American Gangster - Ridley Scott (2007)

Although, I don't particularly like the title of the move, the film itself is a whole different story. Ridley Scott is usually good for an enjoyable movie experience and this one was no exception. It's the story of Frank Lucas, a drug-dealing gangster of New York in the early 1970s. The film also stars Russell Crowe as the cop determined to brings his drug empire down. It's very clear from the start that this isn't going to be the typical "cops and bad guys" movie. The film is presented from both sides and both characters come off as protagonists and likeable. It's ultimately up to the viewer to choose which side they sympathize with more; although there's another huge element that plays into the movie. A third major character, played by Josh Brolin, becomes the key to the film when all is said and done. The action scenes are well done, and most of the performances are very good. Chief among them is Franks, mother, played by Ruby Dee, who earned an Academy Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her performance. Crowe and Denzel Washington do what they have done their entire careers... turn in solid performances. The film is a bit longer than average at two and a half hours, but there's enough going on to keep the viewer interested throughout the duration. Overall, it's not incredible or groundbreaking by any means, it's still an entertaining work worth checking out.