American Gangster (Theatrical - 2007)
Universal
Director: Ridley Scott
Writer: Steven Zaillian
Starring: Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, Josh Brolin, Cuba Gooding Jr, Carla Gugino and Ruby Dee

Review by Adam Tracey

American Gangster is the based on real life story of Frank Lucas, driver of an inner city crime boss who rose to fame when he picked up where his boss left off after his death and created his own empire. Using the tried and true theory that better product for less money rules, he is soon running the drug trade. Richie Roberts is a down on his luck cop. He is divorced, not liked by the other cops and barely has enough time for his kid, but what he does have is his pride and work ethic. Roberts cannot be bought. When Roberts comes to believe that there is a newcomer working up the ranks of the inner city crime ladder, it puts him and Lucas on a collision course of violence, redemption and judgment.

American Gangster is good, real good, but it won't take a place in the annals of the great mafia movies. It still pales in comparison to The Godfather, Goodfellas and A Bronx Tale. Yet, this is a solid, entertaining and well made movie. The story is tight and is one you will enjoy.

Who are we kidding? This movie is Crowe vs. Washington. This round Crowe wins. The problem is it is hard to hate Denzel. Throwing an occasional violent scene is not enough to get past the fact that Lucas is likable. He believes in hard work. He loves his family. He takes care of his own and no amount cocaine, bullets or blood changes that. This is the type of role Crowe is born to play. The rough and ragged outsider. The man who is more comfortable wearing jeans and an old stinky shirt than a tailored suit. Crowe shines in this one.

“Two of the greatest of all-time collide in this modern day mafia classic!”