The 80+ Best Movies About Police, Ranked
Celebrate the adrenaline and intellect that comes with police work as we rank the best cop movies of all time. If you love a good dose of police action and intrigue, join the thousands of fans and vote for the greatest movies about police. These cinematic works are ranked based on storyline, character development, action sequences, and overall cinematic impact. Through crowd ranking, fans have the opportunity to influence which movie lands the coveted top spot.
Consider, for instance, the gritty realism in Serpico with Al Pacino portraying a cop who refuses to go corrupt. Or let's take the comedic take on police work in the Rush Hour series which blends martial arts and the buddy cop genre . L.A. Confidential takes viewers through a maze of 1950s police corruption and conspiracy. Then there's Die Hard, where Bruce Willis isn't even officially on duty when he takes down a skyscraper full of terrorists. End Of Watch showcases the daily grind of police work and a deep friendship between two LAPD officers, while The Departed serves up a head-spinning narrative of moles and undercover detectives in both the Boston police and the mob. These are but a few examples of the rich smorgasbord of famous and underrated cop movies waiting to be explored, each uniquely different in terms of their setting, plot, and handling of characters.
Remember, the objective of this list is to provide a variety of perspectives on funny comedies, gripping dramas, and suspenseful thrillers, each exhibiting unique elements that set them apart. While some films shine with their breathtaking action choreography, others excel in complex storylines or power-packed performances.
Now it’s your turn to contribute. Recognize your favorite cop movie from the list? Step in, vote for the movies you loved, and bring them up in the ranks! New to the genre? Sit back, relax, and let this ranked list guide your next movie marathon selection.
- Anna Kendrick, Jake Gyllenhaal, America Ferrera
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.
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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- Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson
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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- Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Scott Glenn
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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- Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, Gwyneth Paltrow
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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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.
- Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Val Kilmer
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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- Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, Robert De Niro
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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- Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn
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.
- Harrison Ford, Tommy Lee Jones, Sela Ward
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.
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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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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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.
- Patrick Swayze, Keanu Reeves, Gary Busey
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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- Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce
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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- 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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- Sean Penn, Robert Duvall, Maria Conchita Alonso
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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- Al Pacino, John Randolph, Jack Kehoe
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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- Steve McQueen, Robert Vaughn, Jacqueline Bisset
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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- Keanu Reeves, Dennis Hopper, Sandra Bullock
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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- Sylvester Stallone, Harvey Keitel, Ray Liotta
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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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.
- Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, Chiwetel Ejiofor
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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- Frances McDormand, Steve Buscemi, William H. Macy
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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- Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Michael Madsen
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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- Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jim Broadbent
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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- Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme
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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- Tommy Lee Jones, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin
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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- Sidney Poitier, Rod Steiger, Warren Oates
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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- Harrison Ford, Kelly McGillis, Alexander Godunov
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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