All 11 Movies Where Christopher Walken Plays A Crime Boss, Ranked

Christopher Walken possesses a rare ability to blend charisma with menace, bringing captivating portrayals of crime bosses to the screen. Whether playing a calculating mobster or a psychopathic kingpin, Walken infuses his characters with a unique mix of wit, intensity, and unpredictability. While many of these won’t be considered among Christopher Walken’s best films, his performances still often balance dark humor and simmering threats, creating compelling and dangerous villains.

What distinguishes Walken in these roles is his skill at portraying complex characters who transcend typical criminal stereotypes. These crime bosses exude a quiet power that can erupt into violence at any moment, and Walken captures this tension with remarkable skill. His portrayals provide a captivating look into the minds of men who thrive on control and dominance, leaving a lasting impression with his magnetic presence in each film.

11 Balls of Fury (2007)

Crime Boss – Feng

In the offbeat comedy Balls of Fury, Walken portrays Feng, an over-the-top crime lord who hosts an illegal underground ping-pong tournament. Feng is a ridiculous, larger-than-life character, and Walken fully embraces the absurdity of the role and delivers a comically villainous performance. His flamboyant costumes and outlandish mannerisms make Feng a memorable figure in the film.

Despite Balls of Fury not being a critical success, Walken’s comedic timing and willingness to fully embrace the absurdity of the role make his performance one of the film’s highlights. The movie may not have resonated with most viewers, given its bizarre narrative and lower budget feel. Still, Walken’s zany portrayal of Feng adds much-needed energy to the chaotic comedy.

10 Day Of Atonement (1992)

Crime Boss – Pasco Meisner

In Day of Atonement, Walken plays crime boss Pasco Meisner, who gets involved in a story of revenge and retribution. The film is set in the world of organized crime and delves into the personal and moral challenges faced by individuals in this environment. Walken’s portrayal of Milano is subtle, offering a more restrained and thoughtful interpretation of the standard crime boss character.

While Day of Atonement may not be as exciting as other films on this list, Walken’s performance gives a glimpse into the inner conflict of a crime boss dealing with the repercussions of his actions. However, the movie’s slow pace and lack of tension prevent it from standing out in his extensive career.

9 A View to a Kill (1985)

Crime Boss – Max Zorin

In the James Bond film A View to a Kill, Walken plays Max Zorin, a psychopathic industrialist who plans to destroy Silicon Valley and monopolize the microchip market. Zorin is one of the series’ villains, and Walken’s unique delivery and unpredictable demeanor set the eccentric Bond apart from the more traditional antagonists.

Despite being a divisive Bond film, Walken’s performance is often praised for adding a layer of charisma and menace to the role. It also features some of Christopher Walken’s best film quotes and his portrayal of Zorin is one of the more memorable aspects of the movie, even if the film itself isn’t considered one of the franchise’s best.

8 Vendetta (1999)

Crime Boss – James Houston

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In the HBO film Vendetta, Walken plays James Houston, a wealthy businessman involved in orchestrating one of the largest lynchings in American history. Based on actual events, the film explores issues of class, racism, and corruption in late 19th-century New Orleans. Walken’s portrayal of the cold, calculating Houston brings a chilling edge to this historical drama.

While Vendetta flew under the radar, Walken’s performance as a ruthless man driven by prejudice and power is one of the film’s most vital elements. His ability to convey a complex mix of arrogance and malice adds gravitas to the historical narrative.

7 The Funeral (1996)

Crime Boss – Ray Tiempo

In The Funeral, Walken plays Raimondo, the eldest brother in a crime family. Set in 1930s New York, the film revolves around the aftermath of the youngest brother’s murder. Giovanni is a morally conflicted character forced to confront his past sins and the corrupting influence of the criminal lifestyle. Walken delivers a brooding and introspective performance that explores themes of guilt, revenge, and family loyalty.

While The Funeral may not have achieved mainstream success or be considered one of the best crime films of all time, it’s a haunting and atmospheric film anchored by Walken’s intense performance. His portrayal of a man torn between violence and redemption adds a layer of emotional depth to the film’s otherwise bleak and harrowing narrative.

6 Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead (1995)

Crime Boss – The Man With The Plan

In Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead, Walken plays ‘The Man with the Plan,’ a feared and paralyzed crime boss. Despite being a wheelchair user, his character controls Denver’s criminal underworld with an iron fist, pulling strings behind the scenes. His cold, calculating demeanor makes him one of the most intimidating figures in the film.

Though not a commercial hit, Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead has gained a cult following for its dark, quirky tone and sharp dialogue, Walken’s performance as the immobilized yet menacing crime boss is a critical factor in the film’s success, showing his ability to dominate the screen without physical action.

5 The Rundown (2003)

Crime Boss – Cornelius Hatcher

In The Rundown, Walken plays Cornelius Hatcher, a ruthless treasure-hunting kingpin in the Amazon jungle. As the main antagonist, Hatcher controls the local population through fear and exploitation while searching for a legendary treasure. Walken’s portrayal is infused with his signature eccentricity, making Hatcher humorous and terrifying.

Though The Rundown is primarily an action-comedy vehicle for The Rock, Walken’s performance as the villain adds a layer of unpredictability. His bizarre monologs and sinister charm elevate what could have been a typical antagonist role, making Hatcher one of the film’s most memorable characters.

4 Suicide Kings (1997)

Crime Boss – Charlie Barret

In Suicide Kings, Walken plays Charlie Barrett, a retired mob boss kidnapped by a group of young men hoping to use him as leverage in a ransom scheme. Despite being bound and at the mercy of his captors, Charlie remains in control, using his cunning and wit to manipulate the situation to his advantage. Walken’s ability to portray vulnerability and dominance in this role is a testament to his skill.

The dark humor and Walken’s sharp performance make Suicide Kings a highly entertaining crime caper. Although the film’s plot is occasionally convoluted and hard to follow, Walken’s charismatic portrayal of the mob boss keeps audiences engaged throughout.

3 At Close Range (1986)

Crime Boss – Brad Whitewood Sr.

Walken stars as Brad Whitewood Sr., the patriarch of a criminal family in At Close Range. He manipulates his estranged son, played by Sean Penn, into joining his criminal enterprise, drawing him deeper into a world of violence and betrayal. Walken’s portrayal of a manipulative and cold-hearted father adds a chilling dynamic to the film’s exploration of family loyalty and crime.

While At Close Range didn’t make waves at the box office, Walken’s performance has been widely praised for its emotional complexity and intensity. The film offers a haunting look at how the father’s sins can devastate an entire family, and Walken’s ability to convey charm and menace makes it a standout in his filmography.

2 King Of New York (1990)

Crime Boss – Frank White

In King of New York, Walken plays Frank White, a notorious drug lord who returns to New York City after being released. He is determined to use his wealth and power to rebuild the neglected neighborhoods. However, his charitable intentions are undermined by his ruthless approach to crime, leading to violent confrontations with both his enemies and the police. Walken’s portrayal of Frank White combines cold-blooded cruelty with an oddly noble sense of purpose.

The film has earned a cult following for its gritty depiction of New York’s criminal underworld, with Walken’s performance standing out as one of the best of his career. His ability to evoke sympathy and terror in the role makes King of New York a standout crime drama. The film’s stylish direction and atmospheric tone further cement its place as a classic in the genre and one of his top roles.

1 True Romance (1993)

Crime Boss – Vincenzo Coccotti

In True Romance, Walken appears as Vincenzo Coccotti, a Sicilian mob boss, in a single, unforgettable scene. Tasked with interrogating Dennis Hopper’s character, Walken’s calm and terrifying demeanor turns a simple conversation into one of the most tense moments in the film. Despite his limited screen time, Walken’s performance is magnetic, blending charm and menace in equal measure.

Walken’s sinister portrayal masterfully complements Quentin Tarantino’s script and Tony Scott’s direction. His brief but impactful role is often cited as one of the film’s highlights, and True Romance remains a fan favorite, partly thanks to his chilling delivery, which makes it his best movie as a criminal boss.

Christopher Walken

Birthdate

March 31, 1943

Birthplace

Astoria, New York, United States

Height

6 feet 0 inches

Professions

Actor , Dancer , Singer