Current Article

YBF Review: American Gangster


“It’s not the typical dope boy’s life…”-American Gangster, 2007

That one line in this movie literally describes its whole feel.  Denzel Washington works it out as Frank Lucas, a North Carolina born crime boss who reinvents the dope boy game in every borough of New York.  But that’s just the beginning.  And I will say, after watching this screening last night, I’m officially convinced T.I.’s whole arrest was a publicity stunt.  Way too many coincidental similarities in this movie and with his case.  Just jokes…kinda.

amcvns_d013_0061411.jpg 

While Denzy definitely doesn’t pull the same Oscar worthy performance in this movie that he did for Training Day, the story itself he represents here is simply incredible.  Frank Lucas’ real life story is one that should be added in to the black history books as a lesson to teach a young black mind.  Not how to be a riduiculously upgraded and non traditional dope boy, but about how to truly (but legally) own a piece of America.  After Frank learns everything he can from his crime boss mentor who ran New York in his own right before his sudden death, Frank moves from being his driver and confidant to singlehandedly changing the game and mindset of black folks around him.  Lesson: Cut out the middle man and do everything in your business by yourself and for yourself.  Whether others can handle your success or not.  If black Americans applied this lesson to our own legal and valid business practices, there will be a power shift in society that is sixty years too late.  American Gangster is a story about a true hustler who was smart enough to surround himself with only his family in order to gain true ownership and power of an entire city.  And it doesn’t hurt that he knew being loud and flashy and showcasing his millions would have nothing but a negative effect on his business.  Take notes hustlers. 

Ladies–don’t get too excited about the sexiness that is T.I.P. Harris being in this movie, since his role as Frank’s nephew Stevie Lucas is actually miniscule.   Same with Common who plays Frank’s brother Turner Lucas.  But both pull it off fabulously…maybe a little too fabulously.  Idris Elba is the one to be hot about–dude’s sexiness is all up and through parts of the movie and he plays his bad boy role to the tee.  RZA surprisingly kills his “Moses Jones” character and is one of the “good guys” this time around.   After running the streets in the D-boy game, he flips the script and uses his knowledge of heroin and other street drugs to catch the big boy drug lords like Frank Lucas.   I’m sure the Oscar crew is going to be salivating over Russell Crowe’s major performance as Detective Richie Roberts.  He’s a subpoena server who works on the police force during the day, all while going to law school at night.  And is trying his damndest to be one of the 25% of NY cops who weren’t crooked back in the late 60’s early 70’s. 

 amcvns_d014_0049111.jpg
amcvns_d014_0063311.jpg

As for the ladies–Ruby Dee plays Frank’s mother and she’s still got it.  I’m sure the casting director thought actress Lymari Nadal was a good fit as Eva “Miss Puerto Rico” Lucas, but seeing that I could barely understand a word she said throughout the movie, I beg to differ. Melissia Hill does a fabulous job as Redtop, Frank’s HBIC handling his packaging of the product at the stash house.

amcvns_d010_00216r11.jpg

Gangster is worth seeing just to take a peek inside the mind of an entreprenurial genius who was beyond his times.  And rightly so.  The soundtrack of the movie definitely sets the tone and tells you exactly what’s going on in the mind of Frank as his empire rises and falls.  And the scenes are obvious where Jay got the inspiration for his album, since his whole LP could have been the soundtrack to this movie.  It’s an incredible journey with the production details only movie buffs can appreciate, like the metaphorical habits and style of Frank Lucas.

American Gangster is The Sopranos meets ATL meets The Shield…with a more intricate and complicated plot that makes you second guess the meaning of right and wrong.  And I loved it.  YBF Rating: A-

american-gangster.jpg

Catch American Gangster at theaters starting Friday, November 2nd.

This review is strictly the opinon of YBF.  Take it for what it is.
 

Trackback URL

  1. 124 Comment(s)

  2. Oakland Oakland
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    1st

  3. kae kae
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    TI plays Denzel’s NEPHEW, not brother….

  4. lee-lee lee-lee
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I truly doubt that T.I.’s charges are a publicity stunt. Come on now, seriously. Will see the movie though.

  5. NIEMA NIEMA
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I don’t no what movie you were watching, but T.I. plays Denzel nephew, Common’s son. T.I. is not Denzy’s brother. Get it together people!!!!!

  6. Angee Angee
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Good review Natash..makes me wanna go see it. I love gangsta movies.
    I leave with my favorite training day line..

    In that intense,”I’m acting now” Denzel voice “KING KONG AINT GOT NUFFIN ON ME!” :)

  7. Leesh Leesh
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    tomorrow is november 1st. and thanks for telling like the whole movie. lol wtf.
    good review. did u write this or swipe it from someplace?

    i had to skim cuz i dont want certain details before i see it.

  8. Harlem Harlem
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I thought it was interesting that lil T.I. was the brother..(not that he isn’t old enough), he’s just so Tiny

  9. Lena Lena
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Idris Elba was not all up in the movie. he was only at the beginning and only had about 2 mins of screen time all together. the movie was Good at best. I think Ruby Dee parts were great and Russell Crowe got on my damn nerves the entire movie. I seriously thought T.I. was gonna have a major part but he didn’t. his screen time was really unimportant. anyone could have played that part. Common was sexy as hell and so was Denzel.

  10. Lady J Lady J
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Must be a slow day.

  11. Natasha Natasha
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Leesh wrote:

    tomorrow is november 1st. and thanks for telling like the whole movie. lol wtf.
    good review. did u write this or swipe it from someplace?

    i had to skim cuz i dont want certain details before i see it.

    I don’t work 20 out of 24 hours/day just to swipe somene else’s review and post it. I wrote it but thanks. Everything is just my opinion that I took my time to write for those who can appreciate it. And there are no spoilers posted here. Trust. The movie is based on a true story and everything I posted you can find anywhere else or in an interview the cast has done already.

  12. LeeLee LeeLee
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Great Review!! Thanks Natasha

  13. Tiffany Tiffany
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Wow….hatred in full effect this afternoon. I’ve read a couple of reviews that said the movie was just okay. I’ll have to see it for myself. Natasha, you better not be lying about Idris! I loves that chocolate man candy.

  14. Lena Lena
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    and for his wife……i could understand her. she spoke well and Redtop ran his spots but her role was kind of insignificant too. I don’t remember her saying much.

  15. Natasha Natasha
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Lena wrote:

    Idris Elba was not all up in the movie. he was only at the beginning and only had about 2 mins of screen time all together. the movie was Good at best. I think Ruby Dee parts were great and Russell Crowe got on my damn nerves the entire movie. I seriously thought T.I. was gonna have a major part but he didn’t. his screen time was really unimportant. anyone could have played that part. Common was sexy as hell and so was Denzel.

    I disagree–Idris’ part was more prominent and significant than Tip and Common. But everybody has a different take.

  16. You lied You lied
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I’m confused how do you go from Idris being all up in the movie to him have 2 minutes (He’on look like no two minute brotha to me…but)….and T.I. being the brother and then the nephew…and then tomorrow being the 2nd and then the 1st. Black ppl..I tell ya, always some confusion LOL (just joking yall don’t be getting mad)

  17. AVEYNEZ AVEYNEZ
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    well i am kinda upset that Universal let this great big mistake happen…i got this bootleg that amazing and apparently everyone else got it to

  18. Asia Asia
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I am ashamed to say, but I saw the movie on a great ghetto top of the line bootleg Saturday night, and it was indeed a must see movie. The story of Frank Lucas was truly incredible. I was disappointed though that I did not get to see more of Common in the movie. However looking at the RZA play his good guy role was fly.

  19. Mardou Fox Mardou Fox
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I don’t think you should delete posts you don’t like… Perez Hilton doesn’t and he gets called some of the worst names imaginable… Your take on this movie is lame…it is and perhaps the movie, itself, is lame…I don’t know…I’ve not heard anything great about it, BUT I do know that this review is weird… And, I’m not hating, I give you props when they’re due… This mess, though, about the movie teaching us how to have a piece of America…??? It sounds like you wrote it half-heartedly…there’s nothing at all in the way of euphony…I really doubt you cared about this movie, at all…

  20. Why you lie about Idris Why you lie about Idris
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Mardou Fox wrote:

    I don’t think you should delete posts you don’t like… Perez Hilton doesn’t and he gets called some of the worst names imaginable… Your take on this movie is lame…it is and perhaps the movie, itself, is lame…I don’t know…I’ve not heard anything great about it, BUT I do know that this review is weird… And, I’m not hating, I give you props when they’re due… This mess, though, about the movie teaching us how to have a piece of America…??? It sounds like you wrote it half-heartedly…there’s nothing at all in the way of euphony…I really doubt you cared about this movie, at all…

    I second that emotion…why you delete my post…that’s the purpose of having comments, so ppl can say their peace not for you to pick and choose what you want people to see…the comment section is for the readers and the blog is for you. Don’t take it personal if someone doesn’t happen to love everything you write

  21. sweety sweety
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    well i have the movie on bootleg denzels peformance was good he matched the tone of the movie. tonight on bet franc lucases story is going to be on american gangster on bet

  22. LeeLee LeeLee
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    LeeLee wrote:

    Great Review!! Thanks Natasha

    apparently I’m the only one who thought this

  23. Shy Shy
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    She didn’t tell the movie. I wasn’t feeling Idris in that Hat, lol…

  24. Mississippi Gurl Mississippi Gurl
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    This was a well written review. Although, I dont agree with everything that was said, the review was very well put together. I am shamed to say it, but I saw the movie this past weekend just like everyone else. I think that it was a conspiracy that this movie leaked. Im sure that a white person did it. They didnt want Denzel’s movie to blow up. They knew once it was leaked, that black people were going to watch it and not go and support it at the theaters. There may be some that still go and see it, but the majority, will not. Honestly, I thought the movie was a great disappointment. It was not what I thought that it would be. It was very SLOW! They gave us to much history, and not enough outcome. Actually, I fell asleep on it when I watched it, then had to pick up where I left off the next day. Again, this is just my opinion. People should still go and support the movie and the cast. I just wont be one of those people!

  25. choose yo battles choose yo battles
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    you don’t have to respond everytime someone makes a comment….as a matter of fact I don’t know many writers who respond in the comments of the website. I think it’s Ghetto and in bad taste to go back and forth with your readers. Like Fox said Perez doesn’t delete nor does he go back and forth, cuz his fat ass is sitting rich and pretty. For someone who works 20 hrs a day, you shouldn’t have time to patrol the comments. Before the bandwagon comes I’m not hatin I’m just sayin.

  26. AJ AJ
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Can we please show love for Natasha?!?! She took her precious time to write this review for others to read it. It’s sad that most of you can’t appreciate that with all this hate. Instead of finding everything wrong with this, lets talk about how she has provided her OPINION for us? This is a gossip blog, not an encyclopedia. So, thank you Natasha! You’re review makes me anticipate the movie even more!!!

  27. LA Face Oakland Booty LA Face Oakland Booty
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Mississippi Gurl wrote:

    This was a well written review. Although, I dont agree with everything that was said, the review was very well put together. I am shamed to say it, but I saw the movie this past weekend just like everyone else. I think that it was a conspiracy that this movie leaked. Im sure that a white person did it. They didnt want Denzel’s movie to blow up. They knew once it was leaked, that black people were going to watch it and not go and support it at the theaters. There may be some that still go and see it, but the majority, will not. Honestly, I thought the movie was a great disappointment. It was not what I thought that it would be. It was very SLOW! They gave us to much history, and not enough outcome. Actually, I fell asleep on it when I watched it, then had to pick up where I left off the next day. Again, this is just my opinion. People should still go and support the movie and the cast. I just wont be one of those people!

    Oh maybe that’s why Natasha is all mixed up about the movie. Maybe she fell asleep too! By the comments of those who saw it. I’ll wait for the DVD.

  28. marcie marcie
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I’m going to see the movie regardless, just a note, Jay-z’s album is being billed as the soundtrack to the movie…

  29. ChubbyToe ChubbyToe
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    20th…yall leave Natasha alone, she did see the movie you can tell by the well written review.

  30. Anon Anon
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    That’s what the fuck she said!!

  31. UGS UGS
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    TI plays Denzel’s NEPHEW, not brother….

    That’s what the f^%k she said!!

  32. BAY BAY
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    LeeLee wrote:

    LeeLee wrote:

    Great Review!! Thanks Natasha

    apparently I’m the only one who thought this

    Test

  33. shay shay
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    what are you talking about

  34. Liz Liz
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Either I’m confused or Natasha is confused…I was under the impression that Jay-Z’s album “American Gangster” is serving as both his next LP and the soundtrack to the movie. Jay’s project is no coincidence, it was a deliberate action. From Natasha’s review, she made it seem as though he was simply “inspired” by the movie and the two have no relevance at all. Perhaps I misinterpreted that part of her review.

    Also, the movie is a A-/B+. I thought Natasha’s review was fair and accurate without giving any of it away. Idris’ character (who is my favorite actor) didn’t have that big of a role. In fact, there was no mention of Cuba Gooding, Jr. by Natasha who I felt had as much screen time as Idris. As for the women, I wish Melissia’s character had more time, because she was way more interesting then that horrible Puerto Rican actress who played his wife.

  35. Janel Janel
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    What I don’t understand is why you have such an opinion on what Natasha says. It’s HER blog soooooo let HER say what she says. Or you start one. K? coo Neway Natasha I have plans to see this movie friday and Sunday. Not really understanding how I’ma get thru it and keep my cool w/TI, Denzy, Common, and Idris….with my boo LOL Thanks for the review!

  36. Elle.MO Elle.MO
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I MOST DEF have to see this movie, if not for anything else, JUST the EYE CANDY!!!

  37. Kelly Kelly
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Natasha

    Will you please post a story about Dog the Bounty Hunter’s racial slurs against African Americans? I was a fan of the show but I will never watch again. The actual audio can be found on the national enquirer site. I know what you are thinking. But it is actually him referring to black people with the n word and telling his son that he can not allow him to date a black woman.!! How outragous!!!

  38. Kelly Kelly
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Where is the picture from leilene from?

  39. girlchile girlchile
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    For Tash - Got get Her! YOU DON’T STEAL

    We have a lot of stories like that in our communiites and history - go ask your mom or her uncle - your grandaddy. Somwhere we have that - and Frankly - its a rich history ask someone in YOUR Fam. - PROMISE IT WILL BE INTERESTING…..

  40. girlchile girlchile
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    For Tash - Got get Her! YOU DON’T STEAL

    We have a lot of stories like that in our communities and history - go ask your mom or her uncle - your grandaddy. Somwhere we have that - and Frankly - its a rich history ask someone in YOUR Fam. - PROMISE IT WILL BE INTERESTING…..

  41. Stevie Stevie
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    can’t wait to see the movie. I’m glad to hear that Idris Elba is finally getting more exposure. I’m from the uk and i remember when he started out in this soap called family affairs back in the 90s on channel five and was always a joy to watch ;) He needs to show the uk what a great talent they missed.

  42. You lied You lied
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    UGS wrote:

    TI plays Denzel’s NEPHEW, not brother….

    That’s what the f^%k she said!!

    She edited (just like she deleted some comments) it at first she said brother…

  43. FlygirlfromDC FlygirlfromDC
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Good review, Natasha! Very well thought out and detailed. Law school is paying off, huh? :o)

  44. FlygirlfromDC FlygirlfromDC
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Liz wrote:

    Either I’m confused or Natasha is confused…I was under the impression that Jay-Z’s album “American Gangster” is serving as both his next LP and the soundtrack to the movie. Jay’s project is no coincidence, it was a deliberate action. From Natasha’s review, she made it seem as though he was simply “inspired” by the movie and the two have no relevance at all. Perhaps I misinterpreted that part of her review.

    Also, the movie is a A-/B+. I thought Natasha’s review was fair and accurate without giving any of it away. Idris’ character (who is my favorite actor) didn’t have that big of a role. In fact, there was no mention of Cuba Gooding, Jr. by Natasha who I felt had as much screen time as Idris. As for the women, I wish Melissia’s character had more time, because she was way more interesting then that horrible Puerto Rican actress who played his wife.

    You are confused. There is an official soundtrack to the movie with old school joints on it, with some new. Jay said that the movie did indeed “inspire” his new cd.

  45. GT Princess GT Princess
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Natasha,

    Do the damn thing and never mind those who hate. They’re just jealous that they lack the time, talent, dedication and passion to do what you do. Obviously you must be doing SOMETHING right if the haters keep coming back to check what you have to say.

    Life is too short for the foolishness, and you are too good for their nonsense. I wouldn’t even respond to them. It’s not worth it. No sweat off your back if they don’t like your comments and find time to post their comments. Your site is still up and running…with or without them.

    So bump the haters and keep doing you, ma.

  46. Lena Lena
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Natasha wrote:

    Lena wrote:

    Idris Elba was not all up in the movie. he was only at the beginning and only had about 2 mins of screen time all together. the movie was Good at best. I think Ruby Dee parts were great and Russell Crowe got on my damn nerves the entire movie. I seriously thought T.I. was gonna have a major part but he didn’t. his screen time was really unimportant. anyone could have played that part. Common was sexy as hell and so was Denzel.

    I disagree–Idris’ part was more prominent and significant than Tip and Common. But everybody has a different take.

    Natasha wrote:

    Lena wrote:

    Idris Elba was not all up in the movie. he was only at the beginning and only had about 2 mins of screen time all together. the movie was Good at best. I think Ruby Dee parts were great and Russell Crowe got on my damn nerves the entire movie. I seriously thought T.I. was gonna have a major part but he didn’t. his screen time was really unimportant. anyone could have played that part. Common was sexy as hell and so was Denzel.

    I disagree–Idris’ part was more prominent and significant than Tip and Common. But everybody has a different take.

    I didn’t say Idris part wasn’t prominent or insignificant. I only said that he didn’t have a lot of screen time. he only had about 2 mins screen time all together. but it wasn’t prominent to me regardless. on another note :I think u should respond to your readers. I’m not hating on you….i enjoy your site and thought the point of the comment site was to comment and I don’t think you are wrong for commenting if you don’t agree with something. everyone else on here does lol

  47. AuteurNoir AuteurNoir
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    *sigh* I rarely ever comment, but some of the posters were down right silly.

    1. Yes TI is Franks nephew. Because his role (Stevie Lucas) is so insignificant he could be lumped in with all of Franks other brothers. Simple mistake.
    2. Reviews of this movie have been out since the NY premiere (2weeks ago), furthermore the life of Frank Lucas is no secret. Wikipedia will give you the ending.
    3. The interaction between Frank and Tango (Idris Elba) is pivotal to understanding the mentality of Frank Lucas, and subsequently important to the film. Watch and see. If you cant understand, get a book on plot and character development.
    4. The film takes time to develop the back-story of Lucas & Roberts who have very rich histories respectively. I can’t understand why someone would want to focus more on the outcome of Lucas. He went to jail. Would that make a more interesting movie? (See above book on plot)
    5. Thank you for the review Natasha. I was at the LA Screening on Monday. The film was good (not great) and got a solid round of applause. I predict Oscar nods for both Crowe and Washington.

  48. KEZ KEZ
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    choose yo battles wrote:

    you don’t have to respond everytime someone makes a comment….as a matter of fact I don’t know many writers who respond in the comments of the website. I think it’s Ghetto and in bad taste to go back and forth with your readers. Like Fox said Perez doesn’t delete nor does he go back and forth, cuz his fat ass is sitting rich and pretty. For someone who works 20 hrs a day, you shouldn’t have time to patrol the comments. Before the bandwagon comes I’m not hatin I’m just sayin.

    why r you people comparing natasha to perez’s nasty ass he don’t care about
    what people say on his site he’s in it for the MONEY at least she cares about readers nothing is wrong with her correcting her comments or her readers you people need to just chill if your not hatin then what the hell ya sayiny

  49. STL_mami STL_mami
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I gotta see it; if only to see Ruby Dee say…”who’s house is this Frannnkk” {clap hands twice}LOL

  50. M.Love M.Love
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Thanks Natasha for telling the whole effing movie :-) just joking. Good thing I saw it on bootleg this past weekend or I would have been mad at you for real!

  51. Terri Terri
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Why do people get so bent out of shape on these comment sections? Everyone is going back and forth, grown women sounding like you are ready to take off your earrings and get the vaseline just because someone states their opinion. Be easy ladies… all the bickering is so not fabulous! Natasha, thank you for the review… I had planned to see it already this weekend but it’s nice to hear someone give an intelligent review that focuses on the deeper issue. I love gangster movies as well but too often our young black men look up to these characters a little too much and try to be just like them. Not the move! Breathe ladies, relax, have a drink, get a facial… CALM DOWN :-)

  52. the fabulousness.. the fabulousness..
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    My first comment..(woo hoo!!) I love this site! I may be addicted.. but i know im not alone.. hell all my friends and family are two! Natasha you are the bomb girl.. you are crazy as hell but you give it raw sugar. gotta love it.. the new comment section concerned me because it was inevitable that the haters would follow boo.. but you are brilliant so im sure you already knew! keep up the good (and bad) news girl and please post as many pictures of that fine a** Idris Elba as your can archive!! keep the fabulousness going..
    love.

  53. Maddie Maddie
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    choose yo battles wrote:

    you don’t have to respond everytime someone makes a comment….as a matter of fact I don’t know many writers who respond in the comments of the website. I think it’s Ghetto and in bad taste to go back and forth with your readers. Like Fox said Perez doesn’t delete nor does he go back and forth, cuz his fat ass is sitting rich and pretty. For someone who works 20 hrs a day, you shouldn’t have time to patrol the comments. Before the bandwagon comes I’m not hatin I’m just sayin.

    How is it Ghetto? You sound stupid, Alot of bloggers respond to readers. And yes you are HATING

  54. Maddie Maddie
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Natasha… You know your big when people come just to hate

  55. Ms. Smith Ms. Smith
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    AuteurNoir wrote:

    *sigh* I rarely ever comment, but some of the posters were down right silly.

    1. Yes TI is Franks nephew. Because his role (Stevie Lucas) is so insignificant he could be lumped in with all of Franks other brothers. Simple mistake.
    2. Reviews of this movie have been out since the NY premiere (2weeks ago), furthermore the life of Frank Lucas is no secret. Wikipedia will give you the ending.
    3. The interaction between Frank and Tango (Idris Elba) is pivotal to understanding the mentality of Frank Lucas, and subsequently important to the film. Watch and see. If you cant understand, get a book on plot and character development.
    4. The film takes time to develop the back-story of Lucas & Roberts who have very rich histories respectively. I can’t understand why someone would want to focus more on the outcome of Lucas. He went to jail. Would that make a more interesting movie? (See above book on plot)
    5. Thank you for the review Natasha. I was at the LA Screening on Monday. The film was good (not great) and got a solid round of applause. I predict Oscar nods for both Crowe and Washington.

    Thank you. Well done! Thanks for the excellent review Natasha. I hadn’t planned to see the film until reading your post.

  56. Jen Jen
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I’m just glad to hear good things about the movie, because the production on that ish was out of control in my neighborhood. I live in Harlem, and they were shooting there for a while. For the first couple of days it was fun to see famous folks (and dressed-up extras) running around my hood, but went all out–changing the street signs, re-working the newstand, etc.(lost cabbies = big fares) and made it crazy to run my business on 121st and walk my poor old dog! I’m glad it sounds like it was all worth the hassle, and am looking forward to seeing this movie! Thanks for the in-depth review!

  57. divine divine
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Once again Natasha, Good Job!! I think your review was very insightful and like “AuteurNoir” stated above, a viewer whose intent is to understand the mind and innerworkings of Lucas and why he was so profound in the African-American community, would truly appreciate your review.

    What the rest of us highly judgmental folks on the board need to do, is worry less about Natasha’s opinion of the movie and figure out why for the LOVE OF GOD black folks cannot and won’t stop getting every possible Oscar worthy black feature film on damn BOOTLEG!!! That is what you all need to be worried about!!! When studios stop making them because lames won’t get off the sofa and spend 10 bucks to go see the film, I wonder what you will watch on BOOTLEG then????

  58. Loved It!! Loved It!!
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I absolutely LOVED this movie. I’ve been wanting to see it for months, since I first saw the trailer. So yeah, when I realized I could see am incredible quality image on my computer I did, about a week ago. I’ve watched the movie 3 times so far, that’s how much I loved it. And I have to agree with the review. Although Denzel did an amazing job, this movie is truly about the hustling skills of Frank Lucas. His ideas were so grand and how he implemented them was unbelievable. This dude was making major moves and he understood the concept of business. It’s crazy how he was so smart and on top of his game but not following one of his own rules was the beginning of his downfall. Awesome movie, and a must see for anybody trying to understand the concept of branding your product and owning it!!

  59. eva eva
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Thanks for the review Natasha. I will certainly see the movie.

    Double thanks for the site, I know it takes a tremendous amount of time to maintain. I love the fact that you are a very young Black women who created an occupation of of something you love.

    I don’t always agree with your opinions or comments, but it is my choice to visit your site and I enjoy it very much. I also like the interaction among your viewers of different opinions. Just the ones who express their opinions without offensive and disrepectful remarks though.
    Keep up the good work.

  60. MrStyle MrStyle
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    The movie was really good saw it twice already (yeah I know bootleg) but I was just wondering are you giving it a positive review because they are a sponsor?

    Oh and While Ruby Dee didn’t have a huge part…the part she had…Oh she made that sucker! She has it!

  61. Dina-Bmore Dina-Bmore
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Great review…I went to a free screening….A- Will also pay to see this wknd:) Please go see this….

  62. crys crys
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    can’t wait to see this…my friend’s brother is in it!

  63. BrooklynGirl BrooklynGirl
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    The reveiw is on point. Denzel,Crowe and the Crew on point. An amazing story of the Black man making it in a White/Italian world. Saw the movie last night. Still thinking about it. Still wondering when WE as Black folk, Africian-Americans…whatever we wanna be called will realize what Frank did…we TOO deserve a piece of of the pie. The American Dream. Yeah, Frank was a Bad guy but I found myself hoping he would get off! Can’t believe that ish but yeah, a Brotha killing it…I LOVED it. BUT I HATED how he killed it by killing so many young and old brothas and sisthas. But he got over on the all those who got over on Us. Crazy conflict. Denzel…The Ish!! I wanna see him win the Oscar for more than being a gangster though. All the other brothas–Common, TI and Irdris–F.I.N.E!!!!!! Righteous that what they were and are.

  64. MsStar MsStar
    On Oct 31, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Natasha, good review.
    Like a lot of other people I have seen the movie twice and I loved it.
    We have some fine looking Black men in this movie.
    Denzell was great and I think he should be nominated for an Oscar
    for it, He is my favorite Actor.

  65. MackMama MackMama
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Wow, that was a very well written review. Natasha, I’m so used to you just talkin’ mess about folks, I didn’t realize you had so much more going on in that head of yours. Kudos!

    Well I’m another one that got their hands on that quality bootleg and I just watched it last night. It was good, not great. Very entertaining, but I wasn’t blown away. Loved Denzel of course. And Crowe also did his thing.

    I do see what you meant about Frank’s business sense of doing things for himself to become a success. My favorite scene was directly related to that. I actually wished more focus was placed on the buildup of his empire and not so much on the downfall. Frank was just so ruthless and then there’s the whole storyline with the NYPD and Crowe’s character, and Frank’s family, that how he became so successful in the first place gets lost in all the mix.

    Still a good movie that I definitely recommend.

  66. me me
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Natasha I thought that the review was good. It mad me want to see it…for all the friggin haters…you should just show them the “F*ck You” sign (the middle finger for those that don’t know)…keep doin your thing..bless up!!!

  67. TOYA TOYA
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    THAT WAS A GREAT REVIEW YOU HAVE GREAT WRITING SKILLS ANYWAYS I CAN’T WAIT TOT SEE THIS MOVIE MY FRIEND HAS A BOOTLEG (AND A GOOD ONE I HAD) BUT I STOPPED MYSELF AND DIDN’T WATCH IT SUPPORT MY BLACK PEOPLE AND SEE IN THE THEATER.

  68. MIACHIC MIACHIC
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I THOUGHT IT WAS A GOOD REVIEW, AND DEFINATLY DID NOT TELL THE STORY. I ENJOYED THE MOVIE,SOMEONE FROM THE STUDIOS MUST HAVE LEAKED IT BECAUSE MY BOOTLEG WAS DA BOMB!I JUST WANTED THERE TO BE MORE ACTION OR SOMETHING,IT LACKED SOME THINGS,JUST CANT PUT MY FINGER ON IT.

  69. Grit n’ Pearls Girl Grit n' Pearls Girl
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Very nice review Natasha. I planned to see it anyway, especially after somebody gave me a bootleg copy that read, “American Ganster.” I refused to watch it. Didn’t want to spoil the experience for myself.

  70. bigchassie bigchassie
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    okay, you all sold me on this. i will go and see the movie. i love Denzie, he is a brilliant actor, but for some strange reason he is not one of my favorite actors but i’l go and support this movie. thank you all for your comments.

  71. kae kae
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    You lied wrote:

    UGS wrote:

    TI plays Denzel’s NEPHEW, not brother….

    That’s what the f^%k she said!!

    She edited (just like she deleted some comments) it at first she said brother…

    Yeah, she edited that shit…wit no props for me catchin her mistake before she got blew up by all you people….You’re welcome anyway….

  72. Damon Damon
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I went to the Atlanta premiere and the directing is very sketchy in this film. A lot of scenes that could have been edited out were kept. The movie did not show clear steps to the rise and fall of Frank Lucas, but took huge leaps through his life. Denzel Washington did a hell of an acting job in the film, I just felt the directing was bad. Personally I think films like “Belly” had better directing, not that it had a better story line, but better directing.

  73. CLAUDETTE CLAUDETTE
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    WHAT? NO BEYAWEH POSTS TODAY??? THIS IS AN ATROCITY

  74. AE AE
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    I loved the movie and i would honestly watch it again!!! Denzel did a great job, i loved the movie, so sad ti’s character died though…

  75. Bonita Bonita
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    @ Claudette

    I dont know why there isnt a Beyaki post. Hmm I wonder what’s going on.

  76. stephanie stephanie
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    i saw the movie. and of all these ridiculous comments, this is the only one worth replying to…ROTFLMBAO ruby dee is that ish!

  77. CLAUDETTE CLAUDETTE
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    @ BONITA-

    MUST NOT BE ANY HOT AND COOKIN COOHIE STEAM TO JUMP ALL OVER. O WELL

  78. stephanie stephanie
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    STL_mami wrote:

    I gotta see it; if only to see Ruby Dee say…”who’s house is this Frannnkk” {clap hands twice}LOL

    i saw the movie. and of all these ridiculous comments, this is the only one worth replying to…ROTFLMBAO ruby dee is that ish!

  79. MzPurp MzPurp
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply | Quote

    Like most of the others I saw this movie already also…actually saw it like Thurs of last week and again last night. I liked this movie and I would pay to go see it in the theaters just to show my support for the cast and crew. Natasha…forget the haters, you kno everytime you type two words on this blog, that there will be 5 people saying what u typed was wrong…keep doing your thing and people appreciate your review…

    I feel you also when you said if Black people applied his tactics to life now, from a “LEGAL and VALID” standpoint, we could def be running things! But just like they do own this site, Black people will continue to complain and HATE, instead of bettering themselves!!

  80. chocoshake chocoshake
    On Nov 1, 2007 | Reply |