My Man

Rating: 8/10 (2 November 2007)

Greetings again from the darkness. Every now and then we experience the convergence of a creative team who each bring their "A" game. Director Ridley Scott has had ups and downs but certainly was focused on this project. Writer Steve Zaillan has delivered a couple of screenplays along the way that were probably nothing more than paychecks. We all know Denzel Washington has been known to work for the money and not the art. This group partners here with acting stud Russell Crowe to remind us of how cool movies can be.
One of the more fascinating things about the film is how the two powerful leads don't share a scene until 80% of the film is over. Based on a true story, Denzel plays Harlem drug lord Frank Lucas as a street wise, true to the gangster code, businessman on a mission. It is my favorite Denzel role ever. He moves just like an animal on the prowl, eyes always moving ... until he sends the cold stare at someone before uttering "My Man" ... which is usually one of the last things they hear.
Crowe is just tremendous as the squeaky clean cop, who sucks as a father and husband, but is true to the code of justice and law. A pariah for turning in a trunk load of untraceable cash, Crowe is moved to a special drug investigative unit and he takes the assignment very seriously indeed! Watching him peel back the layers of the investigation and having it turn on a $50,000 fur coat and microwave oven, really is compelling. Once again, Crowe is at his peak. OK, the guy had a momentary lapse in "A Good Year" (directed by Ridley Scott) but his resume is tough to match by most any actor.
The supporting cast is stellar and affecting. For some reason, he is not listed in the credits, but Clarence Williams III is Bumpy, Lucas' boss and mentor. Williams is perfect for the tough, yet pensive leader. Josh Brolin ("Grindhouse") is chilling as the corrupt NY detective. I wanted to shoot him myself. Long lost Armand Assante is captivating as a drug lord who just can't compete with Lucas, so he partners up. Cuba Gooding, jr. escapes from crappy kid movies long enough to play a frightening gangster who loves the spotlight and doesn't enjoy being dissed. Chiwetel Ejiofor, Ruby Dee and Joe Morton all have nice turns as well.
The final showdown with Denzel and Crowe reminds a bit of "Heat" when Pacino and Deniro FINALLY share a scene. With a touch of "Serpico" and "Blow", this one adds the touch of dueling codes ... street vs. cop. Just a fascinating (mostly) true story with amazing performances! I really love good movies!