A powerful story, and not swagger and violence, make this a great film

Rating: 8/10 (4 November 2007)

Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington) moved to Harlem at an early age, where he worked for a crime boss. As the mobster's right hand man, he got a taste for power and for coming out on top. When the aging boss dies, the power shifts to Frank and he vows to be the "master of the universe" in his corner of New York City. Being extremely intelligent and ruthless to those who oppose him, Frank does what it takes to make his dream come true. He transports his brothers and other relatives from North Carolina to Harlem, for he can count on their loyalty to execute the workings of his master plan. Then, he travels to Asia himself and strikes deals with the Oriental exporters of heroin, guaranteeing a potent, superior drug and no "middlemen" to siphon off the profits. With the purest form of heroin and the lowest prices available, Frank's gang pulls in astronomical profits of the streets of Harlem. Frank lives like a king, with a most beautiful, pageant-winning Puerto Rican bride. But, there is one man poised to take him down. That would be Richie (Russell Crowe), a super-honest cop of the New York City police department. Richie once turned in a million dollars he found on the street, without taking a penny. When the drug laws enforcement agency of the United States comes calling, they nab Richie to head a cadre of officers dedicated to tracking down the kingpins in the drug traffic in NYC and putting them behind bars. With two hurricane-force men about to face off in a colossal test of will and power, who will be left standing? This is a great film, replete with very fine performances and a sensational tale. The acting crew of Washington, Crowe, Josh Brolin, Ruby Dee, and all of the others are made-to-order perfect in their designated roles. But, it is the story itself and the recreation of Harlem in the seventies that is even more impressive. Here is a world where the rules of middle town America do not apply and everyone must step to a different tune, one dictated by those who have the control. Ridley Scott, the director, as he did in Blade Runner, makes this lost world come to life brilliantly. There is some violence, yes, but just enough to show the reality of the situation and nothing in excess. Therefore, if you are thinking of another Scarface, you will be disappointed. As for the look of the film, it's costumes, sets, and cinematography, they are all beyond reproach. In short, this is a memorable film that tantalizes the viewer from beginning to end. Get the gang together and go buy your tickets ASAP.