American Gangster (HBO)

About American Gangster (HBO)

American Gangster is a biographical crime film that was released in 2007. The film was set in 1970s Harlem, New York City, and directed by Ridley Scott. The film tells the story of a drug lord, Frank Lucas, who smuggled heroin into the United States on American service planes returning from the Vietnam War. Russel Crowe plays an outcast NYPD cop charged with bringing down Lucas.

Making / Production

The story for American Gangster was based on a New York Magazine story "The Return of Superfly," which was adapted by screenplay writer Steven Zaillian. The film was produced by Brian Grazer and Scott Free Productions. It was filmed on location in New York City and Thailand.

Actors

• Denzel Washington as Frank Lucas: He portrays the protagonist is compellingly convincing as the determined and fearless Drug Lord.
• Russel Crowe as Detective Richie Roberts: Crowe delivers a strong performance, playing an honest cop in a corrupt city working to bring down Lucas.
• Chiwetel Ejiofor as Huey Lucas: Ejiofor brings depth and nuance to his role as Frank Lucas' brother and right-hand man.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The real-life Richie Roberts was alive and served as a consultant on the film.
• Despite being set in New York City, most of the film was shot in New Jersey.
• The film features numerous unscripted scenes, showcasing the actors' improvisation skills.

Awards

American Gangster received nominations for 2 Oscars. Denzel Washington was nominated for Best Actor and Ruby Dee was nominated for Best Supporting Actress.

Quotes

• "The loudest one in the room is the weakest one in the room." - Frank Lucas
• "Either you're somebody, or you ain't nobody." - Frank Lucas
• "This is my home. My country. Frank Lucas don't run from nobody. This is America." - Frank Lucas

Music, Soundtrack

• "Do You Feel Me" - Anthony Hamilton
• "Why Don't We Do It In The Road?" - Lowell Fulson
• "Can't Truss It" - Public Enemy