American Gangster

(2007)

Todd Says:

3.5 STARS

This movie was about what I expected it to be, it could have been better given the cast, but it could also have been worse, given the subject. I for one have grown a little tired of the 'gangster' movie genre over the years. I used to be a big fan, two of my favorite movies are Mobsters and The Untouchables, but two of my least favorites are Casino and Good Fellas. Maybe it's Joe Peci?

Anyway, Denzel Washington was good, but we've all come to expect incredible things from him, so no suprise there. Russel Crowe was even good, and I for one have come to expect not much from him. And of course Ridley Scott did a fine job weaving it all together in an in-your-face view from the streets kind of way, but expect about 20 different director's cut releases over the next decade. I'm not kidding, I just saw another version of Blade Runner at Target: The Final Cut. Give me a break Ridley, what are you George Lucas or something.

Back to American Gangster. It was a long movie, but it was good. The subject matter was a bit harsh, and may not be for everyone. But if you like gritty cop movies then this would be a good one for you.

Alexis says:

4 STARS:

I have been wanting to see this movie for a while despite one of the leading actors being Russell Crowe, who I am not very fond of. For me the movie didn't disappoint. For over two hours this movie was fast pased. At times it did seem like you were watching two completely different stories but they were intwined fairly well at the end of the film. Having watched two films back to back that took place in the 1970's I was surprised how well the scenes were set up. From the street shots to the clothing, everything was well done.

I felt this movie lacked a little something however. I felt that it built up for a bigger climax but then let me down a little. The ending was also misleading. It makes you think that Frank Lucas did time for only that one conviction when instead he was let out early on parole and was back in three years later for possession. It was hard to feel bad for anybody in this movie, except maybe Det. Roberts' (Crowe) son.

Overall, this film was pretty good about this movie. You can't always expect a Hollywood ending when the film is based on real accounts. Be on the lookout for Chiwetel Ejiofor who plays Lucas' younger brother in the film, I expect good things from him.

No Country For Old Men

Todd Says:

4 STARS

I think that No Country For Old Men is as good of a character movie I’ve seen in a long time. None of the characters are what you’d want them to be, but that doesn’t mean they’re not well done (both written and acted). From the beaten-down sheriff (Tommy Lee Jones) to the completely deranged killer (Javier Bardem) the characters in this movie are extremely well developed.

Sure, there is a lot of gore along the way as we follow the hapless moron who finds a bunch of money and is stalked by the maniacal killer all across Texas. Sure, the story doesn’t have a happy ending, or beginning, or middle. Sure, this movie leaves you feeling a little frightened to go out in public. Sure, you probably won’t know how to feel about the ‘good guys’ in this movie. But, you will really be scared of the ‘bad guy,’ and I think that that shows talented film-making.

It’s maybe not a movie you’ll watch over and over, but I do think it’s a movie you should see. There is a lot of talent in this film, both in front of and behind the camera, and it is definitely a worth while watch.

Alexis Says:

3 STARS

It isn't that I totally dislike No Country For Old Men it's that it was not what I expected, I was let down and I thought the ending left a lot to be desired. I wanted my opinion of this movie to change so much that I waited a few days to write my review but even now I feel that the movie was a let down.

That being said I will add that Javier Bardem's character was incredible and won the 3 stars all himself that this movie earned. Bardem's madman is so convincing I was afraid to keep watching. It was believable to the point of making you fear convenient stores and rest stops. His voice, the volume and tone. His stern look. The way he carries his body when he walks. All chilling in the most terrifying way.

But even with an award worthy performance such as Bardem's, I was left feeling underwhelmed.