Mafia movies have always been a cornerstone of the movie industry and have grown increasingly popular over the years. Meanwhile, the anime industry has taken up the mantle and created a great deal of titles which successfully capture the essence and the excitement of mafia films. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best mafia anime out there for fans of crime and action movies.
History of Mafia Anime
The mafia theme first appeared in anime in the early 90s with films such as Yakuza Demon and Salaryman Kintaro. From there, the mafia style began to creep into other genres with sci-fi and fantasy, while at the same time growing in popularity. As the years progressed, so did the mafia-style content, eventually leading to anime becoming a mainstay in the crime and action genres. Prominent examples include Durarara!!, Gungrave and 91 Days, which all pushed the boundaries of the genre, introducing complex story lines, complicated characters and noir setting to create a compelling and eye-catching experience.
Outstanding Examples of Mafia Anime
- Baccano
Baccano is one of the popular mafia anime that has earned itself a well-deserved cult following. Set during the Prohibition era in America, the series follows the lives of several characters who live in a world where gangsters, immortals and alchemists exist. The anime delves into the intricacies of a mob battle and has non-linear storyline which keeps viewers on their toes. With a unique art style and a captivating soundtrack, Baccano stands out of the crowded mafia anime pack.
- Gungrave
Gungrave is another popular mafia anime that follows the exploits of a former mob enforcer, Brandon Heat, who has been resurrected as an undead super being called Beyond the Grave. The story follows Heat on his mission to eliminate various criminal organizations, and is full of fast action sequences and a heavy dose of drama. Despite its convoluted plot, Gungrave managed to deliver a remarkably innovative manga experience that deserves to be experienced.
- Kikoukai Galient
Kikoukai Galient is one of the lesser known mafia anime, but is no less impressive. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the anime features a brutal conflict between humans and aliens, and the mafia serves as a middleman in the negotiations. The plot is incredibly intricate and there are plenty of twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Along with its highly stylized visuals and action-packed scenes, Kikoukai Galient makes for an excellent watch for mafia anime fans.
- 91 Days
91 Days is one of the more recent mafia anime offerings and stands out from the crowd with its unique story and characters. Following a young man named Avilio who seeks revenge against the mafioso who killed his family, the anime dives into the intricacies of the mafia world and focuses on themes of loyalty and betrayal. With its stylish visuals, captivating soundtrack and nail-biting tension, it’s no wonder that 91 Days earned itself numerous awards and praise from both fans and critics alike.
- Durarara!!
Durarara!! is a popular series that combines several genres, including the mafia and fantasy. The anime follows a group of eccentric characters in a Tokyo district and focuses on themes such as love, ambition, and betrayal. Although the plot is filled with twists and turns, the characters are incredibly believable and likeable, which keeps viewers invested in the story. With its dynamic style of storytelling and interesting characters, Durarara!! is an excellent example of a mafia anime that should not be missed.
Mafia anime provides fans of crime and action movies with an immersive and engaging experience. With a variety of titles to choose from, fans of mafia films are sure to find something that appeals to them. Our list of the best mafia anime for fans of crime and action movies highlights some of the great titles available, but there are plenty more out there that are worth exploring.