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7th October 2025
05:49pm BST
Prime Video has just added American Gangster, the 2007 crime epic directed by Ridley Scott (Alien, Blade Runner, Gladiator).
Written by Oscar-winner Steven Zaillian (Schindler's List), the film is loosely based on the life of drug lord Frank Lucas (played by Oscar-winner Denzel Washington, Training Day), who rose to power in New York during the late '60s and early '70s.
The Scott movie also stars Oscar-winner Russell Crowe (Gladiator) as Richie Roberts, the detective who brought Lucas down.
American Gangster's plot synopsis reads: "Frank Lucas earns his living as a chauffeur to one of Harlem's leading mobsters.
"After his boss dies, Frank uses his own ingenuity and strict business code to become one of the inner city's most powerful crime bosses.
"Veteran cop Richie Roberts senses a change in the mob's power structure and looks for ways to bring his opponent to justice."
American Gangster's star-studded cast also includes the likes of Armand Assante, Carla Cugino, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cuba Gooding Jr, Idris Elba, John Hawkes, John Ortiz, Josh Brolin, Ruby Dee (Oscar-nominated for her performance) and Ted Levine.
A hit at the box office upon release, the movie was also praised for its compelling story, fine performances and stylish direction.
In the nearly two decades since, its reputation has grown even further, with the film now considered a cult classic.
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