The gangster genre has been a staple in cinema for decades, capturing audiences with its thrilling narratives and complex characters. A large part of the genre’s success is due to the memorable performances of a number of gifted actors who brought these gritty roles to life. Here are the 10 best gangster actors in movies, ranked.

1. Robert De Niro: With roles in classics like “The Godfather Part II,” “Goodfellas,” and “Casino,” De Niro’s nuanced performances have shaped the archetype of a gangster.

2. Al Pacino: Famous for his portrayal of Michael Corleone in “The Godfather” trilogy and as Tony Montana in “Scarface,” Pacino’s intense acting style has left an indelible mark on the genre.

3. Joe Pesci: Known for his collaborations with Martin Scorsese, Pesci’s Oscar-winning performance in “Goodfellas” and his role in “Casino” showcase his ability to be both unnervingly violent and darkly humorous.

4. James Cagney: An early icon of the gangster genre, Cagney set the standard in films like “The Public Enemy” with his dynamic screen presence and tough-guy persona.

5. Marlon Brando: Brando’s portrayal of Vito Corleone in “The Godfather” is as iconic as it is transformative, enabling him to leave an undoubted impact on the genre despite fewer roles within it.

6. Humphrey Bogart: Starring in key noir films such as “The Petrified Forest” and “High Sierra,” Bogart presented complex characters that often blurred the line between hero and villain.

7. Edward G. Robinson: Another cornerstone of classic gangster films, Robinson’s performances in movies like “Little Caesar” helped to define the early era of cinematic mobsters.

8. Daniel Day-Lewis: While not typically associated with gangster films, Day-Lewis’ powerful depiction of Bill ‘The Butcher’ Cutting in “Gangs of New York” warrants his inclusion on this list.

9. Denzel Washington: His portrayal of Frank Lucas in Ridley Scott’s “American Gangster” captures both the ruthless cunning and business acumen essential to his character’s climb within organized crime.

10. Sean Penn: Penn delivers a compelling performance as Mickey Cohen in “Gangster Squad,” embodying the ruthless nature of his character through a transformative characterization.

These actors have not only defined what it means to be a cinematic mobster but also provided viewers with some of the most unforgettable performances that continue to influence actors and filmmakers alike.