Solid crime story, that lacks killer punch.

Rating: 7/10 (26 November 2007)

Based on a true story, this follows the exploits of Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington), a real- life gangster, and Richie Roberts (Russell Crowe), the cop who tries to catch him.
The movie's opening is (possibly purposefully) convoluted and the feeling of bewilderment is heightened by the fact that 25% of the characters in the film seemingly have a speech impediment. However, it is the second half of the film where it really takes off; thrusting the viewer into the action, in exciting style.
The performances all round are brilliant. Crowe gives his character a believable third dimension, thanks mostly to sacrificing his ego and concentrating on the character's everyman facets; a role that Hollywood actors neglect in favour of the more enticing, fancy, confident, showy characters.
But it is Washington's performance that will steal the plaudits - perhaps unfairly. Whilst he is brilliant as the cold, but family orientated, business man/gangster; he is not stunning. Washington often plays parts similarly, whether he plays a crime kingpin, or a cop; that ruthless nature and unpredictability. Like, say, Tom Cruise, he reacts to situations superbly - as well as any actor out there - but it's always the same guy you see behind those eyes.
The script and direction, whilst mostly superb, is at times a little mystifying. For instance, Lucas is always telling his brothers not to be too showy and bold and brash (in reference to the clothes they wear, and the way they behave), but when a rival doesn't pay him back, Lucas shoots him in the middle of the street in broad daylight, before returning to the cafe to continue eating his breakfast with his family. A tense, stunning scene, perhaps; but I couldn't help feel it was at odds with the rest of the story and the character itself.
It is this lack of cohesiveness throughout that prevents 'American Gangster' from being truly great.
Overall, this is certainly worth watching. It's an engrossing crime-romp, bolstered by a stellar cast and good production values, but the inconsistencies throughout slightly damage the overall quality.