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streamingSunday, August 9, 2026·3 min read

Martin Scorsese's Favorite Crime Classic Leaves HBO Max

Little Caesar departs HBO Max soon

Protestors gather outside the State Theatre holding signs with various messages in a bustling city scene.
Photo: Charles Criscuolo

The 95-year-old crime classic Little Caesar, a favorite of Martin Scorsese, is departing HBO Max soon. This movie has had a significant influence on the gangster genre and has been cited by Scorsese as an inspiration. The film, starring Edward G. Robinson and Douglas Fairbanks Jr., tells the story of a street-level thug who rises to the top of a crime syndicate.

What happened

Little Caesar, a 1931 film, has been streaming on HBO Max but will soon be leaving the platform. The movie is considered a masterpiece of the Pre-Code era and has had a lasting impact on the gangster genre. Martin Scorsese has often cited Little Caesar as an inspiration for his own films, including Goodfellas and Mean Streets. The film's influence can be seen in many other classic gangster movies, including The Public Enemy, which was also released in 1931. Both films were produced during the Great Depression and offer a glimpse into the social and economic climate of the time. Little Caesar's story is a classic tale of a street-level thug who rises to the top of a crime syndicate, and its themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal continue to resonate with audiences today.

Why it matters

The departure of Little Caesar from HBO Max is significant because it means that fans of classic cinema will no longer have access to this influential film. The movie's influence can be seen in many other classic gangster movies, and its themes continue to resonate with audiences today.

+ Pros
  • Little Caesar is a classic film that has had a lasting impact on the gangster genre.
  • The movie's themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal continue to resonate with audiences today.
  • Little Caesar's influence can be seen in many other classic gangster movies.
Cons
  • The film's departure from HBO Max means that fans of classic cinema will no longer have access to it.
  • Little Caesar is a product of its time and may not appeal to modern audiences.
  • The movie's pacing and style may seem dated to some viewers.

How to think about it

When considering the significance of Little Caesar's departure from HBO Max, it's essential to think about the film's influence on the gangster genre and its continued relevance today. The movie's themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal are timeless and continue to resonate with audiences.

FAQ

What is Little Caesar+
Little Caesar is a 1931 film starring Edward G. Robinson and Douglas Fairbanks Jr. that tells the story of a street-level thug who rises to the top of a crime syndicate.
Why is Little Caesar significant+
Little Caesar is significant because it has had a lasting impact on the gangster genre and has been cited by Martin Scorsese as an inspiration for his own films.
Where can I watch Little Caesar after it leaves HBO Max+
After Little Caesar leaves HBO Max, it may be available on other streaming platforms or for purchase on DVD or digital download.
Where to watch

Streaming availability changes constantly. Check where it's playing right now — subscription, rent, or buy:

Sources
  1. 01Martin Scorsese's Favorite 95-Year-Old Crime Classic Departs HBO Max Soon
  2. 02Martin Scorsese's Favorite 95-Year-Old Crime Classic Departs HBO Max Soon
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