What Are The Best Heist Movies Based On A Real Crimes?

Heist, or caper, movies are amongst the most popular types of movies of the crime genre. While some of the most popular heist movies, such as Jackie Brown, are based on good fictional stories, the most popular movies in the genre are based on real-life crime. Here is a look at some of the most popular heist movies which are based on true life events.

Heat (1995)

Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino star in this American classic. Based on the true crimes of Neil McCauley, a former Alcatraz inmate, Robert De Niro and his gang rob a bank and Al Pacino plays the detective leading the hunt for him.

Goodfellas (1990)

Goodfellas is a crime movie classic and frequently appears on lists of the best movies of all time. Ray Liotta turned in a critically acclaimed performance as Henry Hill, and the movie charts the life of the Wiseguy.

The Sting (1973)

Robert Redford and Paul Newman star in The Sting. The Sting is the oldest movie featured on this list, having been made in 1973. Newman and Redford star in the true story of two grifters who planned and executed a complex plot to dethrone a mafia boss.

The Appeal of True Movies

While fictional movies are a great form of escapism, movies based on true events have a special appeal. The next time you tune in to one of these heist movies, remember that not only are they the amongst the top heist movies ever released, the events featured really happened, and you will enjoy the story on a different level.