Ridley Scott's 2007 biographical crime drama American Gangster, starring Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe, will be broadcast on Film4 tonight at 9.10pm. The film, which received 21 award nominations, follows the criminal career of North Carolina gangster Frank Lucas and has been described by viewers as a "classic must-watch".
A Gritty Biographical Crime Drama
Directed by Ridley Scott, known for Alien, Gladiator, Blade Runner and The Martian, the film dramatises Lucas's elaborate drug smuggling operation, which transported heroin into the United States aboard aircraft during the Vietnam War. While Lucas's real-life story is well-documented, he stated that only small portions of the film were correct, with much of the content fabricated for "dramatic effect".
Washington takes the lead role, with Russell Crowe portraying Richie Roberts, the detective who spearheaded the criminal investigation into the drug smuggling operation. The cast also includes Josh Brolin, Idris Elba, Carla Gugino and Norman Reedus. Ruby Dee's portrayal of Frank Lucas's mother earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at that year's Oscars.
Viewer Reviews Praise the Film
One admirer of the film described it as a "classic must-watch" they "definitely recommend" in a review on Rotten Tomatoes. Another review highlighted the director's craft, stating: "An underrated gangster flick, big time. It's directed perfectly, with the action scenes inducing anxiety, and is never dull. It also has many comedic parts. It's a great movie from start to finish, and although I love Alien, I think it's Ridley Scott's best film."
A further viewer shared: "A film I expected nothing from, but it delivered everything. It's long and captivating from the first minute. The film skilfully manages its excellent cast throughout the two hours, and especially its protagonists, with actors perfectly suited to their respective roles."
Plot and Historical Impact
The narrative charts Frank's rise to power as he breaks into the heroin business, purchasing directly from suppliers in Thailand and transporting it into America via Vietnam War servicemen heading home. As he establishes himself as Harlem's leading crime boss, he launches legitimate enterprises as cover operations while maintaining a discreet presence and cultivating relationships with politicians and celebrities.
Police eventually identify and search one of the final aircraft transporting Lucas's supply, leading to his arrest. Throughout his trial, he exposes numerous corrupt law enforcement officers in exchange for a reduced sentence, resulting in three-quarters of the New York DEA and various NYPD officers facing conviction.
One enthusiastic viewer wrote: "A gritty gangster movie that harks back to 1970s flicks, when Hollywood glitz did not always invade a production. But it's more than a shoot-'em-up crime flick. There is plenty of social commentary that accompanies the 'chase', and the great thing is that it is based on true events. Crowe and Washington hold centre stage and do it well, ably supported by a strong cast."
