Harlem, New York City, 1968. The old guard was on the decline and a vacuum was forming in the borough's underworld. What transpired next constitutes the story of Ridley Scott's sprawling epic, American Gangster, a film more violent and virulent than even the title may suggest.
American Gangster depicts the life and times of Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington), a self-made man whose drive and determination led to the creation of a narcotics empire. Through the aid of his family (which includes the impressive Chiwetel Ejiofor, artists T.I. and Common, and the Oscar-nominated Ruby Dee), Lucas modifies the traditional method of international drug trafficking in his pursuit of power, respect, and riches. In his way stands the motivated, squeaky clean "Boy Scout" Richie Roberts (Russell Crowe), the only good cop in a town rife with police corruption. The story follows these two men as one amasses his empire while the other works to dismantle it.
Major themes of the film, like most gangster movies, include mercilessness and a struggle to gain respect. Washington's performance is comparable to Al Pacino in The Godfather films, displaying a quiet confidence that mostly covers an explosive rage. Crowe, contrary to his performances in Gladiator and L.A. Confidential, shows restraint as his wits overrule his brawn. Both characters struggle to gain esteem within their respective environments. Frank must deal with rival gang members and corrupt police (including Josh Brolin), while Richie must handle his pending divorce and work among a department of cops that distrust him.
Noteworthy aspects of the film, in addition to the engaging performances, include scenic shots on-location in Thailand, as well as a storyline that, though in need of some editing, spans across the turbulent era of the late '60s and '70s. With the Vietnam War as a backdrop, Scott effectively places the audience within the scope of the times, realistically integrating racial and socio-economic issues. The final product leaves the viewer not necessarily pitying and rooting for Frank Lucas, but at the very least understanding the situation in which he lived (troublesome, divisive) and the resources that were available to him (none).
The movie comes in one of two packages. The two-disc package includes the original theatrical edition (with commentary), an unrated extended edition, deleted scenes with an alternate opening, a feature-length documentary chronicling the production of American Gangster, and an interesting "Case Files" addition that shows the methods and training used by real police in making the film. The other package contains the first two discs as well as a disc with music videos by Anthony Hamilton and Jay-Z, BET and NBC television specials, a theatrical trailer, and a digital version of the film.
Fans of gangster flicks are bound to enjoy this movie. A modern-day classic in the genre, American Gangster encapsulates a hard-hitting biopic on a man driven to establish himself and then some. It is extremely entertaining and should not be missed. A-
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