Movies like A Rage in Harlem

Starring Denzel Washington as real-life Harlem drug lord Frank Lucas, 'American Gangster' delves into the story of his criminal empire. Although it's a more modern movie, the themes of organized crime and the struggle for power in Harlem are compelling draws for those fascinated by the storytelling of 'A Rage in Harlem'.

'Dead Presidents' spans themes of crime, social injustice, and the African-American experience post-Vietnam War. Its narrative complexity and period detail echo 'A Rage in Harlem', providing another deep dive into a crucial historical period and its impact on crime and community.

Diving into the 1930s gangster scene, 'Hoodlum' depicts the struggle for power in Harlem involving real-life mobster figures. If the criminal underbelly theme of 'A Rage in Harlem' intrigued you, 'Hoodlum's portrayal of the intense rivalry and the quest for control of the numbers racket will captivate your interest.

'New Jack City' explores the rise and fall of a drug lord during the crack epidemic of the late 1980s and early 1990s. With its urban setting and criminal enterprise storyline, viewers who enjoyed 'A Rage in Harlem' will find the intensity and drama of 'New Jack City' right up their alley.

This neo-noir film is set in post-war Los Angeles, and like 'A Rage in Harlem', mixes a thrilling plot of mystery and crime with rich period detail. Starring Denzel Washington, 'Devil in a Blue Dress' offers a complex African-American protagonist entangled in a web of lies, seduction, and murder.

Set in the same vibrant Harlem backdrop, 'Harlem Nights' combines crime with comedy as it tells the story of a father and son duo running a nightclub and a gambling house. Fans of 'A Rage in Harlem' will find the blend of humor, period setting, and crime elements appealing in this star-studded film featuring Eddie Murphy and Richard Pryor.

'Sugar Hill' offers a gritty portrayal of drug syndicates operating in Harlem. Similar to 'A Rage in Harlem', it delves into themes of love, redemption, and crime within the African-American community, mixing emotion with action—a compelling watch for those drawn to the dark streets of urban landscapes.