Review of American Gangster (2007) by Irfaan A — 04 Mar 2013

A brilliant film and a worthy addition to both Ridley Scott's roster and the crime genre. The direction is rather unconventional especially for Scott. However, it works and lends to a very solid film stylistically and emotionally. Acting performances are great throughout, especially from Josh Brolin and Denzel Washington who portrays a somewhat loveable Frank Lucas. Feelings of nostalgia crept in as Joe Morton entered screen, who of course had that brilliant role in Terminator 2.

Although original in many ways for a gangster film, it takes heavily from heavyweights such as the Godfather films, Scarface, Heat, Scorsese's films and to a lesser extent Tarantino's films. The story was compelling from start to finish and it was very enjoyable seeing the parallels between Lucas and Ritchie. Scott's musical choices were topnotch, a lot of bass heavy tunes, fit the mood perfectly. Of particular interest was the use of Across 110th Street which Tarantino used in the opening (and again for the ending) of Jackie Brown. Small scenes of violence were very dramatic and incredibly well done.

Although somewhat predictable, and a tad bit too long, a film I'd highly recommend. 4 Stars!!