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5 Coen Brothers crime films you can't miss
'Blood Simple' was the debut film of the Coen brothers

5 Coen Brothers crime films you can't miss

Jul 08, 2025
03:02 pm

What's the story

The Coen Brothers have carved a niche in the film industry with their unique storytelling and memorable characters. Their crime films, in particular, stand out for their intricate plots and dark humor. This article explores five must-see crime films by the Coen Brothers that have left a significant mark on cinema. Each film offers a distinct narrative style and showcases the brothers's ability to blend suspense with wit.

Fargo

'Fargo': A chilling tale of crime

Set in the snowy landscapes of Minnesota, Fargo follows a car salesman who hires two criminals to kidnap his wife. The plan spirals out of control, leading to unexpected violence. The film is known for its stark portrayal of crime juxtaposed with the mundane lives of its characters. Frances McDormand's performance as Marge Gunderson, a pregnant police chief, adds depth to this gripping tale.

No Country

'No Country for Old Men': A modern Western thriller

Based on Cormac McCarthy's novel, No Country for Old Men is a gripping thriller set in 1980s Texas. It follows Llewelyn Moss as he stumbles upon $2 million from a drug deal gone wrong and finds himself hunted by Anton Chigurh, an enigmatic hitman. The film touches upon fate and morality, while never losing an intense pace.

Lebowski

'The Big Lebowski': A cult classic with crime elements

While mostly recognized as a comedy, The Big Lebowski also features elements of crime through its convoluted plot involving mistaken identity and ransom money. Jeff Bridges stars as Jeffrey "The Dude" Lebowski, who finds himself caught in this bizarre chain of events after being confused for another man named Jeffrey Lebowski.

Miller's Crossing

'Miller's Crossing': A gangster drama set during the Prohibition era

Miller's Crossing delves into the stormy waters of organized crime during America's Prohibition era. It follows the tangled path of Tom Reagan, a trusted advisor caught in the crossfire of rival gangs's power struggles. City turf wars are complicated by personal betrayals. They test Reagan's loyalty and strategic acumen at every turn, creating a gripping tale of intrigue and survival.

Blood Simple

'Blood Simple': The Coens's debut film

Marking Joel and Ethan Coen's directorial debut, Blood Simple redefined classic noir tropes. It intertwines jealousy-driven murder plots within small-town Texas settings. Here, nothing seems straightforward or predictable. However, this sets a precedent early on and tells us what we could expect from future projects. These are helmed under the visionary filmmakers' guidance.