Top 11 Films Featuring Famous Outlaws

From the wild west to modern-day criminals, cinema has always been fascinated with the thrilling stories of famous outlaws. These renegades, rebels, and lawbreakers have captured our imagination on the big screen, embodying a mix of danger, charm, and rebellion. In this list, we’re counting down the top 11 films that feature infamous outlaws who defy the law and capture our attention. Get ready to dive into a world of bank robberies, heists, and daring escapes as we explore the lives of some of the most notorious outlaws ever to grace the silver screen. Let’s saddle up and embark on a cinematic journey through the gripping tales of these legendary figures who live outside the bounds of society’s rules.

Top 11 Films Featuring Famous Outlaws

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) – IMDb Rating: 8.0
In this classic Western film, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid are two notorious outlaws on the run from the law. Played by Paul Newman and Robert Redford, the duo’s charm and wit captivate audiences as they rob banks and evade capture across the American West. With a mix of action, humor, and a memorable musical score, this film showcases the legendary exploits of two of the most famous outlaws in history.
Bonnie and Clyde (1967) – IMDb Rating: 7.8
“Bonnie and Clyde” tells the true story of the infamous duo who became iconic figures during the Great Depression era. Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty deliver stellar performances as Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, a couple whose crime spree captured the public’s imagination. The film’s blend of romance, violence, and rebellion against authority solidified its status as a groundbreaking portrayal of outlaw life on the run.
Public Enemies (2009) – IMDb Rating: 7.0
“Public Enemies” delves into the world of 1930s gangsters, focusing on the notorious criminal John Dillinger, portrayed by Johnny Depp. As Dillinger evades the authorities led by FBI agent Melvin Purvis, played by Christian Bale, tension and drama unfold in this gripping crime thriller. With a stellar cast, intense action sequences, and a period-accurate depiction of the era, this film offers a compelling look at one of America’s most infamous outlaws.
Bandidas (2006) – IMDb Rating: 5.7
In “Bandidas,” Salma Hayek and Penélope Cruz star as two very different Mexican women who join forces to become skilled bank robbers in Old Mexico. Set in the 19th century, this action-packed comedy follows the daring duo as they take on a ruthless American railroad tycoon who threatens their town. With a mix of humor, romance, and adventure, “Bandidas” showcases the power of women working together to challenge the status quo and fight for justice in a male-dominated world.
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007) – IMDb Rating: 7.5
Starring Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck, this film dives deep into the complex dynamics between notorious outlaw Jesse James and the young admirer Robert Ford. The movie portrays the events leading up to Jesse James’ ultimate fate and the betrayal by the man he once considered a friend. With stellar performances and a gripping storyline, “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” offers a poignant exploration of fame, obsession, and the darker aspects of idolizing outlaws.
Wild Wild West (1999) – IMDb Rating: 4.9
A unique twist on the outlaw theme, “Wild Wild West” is a steampunk-infused action-comedy starring Will Smith and Kevin Kline. Set in the American West during the post-Civil War era, the film follows two government agents tasked with stopping a mad inventor who is plotting to assassinate President Ulysses S. Grant. Filled with humor, gadgets, and larger-than-life spectacle, “Wild Wild West” offers a fun and fantastical take on the classic outlaw narrative, blending elements of science fiction with the wild frontier of the 19th century.
A Fistful of Dollars (1964) – IMDb Rating: 8.0
“A Fistful of Dollars” follows the mysterious stranger, played by Clint Eastwood, as he arrives in a small town torn apart by two rival families. He sees an opportunity to play them against each other for his own profit. This iconic spaghetti western directed by Sergio Leone marked the beginning of the famous “Man with No Name” trilogy and solidified Eastwood as a legendary outlaw in the world of cinema.
Desperado (1995) – IMDb Rating: 7.2
“Desperado” is a stylish action film directed by Robert Rodriguez and starring Antonio Banderas as the vengeful mariachi seeking justice. With its intense gunfights, vibrant visuals, and a killer soundtrack, this movie is a modern take on the classic outlaw tale. Banderas’s portrayal of the guitar-playing outlaw combined with Rodriguez’s signature filmmaking style delivers a thrilling and entertaining ride from start to finish.
Once Upon a Time in the West (1968) – IMDb Rating: 8.5
Directed by the renowned Sergio Leone, “Once Upon a Time in the West” is a classic spaghetti western that follows a harmonica-playing stranger, a notorious outlaw, and a mysterious woman with a hidden agenda. With its epic storytelling, breathtaking cinematography, and memorable score by Ennio Morricone, this film is considered a masterpiece in the outlaw genre. The stellar performances and intricate plot twists make it a must-watch for fans of western films.
Scarface (1983) – IMDb Rating: 8.3
In this iconic film, Al Pacino plays the ruthless Cuban immigrant Tony Montana, who rises to power as a drug lord in 1980s Miami. Fueled by ambition and a thirst for control, Tony’s violent and brutal actions lead to wealth and success, but ultimately his downfall. “Scarface” is a gripping tale of the rise and fall of a criminal mastermind, with intense performances and a memorable script that has solidified its place as a classic in the crime genre.
Bad Times at the El Royale (2018) – IMDb Rating: 7.1
Set in the late 1960s, this film follows a group of strangers whose paths cross at the rundown El Royale hotel on the border of California and Nevada. As their secrets unravel, tensions rise, and dangerous alliances form, revealing the darker sides of each character. With a stellar cast including Jeff Bridges, Dakota Johnson, and Jon Hamm, “Bad Times at the El Royale” weaves together crime, mystery, and suspense in a stylish and thrilling narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.