Review of American Gangster (2007) by Mike C — 07 Dec 2012

Ha, probably watched this when it first came out on dvd, and liked it enough to buy. Just rewatched probably three years after my original viewing. Evidently, I felt the same way. I hate organized crime flicks, but really like this movie. I actually think it is better than all the white gangster flicks like the Godfathers, Goodfellas, etc. Denzel just perfectly portrays a man who will not take any shit, plus there are some good business and economic tips that I think are lacking in the other movies. Lucas is a business, man. Denzel is actually outdone by Crowe, who I typically try not to like but he often does a good job. Like in the King of Scotland or whatever that movie was, James McAvoy actually stole the show from the guy playing the dictator.

Original: Not much into gangster flicks, but this one works because, well, it's Denzel. Washington does a great job, but I like Crowe's character's story. Who says honesty can't win out now and again? Great to see those low life looking dudes bring down the big guy.