Año: 2007 Director 🎬: Ridley Scott Genero 🎞️: Thriller \ Gangsters País 🌏: Estados Unidos (USA) 🇺🇸 ES (🇪🇸) Basado en una historia real que transcurre durante los años 60, donde la mafia, el desorden y la violencia en las calles de Nueva York estaba a la orden del día. Un policía interpretado por Russell Crowe tendrá la difícil tarea de dar caza al narcotraficante más famoso del barrio de Harlem llamado Frank Lucas interpretado por Denzel Washington, son 2 personas en cada lado opuesto de la ley, y su enfrentamiento será inevitable. Una película con una dirección muy notable, rebosa la calidad de las actuaciones tanto de Russell Crowe como de Denzel Washington no sabría decir quien de los 2 está mejor, cada uno en su estilo. Buena banda sonora, grandísimas puestas en escena, y pese a su duración, la historia te atrapa desde el comienzo, por lo que es brillante. EN (🇬🇧) Based on a true story that takes place during the 60's, where the mafia, disorder and violence in the streets of New York was the order of the day. A cop played by Russell Crowe will have the difficult task of hunting down the most famous drug dealer in the Harlem neighbourhood called Frank Lucas played by Denzel Washington, they are 2 people on opposite sides of the law, and their confrontation will be inevitable. A film with a very remarkable direction, brimming with quality performances from both Russell Crowe and Denzel Washington, I couldn't say which of the two is better, each in his own style. Good soundtrack, great staging, and despite its length, the story grabs you from the start, so it's brilliant.

Emptying the sugar shaker to handle business is gangster. Amazing story-telling, from Frank's (Denzel) come up, to fallingnin love, to finding a way to include so mant other characters in a modest 157 minutes. I love the Thanksgiving day comparisons of each walk of life, and the literal and figurative trials of Richie Roberts who sounds like he's should be a superhero alias. This is likely Denzel's iciest role, with a slight variation of his Alonzo quote to be changed to "my man." The action was pretty great, when it came, and I was absolutely floored by the shotgun blast spraying straight back on homedude in the dope house. The end was very solid and I will continue to be surprised every time I see Josh Brolin in this for some reason. 43rd Denzel of 2024 482/500 movies & tv for 2024

American Gangster is a masterful biographical crime film directed by Ridley Scott and written by Steven Zaillian. The movie chronicles the true story of Frank Lucas, the notorious American drug lord who ruled Harlem's underworld in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Lucas's innovative approach to the drug trade—cutting out middlemen and sourcing heroin directly from the Southeast Asia —cemented his reputation as a formidable figure. His claim of smuggling heroin in American servicemen's coffins only added to his notoriety. Denzel Washington shines as Frank Lucas, bringing depth and nuance to the complex character. Russell Crowe delivers a strong performance as Richie Roberts, the determined detective who led the task force that brought Lucas down. The tense confrontation between Frank and Richie is a standout scene, showcasing Lucas's revelation of widespread police corruption. Washington's delivery of the memorable line, "The loudest one in the room is the weakest one in the room," underscores Lucas's understated yet commanding presence. Despite Lucas's culpability in countless deaths, his unpretentious demeanor makes him surprisingly relatable. This moral complexity adds depth to the film, raising thought-provoking questions about crime, punishment and the human condition. The leniency shown in his revised sentence—from 70 years to 15 years—owing to his cooperation with authorities, serves as a reward of cooperation he deserved. Frank Lucas's personality traits transcend his criminal activities, making it difficult to categorize him as a one-dimensional villain. His deep devotion to his mother and wife showcases a gentle side, while his unwavering respect for his mentor, Bumpy Johnson, demonstrates a strong sense of allegiance. Lucas's compassionate streak is evident in providing jobs to many in his community and his ordinary daily regime humanizes his character. The film's technical aspects perfectly capture the gritty gangster vibe. Ridley Scott's deliberate pacing builds tension and immersion, while the cinematography vividly recreates 1970s Harlem, transporting viewers to the era. Marc Streitenfeld's haunting score complements the film's dark tone, creating an immersive experience. The talented supporting cast adds depth to the narrative. Josh Brolin delivers a memorable performance as Detective Trupo, embodying corrupt cop culture. Lymari Nadal brings emotional depth to her portrayal of Eva, Frank's wife, while Ruby Dee exudes warmth and wisdom as Mama Lucas. Chiwetel Ejiofor shines as Huey Lucas, Frank's brother, showcasing loyalty and vulnerability. These outstanding performances, coupled with exceptional filmmaking, make this movie a gripping and unforgettable crime drama.