10 Must See Gang Documentaries

Top-10-Gang-Documentaries

Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re looking at documentaries that give insight into notable gangs of different kinds.

#10: “Ghosts of Cité Soleil” (2006)

Ghosts are pretty spooky, especially when referring to the secret military under Jean-Bertrand Aristide, Haiti’s former leader. The film explores two siblings who ruled over these gangs and the political corruption they were entangled in. It also looks at the rap career dreams of one of its main characters. This gripping account is filmed with a camcorder, giving it an eerie vibe. Despite being unsettling at times, the music subplot adds a creative flair to the mix. We get a look into the hopes and dreams of the rappers featured. It definitely makes viewers think about the cost of chasing their dreams.

#9: “Gang War: Bangin' In Little Rock” (1994)

There’s nothing little about the crime in this American city. The documentary takes a peek into the numerous gangs that were running much of Little Rock and the whirlwind of horror that follows suit. And this is one documentary that had a definite impact upon the subject it presented. After its release, law enforcement took extra measures to address the problem and to find ways to minimize the violence and drug trafficking. It’s amazing to see what life was like before it did a complete 180 and changed for the better. Short and to the point, the film can be easily watched in your free time.

#8: “Flyin’ Cut Sleeves” (1993)

When it comes to the gangs in this documentary, it can be easy to forget that there’s more that meets the eye. This film follows almost two decades of a community dealing with the changing social climate of the Bronx. From the 1960s onward, the gangs were seen as criminals in the news. As presented in this film, the gangs tried to help people, not hurt them. This demonstrates how easily the media can warp narratives. Even better, viewers get to connect with the families of these teenagers and empathize with them. Since it spans a long period of time, it’s awesome to grow with the members profiled and see what they’re up to over twenty years later.

#7: “Gulabi Gang” (2012)

Anyone who fights for equality is a freaking hero. Instead of letting the government silence them, a band of ladies in India rose up to correct matters of injustice related to gender and social status. As this movie shows, when the world throws huge problems your way, it can feel hopeless at times. It’s easy to think that there’s nothing you can do. If this concept resonates with you, this movie is for you! The risks the women were willing to take are beyond inspiring. The team behind this masterpiece did an incredible job capturing their spirit and their accomplishments. From the phenomenal editing to the incredible narrative, this award-winning documentary is a must-see.

#6: “The Fear of 13” (2015)

American prisons are scary places to be in, especially when you’re innocent. The film follows the real-life story of Nick Yarris, who was wrongly convicted and faced 22 years of imprisonment. The storytelling is simply out of this world. We not only get to learn what life was like for him but also what went down with the prison gangs he interacted with. Viewers witness the trials and tribulations that come with navigating the power dynamics of these spaces. This is a refreshing take on documentaries because Yarris is the only person featured on screen for the entire duration.

#5: “The Seven Five” (2014)

The NYPD’s job is to fight crime. Catch the bad guys? Check. Make the city a safer place? Check. Unfortunately, this documentary exposes the immense corruption that can at times accompany law enforcement. The film is unique because when we think of gangs we typically think of those against the law, not those who are a part of it. It really sheds light on the political turmoil in the biggest city in the United States. “The Seven Five” reminds us that not everything is what it seems. Guess this gives “good cop, bad cop” a whole new meaning.

#4: “Cartel Land” (2015)

Groups that are involved with drug trafficking are obviously super dangerous. What makes this such a stand out film is that it focuses more on those impacted by the drug industry than the gartels themselves. It centers on citizens on both sides of the US-Mexican border forming gangs that try to take down these armed crews. The grittiness and authenticity of this documentary is astounding. Going up against such powerful people is really brave. Who wouldn’t feel inspired to fight for what they believe in after watching this? If you’re looking for a compelling tale about taking matters into your own hands, look no further than this.

#3: “Martina Cole Girls in Gangs: LA” (2009)

Girl groups are all the rage…in this case literally. British author Martina Cole has done extensive research about gangs, especially in the London area. It’s riveting to see her previous knowledge applied to this film set in California. It can be hard to understand how someone can commit heinous crimes. Luckily, this documentary searches for the answers by exploring how these violent bands form. Instead of villainizing the women, the director humanizes them. The viewers can sympathize with their struggles. This movie is fantastic because it explores the distinct problems that arise from being a female gang member.

#2: “Cocaine Cowboys” (2006)

Miami knows a thing or two about violence. This documentary centers on the different people involved with the Floridian coke epidemic of the 20th century. And no, we don’t mean the soda. The excruciating details from former gang members is wild. But better yet, this film helps us understand the effects the war had on the economy. It really makes us see the extent people are willing to go to gain prosperity. Street gangs were only a part of the drug network, but they were key. With so many players in the mix, it can be easy to get confused. Instead, the narrative is simple to follow. It truly feels like you’re right there with everyone on screen.

#1: “Crips and Bloods: Made in America” (2008)

Many documentaries about this topic focus on the connections within the gangs themselves. Sometimes they explore the group’s relationship to civilians. This one is noteworthy because we get to discover the history of the two organizations. Originating in a poverty stricken area, the wealth disparity between the gangs and their surroundings are clear. Instead of focusing on the rivalry, the film prioritizes the mental health struggles that causes teens to join these gangs. Narratives like these are crucial at highlighting the racial injustices African-Americans face and the consequences of such injustices. Although it centers on the two gangs of one city, the ideas are universal.

Which of these gangs have you heard about? Let us know in the comments down below!