Crime dramas are almost always films about characters. Characters in crime dramas are usually complex and straddle the line between sympathetic and evil.
Tony Montana-Scarface
The now famous character of Tony Montana is the protagonist of Scarface played by Al Pacino. Montana is a character that is not given much backstory. When he arrives to America he is seen immediately hungering for power, slowly climbing the ranks of the drug trade. This greed says everything about Montana’s character. This greed motivates him in everything, leading to his quick rise to power, and his even quicker fall from power.
Michael Corleone-The Godfather
Another character famously played by Al Pacino, Michael Corleone is another staple of the crime drama genre. Michael never wished to be part of his father’s business, opting to college and then becoming a war hero. When his father dies, however, he is forced to become the new Don. Michael character is a quiet one, using few words. He is almost composed. This later leads to Michael’s cold and unfeeling nature when he becomes the Don.
Henry Hill-Goodfellas
Henry Hill, played by Ray Liotta, is the protagonist of Goodfellas. Since he was a kid, Hill wanted to be a gangster. He gets his wish as he is basically raised by a gang in New York. Hill’s story is one of faltering loyalties and his own self-interest. When Hill is arrested, Hill serves himself by telling the FBI the names of all his associates.
Carlos' AS Media Studies Blog 