Hard Hitting Drama cum Thriller

Rating: 8/10 (4 September 2010)

"American Gangster" shouldn't be reckoned another thriller based on the life of a Drug dealer. Because it's more than just a politically correct documentary of a Drug dealer, who used the Vietnam War to supplement his drug business great times in the mean streets of New York. The perfect casting, impeccable direction, taut storyline and great mix of action and thrill make it one of the best thrillers of the year.
Cast wise, it's the Master Ridley Scott at work. Clearly, he has a special liking for the two lead actors, having casted them in several of his movies. Russell Crowe brings his rough charm into his detective role, which is greatly complimented by Denzel Washington's calm demeanor gangster portrayal. Josh Brolin is an icing on cake for this wonderful cast.
The movie is wonderfully paced. Never one feels bored or letdown by the pace of the movie. Ridley Scott bought his two gems (Crowe and Denzel) together perfectly, making a movie which attains the tension, agility, brutality and conflict of a perfect drama based thriller movie. The best thing is it's a hard hitting thriller, but little plot holes. The climax is very consistent with the movie's plot.
Overall, "American Gangster" delivers all that it promises. After all, the trio of Crowe, Scott and Denzel makes three of a kind.
My Verdict: 8/10