Top 20 Crime and Noir Films of the 1960s That Define the Decade

The 1960s was a transformative era for cinema, with crime and noir films pushing boundaries in storytelling and style. Dark, gritty tales of morally complex characters and shadowy visuals captured the era’s growing cynicism and social upheaval.

These films, often steeped in psychological depth and bold visuals, laid the groundwork for modern thrillers. From heists gone wrong to vengeful antiheroes, here’s our countdown of the 20 best crime and noir movies from the decade, ranked from 20 to 1.

20. Underworld U.S.A. (1961)

This gritty tale follows a young man seeking revenge against the mobsters who killed his father. Directed by Samuel Fuller, it’s a raw, pulpy story of vengeance and betrayal.
The film’s stark black-and-white visuals and intense pacing make it a hidden gem. Its focus on a lone antihero navigating a corrupt world feels like a bridge between classic noir and the neo-noir wave.

19. The Criminal (1960)

Directed by Joseph Losey, this British noir centers on a career criminal caught in a web of prison politics and betrayal. The story’s bleak tone and sharp dialogue stand out.
Its claustrophobic setting and focus on psychological tension give it a unique edge. We see a man trapped by his own choices, a hallmark of the genre’s darker themes.

18. The Frightened City (1961)

This British crime drama dives into London’s gangland, where a mob boss consolidates power. Sean Connery’s early role as a tough enforcer steals the show.
The film’s moody atmosphere and focus on organized crime make it a compelling watch. It captures the gritty underbelly of 1960s London with a sharp, cynical eye.

17. Midnight Lace (1960)

A tense thriller starring Doris Day as a woman stalked in London, this film blends noir suspense with psychological drama. The foggy streets amplify the dread.
Day’s performance as a vulnerable yet resilient heroine adds depth. The film’s tight pacing keeps you guessing, making it a standout in early 1960s noir.

16. Tirez sur le pianiste (1960)

François Truffaut’s French New Wave take on noir follows a pianist hiding from his criminal past. It’s a blend of melancholy, romance, and danger.
The film’s playful yet dark tone, with its mix of humor and tragedy, feels fresh. Truffaut’s inventive visuals make this a unique entry in the genre.

15. In Cold Blood (1967)

Based on Truman Capote’s true-crime novel, this chilling film follows two drifters who commit a brutal murder. Its stark realism sets it apart.
The black-and-white cinematography and haunting performances create a grim, unforgettable mood. It’s less traditional noir but captures the genre’s fatalistic heart.

14. The Killers (1964)

A remake of the 1946 classic, this neo-noir follows two hitmen unraveling a heist gone wrong. Lee Marvin and Angie Dickinson shine in this tense tale.
Its vibrant color palette and brutal violence mark the shift to modern crime films. The film’s cold, calculated tone makes it a gripping watch.

13. The Boston Strangler (1968)

This true-crime drama stars Tony Curtis as the infamous serial killer. The film’s split-screen techniques and psychological focus push noir boundaries.
Curtis delivers a chilling performance, showing the killer’s unraveling mind. The film’s innovative style and grim subject matter make it a bold entry.

12. Le Doulos (1962)

Jean-Pierre Melville’s French noir follows a criminal caught between loyalty and betrayal. Its shadowy visuals and morally gray characters define the genre.
The film’s intricate plot and cool detachment keep you hooked. Melville crafts a world where trust is a luxury no one can afford.

11. The Manchurian Candidate (1962)

This political thriller blends noir with Cold War paranoia, following a brainwashed soldier in a conspiracy. Frank Sinatra and Angela Lansbury star.
Its sharp dialogue and unsettling atmosphere make it a masterpiece. The film’s exploration of control and deception feels chillingly relevant.

10. Cape Fear (1962)

Robert Mitchum’s chilling performance as a vengeful ex-con drives this intense thriller. Gregory Peck plays the lawyer he targets.
The film’s menacing tone and stark visuals create a sense of dread. It’s a noir classic that balances psychological tension with raw menace.

9. Le deuxième souffle (1966)

Another Melville gem, this French noir follows an escaped convict planning one last heist. Its slow-burn pacing builds to a tragic climax.
The film’s moody cinematography and complex characters draw you in. It’s a masterclass in tension and the cost of a criminal life.

8. Blast of Silence (1961)

This low-budget noir follows a hitman on a Christmas Eve job in New York. Its raw, gritty style feels almost documentary-like.
The film’s voice-over narration and stark visuals create a lonely, fatalistic mood. It’s a cult favorite that captures noir’s essence.

7. Bonnie and Clyde (1967)

This iconic film follows the infamous outlaw couple on their crime spree. Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway bring charisma to the violent tale.
Its mix of glamour and brutality redefined crime films. The film’s bold energy and tragic end make it a cultural touchstone.

6. The Servant (1963)

Joseph Losey’s psychological drama explores class and power through a manipulative servant. Dirk Bogarde’s chilling performance anchors the film.
Its claustrophobic setting and subtle menace create a noir-like tension. The film’s exploration of control and betrayal is unforgettable.

5. Le Samouraï (1967)

Jean-Pierre Melville’s masterpiece follows a stoic hitman betrayed by his own code. Alain Delon’s cool intensity defines the role.
The film’s minimalist style and shadowy visuals are pure noir. Its quiet tension and tragic inevitability make it a genre pinnacle.

4. Bullitt (1968)

Steve McQueen stars as a tough cop protecting a witness in this action-packed noir. The iconic car chase through San Francisco steals the show.
Its gritty realism and cool detachment set it apart. McQueen’s magnetic presence makes this a defining crime film of the decade.

3. Psycho (1960)

Alfred Hitchcock’s psychological thriller redefined suspense. Anthony Perkins’ chilling performance as Norman Bates is iconic.
The film’s stark black-and-white visuals and shocking twists push noir into horror territory. Its influence on the genre is undeniable.

2. Point Blank (1967)

Lee Marvin stars as a betrayed criminal seeking revenge in this stylish neo-noir. John Boorman’s direction is bold and innovative.
The film’s fragmented narrative and vibrant visuals feel ahead of its time. Marvin’s relentless intensity drives this dark, thrilling tale.

1. À bout de souffle (1960)

Jean-Luc Godard’s French New Wave classic follows a small-time crook on the run. Jean-Paul Belmondo and Jean Seberg light up the screen.
Its jumpy editing and carefree attitude revolutionized filmmaking. This film’s blend of noir and rebellion makes it the decade’s defining crime movie.

Which 1960s crime or noir film is your favorite, or did we miss a classic? Share your thoughts in the comments!