American Gangster (imdb)
A true-life story about drugs, money, and gangsters starring Denzel Washington? Does it get more badass? How about strong performances from Russell Crowe and a resurgent Josh Brolin? The cast also includes appearances by Chiwetel Ejiofor (of Four Brothers and Children of Men fame) and Cuba Gooding Jr. It’s not necessarily an “all star” cast, but it is one of the strongest of the season.
Denzel Washington plays Frank Lucas, a self-made Harlem druglord who manages to beat established organized criminals at their own game. Because he “sell[s] a product that’s better than the competition’s for cheaper than the competition.” The American way epitomized within the confines of drugs, murders, and ruined lives. Russell Crowe plays the straight-laced detective, Richie Roberts, out to topple not only the drug lords but also the corruption within the ranks of his fellow police force.
This movie doesn’t quite have the drama and suspense of Catch Me If You Can. And, it sure isn’t as intense and action packed as Training Day. But, this movie is still something to see. While the trailer makes the movie seem fiery and extreme, it is actually paced a bit slowly and carries a runtime in excess of two and a half hours. To tell the truth, some of the exposition on Richie Roberts’ failed marriage life could have been done away with. But, the story is told methodically and with gripping attention to detail. Nearly all the shots look picture perfect in their portrayal of the 1970s. And, while the movie might not provide the non-stop action that one might expect from a movie about drugs and money (and featuring Denzel Washington no less), rest assured that Frank Lucas is adequately ruthless to satisfy nearly any adrenaline junkie.
All-in-all, this is a really entertaining movie. Denzel, Russell Crowe, and Josh Brolin all put forth admirable performances. And, Ridley Scott is really on his game with the storytelling, attention to detail, and necessary bite to keep you interested throughout.
3.5 to 4 hits of “Blue Magic” out of 5
November 15th, 2007 at 1:01 pm
I’m with you: it didn’t deliver the punch I was expecting but it still made for interesting viewing. I only saw it this past weekend and I’ve already forgotten most of the second part.
November 16th, 2007 at 1:57 pm
Agreed. I didn’t think I would enjoy it so much after reading about its length and hearing about its lack of action. In the end though, it turned out to be very satisfying.
February 18th, 2008 at 12:15 pm
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