Guy Ritchie’s The Gentlemen is a benchmark of crime cinema, perfectly balancing style, humor, and unexpected twists. If you’re looking for something similar — but without Ritchie’s own films or obvious recommendations — here are five solid choices. These films share a bold approach to the genre, unforgettable characters, and a knack for mixing grit with wit.
1. The Killer (1989)
John Woo’s Hong Kong masterpiece is a true visual spectacle. The story follows a hitman who plans to retire but finds himself caught in a web of betrayal and vengeance. The action sequences in The Killer are nothing short of balletic, with each shot meticulously choreographed.
Why it’s like The Gentlemen: First, the style — every scene looks like a work of art. Second, the characters — these aren’t just gangsters, but complex figures grappling with moral dilemmas. And of course, the balance of brutality and humanity makes the story both deep and compelling.
2. In Bruges (2008)
Two hitmen, sent to Bruges after a botched job, get tangled in a series of absurd and tragic events. Martin McDonagh, like Guy Ritchie, masterfully blends dark humor with drama, crafting stories that are both hilarious and deeply moving.
Why it’s like The Gentlemen: The dialogue is endlessly quotable, the plot is packed with unexpected turns, and the atmosphere seamlessly shifts between comedy and tragedy. Plus, the cinematography ensures that every shot looks like a postcard — even when someone is getting killed.
3. Killing Them Softly (2012)
This film is like The Gentlemen but with an American accent. It follows a hitman hired to eliminate competitors in the criminal underworld, filmed with a cold, almost cynical aesthetic. Brad Pitt’s character is sharp, weary, and effortlessly cool — very much in the vein of Matthew McConaughey’s Mickey Pearson.
Why it’s like The Gentlemen: The same mix of violence and wit, a carefully crafted atmosphere, and a stylish execution that makes every scene feel like a piece of art — even a simple conversation in a bar.
4. Sin City (2005)
A complete visual explosion. Adapted from Frank Miller’s graphic novels, this film weaves together intertwining crime stories, each packed with style, brutality, and surprising twists.
Why it’s like The Gentlemen: It delivers the same 'wow' effect. Every shot looks like a comic book cover, and every character has a story worth telling. And, of course, the dark humor sneaks in even during the grimmest moments.
5. Lucky Numbers (2000)
This crime comedy follows a struggling TV weatherman (John Travolta) who hatches a scheme to rig the lottery and fix his financial problems — naturally, everything goes horribly wrong.
Why it’s like The Gentlemen: Because it’s packed with ridiculous situations, witty dialogue, and characters who are always one step away from disaster. The film’s atmosphere ensures you’ll be laughing — even when the characters are on the verge of catastrophe.
These five films are the perfect follow-up for anyone who loved The Gentlemen. They have everything you crave — style, sharp humor, unpredictable storylines, and characters you won’t forget anytime soon. So grab some popcorn, get comfortable, and get ready to dive back into a world of crime, where anyone can end up as either the hunter or the hunted.
