Radio Lady Reviews: "American Gangster"

[Radio_Lady]

American Gangster

Seven years in the making, the movie “American Gangster” is a carefully crafted accomplishment from director Ridley Scott and co-producer Brian Grazer. The film is based on the true story of a 1970’s Harlem crime lord whose exploits made him something of a cult figure.

“American Gangster” may not be for everyone, but fans of past gangster classics – as well as those who liked HBO’s “The Sopranos” – should appreciate it. If it’s not your favorite genre, you may still find yourself admiring the excellence of every facet of what Grazer and Scott have created. It is memorable and perhaps the best film released thus far this year. It is certainly deserving of Academy Award consideration in many categories. It could be the year that Ridley Scott is finally rewarded with an Oscar for his directorial ability. He has been a nominee on three past occasions: “Thelma and Louise” (1991), “Gladiator” (2000), and “Black Hawk Down”, (2001).

“American Gangster” is the story of Frank Lucas who is played perfectly by Denzel Washington. Frank worked for years as a quiet and unremarkable driver for one of the inner city’s leading black crime bosses. Everything changes when Frank’s boss and mentor suddenly dies. Using what he has learned, Frank, in his calm yet sometimes violent ways, creates a powerful organization and business that is able to take on the traditional crime families and win.

Richie Roberts, played wonderfully by Russell Crowe, is an outcast cop who goes his own way and is uncompromisingly honest. He senses the changes that are taking place but knows nothing of Frank Lucas. However, his dogged determination to uncover the truth about what is going on puts him on a course that is destined to ultimately lead to a confrontation with Lucas. This plays out in 2½ hours of rapid-fire action and twists and turns that speeds the audience through the time without a regret and wishing for more.

The script is by Steven Zaillian. The supporting cast is great. Look for Ruby Dee as Frank’s mother. In smaller roles, look for Armand Asante as Dominic Catano and Cuba Gooding Jr. as Nicky Barnes.

This is a great piece of work. It is certainly deserving of the “A” rating I’m giving it on Ellen’s Entertainment Report Card.

[applegrove]

1. I adore both those actors but will have to skip it as too scary. Thanks

for the review though..you almost make me want to go.

[Radio_Lady]

2. YOUR review of this movie (if you've been to see it)???

[Aristus]

3. Has Cuba Gooding Jr. decided to be in good movies again?

Finally. A terrific and appealing actor wasted in lots of craptastic films.

[PassingFair]

4. Hotness overload.

I haven't seen it yet.
I wanted to see it on my birthday, but
when I told my husband it had "all that,
and DENZEL, too!" he only took me out to
dinner.

(I've got an eye for Crowe....)