American Gangster-They Glorify Gangsters, don't they? **1/2

Rating: Null/10 (20 February 2008)

Whether it's "Bonnie and Clyde," or "American Gangster," we have a tendency in motion pictures to glorify gangsters. The fact remains that these people are the absolute scum of the earth for what they have done to society.
Frank Lucas is made out to be the true hero instead of the cop who earnestly tries to bring him down. As a result, Russell Crowe's part as the cop, is really watered down and Denzell Washington, as Lucas, is glorified.
The first hour or so of this film is tedious at best. It is in the second half hour that a gripping story is told of attempts to smuggle in narcotics via the dead bodies of the heroes of the Vietnam War. Corruption is everywhere in this true story including the New York City police department. What a scandal!
As far as Ruby Dee being nominated for best supporting actress in this film, my comment is for what? Her part rivals Judi Dench in "Shakespeare in Love," or Beatrice Straight in "Network." Yet, people are predicting that she will be the winner of the award this year. For what? She gave a good slap in the face to Washington but is that really acting? I don't want to hear that Dee will win for the compilation of great performances over the years. Fine, then she should have won years back for far more worthy material.