The 20 Best Heist Movies Of All Time

Some of the most fast-paced, high-stakes, anxiety-inducing films out there are heist movies. Whether our crew is robbing a bank, a top-secret government facility, or a casino, these movies put us on edge as we wait to see how it all turns out. There are a lot of great heist flicks out there, many in different genres ranging from comedy to superhero to neo-western and so on, and so we decided to put together our top 20 list of the best heist movies of all time. So get your crew together and check out our favorites below!

1. Heat (1995)

We know, we’ve mentioned Michael Man’s masterpiece before, but it’s really just that good. One of the greatest crime dramas of all time, Heat is memorable for its opposing character-driven dramas: Al Pacino (The Godfather) as grizzled veteran LAPD officer Vincent Hann and Robert De Niro (The Irishman) as tired career thief Neil McCauley. Heat is one of those films you kind of just have to see (also, Val Kilmer of Tombstone fame is also a driving force of the film) and that “coffee shop“ scene, we’re telling you, brings the whole film together. Not only is this one incredible heist flick, but it also features some of the greatest performances to be captured on screen. 2. The Town (2010)

If you thought a bank-robbing movie about guys from Boston would be boring, The Town will waste no time proving you wrong. Ben Affleck (Zack Snyder’s Justice League), who also co-wrote and directed the film, stars opposite Jeremy Renner (Wind River) as Doug and Jem, two local boys with a serious attitude problem and an itch to rob banks. Studying themes like brotherhood, love, and the long-time gangster obsession with “getting out of the life,” The Town does its best to do more than just show you two guys robbing banks, it makes you care deeply about them as they each decide which path they want to go down, and with whom. This is by far Affleck’s best work to date. 3. Ocean’s Eleven (2001)

A remake of the 1960s classic of the same name, Ocean’s Eleven is one of the most popular (if not the most popular) heist films, and there’s a clear reason why. The beginning of a trilogy, the film follows Danny Ocean (George Clooney, O Brother Where Art Thou?) and Rusty Ryan (Brad Pitt, Fight Club) as they plan a grand casino heist. The duo assembles a crack team to steal over $150 million from the lover of Ocean’s ex-wife, Tess (Julia Roberts, Pretty Woman), who is a Las Vegas casino owner (played by Andy Garcia, The Untouchables). This fast-paced and witty film doesn’t fail to entertain with an extended cast that also includes Matt Damon (Bourne Identity), Elliot Gould (The Long Goodbye), Casey Affleck (Triple 9), and Carl Reiner (The Jerk). And if you decide that you want more, Ocean’s Twelve and Ocean’s Thirteen are waiting… 4. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

The directing debut of Hollywood superstar Quinten Tarrantino (who also plays a minor role in the movie), Reservoir Dogs has been called the “greatest independent film of all time” and has garnered quite a cult following. The film follows a group of diamond thieves who plan to rob a jewelry store before everything goes horribly wrong. The heist itself is told in traditional Tarantino fashion – non-linearly – which is a huge part of its charm. Other Tarantino trademarks seen in Reservoir Dogs include violent crime, pop culture references, profanity, clever dialogue, and a well-rounded soundtrack that will make you bob your head and tap your feet. It’s a classic for a reason. 5. Thief (1981)

Another Michael Mann film, Thief stars James Caan (The Godfather) as (you-guessed-it) a thief named Frank who tries to escape his life of crime. Sounds like a classic neo-noir story, but did we mention he’s also a professional safecracker with a family and a “last job” that might cost him everything? While on the surface Thief may feel more like a crime thriller than a strict heist movie, never fear, because there is enough heist-related drama and suspense to keep you glued to your television screen for the next two hours if you watch this movie. Also, country legend Willie Nelson makes a welcome appearance as Frank’s former mentor “Okla”.

See more about - The 15 Best Robert De Niro Movies Of All Time

6. The Killing (1956)

Stanley Kubrick, the mastermind behind 2001: A Space Odyssey, A Clockwork Orange, and Eyes Wide Shut, made his first Hollywood big break with his film noir The Killing back in the 1950s. The film follows Sterling Hayden (Johnny Guitar) as Johnny Clay, a criminal planning one last job before marrying the love of his life. Like Thief, The Killing feels more like a crime caper or a film noir than a strict heist flick, but that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable. In fact, Kubrick’s eye for detail and knack for perfection lend themselves nicely to Johnny Clay’s heist and all the activities that follow. If you haven’t seen this film classic, then today’s the day. 7. Inside Man (2006)

A Spike Lee (BlacKkKlansman) joint, Inside Man follows NYC’s hostage negotiator Det. Keith Frazier (Denzel Washington, Flight), criminal Dalton Russell (Clive Owen, The International), and Manhattan power broker Madeline White (Jodie Foster, Silence of the Lambs) as they deal with an elaborate bank heist on Wall Street. It’s exciting, engaging, and features some really interesting twists that change the narrative while you’re watching. Story aside, Denzel Washington is incredible as always, and Jodie Foster, Clive Owen, Christopher Plummer (Knives Out), and Willem Dafoe (The Lighthouse) also shine brightly in this early 2000s crime caper. 8. Dead Presidents (1995)

Directed by brothers Allen and Albert Hughes (The Book of Eli), Dead Presidents is about the life of Anthony Curtis (Larenz Tate, Menace II Society), from his time as a teenager in the Bronx to his deployment to the Vietnam War and back again as he turns to a life of crime. The film is actually based on the life story of Haywood T. Kirkland (detailed in the book Bloods: An Oral History of the Vietnam War by Black Veterans) as well as several incidents involving the Black Liberation Army. This is a rough one to watch, and even rougher to stomach when you get to the end, but features an intense heist nevertheless. 9. Fast Five (2011)

Arguably the best movie in the Fast & Furious franchise, Fast Five is an exciting, pulse-pounding heist film that changes the Fast Saga from being a strictly “street racing” franchise and turning it into a series of international action/adventure flicks. The Furious Family move from the United States (and Tokyo) to Rio de Janeiro to start “a new life.” Longtime Fast director Justin Lin reimagines Dom (Vin Diesel, The Iron Giant) and his family’s story, creating an entirely new world of possibilities that ultimately makes Fast Five not only one of the best heist films of the past decade but also the best Fast & Furious film out there. Oh, and the addition of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as the take-no-shit Luke Hobbs trying to takedown Disiel and his crew is a masterstroke.  10. Den of Thieves (2018)

This is a “blink and you’ll miss it” release from 2018 that has more than earned its place on this list. Den of Thieves follows a police unit as they attempt to stop a hardened criminal gang from robbing the Federal Reserve brand in Los Angeles. It’s like a B-grade Heat. With Gerard Butler (Olympus Has Fallen), Pablo Schreiber (The Wire), O’Shea Jackson, Jr. (Straight Outta Compton), and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson (Power), this oddball cast play cat and mouse in one of the most enjoyable action heists in recent memory.

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11. Rififi (1955)

A French crime film, Rififi is probably one you’ve never heard of, and probably never would outside a list like this. Blacklisted American filmmaker Jules Dassin (Brute Force) moved out of the country to continue his filmmaking career, resulting in this film about four men who decide to rob a jewelry shop on the Rue de Rivoli. Interestingly enough, the half-hour near silent heist sequence in the center of the film (part of what makes this film notable) has actually been mimicked by real-life criminals in actual crimes from across the globe. Bet they didn’t teach you that in history class? 12. Sexy Beast (2000)

A British classic, Sexy Beast is director Jonathan Glazer’s feature directorial debut. The movie follows Ray Winstone (Hugo) as Gary “Gal” Dove, a retired gangster living in Spain who gets a visit from a former colleague, the psychotic Don Logan (Ben Kingsley, Shutter Island). Logan demands Gal be a part of a bank job in London and won’t take no for an answer. Ian McShane (Deadwood) also stars. While the appeal of most heist films is the solid character dramas that usually unfold, the performances (especially by Ben Kingsley) in Sexy Beast are on another level. While this might not be your first thought when you think of a heist flick, it’s still worth giving it a chance, even if some of the British humor goes over your head. 13. The Italian Job (1969)

The original Michael Caine (Get Carter) British comedy caper, The Italian Job follows Charlie Croker (Caine), the leader of a cockney criminal gang who sets out to do a “big job” and steal some gold from an armored security truck. Noël Coward (Hay Fever) also co-stars in this action-comedy romp. Known for its elaborate heist, The Italian Job has a hilarious “literal cliffhanger” ending that will make you laugh. Recently, a Paramount+ sequel series has been announced that will follow Croker’s grandchildren as they inherit his safety deposit box. Stay away from the Mark Wahlberg remake though.  14. Widows (2018)

A Steve McQueen (12 Years A Slave) film based on the British television series of the same name (we had no idea either), Widows is a heist thriller that follows four Chicago women who attempt to steal from a prominent local politician so they can pay back their dead husband’s debts to a local crime boss. It’s high-stakes here. The film stars Viola Davis (Fences), Michelle Rodriguez (Fast & Furious), Elizabeth Debicki (The Great Gatsby), and Cynthia Erivo (Harriet) as they turn the world of Chicago organized crime upside down. There are some other really great actors who show up in this one, but maybe that’s better left as being a surprise. 15. The Usual Suspects (1995)

Directed by Bryan Singer (X-Men) and written by Christopher McQuarrie (Mission: Impossible – Fallout), The Usual Suspects follows the recounting of Roger “Verbal” Kint’s (Kevin Spacey, House of Cards) account of a massacre that took place on a ship off the coast of L.A., leading to the mysterious crime lord who controlled them. Named after Claude Rains’ memorable “round up the usual suspects” line from Casablanca, this neo-noir classic uses narration and flashback techniques to tell this convoluted tale with an ending you’ll never see coming.

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16. Point Break (1991)

No heist film has quite the cult following that Point Break does. Patrick Swayze (Red Dawn) and Keanu Reeves (The Matrix) star in this surfing/heist/bro-pic that has captivated audiences since its release. Director Kathryn Bigelow (The Hurt Locker) didn’t realize the hit she had on her hands when this flick hit cinemas in 1991. Kind of the original The Fast & The Furious (which clearly takes a lot from this film), rookie FBI agent Johnny Utah (Reeves) infiltrates a bank-robbing surfer gang only to develop a complex relationship with its leader, Zen guru Bodhi (Swayze). This film has everything, from big wave surfing to skydiving and a Red Hot Chili Pepper to outrageous action set pieces. It’s also Gary Busey’s greatest role. “Utah, get me two!”  17. The Sting (1973)

The second and final collaboration between director George Roy Hill and actors Paul Newman and Robert Redford – who had previously starred opposite each other in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid – is a rip-roaring period drama called The Sting. This Depression-era crime caper includes a complicated plot to con a mob boss. The Sting’s high-stakes private poker game, horse race bets, femme Fatales, and classic banter between Newman and Redford bring these cowboys-turned-grifters into the spotlight and help make the film an instant classic. Between the clever writing, intentional framing, and upbeat ragtime score, The Sting is a must-see for all film lovers. 18. Logan Lucky (2017)

The second Steven Soderbergh heist film on this list, Logan Lucky is a heist comedy with a ton of star power behind it. It’s the story of the Logan family (yes, another heist movie about “family”) as they “attempt to rob the Charlotte Motor Speedway whilst avoiding security officers and the FBI.” It’s a really good time. Speaking of star power, the film features Channing Tatum (21 Jump Street), Adam Driver (Star Wars: The Last Jedi), Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy), Riley Keough (Magic Mike), Katie Holmes (Coda), Hilary Swank (Million Dollar Baby), Katherine Waterston (Alien: Covenant), and Sebastian Stan (Captain America: The Winter Soldier). 19. Dog Day Afternoon (1975)

Critically acclaimed filmmaker Sidney Lumet (The Verdict) outdid himself with Dog Day Afternoon. Starring Al Pacino, this film (based on real-life events) follows Sonny Wortzik (based on real-life bank robber John Wojtowicz) as he leads a robbery/hostage situation to pay for his lover’s sex-reassignment surgery. If that sounds interesting, you’re in for a treat. The film’s cast was carefully selected by Lumet and Pacino, often casting based on Pacino’s former Off-Broadway plays, and featured well-known and talented thespians John Cazale (The Godfather), Charles Durning (The Sting), Lance Henriksen (Millennium), and Chris Sarandon (The Princess Bride). 20. Hell or High Water (2016)

Probably this writer’s favorite on the list, Hell or High Water was written by Taylor Sheridan (Yellowstone) and directed by Ben Mackenzie (Arrival) and is about two bank-robbing brothers on the run in West Texas as they are pursued by two Texas Rangers. It’s a neo-Western classic that isn’t afraid to get to the nitty-gritty, showing the real-life reality of the small-town Texas lifestyle. Starring Chris Pine (Star Trek), Ben Foster (Hostiles), Jeff Bridges (Crazy Heart), and Gil Birmingham (Yellowstone), the quartet bring heart and soul into their roles as brothers and Texas Rangers, respectively. Each character has an intense arc that culminates in one of the best heist film endings of all time. If you haven’t seen this one, it’s a must.

See more about - The 15 Best Thriller Movies Of All Time

Some of the most fast-paced, high-stakes, anxiety-inducing films out there are heist movies. Whether our crew is robbing a bank, a top-secret government facility, or a casino, these movies put us on edge as we wait to see how it all turns out. There are a lot of great heist flicks out there, many in different genres ranging from comedy to superhero to neo-western and so on, and so we decided to put together our top 20 list of the best heist movies of all time. So get your crew together and check out our favorites below!

1. Heat (1995)

We know, we’ve mentioned Michael Man’s masterpiece before, but it’s really just that good. One of the greatest crime dramas of all time, Heat is memorable for its opposing character-driven dramas: Al Pacino (The Godfather) as grizzled veteran LAPD officer Vincent Hann and Robert De Niro (The Irishman) as tired career thief Neil McCauley. Heat is one of those films you kind of just have to see (also, Val Kilmer of Tombstone fame is also a driving force of the film) and that “coffee shop“ scene, we’re telling you, brings the whole film together. Not only is this one incredible heist flick, but it also features some of the greatest performances to be captured on screen. 2. The Town (2010)

If you thought a bank-robbing movie about guys from Boston would be boring, The Town will waste no time proving you wrong. Ben Affleck (Zack Snyder’s Justice League), who also co-wrote and directed the film, stars opposite Jeremy Renner (Wind River) as Doug and Jem, two local boys with a serious attitude problem and an itch to rob banks. Studying themes like brotherhood, love, and the long-time gangster obsession with “getting out of the life,” The Town does its best to do more than just show you two guys robbing banks, it makes you care deeply about them as they each decide which path they want to go down, and with whom. This is by far Affleck’s best work to date. 3. Ocean’s Eleven (2001)

A remake of the 1960s classic of the same name, Ocean’s Eleven is one of the most popular (if not the most popular) heist films, and there’s a clear reason why. The beginning of a trilogy, the film follows Danny Ocean (George Clooney, O Brother Where Art Thou?) and Rusty Ryan (Brad Pitt, Fight Club) as they plan a grand casino heist. The duo assembles a crack team to steal over $150 million from the lover of Ocean’s ex-wife, Tess (Julia Roberts, Pretty Woman), who is a Las Vegas casino owner (played by Andy Garcia, The Untouchables). This fast-paced and witty film doesn’t fail to entertain with an extended cast that also includes Matt Damon (Bourne Identity), Elliot Gould (The Long Goodbye), Casey Affleck (Triple 9), and Carl Reiner (The Jerk). And if you decide that you want more, Ocean’s Twelve and Ocean’s Thirteen are waiting… 4. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

The directing debut of Hollywood superstar Quinten Tarrantino (who also plays a minor role in the movie), Reservoir Dogs has been called the “greatest independent film of all time” and has garnered quite a cult following. The film follows a group of diamond thieves who plan to rob a jewelry store before everything goes horribly wrong. The heist itself is told in traditional Tarantino fashion – non-linearly – which is a huge part of its charm. Other Tarantino trademarks seen in Reservoir Dogs include violent crime, pop culture references, profanity, clever dialogue, and a well-rounded soundtrack that will make you bob your head and tap your feet. It’s a classic for a reason. 5. Thief (1981)

Another Michael Mann film, Thief stars James Caan (The Godfather) as (you-guessed-it) a thief named Frank who tries to escape his life of crime. Sounds like a classic neo-noir story, but did we mention he’s also a professional safecracker with a family and a “last job” that might cost him everything? While on the surface Thief may feel more like a crime thriller than a strict heist movie, never fear, because there is enough heist-related drama and suspense to keep you glued to your television screen for the next two hours if you watch this movie. Also, country legend Willie Nelson makes a welcome appearance as Frank’s former mentor “Okla”.

See more about - The 15 Best Robert De Niro Movies Of All Time

6. The Killing (1956)

Stanley Kubrick, the mastermind behind 2001: A Space Odyssey, A Clockwork Orange, and Eyes Wide Shut, made his first Hollywood big break with his film noir The Killing back in the 1950s. The film follows Sterling Hayden (Johnny Guitar) as Johnny Clay, a criminal planning one last job before marrying the love of his life. Like Thief, The Killing feels more like a crime caper or a film noir than a strict heist flick, but that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable. In fact, Kubrick’s eye for detail and knack for perfection lend themselves nicely to Johnny Clay’s heist and all the activities that follow. If you haven’t seen this film classic, then today’s the day. 7. Inside Man (2006)

A Spike Lee (BlacKkKlansman) joint, Inside Man follows NYC’s hostage negotiator Det. Keith Frazier (Denzel Washington, Flight), criminal Dalton Russell (Clive Owen, The International), and Manhattan power broker Madeline White (Jodie Foster, Silence of the Lambs) as they deal with an elaborate bank heist on Wall Street. It’s exciting, engaging, and features some really interesting twists that change the narrative while you’re watching. Story aside, Denzel Washington is incredible as always, and Jodie Foster, Clive Owen, Christopher Plummer (Knives Out), and Willem Dafoe (The Lighthouse) also shine brightly in this early 2000s crime caper. 8. Dead Presidents (1995)

Directed by brothers Allen and Albert Hughes (The Book of Eli), Dead Presidents is about the life of Anthony Curtis (Larenz Tate, Menace II Society), from his time as a teenager in the Bronx to his deployment to the Vietnam War and back again as he turns to a life of crime. The film is actually based on the life story of Haywood T. Kirkland (detailed in the book Bloods: An Oral History of the Vietnam War by Black Veterans) as well as several incidents involving the Black Liberation Army. This is a rough one to watch, and even rougher to stomach when you get to the end, but features an intense heist nevertheless. 9. Fast Five (2011)

Arguably the best movie in the Fast & Furious franchise, Fast Five is an exciting, pulse-pounding heist film that changes the Fast Saga from being a strictly “street racing” franchise and turning it into a series of international action/adventure flicks. The Furious Family move from the United States (and Tokyo) to Rio de Janeiro to start “a new life.” Longtime Fast director Justin Lin reimagines Dom (Vin Diesel, The Iron Giant) and his family’s story, creating an entirely new world of possibilities that ultimately makes Fast Five not only one of the best heist films of the past decade but also the best Fast & Furious film out there. Oh, and the addition of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as the take-no-shit Luke Hobbs trying to takedown Disiel and his crew is a masterstroke.  10. Den of Thieves (2018)

This is a “blink and you’ll miss it” release from 2018 that has more than earned its place on this list. Den of Thieves follows a police unit as they attempt to stop a hardened criminal gang from robbing the Federal Reserve brand in Los Angeles. It’s like a B-grade Heat. With Gerard Butler (Olympus Has Fallen), Pablo Schreiber (The Wire), O’Shea Jackson, Jr. (Straight Outta Compton), and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson (Power), this oddball cast play cat and mouse in one of the most enjoyable action heists in recent memory.

See more about - The 11 Best Al Pacino Movies Of All Time

11. Rififi (1955)

A French crime film, Rififi is probably one you’ve never heard of, and probably never would outside a list like this. Blacklisted American filmmaker Jules Dassin (Brute Force) moved out of the country to continue his filmmaking career, resulting in this film about four men who decide to rob a jewelry shop on the Rue de Rivoli. Interestingly enough, the half-hour near silent heist sequence in the center of the film (part of what makes this film notable) has actually been mimicked by real-life criminals in actual crimes from across the globe. Bet they didn’t teach you that in history class? 12. Sexy Beast (2000)

A British classic, Sexy Beast is director Jonathan Glazer’s feature directorial debut. The movie follows Ray Winstone (Hugo) as Gary “Gal” Dove, a retired gangster living in Spain who gets a visit from a former colleague, the psychotic Don Logan (Ben Kingsley, Shutter Island). Logan demands Gal be a part of a bank job in London and won’t take no for an answer. Ian McShane (Deadwood) also stars. While the appeal of most heist films is the solid character dramas that usually unfold, the performances (especially by Ben Kingsley) in Sexy Beast are on another level. While this might not be your first thought when you think of a heist flick, it’s still worth giving it a chance, even if some of the British humor goes over your head. 13. The Italian Job (1969)

The original Michael Caine (Get Carter) British comedy caper, The Italian Job follows Charlie Croker (Caine), the leader of a cockney criminal gang who sets out to do a “big job” and steal some gold from an armored security truck. Noël Coward (Hay Fever) also co-stars in this action-comedy romp. Known for its elaborate heist, The Italian Job has a hilarious “literal cliffhanger” ending that will make you laugh. Recently, a Paramount+ sequel series has been announced that will follow Croker’s grandchildren as they inherit his safety deposit box. Stay away from the Mark Wahlberg remake though.  14. Widows (2018)

A Steve McQueen (12 Years A Slave) film based on the British television series of the same name (we had no idea either), Widows is a heist thriller that follows four Chicago women who attempt to steal from a prominent local politician so they can pay back their dead husband’s debts to a local crime boss. It’s high-stakes here. The film stars Viola Davis (Fences), Michelle Rodriguez (Fast & Furious), Elizabeth Debicki (The Great Gatsby), and Cynthia Erivo (Harriet) as they turn the world of Chicago organized crime upside down. There are some other really great actors who show up in this one, but maybe that’s better left as being a surprise. 15. The Usual Suspects (1995)

Directed by Bryan Singer (X-Men) and written by Christopher McQuarrie (Mission: Impossible – Fallout), The Usual Suspects follows the recounting of Roger “Verbal” Kint’s (Kevin Spacey, House of Cards) account of a massacre that took place on a ship off the coast of L.A., leading to the mysterious crime lord who controlled them. Named after Claude Rains’ memorable “round up the usual suspects” line from Casablanca, this neo-noir classic uses narration and flashback techniques to tell this convoluted tale with an ending you’ll never see coming.

See more about - The 13 Best Gangster Movies Of All Time

16. Point Break (1991)

No heist film has quite the cult following that Point Break does. Patrick Swayze (Red Dawn) and Keanu Reeves (The Matrix) star in this surfing/heist/bro-pic that has captivated audiences since its release. Director Kathryn Bigelow (The Hurt Locker) didn’t realize the hit she had on her hands when this flick hit cinemas in 1991. Kind of the original The Fast & The Furious (which clearly takes a lot from this film), rookie FBI agent Johnny Utah (Reeves) infiltrates a bank-robbing surfer gang only to develop a complex relationship with its leader, Zen guru Bodhi (Swayze). This film has everything, from big wave surfing to skydiving and a Red Hot Chili Pepper to outrageous action set pieces. It’s also Gary Busey’s greatest role. “Utah, get me two!”  17. The Sting (1973)

The second and final collaboration between director George Roy Hill and actors Paul Newman and Robert Redford – who had previously starred opposite each other in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid – is a rip-roaring period drama called The Sting. This Depression-era crime caper includes a complicated plot to con a mob boss. The Sting’s high-stakes private poker game, horse race bets, femme Fatales, and classic banter between Newman and Redford bring these cowboys-turned-grifters into the spotlight and help make the film an instant classic. Between the clever writing, intentional framing, and upbeat ragtime score, The Sting is a must-see for all film lovers. 18. Logan Lucky (2017)

The second Steven Soderbergh heist film on this list, Logan Lucky is a heist comedy with a ton of star power behind it. It’s the story of the Logan family (yes, another heist movie about “family”) as they “attempt to rob the Charlotte Motor Speedway whilst avoiding security officers and the FBI.” It’s a really good time. Speaking of star power, the film features Channing Tatum (21 Jump Street), Adam Driver (Star Wars: The Last Jedi), Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy), Riley Keough (Magic Mike), Katie Holmes (Coda), Hilary Swank (Million Dollar Baby), Katherine Waterston (Alien: Covenant), and Sebastian Stan (Captain America: The Winter Soldier). 19. Dog Day Afternoon (1975)

Critically acclaimed filmmaker Sidney Lumet (The Verdict) outdid himself with Dog Day Afternoon. Starring Al Pacino, this film (based on real-life events) follows Sonny Wortzik (based on real-life bank robber John Wojtowicz) as he leads a robbery/hostage situation to pay for his lover’s sex-reassignment surgery. If that sounds interesting, you’re in for a treat. The film’s cast was carefully selected by Lumet and Pacino, often casting based on Pacino’s former Off-Broadway plays, and featured well-known and talented thespians John Cazale (The Godfather), Charles Durning (The Sting), Lance Henriksen (Millennium), and Chris Sarandon (The Princess Bride). 20. Hell or High Water (2016)

Probably this writer’s favorite on the list, Hell or High Water was written by Taylor Sheridan (Yellowstone) and directed by Ben Mackenzie (Arrival) and is about two bank-robbing brothers on the run in West Texas as they are pursued by two Texas Rangers. It’s a neo-Western classic that isn’t afraid to get to the nitty-gritty, showing the real-life reality of the small-town Texas lifestyle. Starring Chris Pine (Star Trek), Ben Foster (Hostiles), Jeff Bridges (Crazy Heart), and Gil Birmingham (Yellowstone), the quartet bring heart and soul into their roles as brothers and Texas Rangers, respectively. Each character has an intense arc that culminates in one of the best heist film endings of all time. If you haven’t seen this one, it’s a must.

See more about - The 15 Best Thriller Movies Of All Time

Some of the most fast-paced, high-stakes, anxiety-inducing films out there are heist movies. Whether our crew is robbing a bank, a top-secret government facility, or a casino, these movies put us on edge as we wait to see how it all turns out.

There are a lot of great heist flicks out there, many in different genres ranging from comedy to superhero to neo-western and so on, and so we decided to put together our top 20 list of the best heist movies of all time. So get your crew together and check out our favorites below!

1. Heat (1995)

We know, we’ve mentioned Michael Man’s masterpiece before, but it’s really just that good. One of the greatest crime dramas of all time, Heat is memorable for its opposing character-driven dramas: Al Pacino (The Godfather) as grizzled veteran LAPD officer Vincent Hann and Robert De Niro (The Irishman) as tired career thief Neil McCauley.

Heat is one of those films you kind of just have to see (also, Val Kilmer of Tombstone fame is also a driving force of the film) and that “coffee shop“ scene, we’re telling you, brings the whole film together. Not only is this one incredible heist flick, but it also features some of the greatest performances to be captured on screen.

2. The Town (2010)

If you thought a bank-robbing movie about guys from Boston would be boring, The Town will waste no time proving you wrong. Ben Affleck (Zack Snyder’s Justice League), who also co-wrote and directed the film, stars opposite Jeremy Renner (Wind River) as Doug and Jem, two local boys with a serious attitude problem and an itch to rob banks.

Studying themes like brotherhood, love, and the long-time gangster obsession with “getting out of the life,” The Town does its best to do more than just show you two guys robbing banks, it makes you care deeply about them as they each decide which path they want to go down, and with whom. This is by far Affleck’s best work to date.

3. Ocean’s Eleven (2001)

A remake of the 1960s classic of the same name, Ocean’s Eleven is one of the most popular (if not the most popular) heist films, and there’s a clear reason why. The beginning of a trilogy, the film follows Danny Ocean (George Clooney, O Brother Where Art Thou?) and Rusty Ryan (Brad Pitt, Fight Club) as they plan a grand casino heist.

The duo assembles a crack team to steal over $150 million from the lover of Ocean’s ex-wife, Tess (Julia Roberts, Pretty Woman), who is a Las Vegas casino owner (played by Andy Garcia, The Untouchables). This fast-paced and witty film doesn’t fail to entertain with an extended cast that also includes Matt Damon (Bourne Identity), Elliot Gould (The Long Goodbye), Casey Affleck (Triple 9), and Carl Reiner (The Jerk). And if you decide that you want more, Ocean’s Twelve and Ocean’s Thirteen are waiting…

4. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

The directing debut of Hollywood superstar Quinten Tarrantino (who also plays a minor role in the movie), Reservoir Dogs has been called the “greatest independent film of all time” and has garnered quite a cult following. The film follows a group of diamond thieves who plan to rob a jewelry store before everything goes horribly wrong.

The heist itself is told in traditional Tarantino fashion – non-linearly – which is a huge part of its charm. Other Tarantino trademarks seen in Reservoir Dogs include violent crime, pop culture references, profanity, clever dialogue, and a well-rounded soundtrack that will make you bob your head and tap your feet. It’s a classic for a reason.

5. Thief (1981)

Another Michael Mann film, Thief stars James Caan (The Godfather) as (you-guessed-it) a thief named Frank who tries to escape his life of crime. Sounds like a classic neo-noir story, but did we mention he’s also a professional safecracker with a family and a “last job” that might cost him everything?

While on the surface Thief may feel more like a crime thriller than a strict heist movie, never fear, because there is enough heist-related drama and suspense to keep you glued to your television screen for the next two hours if you watch this movie. Also, country legend Willie Nelson makes a welcome appearance as Frank’s former mentor “Okla”.

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6. The Killing (1956)

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Stanley Kubrick, the mastermind behind 2001: A Space Odyssey, A Clockwork Orange, and Eyes Wide Shut, made his first Hollywood big break with his film noir The Killing back in the 1950s. The film follows Sterling Hayden (Johnny Guitar) as Johnny Clay, a criminal planning one last job before marrying the love of his life.

Like Thief, The Killing feels more like a crime caper or a film noir than a strict heist flick, but that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable. In fact, Kubrick’s eye for detail and knack for perfection lend themselves nicely to Johnny Clay’s heist and all the activities that follow. If you haven’t seen this film classic, then today’s the day.

7. Inside Man (2006)

A Spike Lee (BlacKkKlansman) joint, Inside Man follows NYC’s hostage negotiator Det. Keith Frazier (Denzel Washington, Flight), criminal Dalton Russell (Clive Owen, The International), and Manhattan power broker Madeline White (Jodie Foster, Silence of the Lambs) as they deal with an elaborate bank heist on Wall Street.

It’s exciting, engaging, and features some really interesting twists that change the narrative while you’re watching. Story aside, Denzel Washington is incredible as always, and Jodie Foster, Clive Owen, Christopher Plummer (Knives Out), and Willem Dafoe (The Lighthouse) also shine brightly in this early 2000s crime caper.

8. Dead Presidents (1995)

Directed by brothers Allen and Albert Hughes (The Book of Eli), Dead Presidents is about the life of Anthony Curtis (Larenz Tate, Menace II Society), from his time as a teenager in the Bronx to his deployment to the Vietnam War and back again as he turns to a life of crime.

The film is actually based on the life story of Haywood T. Kirkland (detailed in the book Bloods: An Oral History of the Vietnam War by Black Veterans) as well as several incidents involving the Black Liberation Army. This is a rough one to watch, and even rougher to stomach when you get to the end, but features an intense heist nevertheless.

9. Fast Five (2011)

Arguably the best movie in the Fast & Furious franchise, Fast Five is an exciting, pulse-pounding heist film that changes the Fast Saga from being a strictly “street racing” franchise and turning it into a series of international action/adventure flicks. The Furious Family move from the United States (and Tokyo) to Rio de Janeiro to start “a new life.”

Longtime Fast director Justin Lin reimagines Dom (Vin Diesel, The Iron Giant) and his family’s story, creating an entirely new world of possibilities that ultimately makes Fast Five not only one of the best heist films of the past decade but also the best Fast & Furious film out there. Oh, and the addition of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as the take-no-shit Luke Hobbs trying to takedown Disiel and his crew is a masterstroke. 

10. Den of Thieves (2018)

This is a “blink and you’ll miss it” release from 2018 that has more than earned its place on this list. Den of Thieves follows a police unit as they attempt to stop a hardened criminal gang from robbing the Federal Reserve brand in Los Angeles. It’s like a B-grade Heat.

With Gerard Butler (Olympus Has Fallen), Pablo Schreiber (The Wire), O’Shea Jackson, Jr. (Straight Outta Compton), and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson (Power), this oddball cast play cat and mouse in one of the most enjoyable action heists in recent memory.

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11. Rififi (1955)

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A French crime film, Rififi is probably one you’ve never heard of, and probably never would outside a list like this. Blacklisted American filmmaker Jules Dassin (Brute Force) moved out of the country to continue his filmmaking career, resulting in this film about four men who decide to rob a jewelry shop on the Rue de Rivoli.

Interestingly enough, the half-hour near silent heist sequence in the center of the film (part of what makes this film notable) has actually been mimicked by real-life criminals in actual crimes from across the globe. Bet they didn’t teach you that in history class?

12. Sexy Beast (2000)

A British classic, Sexy Beast is director Jonathan Glazer’s feature directorial debut. The movie follows Ray Winstone (Hugo) as Gary “Gal” Dove, a retired gangster living in Spain who gets a visit from a former colleague, the psychotic Don Logan (Ben Kingsley, Shutter Island). Logan demands Gal be a part of a bank job in London and won’t take no for an answer. Ian McShane (Deadwood) also stars.

While the appeal of most heist films is the solid character dramas that usually unfold, the performances (especially by Ben Kingsley) in Sexy Beast are on another level. While this might not be your first thought when you think of a heist flick, it’s still worth giving it a chance, even if some of the British humor goes over your head.

13. The Italian Job (1969)

The original Michael Caine (Get Carter) British comedy caper, The Italian Job follows Charlie Croker (Caine), the leader of a cockney criminal gang who sets out to do a “big job” and steal some gold from an armored security truck. Noël Coward (Hay Fever) also co-stars in this action-comedy romp.

Known for its elaborate heist, The Italian Job has a hilarious “literal cliffhanger” ending that will make you laugh. Recently, a Paramount+ sequel series has been announced that will follow Croker’s grandchildren as they inherit his safety deposit box. Stay away from the Mark Wahlberg remake though. 

14. Widows (2018)

A Steve McQueen (12 Years A Slave) film based on the British television series of the same name (we had no idea either), Widows is a heist thriller that follows four Chicago women who attempt to steal from a prominent local politician so they can pay back their dead husband’s debts to a local crime boss. It’s high-stakes here.

The film stars Viola Davis (Fences), Michelle Rodriguez (Fast & Furious), Elizabeth Debicki (The Great Gatsby), and Cynthia Erivo (Harriet) as they turn the world of Chicago organized crime upside down. There are some other really great actors who show up in this one, but maybe that’s better left as being a surprise.

15. The Usual Suspects (1995)

Directed by Bryan Singer (X-Men) and written by Christopher McQuarrie (Mission: Impossible – Fallout), The Usual Suspects follows the recounting of Roger “Verbal” Kint’s (Kevin Spacey, House of Cards) account of a massacre that took place on a ship off the coast of L.A., leading to the mysterious crime lord who controlled them.

Named after Claude Rains’ memorable “round up the usual suspects” line from Casablanca, this neo-noir classic uses narration and flashback techniques to tell this convoluted tale with an ending you’ll never see coming.

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16. Point Break (1991)

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No heist film has quite the cult following that Point Break does. Patrick Swayze (Red Dawn) and Keanu Reeves (The Matrix) star in this surfing/heist/bro-pic that has captivated audiences since its release. Director Kathryn Bigelow (The Hurt Locker) didn’t realize the hit she had on her hands when this flick hit cinemas in 1991.

Kind of the original The Fast & The Furious (which clearly takes a lot from this film), rookie FBI agent Johnny Utah (Reeves) infiltrates a bank-robbing surfer gang only to develop a complex relationship with its leader, Zen guru Bodhi (Swayze). This film has everything, from big wave surfing to skydiving and a Red Hot Chili Pepper to outrageous action set pieces. It’s also Gary Busey’s greatest role. “Utah, get me two!” 

17. The Sting (1973)

The second and final collaboration between director George Roy Hill and actors Paul Newman and Robert Redford – who had previously starred opposite each other in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid – is a rip-roaring period drama called The Sting. This Depression-era crime caper includes a complicated plot to con a mob boss.

The Sting’s high-stakes private poker game, horse race bets, femme Fatales, and classic banter between Newman and Redford bring these cowboys-turned-grifters into the spotlight and help make the film an instant classic. Between the clever writing, intentional framing, and upbeat ragtime score, The Sting is a must-see for all film lovers.

18. Logan Lucky (2017)

The second Steven Soderbergh heist film on this list, Logan Lucky is a heist comedy with a ton of star power behind it. It’s the story of the Logan family (yes, another heist movie about “family”) as they “attempt to rob the Charlotte Motor Speedway whilst avoiding security officers and the FBI.” It’s a really good time.

Speaking of star power, the film features Channing Tatum (21 Jump Street), Adam Driver (Star Wars: The Last Jedi), Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy), Riley Keough (Magic Mike), Katie Holmes (Coda), Hilary Swank (Million Dollar Baby), Katherine Waterston (Alien: Covenant), and Sebastian Stan (Captain America: The Winter Soldier).

19. Dog Day Afternoon (1975)

Critically acclaimed filmmaker Sidney Lumet (The Verdict) outdid himself with Dog Day Afternoon. Starring Al Pacino, this film (based on real-life events) follows Sonny Wortzik (based on real-life bank robber John Wojtowicz) as he leads a robbery/hostage situation to pay for his lover’s sex-reassignment surgery. If that sounds interesting, you’re in for a treat.

The film’s cast was carefully selected by Lumet and Pacino, often casting based on Pacino’s former Off-Broadway plays, and featured well-known and talented thespians John Cazale (The Godfather), Charles Durning (The Sting), Lance Henriksen (Millennium), and Chris Sarandon (The Princess Bride).

20. Hell or High Water (2016)

Probably this writer’s favorite on the list, Hell or High Water was written by Taylor Sheridan (Yellowstone) and directed by Ben Mackenzie (Arrival) and is about two bank-robbing brothers on the run in West Texas as they are pursued by two Texas Rangers. It’s a neo-Western classic that isn’t afraid to get to the nitty-gritty, showing the real-life reality of the small-town Texas lifestyle.

Starring Chris Pine (Star Trek), Ben Foster (Hostiles), Jeff Bridges (Crazy Heart), and Gil Birmingham (Yellowstone), the quartet bring heart and soul into their roles as brothers and Texas Rangers, respectively. Each character has an intense arc that culminates in one of the best heist film endings of all time. If you haven’t seen this one, it’s a must.

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