, navigating cultural tensions, and confronting urban decay with a raw authenticity that ensures its lasting relevance within the cop movie canon.
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  (#18) Bullitt

  • Steve McQueen, Robert Vaughn, Jacqueline Bisset, Don Gordon, Robert Duvall, Simon Oakland, Norman Fell, Georg Stanford Brown, Justin Tarr, Carl Reindel, Felice Orlandi, Vic Tayback, Robert Lipton, Ed Peck, Pat Renella, Paul Genge, John Aprea, Al Checco, Bill Hickman

  Bullitt, starring Steve McQueen as San Francisco detective Frank Bullitt, is celebrated for its revolutionary car chase sequence which set a new standard for action filmmaking. Directed by Peter Yates, this iconic cop film encapsulates themes like personal integrity amidst political machinations while weaving a thrilling tale centered around protecting a mob informant. With McQueen's effortlessly cool persona driving its legacy forward, Bullitt remains one of cinema's most influential cop movies.
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  (#19) Serpico

  • Al Pacino, John Randolph, Jack Kehoe, Biff McGuire, Barbara Eda-Young, Cornelia Sharpe, Tony Roberts, Allan Rich, Norman Ornellas, Edward Grover, Gene Gross, James Tolkan, Lewis J. Stadlen, John Lehne, M. Emmet Walsh, George Ede, Charles White

  Serpico presents Al Pacino in one of his most iconic roles as Frank Serpico, a real-life NYPD officer who famously exposed rampant corruption within the police force. Directed by Sidney Lumet, this gripping biographical drama delves into themes such as whistleblowing, moral courage amidst adversity, and the struggle against systemic injustice. Praised for its raw depiction of New York City in the 1960s and 70s alongside Pacino's powerful performance, Serpico remains an influential cop film that echoes through generations.
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  (#20) In the Heat of the Night

  • Sidney Poitier, Rod Steiger, Warren Oates, Quentin Dean, James Patterson, William Schallert, Lee Grant, Scott Wilson, Matt Clark, Anthony James, Larry Gates, Kermit Murdock, Khalil Bezaleel, Beah Richards, Peter Whitney, William Watson, Timothy Scott, Jack Teter, Alan Oppenheimer

  In the Heat of the Night pairs Sidney Poitier as Philadelphia detective Virgil Tibbs with Rod Steiger's Mississippi Police Chief Bill Gillespie to solve a murder mystery in racially tense Southern America. Directed by Norman Jewison, this groundbreaking film examines issues such as racial prejudice and collaboration across divides while earning five Academy Awards including Best Picture. In the Heat of the Night challenged societal norms at the time while cementing Poitier's status as one of Hollywood's finest actors.
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  (#21) Witness

  • Harrison Ford, Kelly McGillis, Alexander Godunov, Josef Sommer, Lukas Haas, Jan Rubes, Danny Glover, Patti LuPone, Viggo Mortensen

  Witness, directed by Peter Weir, follows Philadelphia detective John Book (Harrison Ford) who goes undercover in an Amish community to protect a young boy named Samuel (Lukas Haas) who witnessed a murder. Amidst stark contrasts between urban life and rural tranquility, Witness explores themes like cultural adaptation, forbidden romance, and confronting past traumas while delivering thrilling suspense. Harrison Ford received his only Oscar nomination to date for his standout performance in this unique fusion of crime thriller and heartfelt drama.
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  (#22) RoboCop Franchise

  The RoboCop franchise launched in 1987 with director Paul Verhoeven's original film set in dystopian Detroit where slain officer Alex Murphy is resurrected as part-human, part-machine law enforcer RoboCop. This science fiction-action series ambitiously tackles themes like corporate greed, human identity within technology-driven society, and vengeance against injustice while delivering spectacular special effects for its time. The franchise spans three films along with numerous television adaptations including a 2014 reboot starring Joel Kinnaman.
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  (#23) Cop Land

  • Sylvester Stallone, Harvey Keitel, Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, Peter Berg, Janeane Garofalo, Robert Patrick, Michael Rapaport, Annabella Sciorra, Noah Emmerich, Cathy Moriarty, John Spencer, Frank Vincent, Arthur J. Nascarella

  Cop Land is set in Garrison, New Jersey – a small town where NYPD officers reside – and features an ensemble cast including Sylvester Stallone, Harvey Keitel, Ray Liotta, and Robert De Niro. Directed by James Mangold, this crime drama delves into themes such as police corruption, the abuse of power, and the struggle between personal loyalties and moral obligations. Stallone's performance as Freddy Heflin – the partially deaf sheriff caught in the middle of colliding forces – received critical acclaim for showcasing his acting range.
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  (#24) Speed

  • Keanu Reeves, Dennis Hopper, Sandra Bullock, Joe Morton, Jeff Daniels, Alan Ruck, Glenn Plummer, Richard Lineback, Beth Grant, Hawthorne James, Carlos Carrasco, David Kriegel, Natsuko Ohama, Daniel Villarreal, Neisha Folkes-LeMelle

  Speed, directed by Jan de Bont, is a high-stakes action thriller that follows LAPD officer Jack Traven (Keanu Reeves) and passenger Annie Porter (Sandra Bullock) as they scramble to defuse a bomb on board a speeding city bus. The film keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with its relentless pacing and inventive action sequences, while exploring themes like teamwork under pressure and resourcefulness in dire situations. Speed became an instant classic, launching Sandra Bullock's career and further solidifying Keanu Reeves' status as an action star.
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  (#25) Fargo

  • Frances McDormand, Steve Buscemi, William H. Macy, Peter Stormare, Harve Presnell, John Carroll Lynch, Kristin Rudrüd, Steve Reevis, Steve Park

  Fargo, written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, masterfully interweaves crime elements with dark humor in its tale about a botched kidnapping plot that spirals out of control. Set against Minnesota's frigid landscape, this black comedy-thriller stars Frances McDormand as Marge Gunderson – a pregnant police chief who doggedly investigates these crimes with unwavering determination. Fargo went on to win two Academy Awards for Best Original Screenplay and Best Actress while spawning a successful anthology TV series inspired by its unique style.
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  (#26) American Gangster

  • Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cuba Gooding, Josh Brolin, Ted Levine, Armand Assante, RZA, John Ortiz, John Hawkes, Roger Guenveur Smith, Ruby Dee, Idris Elba, Carla Gugino, Yul Vazquez, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Joe Morton

  American Gangster, directed by Ridley Scott, chronicles the rise and fall of Harlem drug kingpin Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington) while detailing his pursuit by detective Richie Roberts (Russell Crowe). Based on a true story, this crime drama delves into themes like ambition at any cost, police corruption, and redemption amidst moral decay. American Gangster boasts remarkable performances from its leads while examining the complexities of illicit business empires during their prominence.
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  (#27) Super Troopers

  • Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme, Paul Soter, Erik Stolhanske, Brian Cox, Marisa Coughlan, Lynda Carter, John Bedford Lloyd, Jim Gaffigan

  Super Troopers is an irreverent comedy that follows a group of juvenile Vermont state troopers who scheme to save their department from budget cuts amid hilarious antics. Directed by Jay Chandrasekhar – who also stars with his fellow members of comedy troupe Broken Lizard – Super Troopers explores themes like camaraderie among outcasts and finding purpose in unexpected ways. The film has since amassed a cult following that led to a sequel in 2018.
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  (#28) Police Academy Franchise

  The Police Academy franchise spans seven comedic films from 1984 to 1994 featuring an ensemble cast of misfit police recruits training under strict instructors while getting embroiled in various hilarious situations. This lighthearted comedy series touches upon themes like unity among diverse personalities and overcoming obstacles through humor and ingenuity rather than brute force. The success of Police Academy led to spin-off TV shows and cartoons while leaving its mark on popular culture.
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  (#29) Hot Fuzz

  • Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jim Broadbent, Paddy Considine, Timothy Dalton, Billie Whitelaw, Edward Woodward, Rafe Spall, Olivia Colman, Paul Freeman, Martin Freeman, Bill Nighy, Steve Coogan, Bill Bailey, Julia Deakin, Kenneth Cranham, Patricia Franklin, Anne Reid, Stuart Wilson

  Hot Fuzz, helmed by Edgar Wright with Simon Pegg and Nick Frost in leading roles as mismatched British police officers, is a riotous comedy that parodies and pays homage to the action-cop movie genre. The film sees Pegg's overzealous Sergeant Nicholas Angel transferred to a seemingly idyllic rural village where sinister events unfold. Hot Fuzz blends humor with thrilling action while examining themes like conspiracy theories, false appearances, and unlikely alliances.
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  (#30) The French Connection

  • Gene Hackman, Fernando Rey, Roy Scheider, Tony Lo Bianco, Marcel Bozzuffi, Frédéric de Pasquale, Bill Hickman, Ann Rebbot, Harold Gary, Arlene Farber, Eddie Egan, Andre Ernotte, Sonny Grosso, Al Fann

  The French Connection, directed by William Friedkin, stars Gene Hackman as relentless NYPD detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle who becomes obsessed with taking down an international drug-smuggling operation. Based on true events, this gritty crime thriller features one of cinema's most memorable car chases while addressing themes like obsession in the pursuit of justice and the blurred lines between heroes and villains. The French Connection won five Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Actor for Hackman.
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  (#31) S.W.A.T.

  • Samuel L. Jackson, Colin Farrell, Michelle Rodriguez, LL Cool J, Josh Charles, Jeremy Renner, Brian Van Holt, Olivier Martinez, Reg E. Cathey, Larry Poindexter

  S.W.A.T., directed by Clark Johnson, is an action-packed film based on the 1970s television series of the same name. The movie follows an elite LAPD S.W.A.T. team, led by Samuel L. Jackson and Colin Farrell, tasked with transporting a dangerous international crime lord who has offered a massive bounty for his escape. With high-octane action sequences and thrilling set pieces, S.W.A.T. explores themes like teamwork, honor within the force, and staying true to one's ideals despite overwhelming odds.
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  (#32) Reservoir Dogs

  • Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Michael Madsen, Chris Penn, Steve Buscemi, Lawrence Tierney, Quentin Tarantino, Edward Bunker, Kirk Baltz, Randy Brooks

  Reservoir Dogs marks Quentin Tarantino's explosive debut as both writer and director in this riveting heist-gone-wrong tale about a group of criminals trying to uncover who among them is an undercover cop. Known for its nonlinear narrative structure, sharp dialogue, and iconic ear-slicing scene set to "Stuck in the Middle with You", Reservoir Dogs explores themes such as trust amid lawlessness, violence begetting violence, and loyalty under duress. This groundbreaking indie film paved the way for Tarantino's illustrious career while leaving an indelible mark on modern cinema.
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  (#33) No Country for Old Men

  • Tommy Lee Jones, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin, Woody Harrelson, Kelly Macdonald, Garret Dillahunt, Tess Harper, Barry Corbin, Stephen Root, Rodger Boyce, Beth Grant, Ana Reeder

  No Country for Old Men, written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen based on Cormac McCarthy's novel, is a bleak neo-western thriller that follows Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin) after he stumbles upon drug deal money leading to relentless assassin Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem) pursuing him relentlessly. With Sheriff Ed Tom Bell (Tommy Lee Jones) providing a moral compass, the film addresses themes such as fate, existentialism, and the inescapable nature of violence. No Country for Old Men won four Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Supporting Actor for Bardem.
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  (#34) Mystic River

  • Sean Penn, Tim Robbins, Kevin Bacon, Laurence Fishburne, Marcia Gay Harden, Laura Linney, Kevin Chapman, Tom Guiry, Emmy Rossum, Spencer Treat Clark, Andrew Mackin, Adam Nelson, Robert Wahlberg, Jenny O'Hara

  Mystic River, directed by Clint Eastwood and based on the novel by Dennis Lehane, is an emotionally charged drama that focuses on three childhood friends – played by Sean Penn, Tim Robbins, and Kevin Bacon – whose lives intersect following the murder of Penn's character's daughter. As the investigation unfolds, long-buried secrets surface among them. Mystic River explores themes such as grief, revenge, and the impact of past traumas on present lives. The film earned Academy Awards for Sean Penn and Tim Robbins for their powerful performances.
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  (#35) The Negotiator

  • Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Spacey, David Morse, Ron Rifkin, John Spencer, J.T. Walsh, Regina Taylor, Siobhan Fallon, Paul Giamatti

  The Negotiator, directed by F. Gary Gray, stars Samuel L. Jackson as Chicago hostage negotiator Danny Roman who finds himself framed for corruption and takes matters into his own hands by taking hostages while demanding that another negotiator (Kevin Spacey) prove his innocence. This tense thriller delves into themes like trust, betrayal within institutions, and maintaining integrity under extreme circumstances while showcasing standout performances from its lead actors.
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  (#36) Chinatown

  • Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, John Huston, Perry Lopez, John Hillerman, Darrell Zwerling, Diane Ladd, Roy Jenson, Roman Polanski, Richard Bakalyan, Joe Mantell, Bruce Glover, Nandu Hinds, James O'Rear, James Hong, Beulah Quo, Jerry Fujikawa, Belinda Palmer, Roy Roberts, Noble Willingham, Elliott Montgomery, Rance Howard, George Justin, C.O. Erickson, Fritzi Burr

  Chinatown, directed by Roman Polanski and starring Jack Nicholson as private investigator Jake Gittes, is a seminal neo-noir film set in 1930s Los Angeles amid a web of intrigue involving water rights and political corruption. As Gittes unravels the mystery behind a seemingly simple case of infidelity, he discovers dark secrets that transcend his expectations. Chinatown delves into themes such as deception, power dynamics, and confronting unspeakable truths while securing its place as one of cinema's most influential films.
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  (#37) 21 Jump Street

  • Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Brie Larson, Dave Franco, Rob Riggle, Ice Cube, DeRay Davis, Ellie Kemper, Chris Parnell, Caroline Aaron, Dax Flame, Jake Johnson, Nick Offerman, Holly Robinson Peete, Johnny Pemberton, Stanley Wong, Justin Hires

  21 Jump Street, inspired by the eponymous 1980s TV show but taking a comedic spin on it features Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill as former high school classmates turned rookie cops who go undercover at a high school to bust a drug ring. Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, this action-comedy touches upon themes like friendship amidst adversity while poking fun at conventional cop movie tropes which led to its successful sequel 22 Jump Street.
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  (#38) Inside Man

  • Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, Jodie Foster, Willem Dafoe, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kim Director, Christopher Plummer, Florina Petcu, Jay Charan, Bernie Rachelle

  Inside Man, directed by Spike Lee with an ensemble cast including Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, Jodie Foster positions itself as a clever heist thriller revolving around a seemingly perfect bank robbery. As Washington's detective character tries to resolve the tense hostage situation, unexpected twists emerge. Inside Man explores themes like moral ambiguity, hidden motives while delivering an intelligent and suspenseful narrative that keeps audiences guessing till the end.
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  (#39) The Usual Suspects

  • Stephen Baldwin, Gabriel Byrne, Chazz Palminteri, Kevin Pollak, Pete Postlethwaite, Kevin Spacey, Suzy Amis, Giancarlo Esposito, Benicio Del Toro, Dan Hedaya, Paul Bartel

  The Usual Suspects, directed by Bryan Singer and written by Christopher McQuarrie, is a neo-noir crime thriller that follows a group of criminals brought together for an intricate heist. The film's labyrinthine plot, narrated primarily through the unreliable perspective of Kevin Spacey's character Verbal Kint, explores themes like deception, manipulation, and the nature of mythmaking. With its iconic twist ending involving the enigmatic Keyser Söze, The Usual Suspects has become a classic in modern cinema and earned McQuarrie an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
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  (#40) The Bone Collector

  • Denzel Washington, Angelina Jolie, Queen Latifah, Michael Rooker, Michael McGlone, Luis Guzmán, Leland Orser, John Benjamin Hickey, Bobby Cannavale, Ed O'Neill, Larry Day

  The Bone Collector, based on Jeffery Deaver's novel and directed by Phillip Noyce, stars Denzel Washington as a quadriplegic forensic investigator who partners with rookie cop Amelia Donaghy (Angelina Jolie) to track down a serial killer who leaves clues within his grisly crime scenes. The film delves into themes like overcoming personal limitations and collaboration in pursuit of justice with its two powerhouse actors leading the charge in this thrilling cat-and-mouse game.
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  (#41) Blade Runner

  • Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young, Edward James Olmos, M. Emmet Walsh, Daryl Hannah, William Sanderson, Brion James, Joseph Turkel, Joanna Cassidy, James Hong, Morgan Paull, Kevin Thompson, John Edward Allen, Hy Pyke, Kimiro Hiroshige, Bob Okazaki, Carolyn DeMirjian

  Blade Runner, directed by Ridley Scott and based on Philip K. Dick's novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, stars Harrison Ford as Rick Deckard – a former police officer tasked with hunting down rogue humanoid androids known as replicants in dystopian Los Angeles. This seminal science fiction film delves into themes such as artificial intelligence, humanity's relationship with technology, and the question of what it means to be human. Blade Runner has garnered immense acclaim over time for its visual style and philosophical depth while inspiring countless other films within the genre.
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  (#42) Fort Apache, The Bronx

  • Paul Newman, Ed Asner, Ken Wahl, Danny Aiello, Rachel Ticotin, Pam Grier, Kathleen Beller

  Fort Apache, The Bronx, directed by Daniel Petrie, is set in New York City's crime-ridden South Bronx neighborhood where Paul Newman stars as a conflicted police officer trying to maintain order while battling corruption within his own precinct. This gritty drama tackles themes like personal integrity amidst adversity, racial tensions, and the struggle for justice in a seemingly lawless world. Fort Apache, The Bronx received critical acclaim for its stark portrayal of urban decay during that time period.
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  (#43) Mad Max

  • Mel Gibson, Joanne Samuel, Hugh Keays-Byrne, Steve Bisley, Roger Ward, Vincent Gil, Tim Burns, Geoff Parry, Paul Johnstone, John Ley, Jonathan Hardy, Sheila Florance

  Mad Max, directed by George Miller introduces audiences to post-apocalyptic Australia where Mel Gibson stars as Max Rockatansky – a leather-clad cop turned vigilante seeking vengeance against brutal motorbike gangs. This influential dystopian action film explores themes like survival amidst societal collapse along with raw retribution while setting new standards for vehicular action sequences. Mad Max would go on to spawn three sequels including the critically acclaimed Mad Max: Fury Road released in 2015.
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  (#44) Reptile

  • Benicio del Toro, Justin Timberlake, Eric Bogosian, Alicia Silverstone, Domenick Lombardozzi, Frances Fisher, Ato Essandoh, Michael Pitt, Karl Glusman, Matilda Anna Ingrid Lutz
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  (#45) The Naked Gun Franchise

  • Leslie Nielsen, Priscilla Presley, O. J. Simpson

  The Naked Gun franchise is a trilogy of hilarious satirical cop comedies beginning with 1988's The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! starring Leslie Nielsen as bumbling detective Frank Drebin. Directed by David Zucker, these films are known for their slapstick humor, outrageous sight gags, and comedic twists on conventional police dramas. The Naked Gun movies explore themes like maintaining order despite incompetence while spoofing numerous popular films in a lighthearted parody that has inspired countless other comedy projects since its release.
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  (#46) We Own the Night

  • Joaquin Phoenix, Mark Wahlberg, Eva Mendes, Robert Duvall, Antoni Corone, Moni Moshonov, Alex Veadov, Tony Musante

  We Own the Night, written and directed by James Gray, stars Joaquin Phoenix as a nightclub manager entangled in conflict between his family's law enforcement background and his loyalty to the Russian mob. As he becomes an informant for his brother (Mark Wahlberg) and father (Robert Duvall), both NYPD officers, this crime drama explores themes such as divided loyalties, redemption through sacrifice, and choosing between blood ties or underworld allegiances.
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  (#47) Brooklyn's Finest

  • Richard Gere, Don Cheadle, Ethan Hawke, Wesley Snipes, Will Patton, Ellen Barkin, Brian F. O'Byrne, Lili Taylor, Shannon Kane, Jesse Williams

  Brooklyn's Finest, directed by Antoine Fuqua, features an ensemble cast including Richard Gere, Don Cheadle, and Ethan Hawke as police officers dealing with personal crises and moral dilemmas while working in the crime-infested streets of Brooklyn. The film delves into themes like corruption within law enforcement agencies, redemption amidst despair, and the struggle to maintain ethical standards under pressure from both internal and external forces.
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  (#48) To Catch a Killer

  • Shailene Woodley, Ben Mendelsohn, Ralph Ineson, Jovan Adepo, Marcella Lentz-Pope, Rosemary Dunsmore, Darcy Laurie, Michael Cram
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  (#49) The Day of the Jackal

  • Edward Fox, Michaël Lonsdale, Tony Britton, Terence Alexander, Cyril Cusack, Alan Badel, Michel Auclair, Denis Carey, Maurice Denham, Adrien Cayla-Legrand, Vernon Dobtcheff, Jacques François, Olga Georges-Picot, Raymond Gerome, Barrie Ingham, Derek Jacobi, Jean Martin, Ronald Pickup, Eric Porter, Anton Rodgers, Delphine Seyrig, Donald Sinden, Jean Sorel, David Swift, Timothy West
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  (#50) Luther: The Fallen Sun

  • Idris Elba, Andy Serkis, Cynthia Erivo, Dermot Crowley, Lauryn Ajufo, Andy Apollo, Nicola Achilleas
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  (#51) To Live and Die in L.A.

  • William Petersen, Willem Dafoe, John Pankow, Debra Feuer, John Turturro, Darlanne Fluegel, Dean Stockwell, Steve James, Robert Downey
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  (#52) The Choirboys

  • Charles Durning, Louis Gossett, Perry King, Clyde Kusatsu, Stephen Macht, Tim McIntire, Randy Quaid, Chuck Sacci, Don Stroud, James Woods, Burt Young, Robert Webber, Jean Bell, Blair Brown, Michele Carey, Charlie Haid, Joe Kapp, Barbara Rhoades, Jim Davis, Phyllis Davis, Christopher Weeks, George Di Cenzo, David Spielberg, Vic Tayback, Michael Wills, Susan Batson, Claire Brennon

  The Choirboys, directed by Robert Aldrich based on Joseph Wambaugh's novel, follows a group of off-duty LAPD officers who engage in wild escapades to cope with their stressful jobs. This dark comedy-drama showcases themes such as camaraderie among law enforcement officers, the challenges of dealing with trauma, and finding solace in unconventional ways. The Choirboys presents a unique blend of humor and drama while offering an unvarnished look at the lives of police officers beyond their line of duty.
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  (#53) Minority Report

  • Tom Cruise, Colin Farrell, Samantha Morton, Max von Sydow, Lois Smith, Peter Stormare, Tim Blake Nelson, Steve Harris, Kathryn Morris, Mike Binder, Daniel London, Neal McDonough, Jessica Capshaw, Patrick Kilpatrick, Jessica Harper, Ashley Crow, Arye Gross, Jason Antoon
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  (#54) Along Came a Spider

  • Morgan Freeman, Monica Potter, Michael Wincott, Penelope Ann Miller, Michael Moriarty, Mika Boorem, Dylan Baker, Anton Yelchin, Kim Hawthorne, Jay O. Sanders, Billy Burke
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  (#55) The Mule

  • Clint Eastwood, Bradley Cooper, Laurence Fishburne, Michael Peña, Dianne Wiest, Andy Garcia, Alison Eastwood, Taissa Farmiga, Ignacio Serricchio, Loren Dean, Eugene Cordero, Clifton Collins, Lobo Sebastian, Manny Montana, Robert LaSardo, Noel Gugliemi
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  (#56) Patriots Day

  • Mark Wahlberg, J. K. Simmons, Kevin Bacon
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  (#57) Prisoners

  • Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis, Maria Bello, Terrence Howard, Melissa Leo, Paul Dano, Dylan Minnette, Zoë Soul, Erin Gerasimovich, Kyla-Drew, Wayne Duvall, Len Cariou, David Dastmalchian
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  (#58) Narc

  • Ray Liotta, Jason Patric, Chi McBride, Busta Rhymes, Anne Openshaw, Richard Chevolleau, John Ortiz, Bishop Brigante
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  (#59) Internal Affairs

  • Richard Gere, Andy Garcia, Nancy Travis, Laurie Metcalf, Richard Bradford, William Baldwin, Michael Beach, Faye Grant, Katherine Borowitz, Annabella Sciorra
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  (#60) Pride and Glory

  • Ed Norton, Colin Farrell, Jon Voight, Noah Emmerich, Jennifer Ehle, John Ortiz, Shea Whigham, Frank Grillo, Lake Bell, Rick Gonzalez, Wayne Duvall, Carmen Ejogo, Ramon Rodriguez, Manny Perez
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  (#61) Bad Lieutenant

  • Harvey Keitel, Frankie Thorn, Zoë Lund, Anthony Ruggiero, Eddie Daniels, Bianca Hunter, Vickie Bastel, Robin Burrows, Victor Argo, Paul Hipp, Fernando Velez, Michael N. Ciravolo
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  (#62) 22 Jump Street

  • Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Peter Stormare, Wyatt Russell, Amber Stevens West, Jillian Bell, Ice Cube, Keith Lucas, Kenneth Lucas, Nick Offerman, Jimmy Tatro, Caroline Aaron, Craig Roberts, Marc Evan Jackson, Joe Chrest, Eddie Fernandez, Rye Rye, Johnny Pemberton, Stanley Wong, Dax Flame
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  (#63) Blown Away

  • Jeff Bridges, Tommy Lee Jones, Lloyd Bridges, Forest Whitaker, Suzy Amis, Stephi Lineburg, John Finn, Caitlin Clarke, Chris De Oni, Loyd Catlett
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  (#64) Mulholland Falls

  • Nick Nolte, Melanie Griffith, Chazz Palminteri, Michael Madsen, Chris Penn, Treat Williams, Jennifer Connelly, Daniel Baldwin, Andrew McCarthy, John Malkovich, Bruce Dern, Ed Lauter, Kyle Chandler, Larry Garrison, Chelsea Harrington, Johnna Johnson, Rick Johnson, Britt Burr, Melinda Clarke, Ernie Lively, Richard Sylbert, Michael Krawic, Titus Welliver, Robert Peters, William M. Thigpen, Drew Pillsbury, Brad Hunt, Aaron Neville, Buddy Joe Hooker, Eddie Caicedo
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  (#65) Blue Streak

  • Martin Lawrence, Luke Wilson, Peter Greene, Dave Chappelle, Nicole Ari Parker, Graham Beckel, Robert Guy Miranda, Olek Krupa, Saverio Guerra, Allen Smithee, Tamala Jones, Julio Oscar Mechoso, Steve Rankin, Carmen Argenziano, John Hawkes, Frank Medrano, William Forsythe, Octavia Spencer, Timothy Dale Agee, Bayani Ison, Scott Sowers, Christopher Stapleton, Eddy Donno, Troy Gilbert, Kenny Endoso, Googy Gress, Robert LaSardo, Bill Ferrell, Billy "Sly" Williams, Greg Montgomery
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  (#66) The Rookie

  • Clint Eastwood, Charlie Sheen, Raul Julia, Sonia Braga, Tom Skerritt, Lara Flynn Boyle, Pepe Serna, Marco Rodríguez, Pete Randall
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  (#67) Dark Blue

  • Kurt Russell, Brendan Gleeson, Scott Speedman, Michael Michele, Lolita Davidovich, Ving Rhames, Dash Mihok, Kurupt, Khandi Alexander, Master P
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  (#68) Dragnet

  • Dan Aykroyd, Tom Hanks, Christopher Plummer, Harry Morgan, Alexandra Paul, Jack O'Halloran, Elizabeth Ashley, Dabney Coleman, Kathleen Freeman, Bruce Gray, Lenka Peterson, Julia Jennings
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  (#69) City Heat

  • Clint Eastwood, Burt Reynolds, Jane Alexander, Madeline Kahn, Rip Torn, Irene Cara, Richard Roundtree, Tony Lo Bianco, William Sanderson, Nicholas Worth, Robert Davi, Jude Farese, John Hancock, Tab Thacker, Gerald S. O'Loughlin, Bruce M. Fischer, Art LaFleur
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  (#70) BlacKkKlansman

  • John David Washington, Adam Driver, Laura Harrier, Topher Grace, Jasper Pääkkönen, Corey Hawkins, Ryan Eggold, Michael Buscemi, Paul Walter Hauser, Ashlie Atkinson, Alec Baldwin, Harry Belafonte
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  (#71) Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

  • Frances McDormand, Woody Harrelson, Sam Rockwell, Lucas Hedges, Clarke Peters, Abbie Cornish, Peter Dinklage, Caleb Landry Jones, Kerry Condon, John Hawkes, Kathryn Newton, Zeljko Ivanek, Brendan Sexton, Samara Weaving
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  (#72) Infernal Affairs

  • Tony Leung Chiu Wai, Andy Lau, Anthony Chau-Sang Wong, Eric Tsang, Chapman To, Ka Tung Lam, Ng Ting-yip, Chi Keung Wan, Sammi Cheng, Kelly Chen, Edison Chen, Shawn Yu Man-Lok, Elva Hsiao
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  (#73) The Seven-Ups

  • Roy Scheider, Tony Lo Bianco, Victor Arnold, Jerry Leon, Ken Kercheval, Larry Haines, Richard Lynch, Bill Hickman
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  (#74) Honest Thief

  • Liam Neeson, Kate Walsh, Jai Courtney
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  (#75) Mile 22

  • Mark Wahlberg, Lauren Cohan, Iko Uwais, John Malkovich, Ronda Rousey, Carlo Alban, Natasha Goubskaya, CL, Sam Medina, Keith Arthur Bolden, Jenique Hendrix, Billy Smith, Myke Holmes, Emily Skeggs, Terry Kinney, Brandon Scales, Poorna Jagannathan, Peter Berg, Elle Graham, Nikolai Nikolaeff, Ariel Felix, Tom Astor, Kate Rigg, Lourdes Perea
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  (#76) The Guilty

  • Jake Gyllenhaal, Ethan Hawke, Riley Keough, Paul Dano, Peter Sarsgaard, Bill Burr, Edi Patterson, David Castañeda, Christina Vidal
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  (#77) Destroyer

  • Nicole Kidman, Toby Kebbell, Tatiana Maslany, Sebastian Stan, Scoot McNairy, Bradley Whitford, Toby Huss, James Jordan, Beau Knapp, Jade Pettyjohn, Shamier Anderson, Zach Villa, Natalia Cordova-Buckley, Colby French, Kelvin Han Yee, Joseph Fatu, Cuete Yeska, Doug Simpson, Kale Clauson, Jan Hoag, Peter Mark Vasquez, Mickey O'Hagan, McCabe Slye, Brandon Morales, Chido Nwokocha, Cecily Breaux
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  (#78) Paul Blart: Mall Cop

  • Kevin James, Jayma Mays, Keir O'Donnell, Bobby Cannavale, Steve Rannazzisi, Shirley Knight, Adhir Kalyan, Peter Gerety, Adam Ferrara, Gary Valentine, Raini Rodriguez, Jamal Mixon, Erick Avari, Allen Covert
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  (#79) Limbo

  • Hanna Chan, Hiroyuki Ikeuchi, Ka Tung Lam
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  (#80) Bright

  • Will Smith, Joel Edgerton, Noomi Rapace, Lucy Fry, Edgar Ramírez, Ike Barinholtz, Enrique Murciano, Jay Hernandez, Andrea Navedo, Veronica Ngo, Alex Meraz, Margaret Cho, Brad William Henke, Dawn Olivieri, Kenneth Choi
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  (#81) The Wolf of Snow Hollow

  • Jim Cummings, Riki Lindhome, Robert Forster, Jimmy Tatro, Marshall Allman, Chloe East, Annie Hamilton, Diane D. Griffith
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  (#82) Body Cam

  • Mary J. Blige, Nat Wolff, David Zayas, Anika Noni Rose, Demetrius Grosse, Sue-Lynn Ansari, Ian Casselberry, Sylvia Grace Crim, Renell Gibbs
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  (#83) Spenser Confidential

  • Mark Wahlberg, Winston Duke, Alan Arkin, Iliza Shlesinger, Bokeem Woodbine, Marc Maron, Colleen Camp, Michael Gaston, James DuMont, Post Malone
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  (#84) Survive the Game

  • Chad Michael Murray, Bruce Willis, Swen Temmel, Sarah Roemer, Simon Phillips, Zack Ward, Donna D'Errico, Sean Kanan, Kate Katzman, James Cullen Bressack
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  (#85) A Cop Movie

  • Raúl Briones, Monica del Carmen
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  (#86) Copshop

  • Gerard Butler, Frank Grillo, Alexis Louder, Toby Huss, Chad L. Coleman, Ryan O'Nan, Kaiwi Lyman, Robert Walker Branchaud, Tait Fletcher, Keith Jardine

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