Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Gretchen Wilson, Dutch Pennsylvania — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 17:24:12 GMT

Speaking of American Gangster, The new movie is coming out. oooooooo lordy Denzel! that sexy man sure know how to put it down right. it was back in 1996. i had just turned 18 and i was looking for a down right nasty time. i was in NYC and suddenly i saw him. Tall dark and handsome looking at me!
well one thing led to another and pretty soon i felt Denzel all over my hot young body!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Graham, Philadelphia, PA — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 18:00:09 GMT

A puff piece on a drug dealer and gang leader? I'm African American and he's no hero of mine. Not with the wave of gang violence sweeping cities like Philly and Chicago.

The piece should have been written about his daughter instead - now there's a heroine rising adversity.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Tim, San Francisco, CA — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 18:00:15 GMT

Is this a news program or a commercial for the movie. Hmmm - Universal Pictures, NBC, all owned by GE. Why not have Matt Lauer referee the Pepsi Challenge instead?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

franz hotz atlanta ga — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 18:47:01 GMT

Frank Lucas well a new um Tony Montana a black Tony Montana the good thing is ITS REAL STUFF REAL PERSON!!! MONTANA FAKE LIKE A LOT OF THESE RAPPERS WANNABES GANGSTERS.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Ken Charles, Moriarty, New Mexico. — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 19:00:17 GMT

It's a shame that we are once again giving celebrity status to a thug and a punk. How many lives did he ruin? And how many promising futures were "snuffed out" so that this man and his companions could live the good life? We do this all the time, ie.. Dillinger, Billy the Kid, pirates, Al Capone etc. All of whom if you met them in person you had a good chance of not surviving. I am sure the families that this man ruined are not enamoured with "American Gangster" and are only reminded of the tragedy that he heaped on them. Shame on Hollywood for again giving a criminal his name in lights. Why not do a movie about the good people of our history. I think "Ben Franklin the Movie" is long overdue, I know it's not the kind of thing to be a box office smash but what if Harrison Ford played the part? Now that is a movie I would go see.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Maurice , Topeka, Kansas — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 19:04:40 GMT

I have see the movie. It is hard to beleive that it is a actual true story. It is done in a "godfather" way. Not a "New Jack City" way alot of people think it will be. Interesting Fellow.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Jay Johnson Mesa, AZ. — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 19:15:37 GMT

Great, never let it be said that even a criminal can be forgiven if the years pass and Denzel plays your character. Weird, how that works,weird.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Matt, Rochester, NY — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 19:31:44 GMT

Good idea. Let's give the youth of today yet another shining example of what they can be! A drug dealing, murdering, scumbag.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

TTony, Brick, NJ — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 20:42:24 GMT

I love watching movies based on real life events; however, when the real life events are based on destroying the lives of other people, I stop and think about it a little. The main character in this tale is still alive. In my opinion, making this movie glorifies, in some way, the crimes this person committed. I can only hope that all the people he killed where bad, not that it makes it any better.

In the other hand, I have not seen a Denzel Washington movie I did not like. Mr. Washington must be the most talented low key actors in the industry.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Ken S. — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 20:56:48 GMT

I can't believe this scumbag is being lionized. He should be fed to the lions.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

CW Pleasant Prairie, WI — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 22:18:26 GMT

When will Hollywood and/or a decent law-abiding black man stand up and say Enough about glorifying the very men who are destroying their children. I am totally disgusted that Denzel Washington would star in such trash.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

bob cousey , baytown texas — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 23:27:15 GMT

forgiveness is the realm of the divine.
justice was not served in the name of convenience.
this man has lived to the ripe old age of 77 and a lot of other people did not as a direct result of his actions.he has watched his family grow and grow up. that is injustice.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Larry Israel. Sewell, NJ — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 00:48:44 GMT

The article is very informative. I was wondering if Lucas is the inspiration for the Superfly story and movie of the 70's. I was wondering what was specifically left in place by Bumpy Johnson and how Lucas expanded it. I would also be interested in hearing what Lucas himself thinks is "the moral" of his story. What does his experience say to those from his community that is redemptive, if anything. Thanks

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Erica Ashmeade, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 02:56:37 GMT

I think it is a beautiful thing when you see so much positive come from negative. I hope this movie shows our younger generation, especially African American Men, that having ambitions of a "Gangster" or a "Dope Boy" gets you nowhere. If Frank Lucas can be one man and become be bigger than mafia in a couple years time doing negative, imagine how many multi-million dollar businesses can be around today doing positive.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

TYNEIKO CROSS HILL S.C — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 04:59:05 GMT

AMERICAN GANGSTER IS ONE OF THE BEST MOVIES I HAVE EVER SEEN. EVERYONE MAKES MISTAKES. I SPENT MY TWENTIES MESSING UP(THE SAME) BUT NOW IM SPENDING MY THIRTIES MAKING UP!!!!!!!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Tony Gee — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 15:10:55 GMT

More than an interesting story. It is the American dream gone awry. Frank Lucas was shaped and molded by his own devices, but had influences from the socially inept climate of those times. Who amongst us, if given the chance, would stay oppressed, victimized, and penniless? My thoughts are none of us would. Given the chance to do it different, I am sure he would. Nevertheless, we live in a world where certain groups have inherent privileges, while the rest of us have to find our own way. I can appreciate Frank Lucas, who is a man that was able to find his own way.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Walter Champiion — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 22:00:12 GMT

The film is going to be a tremendous smash. It could be another oscar nod for Denzel and Russell, 2 of the greatest actors of this era.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

annie san diego ca — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 08:18:14 GMT

A Great Story and movie of lucas life,he paid his price,denzel great as always.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Otha Yarborough — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 14:38:35 GMT

You know... You have to admit for the time and age he was living in, Mr Lucas was his era's Bill Gates. He took a product and made it his own. In the movie he had a scene with another well known dealer,Nicky Barnes. Frank asked Barnes not to step on his "product" to make more money.. because it was fine "as is" But if he did..... change the name. The key was in the "brand name". Don't get it twisted, Lucas was selling death and many died because of it, But his marketing strategy and distribution was the same as many major corporations employ today,Cut out the middle man. This is a fine example of a businessman if you will, making due with what he had to work with. I applaude all the participants in the making this film.There alot of ways to view this film. The message is " eat the meat and throw out the bones"

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Maureen St. Cyr Pasadena Ca — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 01:16:52 GMT

How is Frank's mother and 30 family members that went to jail, and did his wife come back? Remember Frank by God's Grace everybody can change, and I am glad for you.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

pamela smith — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 03:08:52 GMT

We as parents are already fightig the negaive effect of hip-hop on the psyche of our male youth, particularly our African American males. Get ready parents,start praying; you are naive if you think the youth will not glrify the life of Lucas.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 04:49:47 GMT

Hello..I am the oldest daughter of Nicky Barnes and just watched Breakfast with an American Gangster. You mentioned my father, but not that he too, has a film out in theaters called "mr.untouchable". There is a book by the same name. I would like a chance to discuss how my fathers' children were impacted by his criminality and that at 75 years old he is a very different man/father/grandfather.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

gwen rollins memphis tn — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 14:11:42 GMT

I missed this! Will it air again and when?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Don Doe — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 14:15:26 GMT

as a kid of 15 yrs old in the Bronx in 1967 a Black guy who hooked up a white girl in our neighborhood made her pregnant befriended me when he was 34 yrs old because at the last minute at the church where his and ( ill call her Jane Doe) janes baby was to be Baptized , the God father and mother didnt show up . I stepped in without hesitation and from then on was a " friend" to Dave ( Shot gun Dave as he was called later in yrs, he had a sawed off shot gun under the front seat of his car) as a Irish- Italian kid growing up no one could under stand why Dave looked out for me . One night a few yrs after the baby was born Dave took me to harlem to a club on 125 and lexington ave . He introduced me to a guy named" Nicky" who i found out yrs later was Leroy " nickey " Barnes, I heard Mr Barnes ask Dave " who is this white kid he brought to Harlem and Dave said I was ,his "Nephew" as Mr Barnes looked at me and back to Dave he laughed and asked me what i was drinking and i said Dewars and water and it was the 1st of a few that relaxed me even though i was with Dave and his friend Nicky. i stayed in touch with Dave until the late " 70s".

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Pamela Smith, Columbus OH — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 14:20:45 GMT

While I am very concerned about how this movie will impress our young males--a lesson that every young must learn is not to take behavior cues from the media. I had to learn it when "superfly" and "the Mack" was glorifying thug life on the big screen. It is one of the lessons of growing up, I think.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Amelia Crawford Seattle, WA — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 16:09:04 GMT

Hello
I watched the interview between Matt Lauer, Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe last night on Dateline. I would like to comment or perhaps question the line of questioning Matt had about bringing "two powerful resumes" to the table. This was the second time I had seen this kind of question posed to the two actors.The first was on a morning news show, either NBC or ABC, can't remember which. I can't understand why that is of any importance, and it almost felt to me like Matt ws looking for conflict or issues between the two actors. I wonder if it was somehow because of their being black and white, that somehow there was an expectation or hope of conflict between the two actors.
Obviously the question was around their acting qualities and I'm sure Matt has no ulterior motive personally, but I can't recall another movie with two great stars acting together coming out, where the most important line of questioning was, "Are you guys (or gals) competing?".
Also would like to comment that there is an awful lot of explaining, or justifying, going on around glorifying or not glorifying this character in the movie. Why is there not that kind of clarificaton and discussion going on around gangster movies when the gangsters are white? Why is it that the Sopranos was/is so popular, but there is little discussion or clarification around glorifying those gansters?
Thank you for your time, if in fact this does get read. I will continue to enjoy the broadcasting on NBC.
By the way, can we get some more coverage on the Jena 6 in Louisianna? There is an important event coming up on November 7th and I think the media should be taking this situation much more seriously, and cover it much more thoroughly.
Thanks again.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

C. Skanes, Hyattsville MD. — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 02:11:47 GMT

I just finished watching the movie and thought it was a very eye opening film about a man's struggle for power and peace. Although I don't agree personally with the life of a drug dealer,...I can relate to wanting to be bigger than life and feenin for the drug of immortality that is life itself. Denzel Washington is an amazing actor with a flare for capturing an audience without having to over-act a role. I don't feel admiration for the "American Gangsta" that was Mr. Lucas but rather admiration for the man that he has grown to be. All beit that he's a 77 year old man now, the fact that he would allow for a amazing and horrifically mezmorizing tale to be told; says that he's as a huan being. Much respect to the families involved and the cast and crew for taking on the challenge of opening eyes to the way things still are in our country.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Tonisha, East Orange, New Jersey — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 17:36:41 GMT

I don't feel that the movie American Gangster glorifies drug dealing and violence any more than the movies about the wars do. I mean, it's history, whether it's negative or positive. We know the difference between right and wrong,and I think this movie will enforce that. I think it's all about making decisions-And there is such a thing as repenting for something you did wrong, and trying to make amends. I don't feel that videos/music, etc. influences a person in one way or the other to do something. If a person is raised right, and surrounds themselves with the right people, then they will make the right decisions, no matter what else is going on around them, or portrayed in the media. We are a multi-faceted people, everything isn't cookie cutter perfect. Sometimes certain stories need to be told and shown, no matter how ugly it is. There is always a lesson to be learned.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Black — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 18:47:32 GMT

There are some things that still haven't changed since the 70's. Our country is still involved in a drawn-out senseless war that is sending many young American Men and Women home in bodybags. We still have a government that is over-extended in financially supporting calculated violence overseas while we have domestic economic, educational, and health-care isssues that are severly underserved by our Government. And we still have open wounds in our race relations that have been poorly damaged by a superficial civil rights "progress". Unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina, "Jena 6", and many under-reported incidents have ripped of that bandage and exposed the pain and anguish of our unhealed racial wounds. It's not that things haven't improved for many African-American citizens in many facets of life. Although many are 3 or more generations removed from slavery, there is is steal such a vast section of Black Amercians who never recovered and never gained the strentgh to be psychologically free. And the lack of that freedom has them appearing as aliens to those who have been free. They say such things as "you got to pick yourself up and just do better", "Nobody owes you anything", etc. While these cliche's do have some truth, the Hard truth is that there are many who just need a hand up. Not necessarily a hand out such as the old dependency driven welfare system, but a real productive hand in the right direction towards personal progress and productivity.

Glorify the gangsters? No. But will young black men have a natural affinity for the underdog who makes it big? Obviously. Why is the Gangster so popular? Because all of those Gandhi-inspired nonviolent protests were cool for Dr. King, but this new generation does not want to have be beat on, spit on, verbally abused, dehumanized, demasculinized, and completely walked on to achieve "progress". The end of those days has unfortunately been marked by many riots. Take Note America: (In particular preachy African-Americans) We Love the Gangster because you made us love him! You glorifed his every move. You voted him into office and secretly enjoy his Texan stubborness while you outwardly berade him. You need him to do the dirty work. Take out the trash. You need him so you can feel better for saving the planet. Don't hate him now because he has a black face.

Were Bumpy Johnson, Frank Lucas, Nicky Barnes, the Real 50 Cent, Rich Porter, Alpo, etc. all involved in forms of criminal activity that demoralized the lives of thousands of people? Absolutely. But what about Al Capone? What about Charles "Lucky" Luciano, Joe Adonis, Bugsy Siegel, Salvador Maranzano, and even the glorified fictional "Tony Soprano"? Where's the outrage about the HUNDREDS of films, tv series, books, and miscellaneous merchandise that journalize the American Mafia?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Phyllis M. Baltimore, Maryland — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 18:49:20 GMT

its a lesson in everything we touch and say and do...lets not judge. whether Mr.Frank Lucas took life or gave life, he does not have the final answer those people died because it was their time and GOD said so, it just the way that they died they is difficult. This man 77 years let him live I sure his pain is much deeper than we can image he pay over and over. let his story be told.you all will put down a black man for his error... What about the other stories that was tols about the white, jews, Italians all true look how they killed for the love of many...nothing is never said ...of how funny life is.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Iraq — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 19:39:51 GMT

To touch on a couple of points made by others-
The movie- very entertaining i can see Denzel and Russell getting a nod for both roles, it was a chess match of two characters slowly battling it out, almost like "The Wire" showing both sides at work(Stringer got shot again???)
The message- Just like I am sure when The Godfather released italian Americans were up in arms as well, African Americans will want to ban this film or boycott it too. I wonder are these the same people that blog it but not live it? it told a story of the past, where he lived, snitched, died in a hail of bullets, in the end crime rarely pays (right O.J.?)
The person- I am sure, one reason Mr. Lucas doesnt want to relish in the limelight is that yes there are still some enemies so called gunning for him, or there is a old case that will make sure his last days are spent behind bars. He was a hustler, and at the end of the day has to live with a fate worst then death...himself, his past, his memories, and the legacy he help build in the inner cities around America, which is the Decaying of an entire culture that being African Americans...
will the positive messages of the movie strike a cord with the black male ages 15-30? probably not. If anything look for the American Gangster monicker on the next 100 mix tapes, and T shirts, and "Frank Lucas" name drops in a video coming to you soon on BET.
For the record I am an African American, Denzel Washington fan, father of a young black man I am trying to raise to understand every story has positve and negative side, and there are lessons to learn from each side.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Manny Fresh, San Francisco, CA — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 23:52:19 GMT

funny how everyone seems surprised that Denzel would play this type of character, hasn't anyone ever seen training day?? this movie should just be viewed for entertainment purposes, but we all know if the performances and story are even somewhat good it will turn into food for our pop culture. but blame it on our society and the neglect of our poor public educational system not on the commerical movie industry I mean what do you expect?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Baron K. Porter — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 03:02:32 GMT

Innovative, motivating, and real,down right true to life. Although the movie glamorized the money making potential of the illegal drug trade, it most importantly showed the real struggle of the addicts and the price they pay to survive. This movie also outlined the corruption that is present in the American structure. Crack cocaine has become the heroin of today, and the money made from it is undoubtedly tainted within the political arena as well as the drug dealers. We must not forget who really profits from the deaths and destruction Drugs bring.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Missy, Philadelphia,PA — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 03:31:14 GMT

It's movies like this that make me wonder why Hollywood insists on glorifying the illegal drug trade. I'm from Philly and know someone who is a notorious drug kingpin who I think was dramatically influenced by movies like this. And people wonder why our city is inundated with drugs and murders!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Q. Hereford, Weehawken, NJ — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 05:54:37 GMT

DENZEL WASHINGTON DID NOT GLORIFY FRANK LUCAS

I've read every comment posted and everyone has an opinion of Denzel Washington and Frank Lucas but noone recognizes that this film was a true story of the biggest drug dealer's DOWNFALL, and the DOWNFALL of the largest crooked-cop ring: 75% of NYPD cops were brought up on charges of corruption. This was a true story told by every angle. Since it is a true story, how else would you want it told? Or would you rather it not be told...to pick and choose which part of our history you would like to be told.

The people who are worried about Washington glorifying Lucas are the people who found themselves rooting for Lucas (in the movie) by mistake. People don't realize that the illusion of Lucas being a "hero" is a result of Washington being a "tremendous actor".

Before you discredit Denzel Washington's judgment calls and after you finish praying for our children's future:
Give our young men the benefit of the doubt: I'm sure they'll figure out right from wrong sooner than later (from us maybe?). If our young men were inspired to do wrong from this movie then it was too late for them anyway. Chances are T.I., 50 cent, and Jay Z have already gotten to them.

If you can't give our young men the benefit of the doubt then maybe that's the problem in and of itself.

We're so quick to question the people or characters that are kids have come to admire that we don't address the real question. Why aren't are kids inspired by us?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

LABAL-S South Jersey, NJ — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:39:37 GMT

I see alot of people making comments in a negative light. One thing is for sure. When a Frank Lucas, Bobby Johnson, or Nicky Barnes is removed from that position, it only then becomes filled by another, and so on, and so forth. The problem rarely is eliminated. You must keep in mind that Frank Lucas assisted with what I see as an even bigger problem. Crooked Cops!!!! He ruinied the lives of dirty, lying, kuniving, bribe-taking, money laundering, illegitamate, no good POLICE OFFICERS!!! Sure drugs kill, and you can blame this guy all you want for ruining lives, but think of all the other dirty cops salaries YOU might be paying through your tax dollars! They have the LAW in their hands and we are supposed to trust in them to protect and serve. Makes me feel real safe out there. Nobodys ever talking about that. More importantly, your country's DEA, FBI, CIA, Military etc.. are responsible for allowing this "drug smuggling" to happen in the first place. DRUGS are big business in this country and are worth much more money ILLEGAL, than if they were legal. What if cigarettes become illegal? Would you be blaming the manufacturers still, or the person who chooses to smoke? Cigarettes kill and your conditioned to accept them as part of society. And Nobody mentions how young vietnam soldiers were supposedly "fighting for our country" and being exposed to these same drugs. Everybody wants to Blame the gangster, but AMERICA is run by MOBS!
Do your research! The moral I beleive, is that no matter how much bad , or wrong you do, you can always change! Its never too late!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Hollyhff — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:42:57 GMT

I have read the book and saw some of the movie, I felt it was an eye openner to many young black males. While some have the opinion that Frank Lucas is being grorified I feel,that was not the case. The whole story shows the real life effect that drugs had in the black community with out sugar coating anything. We can say that Mr Lucas was a contributor to the death of many, however we are all accountable for our own actions, doing drugs is free will. People that ran in the same circle as Mr Lucas understood what they where doing had GREAT risk and a violent lifestyle. Yes they show how Frank Lucas came into wealth and enjoyed the wealth, But they also showed what the life of crime and violence caused him to lose. His wife, mother, children, brothers and 30 plus family members. Ultimately loosing his freedom and wealth. The story tells there are consequences for your actions and even the man that has the most power, intelligence, and wealth will fall.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Bronx,new york — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 20:14:56 GMT

I think this movie is not giving MR. lucas fame but is bring light to what goes on in american back then and today. some these comments i feel are right but some are ludacris . yes lucas sold drugs thatz no different than the slave trade that doomed a whole race. i think frank should be forgiven for what he did but it shouldnt be forgotten. And at the end of the day dont just look at frank lucas look at that the government, the police who also made profit in some sort of fashioned. last but not least if people cant forgive him you shouldnt forgive and white person for slavery..

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Bean — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 21:41:09 GMT

Yo'll need to look at the movie again and let it swel around your heads.If the first time does not work then watch it again until you understand it.Listen to every line by heart and make sense of it.Then u can come back and judge whoever you wanna judge.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Steven Anderson Chicago IL. — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:44:22 GMT

I just saw American Gangster. I thought that it was one of the best movies that I have ever seen. In fact, I feel that it is Denzel's best work to date. Don't get me wrong, I fully understand the implications concerning the right or wrong about the negitave impact that drugs have had on our society. However, drugs are a simple fact of life and the men who sell them forever a fixture like it or not. I was raised in a drug dealing family. My mom, and two brothers died from drug abuse. I too fell victim to drugs, but have been clean for 11 years. I got to live up close and personal with Larry Hover, because he was at our house almost every day picking up drugs to sell for my stepfather. You see you have to judge a man from his entire being, not just the bad part or the part you don't understand. Just like Frank, my stepfather was a kind man who loved his family deeply, and gave of himself for whoever was in need. Then on the other hand he could be cold as steal with the eyes of a dead man, devoid of emotion when he had to order the death of someone for cheating him out of money, or not following the rules of the game. like Frank, he was a product of his environment and went after the american dream the best way that he knew how. If given the choice or option, he would have began and ran a fortune 500 company. But because of race relations in this country that was not going to happen. You see the same intelligence and drive that it takes to become a drug kingpin is exactly the same in the business world, only turned upside down. My stepfather also ended up in prison, with nothing left. I enjoyed the flim because it showed a man, a complex man rounded in all human splender, the good and the evil. It didn't show him as some uneducated street bafoon. The flim also showed the results of settling for whats in front of you, rather than following the path of the positive. The man lost everything. The truth is, no drug dealers get to retire rich, happy, and powerful. There is no 401k or gold watch. They all die, go crazy, or end up in jail for all their productive years. This is the true story for all to see about Frank Lucus. It's not a black story, or a negitive story, but an american story.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

James R. Chicago, Il — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 03:27:49 GMT

I agree with some of the people up top. I think Denzel is the bomb, but we have enough negativity in the Black community. People will get it in their heads, "I can do this too". Not thinking of the aftermath. I think it is a master plan of the powers that be to keep the Black community from growing as a people and to fight and kill one another.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

AF, — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 03:42:37 GMT

Has anyone considered the victims of this man's actions; the innocent families that had to go into hiding to get away from contracts issued by him? To have all of this resurrected again! Lucas should go back to the cinders where he was all these years. Is it for the almighty dollar? I see him as a very little man remembering his hay days, not thinking of the suffering he caused. Hope he donates it to his daughter. She has made use of her lemons.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

I CARE, BALTIMORE — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 17:39:03 GMT

I wish that the world we live in would treat it's people with kindness and respect. Equality would eliminate situations such as this movie describes.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

karolalyce, Detroit, MI — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 19:08:35 GMT

Denzel what are you thinking? this is not what our kids need to see right now with all the gang banging and killing of each other going on as we speak. i agree with James R. of chicago and AF totally and completely. i truly think this is the plan of the powers that be to keep us down as a people and a community.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Nelson, Whitehall PA — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 20:04:09 GMT

you are all stupid. This man will go down in history for what he has acheived. look at the mafia... there still in conversations today... this man was diffrent though he was his own mafia and he is free today. i understand that he is a murderer and a killer, but he accomplished something that will never be forgotten.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

jackie white w.helena ark. — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 21:03:00 GMT

Great movie,enjoyed it Denzel Washington is a wonderful actor as we all know.i found the movie life changing because you see first hand how drugs can ruin any and everything, and i have battled and over came myself.its so good Frank Lucas decided to make the changes he did after being caught, it takes a real man to stand and takes the blame first. so when people call him a ratt thats okay to.when its all said and done think of all the lives he did save...

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Erik, Washington, DC — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 00:14:08 GMT

You bunch of self righteous synics. Either go see the movie or do like Jay-Z says " It costs you nothing so pay it no mind." When you get into thet world you run the risk of jail or death. Sorry but thats just how it is. So he's 77 and he did a little time and beat the system. From the responses I have read...it sounds more like jealousy than anything else.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Andre Sinclair, Boca Raton, Florida — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 05:35:44 GMT

There`s an old Jamaican saying "If you lay down with dogs you`ll get up with fleas" What someone`s taught will eventually be put to practice.
As a United States Marine who has travel the world, fought for this country can only say one thing. It is the oppression of the people and if you look at the picture it`s the SYSTEM thats to be blame.

Very well acted Mr. Washington and Mr. Crowe. As for Mr. Lucas, put a spin to this negative so that we can educated the youth of tomorrow.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

JEANNEA HICKS, FLINT MICHIGAN — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 19:50:17 GMT

THE GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS ARE THE ONES TO BLAME FOR DRUGS BEING BROUGHT INTO THE UNITED STATES. LETS CORRECT THAT SITUATION FIRST. BEFORE WE START TO POINT THE FINGER AT ANYONE ELSE.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

JEANNEA HICKS, FLINT MICHIGAN — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 19:53:57 GMT

EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT BLACKS OR BLACK MALES. LET'S TALKED ABOUT HOW FOUL OUR GOVERNMENT TRULY IS.

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shaunte hoston texas — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 20:23:25 GMT

The movie is a good one...and I don't understand why you may think this movie is glorifying what he did...some people may choose not to make the same mistake...we can watch the sopranos and the godfather but when it is frank lucas in new york something is wrong..it is an entertainment business people

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MARTIN CAMMARATA LAS VEGAS NV — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 22:32:21 GMT

WHAT PRISON DID FRANK LUCAS DO HIS TIME WAS IT IN NEW JERSEY

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

MARTIN CAMMARATA LAS VEGAS NV — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 22:36:30 GMT

i watched the movie and grew up in north jersey i am sure that the drug business is still a violent and terrible problem i not against 2nd chances but i thought people could not profit from their criminal past

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

omar urizar riverside california — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 02:50:30 GMT

The american dream equal the american ganster, easy to get but hard to maintain.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

jade, dallas, tx — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 04:48:28 GMT

I watched the movie it was good! (Its a lesson learned)It shows that yeah you might have everything at first but one day it will come to end. Thats why is better to work hard for your money the right way , so that you dont have to always watch your back!

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Paula Lewis, Atlanta, Georgia — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 05:55:56 GMT

This movie should not be viewed in a negative light. It actually is considered a part of history that others should learn about and reflect on from time to time. Actually, it is quite interesting how this one man, Frank Lucas, was a powerful well-organized African-American man who even rose above the Italian Mafia in New York City. Even though his activity was illegal and unexcusable, it confirms that black men can be powerful well-organized individuals who can run Fortune 500 companies and persevere to the highest level in any endeavor that is put before them. Mothers and fathers need to tell their children that instead of being well-organized drug dealers or criminals, they can instead be well-organized doctors, lawyers, pharmacists, educators, etc. American Gangsters should represent postive role models in our communities that have basically hustled there way to gain an education and worked hard to obtain an honest career to contribute to society.

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for0you0only, Columbia SC — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 05:58:25 GMT

DON'T YOU SEE THE BIG PICTURE PEOPLE?---Yeah he may be out of the game now but what he did in his hay day caused an infinite ripple effect in the black community. the children are the ones that inherited the effects of the 60's and 70's drug game. many children were raised without guidance and/or discipline because of drug addicted parent(s). And that created a cycle of people who constantly make wrong choices in life not because of drugs but because of the psychological damage. It happened to me and I decided to move far away from that environment before having children. I want to break the cycle and give my children an opportunity to succeed. Great movie though!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

David King — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 06:03:24 GMT

It's a great movie, with great acting and directing. Don't blame the actions depicted in the movie on the actors and directors. They are just telling us a largely true story about how the corrupt political and industrial systems in our country create the environment where men like Lucas and the corrupt cops who supported him can thrive. If you want to get mad, get mad about that and vote out the people who let this happen. They are still in office.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

d melton, las vegas,nv — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 07:26:16 GMT

I think it's pitiful that a dirty, drug dealing,no good killer is now forgiven because he is 77 yrs old !! If he is such a different person & has turned his life around, why won't he fess up to all of the crimes he has committed including murder but nooo he says I don't know nothin' bout no killin's..give me a break..bottom line, he is still a low life. the only difference is, he is 77 yrs old and turned on his fellow criminals to get less jail time..he didn't do it to save his soul..

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Utah, South Ontario — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 20:02:18 GMT

eventhough i thought this was a very thorough screenplay, i'm thinking now that some of you need to watch the movie again, because i don't feel that Frank Lucas was portrayed as a hero to his people at all, on the contrary, he exploited them for his own gain, and in a true gangster-way tried to justify his actions in the name of family, loyalty, hardwork, blah-blah rhetoric...Denzel's character may have been financially successful, but that was at the expense of others, by the use of violence and extortion; he may have looked real pretty, but he was still just another thug...and i think that was the final moral of the story when we see him released in the final scene...some good lessons for my kids i think

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bill, lexington,ky — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 21:35:23 GMT

i saw the movie and loved it. however i was wondering the entire movie if frank lucas actually did heroine. i mean not once in the entire movie did you see him doing it. im sure he did them which led me to think that denzel wont portray drug use in his movies cause ive never seen him in any movie. is this a true statement or did frank lucas just sell and not use.

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Vincent, Chicago Illinois — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 21:40:58 GMT

I AGREE 100%, WHY IDOLIZE A PIECE OF GARBAGE LIKE FRANK LUCAS?. My oldest brother served time in Viet Nam (An Loc) and saw half his military unit get shot to hell. To find out that their bodies were used as some delivery system for a Drug Lord is disgusting. Yes a few of these dead soildier's moms had to wait for their own son's bodies to be returned home because some son of a bitch gangster wanted their coffins "noted" or "stored" (whoile lucas friends removed dope from their caskets, which delayed a proper burial. They were shipped to places before the dope was removed from their caskets. To think many of these young dead soldiers were hooked on Heroin, and to now see where some old 74 year old black man is made out to be some folk heroe is WRONG !, now we'll have groups of young blacks believeingthey are above the law, can do no wrong and society owes them. Thanks a lot Mr Denzel Washington, a role you just couldn't turn down I am sure, thank you for once again re-inforcing the thoughts that white America is thinking, which is all black males are dope runners, or wanna be street gang bangers.

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D in Philly — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 22:23:55 GMT

Gimme a break. Listen go and watch "Bowling for Columbine" (really, rent it) - people in other countries like Canada and Europe watch American movies all the time. They see the war movies - they see the gangster movies. But it is our country that is the violent "western" nation in terms of domestic crime and having a violent, mob mentality that so many Americans have. So for all of you that come on here talking about how these movies make America a violent place (or have the potential to do so), think again - America had deep historical issues that make it so violent and American Gangster won't put a dent in that. I knew there would be an outrage (at least from some people) about a historical and violent film that portrayed a black man. There was no problem when it was Italians. There is no problem with all of these movies and video games glorifying MODERN (very modern) wars. I am not about to freak out because Denzel now plays a gangster in the mainstream. Let historical films be what they are. Is a film that takes place in 1800 going to make people want to bring back slavery and ban women from colleges? If so, that is what the individuals influenced by the film wanted to do anyway.

Common sense

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I. Deal Mindset, Atlanta, GA — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 22:28:54 GMT

Good point Andre. That's the one that everyone seems to miss.

The movie does not seek to glorify Lucas's 'ruining of lives' or hustling of fatal narcotics. But put yourself in his shoes. Growing up in an area where flying bullets and diseased prostitutes are commonplace, Lucas climbed the socioeconomic ladder masterfully while still keeping in touch with the principles of family, love, and loyalty to both. Ruining lives is a byproduct of such a lifestyle, but would you sit idly and watch yourself and your family waste away if that was your only possible exit strategy?

If you would, then I commend your sense of ethics and pity your sense of survival. But hold your breath, because until you behold the eyes of men like Lucas or Montana live the 'normal' lifestyle so aptly put by Lucas during his conversation with Richie Roberts...you just might have to reconsider. When your death and that of others close is imminent, ethics hold little significance in your decision making.

And that ladies and gentlemen, is precisely why I am in love with hip hop.

Haha...word to Com, Lupe, Talib Kweli, The Roots, Rakim, Mos Def, Rhymefest, Nasir Jones, Jay-Z, and I could go on and on and on and on.

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Greg, Apex NC — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 22:38:14 GMT

I grew up in what we call the "ghetto" in the 60's and 70's and my parents did not use herion. Although wrong, Frank supplied drugs to people who wanted them. He should not be glorified for that but remember, he could not have done it with the 75% of the BAD cops of NYC. The best thing he did was rat on what was far worst them him.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Minding your Biz,Cincinnati,Ohio — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 00:06:15 GMT

I enjoyed the movie and I thought it was great.I feel this movie could Educate other young men and women that Greed can get the best of you. Frank is not the problem .Drugs was here before him and will be here after him.Be mad at the police ,the Army and the Government they too had some part in the death of the victims.If you really think about it Frank was a victim himself at an early age.How Frank lived his life might be wrong and hard for others to understand and sinful,but all sins are equal.So if you have not sined then cast your Stones!!!! Lots of us wouldn't have any comment about Frank Lucus if the movie hadn't been made. Think about that.

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Niah, Detroit,MI — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 00:36:34 GMT

Unfortunatly we have to "blame" someone or something for the way of the "world". As far as the movie Denzel and Russell were "excellent". I don't believe this was an opportunity to glorify "Frank Lucas", but a chance to show the world the reality of the drug world. Selling it can give you "power" and "prestige" or some may think. Taking it can "kill" you and destroy your life and the life of your family. The bottom line is, who are we "blaming". The Drug Seller or the User?? We are all taught right from wrong and we are all accountable for our own actions. Because a gun is loaded, are you going to put it to your head and blow your brains out?? Are you going to point it at someone and kill them? The bottom line again is who are we "blaming"? I blame "US". The parents,grandparents,teachers, preachers, etc. that aren't taking time to try and understand the youth. A lot of times "we" do things just to "make noise". Trying to "be heard" can cost you your freedom or your life. Don't blame the movies, tv, and the rappers. Take a look in the mirror and ask yourself have you really been there trying to understand your children. Dont "blame" entertainment weather fact or fiction, if you want to help the "our situtation" don't turn your head, lend a "hand".

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Sivi Woolridge, Birmingham, Alabama — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 01:20:52 GMT

I watch this movie and it was and eye opener for me. Being that I am a criminal justice major it made me think on could offenders be rehabilitated. Mr.Washington was the best person to play the part keep up the good work in Hollywood.

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Pam, Philadelphia,Pa — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 01:40:08 GMT

I just saw the movie. I briefly read some of the comments above. It is juvenile to blame Hollywood; it is reckless to blame one individual for the state of drug addiction; it is easy to blame the system. We are each others's keeper. The human mind has so many ailments that weaken us all.
A constant dialog with God keeps me straight.

YES!!! Mr. Washington and Mr. Crowe did an outstanding job! The directors,writers, and producers should be applauded as well. How many of us invite the power of God's Spirit into our minds to help us in this life? Why does Hollywood have to remind you that this species(the cops, criminals, witnesses) needs divine intervention while in the womb?

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Christoper Stein — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 07:42:08 GMT

Sex, Drugs & Violence is what sells so they will continue to make such movies because consumers love it. At the end of the day, its all business.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Tang Nguyen, Washington DC — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 08:14:24 GMT

Ok people......Do you like the god Father or the American Gangster? And please don't try to be Better-than-Christ with your moral mambo-jambo. Just judge the movies.

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John Doe — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 11:17:41 GMT

Good Movie, great actors and I happy it was released.

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Keyle W.B.,Columbus,Ohio — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 13:34:02 GMT

I dont understand why everyone is up in arms about this movie or story? Think of it like this, it's just another movie whether fiction or non-fiction, why should it matter if it's true. If it was a made up story, would all u people still be so critical about it... probably not! So why are any of u so judgemental about this movie now ? I don't recall everyone make such a judgement call or fuss about the movie "New Jack City" (a fictional story about Drugs in the 80's and early 90's starring Wesley Snipes as Neon Brown)! Think about that...

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Mr. Truth, Jackson, Mississippi — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 13:46:34 GMT

Its incredible how some people have posted comments here saying how horrible of a person Frank Lucas was and how he isn't a hero of "Theirs". The real issue is even if they put Frank Lucas behind bars, even if they take down all the drug lords.. people are still going to get high. Take the heroin, the coke, and what do you have? A bunch of junkies going to Walmart to get huffers or DXM. The war on Drug Abuse, Drugs, and Crime is just like the War on Terrorism.. it will never end.

Personally, I would shake Frank Lucas's hand. Regardless if he has killed anyone, if he smuggled dope, or any else of the things he's done. To me he is a more modern and darker version of Robin Hood. He might have made Heroin easily available and cheaper than his competition.. but he didn't turn his back on Harlem and his product was pure. He gave back to his people just like his teacher did before him. He has the same effect Tony Montana did. Sure he did stuff many people see as wrong.. but he was still a good guy. There are bad gangsters and good gangsters.

This is my analogy.. drugs are just like guns. If you take away all the guns.. do you still think people will kill each other? If you take drugs away or drug lords.. you think people will stop doing drugs? No, you're just going to recirculate that money into the US government, thats it. People will still get high, legally if necessary, and continue to end lives.

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Vinton Massey, New York, NY — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 15:14:56 GMT

I have never heard of Frank Lucas but I am familiar with the tales of Nicky Barnes. I am from the era of Alpo, Rich Porter, Fat Cat, Larry Davis, John Gotti, and many more criminal iconic figures of the 80’s that unloaded havoc into my beloved NYC. Frank Lucas was and probably is an evil man who contributed to the destruction of Harlem and its residence. I understand he came from a time where there were few if any realistic opportunities for Blacks to achieve greatness. However, Mr. Lucas’ ingenious yet genocidal achievement is no different from the shrouded contributions of the Rockefellers, Kennedys, Vanderbilts, Carnegies, politicians and big business men in our stoic American culture. Let us glorify his savvy, intelligence, brilliance, farsightedness and his will to not be held down by a system of impartiality. God only knows who Lucas could have been if afforded the opportunity to utilize his attributes in legal setting. Instead, Lucas became what was being done to him. An oppressed oppressor. He is nothing more than a bootlegger from the ‘30s. The film being released should be viewed as a documentary on crime not a glorification of crime.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

T. Jay KCMO — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 17:50:40 GMT

American Ganster exposes the awareness of society intolerant behavior toward crooked cops,drug traffic, murder, betrayal, and etc. It also, shows that people though it was impossible that a black man can have much power. Based on the movie, these series of events occurred nearly 25 years ago. It's a shame we can relate on these experiences that basis on the past;connecting this incident with today's issues. The difference is you rarely here that black men are the one who shipped the drugs in the U.S.A.
Usually,the young men in the urban community get alot of time of for processing of selling drugs or murder. Those" complex occupation" positions can get 10 years or more for selling small amounts of narcotics. The " man" who traffic the drugs from other countries have not been apprehend.Yet again,the prisons population holds 80% of the African American males.
However, the judical system has it flaws. The African American community senses the pressure of controlling factors in their lives and still struggles to take control. In the midst of it all, the process to gain control is to comply and will be different for each individual. The African American culture has to enforce harmony, stop procrastination, and have problem-solve techniques to facilitate the difference among them.Nevertheless,conflict among African Americans social values, identity, and etc., continues, but it must be reconcile within the community.

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Ms. Jay — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 19:19:25 GMT

I saw the movie...and it was great! I think that Denzel did a fantastic job. The acting that is created by him, was by fare his greatest! It was so great that I didn't want it to end. It's all acting...if some think they and pull a Frank Lucus off today..I would like to see them try it. I think people are taking this way too far. It's all very good acting. Kudos to denzel :)

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

shelby New orleans Louisiana — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 01:35:37 GMT

i just saw the movie and i think Denzel played a good roll. people are hating on this man for playing this roll someone was going to play it why not him. If the haters did any type of research on frank lucas they would know that the man is remorseful. he did what he had to do to stay alive i do not condone drugdealing or killing but you cant judge a person if you have not been where they been. yes this man imported drugs here to the U.S. but the government was doing it long before he came along. all of the crooked cops, lawyers, judges ect.. there are in the u.s. you guys want to persecute one person for telling his story. i give him hiis props because there are people out there that still want him dead but he still told his story.
everyone will take what they want from this movie. some people might see it as a sigh to get out the dope game and others will look at it as a way to improve their game. i just would like the people who have something negative to say about this man i want you to think have you ever seen a memeber of your family get killed by the police, or kkk. have you gone days without eating because your family had no food or being in the dark cause you parent can not pay the light bill. my point is do not be so quick to judge because we have more choices in our era. even now we are being discriminated upon. like the "Katrina" situation or the Jena 6 story. the government do not care about our people or how we survive and this is 2007. so imagine how it was in his day he found a way to survive and did what he had to do. my question is are you mad that this man for making millions from selling drugs or are you mad because it was a black man that thought of a way to make millions without having the white man and his associates profit from it? the president is the head man and he is doing all types of immoral things that should be considerd illegal but no one has tried to impeach him hell it is my opinion that he wanted all the katrina victims to DIE he was worrying about oil when people were dying. the vice president killed a man and is walking free. these are the real american gangsters talk about them .yall dont think what they are doing is wrong. the american government are gangsters i love th U.S. but it is the truth our government are a bunch of gangsters that enter other peoples country steal their oil and gold. so compared to the goverment frank lucas was a fly on the map he did his time learned his lesson and is a part of history so deal with it

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Denise , Shreveport, LA ( Sent Sunday, November 04,2007 9:09 PM) — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 03:09:44 GMT

I think the movie was wonderful and very enlighting. Mr Lucas hasn't did anymore than what the other mafia people were doing. Everyone chooses there own distination no matter what we see or here we all know right from wrong and take the path we want or would like to have. Seeing this movie , or listening to bad rap music don't dictate our life unless we want it to. We have to be strong and pray for the blessings that we want. It may seem that God is not giving us what we want ,but he sure will give us what we need. Mr Lucas god is giving you what you need and I know that you enjoy this life better.Those people whom are trying to judge Denzel and Mr Lucas need to check your own life and keep living. The movie showed us the positive and the negative we choose the one that's right for us. Mr Lucas you would have been a very smart legal business man ,keep it on the down low.

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Mon, 05 Nov 2007 03:17:13 GMT

Why glorify a killer? I saw this movie and the worse part about this experience was a couple bringing their three year old son to the show. What has happened to our country? We wonder why kids are killing kids at school when they are exposed to horrific violence at age three? Our society is doomed.

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Jaize Kwaku Ashanti, Chicago — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 13:26:49 GMT

This movie is American culture. Love it or Hate it.. but one thing is for sure its never gonna change :-)

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PAUBLO PIERRE, HOUSTON,TEXAS — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 15:25:44 GMT

THIS MOVIE I THINK IS VERY GOOD I COMMEND DENZEL AND LUCAS FOR THEIR WORK .LUCAS IS MY HERO I PLAN TO START A OPERATION MYSELF IN HOUSTON BUT NOT GET CAUGHT AND BE KNOWN AS A AMERICAN GANSTER

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Karen, Dana Point, CA — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 16:09:09 GMT

All the attention seems to be on Frank Lucas.... I'd like to know if anyone in the Military was also convicted. Makes me wonder what's going on today in Iraq........

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lindsay, detroit, mi — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 17:54:09 GMT

Actually, for all the people bashing on this movie, it was a VERY good film. It capivated people and keep it interesting for the 3 hours that it is. This movie will definately be a film worthy of pop culture status such as Scarface, and The Godfather. It was done in a way that portrayed ACTUAL events. Geese people, the reason this film is so interesting is because it has a conflict and a resolution, along with intense action. Get real, because people like this exist weither you like it or not. Good work Denzel.

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BJ, Elgin, Il — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 18:07:27 GMT

Oh Please. Glorifying a thug? I'm tired of everyone thinking that nobody can think for themselves any more.

It's a movie based on a true story. The movie showed "thugs" enjoying the "good" life. And you know what? It's true, they did enjoy themselves. The movie showed people dead with needles in their arms. And you know what? It's true, people did die with needles in their arms. Put the facts out there & let people decide how they want to take it. Envy the "thug", or feel bad for the junky who threw his life away.

This is the United States of America. People can pay $10 & decide afterwards if they think it would be a good idea to sell heroine. I saw the movie, & you know what? I'm sitting in my office right now. Did you see the movie? Are you selling drugs now? Didn't think so.

Get over that you think you're smarter than the American public. You're going down the wrong path when you start talking about corporations making the decisions on what is good for us to see, & what is not. If you want to live in a culture where movies are censored, move to China.

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cd — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 18:12:16 GMT

Again, why is the story of Mr. Lucas seen as vicious, degrading and demeaning? America is built on steal, kill and destroy. The idea of glamour for a gangster doesn't surprise me. Our level of political status at this time is corrupt, callous, deceitful and non-remorseful. Every program regarding the benefit of human condition has been cut. War, personal vendettas (daddy started it, I'll finish it) and personal gain financially have required the blood of many (mostly minorities and poor) on the hands of a select few that sit in high places and the highest seats in American government. I'm tired of always hearing people blame everything on rap music, drug dealers (small types who don't own planes, helicopters or ships to bring drugs to this country) but receive life sentences in prison. They are quickly replaced by others due to a need to help the single parent home that works over 40 hours per week yet still can't afford health care, utilities, life insurance or even rent and food!

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Val, Stone Mtn. GA — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 18:22:08 GMT

It was a great movie. I found the characters very engaging and realistic in that were truly multidimensional human beings. Of course the crimes scenes were fasinating to watch but I think most came away with the idea that drug use, corruption and horrific crime on all levels lead to no where. We need to stop underestimating the intelligence of most people. Frank Lucas was the sum of all his experiences. Life had desensitized him to be able to do what he did. Violence begot violence. I think it takes a lot more than a movie to influence young males to take this path. The movie adequately portrayed what Lucas' lifestyle rightfully led to and that was not a glamorous. Our focus as a society should be on ridding our communities and homes of the elements that might lead an obviously intelligent, hardworking and resourceful youth to consider the viability of a life of crime.

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Tiffany Lane, Memphis, TN — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 19:07:37 GMT

Gretchen Wilson,

If your story is true...then I'm truly jealous!!!!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

No2violence, Philly,PHillly — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 22:31:00 GMT

Well I for one dont care if he was the first american killer I wont spend my money on him nor the likes of gangsters related violence. We need peace in our neighborhood and the dummies who claim they protecting their turf should be protecting it from theirselve idiots.

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Jake Merchant, Clearwater, Florida — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 22:36:05 GMT

It's good to read messages like those left by Graham, Tim, Matt, and Missy among others in that vein. Why does the U.S. still glorify the misdeed of such men? Crime and violence are, unfortunately, an American industry. It annoys me that we, as a country, have so much to share and that this is what we share? Wake up America and start promoting the deeds of people who are worthy of emmulation.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

yolonda Marthaville Louisiana — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 06:57:13 GMT

I saw the movie "American Gangster" I feel that if it truly depic someones life, then it is a testimony. I feel we all have done things that we are not proud of and this man did what he knew. I don't condemn him because his wrong is no worst than ours. God give us choices! His word says "I sat before you this day life or death you choose". Well the people that took the drugs had a choice, the way I see it. We all do! I pray that this country or better yet world start seeking God first in all that we do; because that is the only way thing will change. I think Frank story had to be told, because there is someone out there that need to here it. My final thought is this,if his story can change only one life for the better that is more than enough. Thank you!

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ecb — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 16:36:06 GMT

!!!!HELP!!!! I HAVE LOOKED ALL OVER THE MS PUERTO RICO
WEBB SITES. THERE IS NO JULIE FIRST NAME AS MS PR.
I DONT KNOW WHAT INTELLIGENT WOMEN IN THERE RIGHT MIND WOULD MARRY SO ONE LIKE THIS!!!!I GUESS ANY ONE CAN MAKE A MISTAKE. PLEASE IF ANY ONE HAS REAL FACTS PLEASE LET ME KNOW. DID THE PRODUCERS IMPLY THE SHE WAS MS PR , TO MAKE THE MOVIE MORE INTERESTING?

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DONNETTA BELL CALI — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 17:28:23 GMT

LUCAS WAS ONE OF THE PROBLEMS BUT LOOK AT THE BAD POLICE IN THE MOVIE. BUT IT SHED LIGHT ON THE HISTORY OF THE BLACK ORGANIZED CRIME. AND STORY NEVER TOLD BEFORE GOOD OR BAD.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

AL PACINO STORM LAKE IOWA — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 18:42:59 GMT

MR. FRANK LUCAS IS THE BEST REAL GANGSTER I HAVE EVER SEEN I ADMIRE YOU FRANK.

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Ebony, Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 21:10:15 GMT

It's Amazing What One Man Can Do. This moive made me interest in Frank Locus. Like Who he was? What he looked like? I never knew a Black American Gangster was bigger than the Mafia.

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Loretta - Denver, CO — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 21:29:14 GMT

I had to watch the movie about 3 times before I could truly define my feelings for this character. Had it not been for the fact that he was protrayed by Denzel Washington, I probably would not have watched it all.
I was very troubled to see that Frank Lucas brought his pain, trouble and drugs into his own town and the majority of the people he sold his blue magic to were people of his own color, even worse he had no respect for the dead soldiers that he used as transportation to get his nasty, killing drugs to the US to kill so many. The only good thing I see this man did was turn snitch to all the unethical law enforces out there that were happy to turn their backs. So much for enforcing the law. Unfortunately we still have it in todays world, even in the White house. Corruption will always be a part of society and so will alcohol, drugs and guns and someone will always get rich from it. I could hate this man for what he did, I had three brothers in Viet Nam, now dead, and this sob was killing them and so many other Americans.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

G. N. Brown Baltimore, Md. — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 21:37:18 GMT

There are obviously a lot of mixed emotions about this movie. I saw it and viewed as a dramatized- documentary of someones past life.
Why are some blaming Denzel for playing the role- which for all purposes and intents; I cannot think of anyone else who could have done a better job without them being a little on the corny side. They could have chosen Al Pachino or Robert Deniro, but that would have looked silly.
Denzel served the soul purpose of showing you who Frank Lucus was; even Frank Lucus was amazed that Denzel did a great likliness of him.

Its clear that as petty is it may sound this could simply be an issue of jealousy as someone prevously mentioned. White America cannot phantom a black man from nowhere having power of that magnitude, which consequently considered to be higher than the granddaddy's of the mofia underworld.

Black people throughout history has always had to be much better that their counterparts no matter what the situation was; Frank Lucus proved this as being true. Yes. Frank Lucus beat the white mofia at their own game. Those who reviewed the movie should remember the part when the detective who was on the Frank Lucus case was trying to inform his colleague of Frank Lucus's mighty power; and other lawman was outraged, unnerved that "how dare" he say a "black man" was smarter and more powerful than that of a white man.
In fact I beleive if it were not for the dectective ( whose name slips my mind)focusing on the catching the one who was respsondsible for the drug crimes and, not so much on the sterotype that it had to be an Italian, or Jew, or Irish Mofiatlia group, Lucus probably would have gotten away with the last smuggling hit and maybe much more.

What is really sad is this: even in the dark world of drugs, murder, and overall felonious lifestyle-white America still evnvies the black man for suceeding- yet the same lifestyles lived by white deviants are glorified all the time on our history channels, A&E channels and the like, but let it be a black man and it shakes things up.

This whole thing is ran by what seems to be organized mofia-like behaviors. If Frank Lucus has changed( and I believe he has), he is suffering more than one could ever know. Ultimatley; God will be the judge of him as he will be to all of us one day soon.

It is common to take the focus off of oneself, but the truth this: for all of our dark past or present events; we all like to know someone has been down darker halls then we have been ourselves; it sort of excuses our behavior temporaily. The cold truth is we will all be judged accordingly, King David was the one man that was said to be "a man after Gods heart", but even his act of murder did not go without Gods discipline.

Last, I personally feel if Frank Lucus was a womanizer ( and he was not), a child molester ( and he was not), or one who beat on woman ( and he did not)I would have a real problem with him. Those who made conscious decisions to shoot or snort his dope was doing so before his "blue magic" hit the streets - It is a know fact that addicts always want the stuff that killed the next guy because: they will do it differently because he did not know what he was doing.

But a helpless child or woman does not make a decision to become a victim; they are violated without just cause. Thank you for reading.

G. N. Brown

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

SR, Studio City, CA — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 22:41:38 GMT

Why are people caught-up on pointing the finger and not really focusing on INDIVIDUAL ACCOUNTABILITY?!??! Bottom line is people need to accept responsibility for their own actions! We all have FREEDOM OF CHOICE. That's one of the privileges living in the U.S. grants us.

I am a female from a 3rd world country, a victim of child abuse, with English as my 2nd language, gone through foster care and emancipated at the ripe age of 18. I've been around it all (every drug under the sun) yet at the age of 30 i can proudly say i've never tried any drugs. I can also say that just as i saw bad in my life i saw good. I've gotten by in life mostly through the kindness of strangers (later friends). So what is my point? That i had all the ingredients to become another statistic but i didn't. And the reason is cuz I CHOSE not to be!

Frank Lucas (like many other criminals) provided a product that people had the ability to not engage in. Those that did (for whatever many several reasons there are) would've engaged in it no matter who would've been the provider.

Just because things are redly available to us for the taking DOESN'T mean we are obligated to TAKE them. It's called MAKING CHOICES! I mean what's the difference between heroin & cigarette's?? .. they both kill (one more violently and rapidly)- but nonetheless resulting the same - DEATH! Yet it is socially acceptable to buy and smoke cigarettes. Oh WHAT!?!? Cigarettes are better?!?!? .. uhmm because they're legal and have a "warning" label .. c'mmon America, WAKE-UP! Take responsibility! Don't worry bout Denzel, Frank Lucas, Hollywood, etc... Worry about YOU! Make sure you're doing your part. And instead of judging, HELP those that are helping themselves and pray for those who haven't found the strength in themselves to know that the answers lay within.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Pablo Huntsville Al — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 23:27:05 GMT

one person said he achieved something that no one else has.....which is what.even he is now broke without anything for a man who was making 1 mil a day r u serious now martin luther king gave us the chance to go to school even in america so who knows

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T Wilson, Michigan — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 02:49:08 GMT

I saw the movie and it was excellent!! Yes, it showed the life of Frank Lucas, but it did not glorify what he did. In the end it demonstrates to the young youth that though the road you are taking at this time seems like it is all that, in the end you reap what you sew! It showed the rise and the fall of Mr Lucas, yet showcased on how to get redemption by turning your negative past into a promising future for others.

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Tanya L. — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 05:16:46 GMT

"Now is the time to pray if any." With the world and how it is today, we must always remember to put GOD first in our lives. He is the only one who will have the final say on anyone's life no matter how much wrong they have done. Let's just pray for people everywhere, we all need it today!

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Keisha Smith — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 05:36:06 GMT

I saw the movie. I believe that everyone deserves a 2nd chance in life. Mr Lucas, was regretful when it was all over. That made it special. Another racism was so strong that they only went after him because he was black. Why not anyone else??

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Keisha Smith, Levittown, PA — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 05:37:13 GMT

Denzel Washington was GREAT he deserves an OSCAR!

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moody,Trapp county, ga. — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:53:47 GMT

mann...i recently watched this movie. and all i can say is oh my god. not sayin that the killing he did was right but i love his hustle.... a mill a day... damn...

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Chandre, Chicago — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:43:56 GMT

While it is sad and deplorable that so many people succumb to drug addiction, the likes of Frank Lucas can not be held solely responsible. As human beings we are always afforded the power of choice. Some blame and much of the responsibility must be placed on the drug addict for making the choice to do drugs.

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Tia Calhoun, Riviera Beach Florida — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:24:56 GMT

FRANK LUCAS WAS A BLACK SCARFACE!!!....THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS HE SURVIVED AND SCARFACE DIDN'T!!!!!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Carolyn, Fresno, CA. — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 07:27:01 GMT

A lot of people have bad to say about this film however i've seen it and it shows both sides. When you watch it part of you wants frank lucas to get away with the crimes but in the end you know what lucas did was awful and im sure he knows that as well. Also if anyone is shown as a hero in the film it would be the honest law enforcers (Richie Roberts). Go see the movie it does not glamourize the drug or gangster life at all it is very honest, and really sad how far people will go to feed their addiction.

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Kip Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 09:02:41 GMT

I think all these people bashing frank lucas are pathetic!!!! All he did was capitalize,and hurt some people in the process, What do you think our government and these filthy rich Company presidents do on a daily basis? As i always say "don't hate the player hate the game"

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Lisa, Arlington, Texas — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 18:03:46 GMT

I have just seen this movie and think it's interesting and well acted and written. I'm sure there were aspects that were condensed for the sake of dramatic effect. Yes, Frank Lucas was very enterprising and intelligent when it came to "his world" that he was living in and understood. His story about the Ku Klux Klan killing his cousin when he was six pretty much explains how he could regard human life with such disregard and only care about what mattered to him. Isn't that what he modeled? Yes, there are those who have come from inhumane circumstances to rise above and be caring and compassionate people who do not lie, steal, murder and such. Him actually seeing what his business did to someone's child, someone's mother hopefully, probably helped that little glimmer of light in his soul shine and him be aware that we are all connected and what we do to ourselves and to others affects us all. I am so glad his daughter is doing something worthwhile for her fellow man as a result of her experiences. In the end this movie shows that drug addiction affects us all.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Huera, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 05:21:27 GMT

I hear everyone complaining how this movie glorifies drug dealing scumbags, what about the role Russe Crow plays, what about the cop that was honest and took down the dirty drug pin, what about that, let's talk about that and stop adding more focus on the dirtbag character.....

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Dex Whitmore Midland Michigan — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 15:02:34 GMT

I like movies based on any true stories,And its about time one came out!If you think its a bad thing for your children like any other time do not let them watch it.It is part of Harlem history and other countrys to just like the movie Blow. I think this will be a grfat flick myself and can not wait for it to be released.

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Austin, Texas — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 22:19:59 GMT

I have to agree with Steve Anderson from Chicago. Wake up people, its not about a black man, its about choosing a career with no luxuries for retirement. The only successful drug dealers is our government. It could have been stopped years ago, but our corruption is massive and has exploded. Take in the history, learn from it and remember it.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Sherry, Syracuse New York — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 23:41:20 GMT

I am a 35 african american/black/colored/ however society chooses to entitle our people. I have my associates degree, my bachelors and my masters. I do agree that he did some terrible things however whenever one of our people does something they are not only attacked by Caucasion America but our own as well. Yes he should have been punished because he chose the wrong way of life. He did his time and faced his wrong. However we have white americans in positions that could care less about doing things the right way. I live in syracuse and billions of dollars are being spent on a new mall when my people in katrina are still dying from lack of help. He was an intelligent man born in 1930's when many of our people were not even educated. I hope that all of you that are so negativley downing the man that Lucus was - i hope you do not listen to any degrading lyrics calling our women female dogs, showing that they are not brains but all butt and tits, showing our young men advertising gold teeth and pants below the rear end crack. If you do the history research on him a lot of the anger was because this black man had too much power. Drugs are still overtaking our community and I doubt there's a black man with a personal jet now so what do we say about that. My mother grew up with the kkk riding through her neighborhood and schools were just integrated in the 1950's, Africans come to American and are insulted when they are called black. And we are not really Africans and not usually treated as Americans. So what is thought about our people in society today. The black young man that was beat to death in the boot camp - The cops covered that up so back up of Lucus. Right now people are fighting charges against a child for a school fight while white society again is "all good." I am not racist but I do keep it real.

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Thaddeus Duffy, Rochester, New York — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 06:32:48 GMT

Okay, so the movie was entertaining, but a gangster turned snitch? I'm all for redemption, but why are they calling it American Gangster instead of "Star Witness"?

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Christina, Cali. — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 18:14:54 GMT

Dame some of you guys are haters! You don't know the man and you don't know if he sincerely changed. Only God can judge, so worry about yourself and look in the mirror before you start pointing fingers. It's reality! And I think the movie was GREAT! It's sad what happened but it obviously showed that if you watched the movie...it wasn't trying to glorify the drug business it was giving you facts about the past. So get over yourself and if you really care do something about the crime in our society starting with our youth. You can't blame one man, there are many factors that attribute to crime, etc... for example, your environment, racism, the way your raised and treated by society.
PEACE!!!!! :)

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Jerry- Tampa — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 19:17:58 GMT

I am surprised we don't see Matt, Brian and even Steve Carrell in this movie. Hell, NBC is shilling it why not go all the way?

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Betty, Missouri — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 03:20:03 GMT

I just seen "American Ganfster" today, and it was one of the best movies I've seen in a long time. Although, Frank Lucus was one of the biggest "drug lords" in history, does not mean all the blame is on him. Everyone talks at how he killed so many people with giving them heorin, but in all actuality, THEY were the ones taking it... he was not forcing them to take it. Yes, he needed to be punished for making it available for them, thats a given. You have to think about it, he was quite smart. He created an empire bigger than most can fatham. Mr. Lucus also uncovered 3/4 NYPD's corrupt officers. Thank You Mr. Lucus. Everyone says he was so awful, what about the Italians? What about Nicky Barnes? But anyway, I hope their are more "Richie Roberts" out there today. Denzel you did a wonderful job as always, and so did you Mr. Crowe. Thank you for a good story, and good entertainment for 3 hours.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Lenora Pepin — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 05:38:57 GMT

I remember reading in the news in the 1970's about drugs in the Military coffins. I was sick in my heart as a military wife of that long war. Now I know how the story finally ended.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

d morris — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 10:24:55 GMT

I just cannot believe that someone asked frank lucus to stroll down the red carpet. now i think that is a little too much. i think that its good that the movie is out to let everyone know what happen back in the 70's, but the red carpet? HE IS NOT A CELEBRITY, HE IS A KILLER AND A DRUG DEALER. and in his interview on the history chanel, he said that he did not feel bad about anything that he'd done, and if he had the chance he would do it all again. is this someone that we want to idolize?????? i didn't get the feeling that this 77 year old man has changed. he changed because he didn't have a choice. it was give in or serve you 70 years in prison. i think that he should have did the 70.

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slick flinders — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 01:45:02 GMT

i saw the movie. i liked it.
oh, so many people are so hard on frank lucas becuase he was a gangster/drug dealer. he earned his living. that work ain't easy. and it aint moral- but niether is pushing alcohol, cigarettes, and Rx drugs. those things ruin lives just like dope- i've seen it from all sides- legal and illegal. wake up people! you are hypocrites!!

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JRC-DALLAS,TX — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 04:23:53 GMT

IF YOU DREAM IT,ITS A START.ONCE YOU ACT ON THAT DREAM,YOU MADE IT INTO A REALITY.THEN,THERE IS NO TURNING BACK.

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frank G — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 17:52:24 GMT

well you reap waht you sow. for years the italian americans have been villified as nothing more than thugs,gangsters,and mafioso thru the media. The hip hop culture has glorified being a "G". Like i said you reap what you sow....SO STOP COMPLAING.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Penney Pippins. Little Rock,AR. — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 18:22:25 GMT

It never ceases to amzed even me that people can be so judgmental! Yes, Lucas lead a life that initially ruined many a life, however as only the Lord can do, the wrongs that were made had been corrected. Perhaps, I'm sure, there are lives that were saved by the fact that Lucas saw "the error of his ways". Thank God that HE is only able to judge ME(US)!!! Y'all stay up- but remember ye without sin.......

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tronik manchester UK — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 15:00:52 GMT

man frank lucas he's a real O.G nt lyke tony montana lucas he real and a black mafia

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ROBERT E. JACKSON,MS. — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 17:48:21 GMT

the movie is a great movie

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Ann B — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:07:59 GMT

I totally disagree with that person that said that our children do not need to see things like that. Thats just what they need to see. They do have to know that there is a down side to the quick money.

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D, Florida — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:21:06 GMT

People love to see people getting beat up and killed. It is like a drug it is ashame. Yes people make mistakes but it was more to make millions of dollars not to prove a point. Action is suppose to be fun. watching someone getting the sh*t beaten out is not my idea of fun. People like the movie because of the violence. I've seen beautiful movies that don't mkae as abox office smash because it lacks violence and brutality. America is losing its values. What kind of nation are we. Peaceful I don't think so. Why not make a movie that can a difference. How to stop human trafficking, child abuse. Domestic violnce so that these teens see the real issues and learn how to make a difference you don't have to be star to speak up and make a change. Denzel is just doing his job we can't blame him for others mistake

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

RL — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:27:14 GMT

I saw the movie, really because I'm a huge fan of Denzel Washington. The reality is that obtaining wealth through criminality is the embodiment of the American Way. We are socialized to love the self-starter, the charismatic swindler, the guy who looks the establishment in the eye and says "I will not conform to your rules, I'll make my own." Corporate America makes their illegal fortunes within the "framework" of the law, and are threfore validated. GE is a prime example; they made $4 billion in one year and paid $4 million in taxes. That's less than one percent and is clearly criminal when the average middle and low income person pays 25 to 35 percent on what they earn. It may not seem like a big deal but the point is everyone should be held accountable for their offenses, including corporate America as well as this current regime of the US government for allowing these corporate loopholes. Frank Lucas killed people quickly and violently, and deserved to be prosecuted. The white collar world and the government are killing the working class slowly and economically - thus kiiling our chances of obtaining the American Dream - and they deserve equal prosecution under the law that so sufficiently targets the guy on the street over the guy in the boardroom.

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Bee, Houston Texas — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:29:24 GMT

I love this movie Denzel Denzel Denzel!!!!! He has done it again. I was a little disappointed that the real
American gangster was not quite what Hollywood’s interpretation was on his life. This guy is real hard core
Denzel made his life a bit more glamorous. STILL LOVE THE MOVIE!!!!!!!!

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Mister, Westy, CO — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:31:57 GMT

It's a movie people. Do you guys not know what the concept of a Movie is? It's for entertainment, and yes, sometimes true stories are a very good source for good entertainment. And about our children becoming whatever because they saw a movie... your kid must be fucking dumb to do what they see in a movie, you must be fucking dumber because you can't teach your kid the difference between movies and real life. So how about ya'll think about your parenting skills before you start blaming some movie or song.

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Ralph, Boston Mass — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:40:02 GMT

Best movie of the year, I would vote for Frank for President anyday, Bush should go to jail

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Marsha Sugart — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:46:56 GMT

American Gangster is good and Denzel plays him well. Us, the American People must like these movies, or they would not be made. The Godfather, Scarface are the most sought out movies. Actions are real, words are not. Frank Lucus paid his dues, let him be. The movie is a winner!

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NORTHBROOK, IL — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:50:15 GMT

I SAW THE MOVIE LAST WEEK, IT WAS ONE THE BEST MOVIES I HAVE EVER SEEN. DENZEL AND RUSSELL DON'T TAKE TOO MANY PARTS, BUT WHEN THEY DO, IT'S AWSOME

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Jace, Detroit, MI — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:51:58 GMT

The movie seems to be the same as Sugar Hill in which Wesley Snipes portrayed a drug dealer in Harlem. The interesting similarity in Sugar Hill and Frank Lucas' real life is the fact that Frank Lucas is in a wheelchair at the end.
The part of the movie that American Gangster misses is what happened after that has Frank Lucas confined to a wheelchair.
The other part I think that is missed totally is the fact that a defense attorney typically gets paid for his services. I would think it would be easy to negotiate for a criminal you put in jail, because you know where your "questions" in the case lay. If you listen to the real Ritchie Roberts, he says that the case was wholly circumstantial, so it would be easy as pie to blow holes through it. Even easier, if you tried the case and now were defending the criminal you originally tried. I would think that there would be something like a conflict of interest that applied here, but there probably was just a legal loophole - just like kids that were used to transport dope and received very lenient punishments before the law caught up with the criminal element.
The total truth is Frank didn't have to squeal on anyone. The police already had a snitch that they had already threatened to lie on so he would snitch. So why would we now believe that they wouldn't lie on Frank. The snitch could have very well continued to snitch out and inquire around until he could snitch everyone out.
Let's be real the truest part of being an American Gangster is the snitching part. So each one ratted out rats out the next to diminish their time. Caught once, forever a suspect, and now there's an easy way to go back over time and connect the dots with old cases, rather than spend time on the street with the dangerous element trying to turn the next snitch. Spend the next few years closing cases because there are very few one-time only criminals.
My point is simple, I wish they'd stop glorifying the trash (Ritchie Roberts included) and plainly put just show the human side of the story - good, bad or ugly.
I wish I could review the documents and interview Ritchie Roberts and Frank Lucas. Now that would be a much better story than the fluff and stuff they are serving up on all the news circuits trying to keep everything looking clean cut, black and white, and heavily starched.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

KEY, Pittsburgh pa — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:53:00 GMT

I think the movie was great,alot of people are mad at denzel for doing this movie and they shouldn't be, he didn't do this movie to put lucas on a pedal stool but to let the people know what this drug does to famlies and children also to let you know who's really behind the drug trade world those that seen the movie know what i mean anyway i believe there's a message in this movie kids please don't sell drugs or do drugs it kills famlies.

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Deborah, Glen Burnie, Maryland — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:54:09 GMT

I WILL NOT PAY 1 DIME TO SUPPORT THIS MOVIE NOR DANZEL FOR PLAYING THIS LUCAS PERSON; I AM ONE OF DANZEL'S BIGGEST FANS YET IT SURPRISES ME THAT HE WAS WILLING AND ABLE TO PLAY A PART OF SUCH CORRUPTION. I DID NOT GROW UP IN THE BEST ENVIRONMENT AND I STILL STRUGGLE DAILY TO MAKE IT TO THE TOP; HOW ABOUT CREATING A MOVIE ABOUT MY LIFE?

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Sam, Pacifica, CA — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:02:23 GMT

Hey people!!! It is a true story, done well, and told from all sides. It is history, not the future. WE as a democratic society pick our government, WE do it at the polls, blame the voters for failure of the government, it has nothing to do with the telling of "American Gangster".

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CHRIS JORDAN, LIMERICK, PA. — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:09:25 GMT

A GREAT MOVIE AND WELL DONE. I GREW UP IN THE LATE 60'S & 70'S AND I SEEM TO REMEMBER SOME OF THOSE NAMES MENTIONED FROM TIME TO TIME. I THINK THAT WE NEED TO REMEMBER THAT THIS MOVIE IS ENTERTAINMENT, AND THAT IT DOES TELL A STORY BASED ON OUR PAST SOCITY. DRUGS ARE A BIG PART OF OUR SOCIAL PROBLEM IN PAST AND PRESENT. IT'S UP TO US PARENTS TO TEACH OUR KIDS THE RIGHT PATH AND BE IN THEIR LIVES TO MAKE SURE THEY ARE STILL ON THE RIGHT PATH. DO NOT BLAME A MOVIE OR ONE MAN FOR OUR PROBLEMS TODAY. LETS KEEP IT REAL!!!!!

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Danitra F F, Houston, Texas — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:19:23 GMT

The movie was good. Denzel awesome, the passion he put into the character was well done. I see the point: if you keep doing wrong, you will eventually get caught. The movie was entertaining but the real life of F. Lucas is sad. He had so much potential.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Remi, Atlanta , Ga — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:24:42 GMT

It's true that the Media can have a big influence on our children,but we as parents, we need to give home training,teach moral values to our children.Long we do it right, they will have the foundation to make a choice between wrong and Right.Why complain about the movie or blame Denzel (By the way good job Denzel)for acting?How many war movies, Vilent video games,naked video,gangster movies we see on TV everyday? Why suddenly,This one is a problem? Just tell children,that even though the movie is good to watch, The kind of life is not good and explain them why, but we cannot "hide the sunlights with one hand". Drug,alcohol have been around us all the time,We learned since young age not to mess with them. LET'S TEACH OUR CHILDREN.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Lenard T Las vegas — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:25:19 GMT

Frank had to do what he had to do. I'm sure millions of dollars in days, nice cars, and big houses would get the most honest person to start thinkin. dont hate he served his time and continued life. Great movie!!!! Frank is the man

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

PC Ft. Myers, Fl — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:27:16 GMT

I agree with all and none. Free will is really what it's all about. yeah you can start a drug business get a little cash but you can also slowly invest that little bit of money and make more legally. Everyone has to have a little cash to start anything, if he'd taken that little bit of money and instead of buying a dime bag and selling it he bought something legal and sold that wouldn't he have done just as well over time with the business sense he obviously had? Free will to do something legal or illegal. The system, government, cops, whatever. Blame it on everyone but the guy who bought a dime bag and turned around and sold it for more money.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Mr. Clark, South Jordan, Utah — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:34:42 GMT

I just saw the movie and think that is was one of Denzels best. I am a big fan of Denzel and have seen many of his movies. He is an actor, it is his job to portray the character that he is going to be playing. There is no shame in that. Why don't the people that are complaining about "American Gangster" giving the wrong idea to our youth complain about the movies that show rapes, torture and child molestation. Denzel did nothing wrong for taking this role. He did an amazing job, and there is nobody else out there that could have portrayed it like he did. I think that the movie is a learning experience about how none of our choices go unpunished. Frank Lucas did what he did, that is in the past. What is important now is that he has changed for the better. Nobody has room to judge him, cause there is no one out there that hasn't done something wrong. And if you are the one to throw the stone than you are no better than the person you are judging.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Poo Williams Sanford, NC — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:41:27 GMT

I've seen the movie and also researched Mr. Lucas. I do not approve of what Mr. Lucas did, however based on where he came from and what was going on at the time I do understand. Often times we place all the blame on the DEALER, but if you look at the big picture there are always more who deserve blame as well. If we take a hard look at history we will see that Frank Lucas is alot like Ben Franklin, George Washington and rest of the founding fathers that owned slaves...

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A IVEY, LIVE OAK, FL — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:41:43 GMT

THE MOVIE WAS GREAT!! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK DENZEL!!!

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Joyce, Roanoke, VA — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:42:51 GMT

The story was interesting however,in order to limit the amount of exposure to our young impressionable children, the story should have been published as a novel. I agree with so many parents, providing facts of how this person lived only leads to the desire to emulate his actions and add to the present time fear and violance in our society. It sends a message that there is survival in the horrible game.

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Karen, Boston Mass — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 19:43:52 GMT

Frank sold drugs that killed people but the people chose to take those drugs and he was a buisness man. Do you think McDonalds executives care about the kid who just lost his dad to a heart attack from eating there well marketed, good tasting product? I doubt it. Supply and demand if he didn't do someone else would have.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

G. C. Sutphin — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 20:12:25 GMT

I recently saw this movie with my wife & friends. I found it very disturbing...Not because of the story but rather because it was true. I think the picture was done excellent in every way. All the actors played excellent parts, screenplay, authenticity. I never felt the movie protrayed Lucas as a hero. He was a monster. The opening scene with the execution and the cold emotionless face of Lucas setting a man on fire does not inspire hero worship in me. Outwardly he lived as a respectable citizen ( except maybe that thing about shooting a man in the head in the street. Same cold stare). Those who wish to point fingers at movies about real life should enlist their efforts to change real life not the re-telling of it. Children are growing up without proper role models like a Father & Mother doing right no matter what. Teaching Kids to become overcomers not Gangsters. The problem is not movies that tell true stories, but rather that we allow them to be the compass for our youth. You need to see this movie with your children to make sure they get it. This man was a monster. He was a smart man though. When he got caught he took the opportunity to get revenge on some of his enemys by squealing on them. It doesn't make him a saint. He was a gangster, and that's not a good thing, ok?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Patricia Ragland, Henderson, North Carolina — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 20:24:23 GMT

I bow down to Denzel for doing such a good acting job on this movie and all other movies. I feel that the movie does not glorify the life style of a gangster,if anything it let all the wantabe thugs know that it do not matter how smart and clever you think you are,sooner or latter you will have to pay the piper,because in the end crime does not pay for long. I also applaud the other actors for doing such a wonderful job portraying their characters. Denzel you are indeed one of the greatest actors of all time.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Littles, Queens NY — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 20:49:27 GMT

I am a former federal officer that had the opportunity to work along with inmates like Frank Lucas, Nicky Barnes and several other high profile inmates. Growing up in New York I never thought the black gangsters we emulated as kids I would end up talking with them in their jail cells privately. These entrepreneurs aka "drug dealers" shared many trade secrets that I will always cherish with my own ligitmate businesses. Its such a small world we truly live in especially when I discovered one of my relatives were dating a gangsters chaffeur back in the 70"s.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

CL, houston, texas — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 20:49:52 GMT

I watched this movie and it was a master piece. There are lessons to learn from what was the past of the black man. The issue now is, are the present youth ready to let go the same product and business that destroyed their predecessors? Give this a thought.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

C.M. from the NYC, NY — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 20:56:59 GMT

Many of you have made some very valid points and I see where you are coming from, agree with some but for the ones that I don't I don't me to downsize them in anyway. I just wanted to leave some food for thought here. Now this is my opinion before watching the movie and only having seen the trailer like twice. I think honestly think it is SOOO MUCH better to have a movie of this sort that is based on true events that is almost like a documentary almost not sometime to imitate necessarily but factual as something that happened like the many horrible things that do actually happen- much better then the made up "stuff" with pointless violence left and right that then you see sick people imitate or try to make better.. We have to think about everything and unfortunately realize that we sadly live in an EXTREMELY PREVERSE society that thrives and loves to watch violence, and other obescene things-- it's what sells. DOES it make it right? not in my opinion and that's why I don't bother with it.. Would I watch this YES.. For the most part everyone likes to say that they scorn/and look down on but then they are watching it anyway.. Where are the values? Those that are in the business continue to go where the money is- for as long as the society keeps buying then they will keep bringing it... this applies to everything. Again this is just a thought. Oh another thing NO ONE is perfect I in NO WAY APPLAUD criminals would I even hang around one.. probably not can't say.. but I think it is a beautiful thing if someone has genuinely changed- not many do, so that in my opinion could be something to at least smile about- meaning there is hope for us all.

PEACE OUT!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Black Man — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 20:57:55 GMT

Let's introduce our kids to another thud GOD BLESS MY PEOPLE. You would never see Spike Filming a gangster movie or William Smith playing a gangster role. Are times getting that tough for
Mr. Washington, where he has to settle for any part.
GOD BLESS AMERICA

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

cici, harlingen, texas — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:07:52 GMT

I think the movie was great. Denzel and Russel did a great job. I will pay to see it again. It's history and we can only learn from it.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Juan Tanamera — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:08:23 GMT

At the end of the day it's all about the $$. Sad but true. Growing up in Newark, N.J. which is still a trash dump today, I saw the good the bad and the ugly. Monday thru friday I was in private school & on weekends my parents kept me even closer with them in their grocery store/bodega. I belive this movie was well done and brings to light a true american dream of one dope dealer that basicaly made his dreams a realy, to an extent. All choices have a price. EDUCATION, VALUE, CARE, HATE, ETC. BEGINS AT HOME. "Most" people just stopped caring. Broken homes etc. Hey what's up with Donal J. Trump's comb over. Now that is the American Dream worth talking about... Life is short so choose wisely and not like a Wise Guy...

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Bryan Winton, San Rafel CA — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:11:41 GMT

It's to bad all of these people are crying about what Frank Lucas did. He was one of many men who created empires of organized crime. It goes all the way back to the 20's and 30's with Bugsy Siegel and Al Capone. They were ten times worse than Frank Lucas. And so were many other Crime bosses during that period and in the 50's and 60's. Carlos Gambino, John Gotti, Lucky Luciano, and many more who took many more lives than Frank Lucas and his crew ever did. These guys make Frank Lucas look like a saint. Bottom line this kind of buisness and these kinds of people are still around today and they always will be, just like politicians they will always be trouble.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Debbie Hill — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:25:04 GMT

When did violence, selling drugs, or being involved with the mafia become considered an "accomplishment" and something to pat someone on the back for, regardless of skin color? I did see the movie and definitely feel the acting was very good, but the fact that the story is based on fact should still shake people to the core that such cold-blooded actions take place on the very streets we walk each day. Yes, the cops were dirty and deserved to be put away, but don't make this monster out to be someone to look up to. It's good that he gave names, but he still didn't do near enough time himself...4 or 5 years?!?! That is an abomination. He's not a hero people. But, of course, let's blame the government because that is the easiest & most convenient target for blame, but quite frankly, it's really old!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

H. Butler, Wichita, Ks — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:25:40 GMT

Read all comments,no need for all the conflicting views. Drug dealing like any other business is built on supply and demand. Teach your children to be responsible and accountable for their actions. It will take many generations of proper child rearing to breed out (if possible) the present generations who have gone awry. Take the positive messages from the movie; factual content and entertainment value. I gained from both.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Denice S, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:31:06 GMT

I saw the movie. Great acting. I also saw the mother with the screaming baby someone was holding while she shot dope in her arm and the other baby screaming for his/her dead mother. If we don't starting telling whose selling the drugs, don't expect change. If we don't start teaching our children to not use drugs and monitor what they watch and listen to, don't expect change. If we don't encourage them to be medical researchers, scientist, doctors, judges, nurses, construction workers, presidents,leaders, honest business owners, etc., don't except change.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Hopful, Pittsburgh PA — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:31:36 GMT

I really enjoyed the movie. I enjoy everything Mr. Washington is in because he is such a fantastic actor. After seeing it, I experienced several different emotions. I looked at Mr. Lucas as being intelligent, I saw him as a monster, I was envious of how much money he made, I was glad he helped get a lot of corruption out of the system and at the end of the day he was seen in my eyes as just being another product of his environment. Its faster and easier to get rich illegally in your enviroment than it is for a black man to do it in white america.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Beverly Bevineau, Ballwin, MO — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:34:37 GMT

I saw this movie and I enjoyed it for the acting and the story. I did not feel that it was idolizing a "criminal" - it just told the story! And it told the story well. Kudo's to two of my favorite actors - Mr. Washington and Mr Crowe. Their skills made the characters they played very realistic and that is all they were trying to do. They were not trying to glorify Mr. Lucas nor create a hero in Mr. Roberts. I don't remember hearing this type of drama about the Godfather movies.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Audra Gonzales Bloomfield NM — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:40:12 GMT

You cant blame Frank for trying to clock some doe. For those of you who think it was wrong to tell his story... try to pay attention to the people around you who are in emtional pain! There can't be a supplier where there is no demand.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

reggie owens — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:42:33 GMT

This movie gives kids and adult the wrong message,that's its ok to be a drug Lord.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Janice, Seal Beach, CA — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:49:40 GMT

Good and Evil, Supply and Demand, there will always be two ways to look at situations. Thank God most people are still for the under dog.
This Nation was built by the under dog. Our freedom to choose and take responsibility for that choice is slowly being demolished.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Billy Badass — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:55:41 GMT

Before I watched this movie I was just a regular nobody.. But now I want to be a gangster rapper.. an american gangster rapper.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

K-OS, Miami, fl. — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 22:01:12 GMT

this is the true story of one man and the path he decided to take in life. I find it funny how people can turn this into a black or white issue as a young hispanic male i don't understand how in this time of age people still look at the color of your skin.when the end is near for mr. Lucas the color of his skin won't determine what type of man he was.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

K-OS, Miami, fl. — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 22:02:48 GMT

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Kryss Wedderburn — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 22:03:40 GMT

All men should learn a valuable lesson from this movie. Stick to your PRINCIPLES.
Frank did not want to be the loudest person in the room.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

P. haynes, Pasadena, Ca. — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 22:09:22 GMT

Denzel Washington is one of the greatest actors ever, him and Russel Crowe did an excellent job with this film. You can take what you want from this film it happened. Corrupt Things that still make you think Corrupt Police officers etc.
The film was a great film.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Big T, New York, NY — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 22:10:16 GMT

I enjoyed the move for what it was, a movie. I comdemn the death that Mr. Lucas produced with his "business". Look at the situation that produced a Frank Lucas. Being deprived of the rights of all citizens, he was still the "fruit" of our society. Albeit rotten. I found it interesting that the racism still existed amongst the garbage of our society. Does anyone ever notice that it is the trash that perpetuates racism? Tose whom lack knowledge and education. I know, I know, you can argue every scenario. But for the most part it comes from tose whom know nothing and is perpetuated by their offspring. Tjis movie was no different than Mad Dog Cole, The Untouchables, The Godfather and Scarface. show how cruel we can be to one another. Still I was entertained.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

sbrown, St louis, mo — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 22:13:00 GMT

We are all critic's to stuff we don't understand or have no idea about.. That is what makes this country we live in so great....

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

A. Talley, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 22:13:29 GMT

I have been reading all of the comments about this movie....I can't believe that American's are outraged by this film! Have you all shut your eyes to reality? Everyone who worte a message on this site is a living being...and you have a story. So, why is it so bad that this movie told Frank's story...no matter how ugly it is. We all have skeletons in our closets...so we don't have the right to judge anyone...not even Frank Lucas. I read a comment that he needed to be fed to the Lions...Well, when did you become God that you can hand down someone's fate?

I don't see where Frank is any worse than the other characters that Denzel has played...Malcoln X, the cop on Training Day, etc. Malcoln X was not perfect, but he found a religion that changed him...and that cop in "Training Day" was dirty and he paid the price in death. Frank is alive, but he is paying for what he has done in a way that we probably don't know about because God deals with everyone in His own way. Also, let's not forget that Frank was just one part of the drug problem in 1970's Harlem. Everyone that died or used the product had a choice to make. Just like our young generation that watches this move...they will have to make the choice to live as honest citizens or try to immitate a character from a movie. Therefore, Denzel should not be slammed for making the movie. This movie should make American's rally together to question why it is so easy for drugs to take over our communities. If durgs and crime have been a part of American history...especially in Harlem....since 1950....What is the hold up? Why hasn't the government (federal, state, city) shut it down yet??? There is more to the drug epidemic in this country than we know...but someone does know....it is time to speak up and make this country even better for the present and future generations.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Nana-Neward,CA — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 22:24:59 GMT

I saw the movie - I must admit that as I watched the people dying from the drugs it set cold chills down my spine. I didn't hate Mr. Lucas for what he was doing; just that the man was so intelligent and giving the opportunities that whites had perhaps he would have taken other avenues. Don't get me wrong I didn't glorify what he did and again let him without sin cast the first stone.

You know I took great care not to allow my son (black young male) to desire this life style. So much so that I wore my sons hand me downs and as a child he never had a toy gun and always had what he needed and wanted in the home. So to say his life isn't what I would have chosen for him and I'd hope it's not what he said in his what I want to be when I grown class assignments.

All we can do is rise our children up in the way they should go; and if they depart they will return.

Denzel awesome job and Mr. Lucas we all have a pass and I felt your movie showed us that our sins do find us.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

roma,la,cali — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 22:49:15 GMT

i don't have a lot to say but i thimk its a great movie and all gangsters should learn no matter what u r all doing now u will end up on a chair or bed waiting for death so may be if u back up now and enjoy ur life right u don't have to get lucked in prison then get out to be on that chair or bed

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Lenworth Williams, Mount Vernon, N.Y — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 23:01:44 GMT

Why do we point fingers? I know the mother testimony caught everyone off guard about her son dieing cause of an overdose. Here you are an single mother raising a son in Harlem heroin heaven in the 70s. You don't think its her fault for not talking to her son about the heroin around him. I know Frank Lucas is wrong for selling Heroin but he didnt walk around shoving the needle into people arms. In a young black 18 year old male growing up in a minority neighborhood and I see all type of drugs every day. None of the drug dealers ever force me to buy their product. My mother simply explain and pointed at drug addicts to let me know what cocaine and heroine can do to your life. People that bought Heroin from Lucas had a choice to make, cause they knew they wanted to get high. Parents need to stop pointing fingers at rappers and drug dealers for their children bad behavior. Start showing them whats right from wrong , cause their will always be someone out there trying to get the fast buck. Those type of people like the Frank Lucas's and the rappers don't care about your children, they care about making the fast money.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Nelson, New York City, N.Y. — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 00:03:36 GMT

This movie shows society's ills. Stemming from poor education,and parenting to a lack of morality and lack of compassion for human life. This is glorified
by those who pay to see it. I'm not excited to see someone chopped up and dump into a river. The youth of to are a real example of this, Students shot in schools, beating up on the elderly and the defenseless, lack of respect for their parents and those in authority. Also Gangs in driveby shootings and rappers killing each other probably financed by the same people represented in the movie. The only foundation we can change is improved education,we don't need more jails.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Memphis Tennessee — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 00:09:28 GMT

The government system is the real problem. Even today you have dope dealers who sell drugs get killed or get caught but who really benefit from the sales of drugs. The court system,the corrupted cops,the high profile lawyers. Example: When you hear about a drug busted do you really think they turn in all thoses drugs and money. Well Think Again .... That money and drugs will be back on the street in the hands of more drug dealers and corrupted cops. The court system is a joke the high profile lawyers and corrupted government system profit from the drugs sales.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Darrien , Mount Vernon, N.Y — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 00:16:32 GMT

I,m feelen Steve anderson,s comment, some time a person is placed between a rock and a hard place and the actions taken may not seem to be the best decision.American people judge to unfairly to much tend to pick and choose it's evils wrong is wrong. Do we realize how wicked slavery is and keeping a people in poverty... Mobsters like Santo Trafficante,lucky Luciano,Joe Bonanno, Meyer Lansky, Joe Giacannia nobody protest their evil actions their known for monopolizing entire states And countries such as Vagas and Cuba. So all you judgemental freaks need to come down,Fank Lucas is the common drug dealer that reached an extraodinary pinnacle in his career.It's uncommom for an afican american to have made the connections he had, that's the beauty of it, without that conex he be regular hustler like Nick Bond or Freddie Meyers big timers but regular. Gang violents has been going on for centuries this movie will not start anything that has been allready been going on. Only way negreoes can stop violents in our community is to stop Potraying american values adult men & women need to encourage youth in African values stop straighten your hair and stop calling each other niggas. Ridley Scott chose a good project and denzel performed well. A story of Santo Trafficante would be a good one a culprit in the cia/mia hit on John & Robert Kennedy assinations.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

W.V. Huntington,W.Va. — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 02:37:19 GMT

The hype that American Gangsta is receiving is no surprise. When you say "Denzel Washington" has a lead in any movie it is certain to receive rave reviews. He is always on top of his game. Never the less drugs and drug paraphernalia is sweeping this country black and white alike. You don't have to use American Gangsta, Cotton Comes To Harlem, New Jack City or any other drug related Hollywood flick as the reason for the downfall of a man in this case a black man who ultimately late in life chose to try to better himself.
Frank Lucas made a decision back in the 70's to live this degrading lifestyle and trust me it has to be eating at his soul. No matter how big or small a sin when it comes to hurting people committing crimes,etc... the perputrator still hurts. He may be in denial but he's hurting and at the same time contributing to discord in his community via stealing, killing, money laundering, prostituting women, drug racketeering (the whole nine/24-7) while at the same time trying to dodge bullets that threaten his life. But we as parents forget so easily charity begins at home. Nobody seems to want to parent their children anymore. Children have been allowed to disrespect and divorce their parents, disrespect educators, and disrespect themselves. The government has played their part by TAKING PRAYER OUT OF SCHOOLS, even IN GOD WE TRUST has been removed from our money and ONE NATION UNDER GOD REMOVED FROM THE PLEDGE when some people opt to recite it in the schools! Our country is in total discord. Now you have to ask the question when is the last time you have actively voted especially if you blame the government. When is the last time you went to a city council meeting in your home town and advocated against a drug cause. We the people can vote people in and vote them out especially if we want change.
In essence this movie may or may not go down in history like many other mafia type movies. You may not like the idea of Washington and Crowe as headliners but their professions is acting. Drugs
continue to dehumanize people's characters and in many cases their lack of intelligence. Children don't choose to have parents but parents do choose to have children. Parents let's step up raise our children. Go back to some of old morals. "Spare the rod spoil the child."
Until we fight back reinforce education to our children, and continue to reinforce the degradation drugs can bring to our communities and families we'll continue to be revisited by drug theme songs such as "Fred Is Dead", "For The Love of Money", "American Gangsta" and the like. These movies are like an old wardrobe whether you throw
your clothes away or not the style is coming back because history always repeats itself. Recently, in Huntington, W.Va. at the back door of a Head Start center a gentleman was found with his face blown off.
The media reported it was "over a dice game." Regardless it's a sad situation. These situations happen over and over and over throughout many communities and our country which needs some serious prayer.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Cam Nunnally, Tyler, TX — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 07:25:59 GMT

All I would like to say is I really enjoyed the movie and I'm sick of all the negative reviews and opinions. The man is 77 years old and he did his time for his actions. People keep saying how it will effect the youth in a terrible way when honestly a movie shouldn't be raising your child. Half of the people who said this would take its toll on our youth are already having problems out of their kids. This man did not know they were going to make a movie about his life. He has to answer to the same god as the ones who are JUDGING him. To Mr. Lucas, god is the god of a second chance.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Daryl McNeil — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 14:46:50 GMT

I have seen the movie American Gangster and though it is hard not to be impressed with Mr. Lucas' business sense there are to many unanswered questions, and it seems very covienient to blame the cadaver connection on one man, this way the government gets to absolve themselves from any responsibility for allowing drugs on a major scale into the U.S. . I am not fooled.....the CIA turned a blind eye to all of the shady goings on's that made these event's possible ( I'm mean who issued this man's passport?) I believe this is yet another example of how the powers that be attempt to seperate themselves from the mess that they have created and oh yeah! lets use this washed up black ganagster to do it! and we (Yes myself included) are so stupid we continue to accept and celebrate this crap. I respect what Mr. Lucas did ( get busy living or get busy dying ) but i just wish he would'nt let them ( Gov't) use him to excuse themselves and leave black males on the hook for crimes they orchestrated.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Adrian E. Davis, Memphis,Tn — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 16:10:21 GMT

In this world you have to Live and Maintain. If you dont you wont get remembered.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Mimi, Columbus, OH — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 17:56:27 GMT

Well, you do reap what you sew, but how about the prosecutor completely doing a 360 and becoming a defense atorney representing Lucas later in life. This is America!!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Elise Love, St. Louis, Mo — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 05:39:40 GMT

I enjoyed the movie and I feel that Lucas should be forgiven. Yes, he did sell dope, but he did not put a gun to the junkies head and force them to ruin their own lives. If America was not so hard on a black man, he could have gotten a real job. He had to make a living some how. And I think Dezel did a GREAT job!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Joe I Montreal Canada — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 19:38:46 GMT

Maybe they should have called it , umm THE GREAT AMERICAN RAT !

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

XAVIER RUIZ, EINBURG, TEXAS — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 22:14:29 GMT

OPIUM TRADE, AFGANISTAN, GOLDEN TRIANGLE, VIETNAM, BODY BAGS/COFFINS, U.S. SOLDIERS IN THE MIDDLE EAST...AGAIN! THE ANSWER IN THIS WORD ASSOCIATION GAME IS OBVIOUS. THE MILLITARY INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX IS AT IT AGAIN. THIS TIME IT IS FOR PROFITEERING IN OIL. DRUGS ARE MERELY A SIDE-ISSUE...THE OPIATE OF THE MASSES, NO PUN INTENDED, AS MUCH AS RELIGION IS.
THE TRUE THUGS AND "KINGPINS" ARE THE "MERCHANTS OF WAR" WHO PROFIT FROM THE BLOODSHED OF OUR TROOPS, WHICH GOES BACK TO THE CIVIL WAR...DO YOUR HOMEWORK PEOPLE! THANK YOU!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

R.S., Fort Wayne, IN — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 05:34:05 GMT

I just watched the movie. I thought the movie was very good. I am not into the whole killing and violence, but, you can hardly turn on the TV without seeing violence anymore. Mr. Lucas was a part of this, he did his time. Before he did his time, he helped get rid of 3/4 of the dirty nasty cops in the NYC. Who, were a part of the drug gangs and lords. I feel as if he put those people where they belonged. His family also served their time(30 of them!) As far as the military, I am sure that certain people knew what was going on, but, they were not mentioned in his story? What ever happened to them? I love "Based On A True Story," movies, they give you an insight on what really happened. Mr. Washington and Mr. Crowe both did a spectacular job! Before anyone judges, they should watch the movie. It is not for children to watch, it is for the open minded people. Mr. Lucas cannot be proud of what he did personally, but, he can be proud of that fact that he put a lot of people behind bars for the RIGHT reason! I enjoyed the movie, I enjoyed this article and probably for a week will be researching online Mr. Lucas and how things have changed for him, his family. Kudos to his daughter for doing what she is doing! There needs to be more people out there as children advocates. Like Mr. Roberts said, he would not associate with people who were like Mr. Lucas in the 1970's, he is a changed man and for that, that is why the movie was made, to show his bad side, but to also show that life does go on and that PEOPLE DO CHANGE! This movie will make a lot of money, this movie was very good and for those with an open mind should be the ones to see it.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

deejay, hampton ,va — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 11:33:40 GMT

think about it? frank lucas was only trying to take care of his family ,the only way he knew how, put yoruself in his position.....maybe this film will open the eyes of young people, make them want to go get a real job....,no one is above the law. cause the bigger they are the harder they fall. who would want to live like that ,lucas is 77 know and he is still looking over his shoulder.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Sharesa, Oregon — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 20:04:38 GMT

I think that yes, Denzel Washington did somewhat glorify Frank Lucas because he made him actually human in the movie. Not just a drug dealer that "ruined people's life". Although, you have to realise that he was human who was clever, loving and obviously extremely smart. Just a few thoughts.. Also Jeanea, I completely agree. Why aren't we bringing up the subject on how people that are supposedly defending our country "trying to protect and help us" were the ones dealing and helping with the dope/drug flow into America?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Jaslyn Laguna Beach, CA — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 01:47:17 GMT

I just have to say Dennie (Denzel) as you may call him is my God-Father and I love him very much I do not appreciate people saying that they are disgusted with his performance in this film. Dennie took this role so that he can be informational not because he wants to be a gangster. Dennie wants to inform all of the people that giants in the industry of drugs can fall look at all of the big time drug dealers from Harlem, Miami, Cali they have all fallen that is why we today know them you would not say the same thing about Al Capone CW PRARIE that is bull PLEASE DO NOT TALK ABOUT Dennie

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Nakia, Virginia Beach VA — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 18:38:02 GMT

The movie was GREAT!! Denzel does not do bad movies. Everyone is upset that the movie is about another gangster and how he destroyed lives, lives are destroyed everyday, lives have been destroyed all through history and America has done alot of that destroying. It is apart of life and people just need to get over it. Hollywood is not glamorizing another gangster, they are just showing another part of American history, something that still goes on today and that will probably be a movie some 10 years from now.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Pecola Breedlove, Atlanta, Ga — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 22:04:09 GMT

Very good movie but felt that diretor Antoine Fuqua
could have added a better version, of the character that both Denzel and Russell, depicted in this movie. It was a very long movie, I wished, they had given more details related to his family members involved with him during his crime wave, and what happened to them after his arrest and what are they doing today...
Anything postive, as his daughter Francine is, with her organization.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Zachary Simmons. Kansas City, Missouri — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 05:00:33 GMT

I believe there is too much emphasis on who we as African Americans choose as role models and leaders. Seems lately that our heroes have been found just as guilty as Mr. Frank Lucas. (Micheal Vick,T I,Marian Jones,) I am a father of five, with two sons age fourteen and ten. And for me, not explaining the life of Frank Lucas deprives them of black history. Regardless of and why Mr. lucas chose his lifestyle, I don't look to that as a guideline for my children to follow. I am and should be a positive role model and I am responsble for encouraging my children to strive for perfection. To be leaders, not followers. Mr. lucas has a story. This story should be told. Even if it does not fit the criteria for the happily ever after fairytale. It is a part of our heritage, Let God be the Judge.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

sleumas75 memphis, tn — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 07:06:21 GMT

I think this is a ugly part of history, but a part of history like it or not. The point is that their were fiends before Frank Lucas and their are still fiends 30 yrs afterward. You have young dudes snorting who have seen the crack heads in the neighborhood, but still tried thinking it will not be them, but sometimes they are the same. I have read people comparing rappers to Frank Lucas and others and I don't think that is fair at all, there is good and bad in everything. Mr lucas ran a empire in the 70's before there was rap so who do you blame for what happened back then?? These things have been going on for years and all everyone can blame is jayz,ti,pac, or whoever is popular at the moment? Did it occur maybe these rappers are rapping about the Frank lucas's in their neighborhood, because maybe that's what they saw? Like someone said no one is blaming those cops who were selling drugs for years, but when frank came on the scene now we have a problem? I'm 31 I grew up in the 80's and 90's I have seen what drugs have done to families, but I can't blame rappers. It appears as people just want to have someone to blame it on instead of blaming rappers they do should look at themselves.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

sonja harvey mccoy, tampa fla — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 18:45:04 GMT

To identfy one criminal in the movie is in error. I walked out wondering why America had not attended to
the men who fought in the war. What had we done for
them? It was as if America did not realize the pain we allowed our vets to endure. They returned as men in emotional pain. I looked at Lucas as merely a product of his environment. Do not we foster the concept that money is the only important thing? He did not want to be broke. No one saw what must have been evident by someone in his past that this man given the right education and exposure could have accomplished much on the right side of the law. We must, be sure, that the next Frank Lucas is given an
opportunity to excel in the right environment. We must listen to our young and encourage them and help them to realize money is not everything. The film does a good job of letting us realize the horrible side of Frank's endeavors. The mother with the child, in filth will long remain with me. Take what the film has to offer and make it a positive. Do not judge Frank as we can't judge anyone unless we've walked his path. Let us learn. When I saw the movie with the young people in my family I listen to them talk in honesty; no one glamorized the drug dealing...yet they did discuss his intellect. I simply said remember he hurt many, yet he helped by getting bad cops off the street. Man is just man.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

PRINCESS — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 22:33:24 GMT

DOES ANYONE REMEMBER DENZEL DOING THE MOVIE "MALCOM X" IT IS A SHAME THAT HE ALLOWS HIMSELF AND HIS TALENT TO BE PROSTITUTED FOR FAME AND MONEY.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Dave Cochrane, Bristol, England — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 23:57:18 GMT

I see a lot comments moaning about this movie glamourising the drug business, will people please realise that this is a movie, and as such it should be taken in that context. War epics are rarely ever historically correct yet we enjoy them. The point of a film is to entertain, yes the subject matter is dark and yes it will surely divide opinions but if you don't like the idea of it, don't watch it.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Bella — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 03:45:51 GMT

American Gangster: A great movie! Denzel did a good job again as always. Not a good example in the first part of the movie but has a very good ending. Through him lots of people were convicted.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

ANDRE — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 04:49:35 GMT

I WATCH YOUR SHOWS AND REPORTS AND FIND THEM QUITE INTERESTING,I HAVE A VERY INTERESTING STORY ABOUT A BLACK MAN LIVING IN MONTANA

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

JOHN DOE SEATTLE,WA — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 08:47:35 GMT

WOW!! EVERYONE HAS SOMETHING TO SAY. WELL HERE'S MINE...FIRST OF ALL IT'S A "MOVIE" AND A GOOD ONE, THAT I THINK EVERYONE CAN AGREE AS FAR AS BEING ENTERTAINED. GREAT JOB TO MR WASHINGTON,CROWE AND STAFF. SECOND,DOES ANYONE REALLY HAVE THE RIGHT TO JUDGE SOMEONE FOR HIS/HER ACTIONS WITHOUT LIVING THEIR EXTREME CIRCUMSTANCES? I NOT TRYING TO MAKE EXCUSES FOR ANYONE BUT LET'S FACE IT, FOR THOSE WHO KNOW,IT AINT EASY OUT THERE AND TO RISE ABOVE IT IS EVEN HARDER. THE SIXTIES AND SEVENTIES WERE THE LAST BIG RACIAL MOVEMENTS TO INVOLVE POLITICS AND VIOLENCE IN U.S.NOT TO MENTION THE VIETNAM WAR AND OUR OWN CURRUPT POLICE,PLOITICAL FIGURES AND PREDIJUCIAL ISSUES. NONE THE LESS, WE ALL PAY FOR THE PAIN WE CAUSED UNTO OTHERS IN ONE FORM OR ANOTHER(WHAT GOES UP MUST COME DOWN,WHERE THERE IS LIGHT THERE MUST BE DARKNESS,FOR EVERY CRIME THERE MUST BE PAYMENT,ETC)TO FACE BOTH PATHS WHICH WOULD YOU TAKE...THE HARDER OR EASIER?TO ASK FOR FORGIVENESS TAKES EXTREME COURAGE TO FORGIVE TAKES EVEN MORE! WHAT HAPPENED,HAPPENED-LEARN FROM IT. BOTTOM LINE TEACH OUR CHILDREN TO LIVE A RICH LIFE,VALUES AND EDUCATION ARE PRICELESS. IT LASTS FOR GENERATIONS! A GOOD START TO HELP OURSELVES AND OUR COMMUNITIES...LOOK IN THE MOIRROR! YOU KNOW WHAT THE RIGHT THING IS-JUST DO IT!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Redneck, Switzerland — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 14:53:24 GMT

Denzel Washington has unfortunately glamorized an evil man who sold death.

The film though I have to admit is grippng.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Mazie — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 19:00:36 GMT

this is to Zachary Simmons of Kansas City .....Mr. Lucas is not an icon of Black Heritage ..... you should be teaching your children about TRUE HERITAGE ...
Martin Luther King, Louis L. Redding, Shirley Bular, Dr. Hilda Davis, Dr. Mae Carol Jemison, Pauline Young, Alex Haley .........
I am not even Black, but even I know what is a postive role balck model and who I'd be using as a positve role model for my children and would never, ever consider A THUG a part of my heritage .......

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Cedra, Memphis, TN — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 19:07:33 GMT

You people are so self righteous, you act like this is the first time a ganster movie was made. They have always made white Ganster movies, and no one says anything, but let someone black beat the system, then it's a problem.

People movies and actors are not suppose to raise your children you are.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

tcircle cuba alabama — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 21:58:03 GMT

the bible says every person will be held accountable for there deeds while on this earth ? some sin aganist themselves while some hurt others for various reasons. in frank lucas case it was for profit in the sence of making a liveing for me and mine, at the expence of killing they neighbor, yes adults have choices but have you thought about the children that were in these homes of these junkies? these are the innocent victims of somebodies profit pleasure and pain, did they have a choice that they could exercise? or are they just caught in this chemical warfare.
the afects of drugs work more than one way seen and unseen there are sins that causes greater damage than others more serious than others? to steal a candy bar out of a store vs a herione or crack addicted baby who had no choice in the matter surely that would constitute as a tragedy of a greater degree, this is a non fictional movie, frank lucus has to answer to god one day, but there should be apologyies made at the present time if there hasn't been to all those innocent victims? who was just trying to live and not a casualty of somebodies ambition and greed.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Phi' Bolton, Lafayette, Indiana — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 03:01:10 GMT

BLACK POWER FROM THE UNDERBELLY & ALL THINGS "NOT" IN BLACK AND WHITE:

I've enjoyed reading what most people have had to say. It confirms the truth in this story that left the greatest impression on me, which deals with taking an easy way of seeing things and making it complex. The movie responds to thoughts about the masses of black people being where they are because they want to be, and about black people as those who are inherently evil and dumb. It takes these ideas and refutes them.

The _American Gangster_ shows the story behind the Story: The masses of us are not where we are socially and economically because we want to be there. Lucas's story shows the factors that BREED the type of criminal behavior he exhibited--not an excuse--an explanation. We see the squalor, violence, self-deprecation, and poverty--extreme poverty--that overwhelmingly affects one group of people in this country, and we see how one man uses his condition to acquire "success," power, and money. We see the effects of slavery, the sin of America's treatment of one group of people. The trauma of disenfranchisement and the subtle--and not so subtle--racism that propels some forward to success leads others to a lifestyle of criminal activity to get what this country values most --money and things--yet denies overwhelmingly through legitimate avenues (Black Americans were NEVER initially desired to be contributing citizens--We were the excess of slavery that could not be easily dispensed of). We also see how those steeped in extreme poverty get stuck, medicating themselves on drugs and fast, parties. We see how the system--the government, the police, military, judicial system, profits off of the illegal acts of others, and the cops, soldiers, others who are supposed to be good are shown as being bad.

Lucas, who loved(loves) his family, took his mama to church, and employed his family members from the South--the supposed arch villain--possess respectable, good, qualities. He is shown as being good. He's both good and bad--no easy answers. Lucas also showed, during the era of civil rights and black power, the idea that a black man should run his neighborhood (focus on the principle, here) instead of letting "outsiders" profit off of the people in his community. Lucas showed how a "n**ger" was SMART enough to find and distribute a superior product and outrank the most elite of those involved in organized crime. He represented pride, ingenuity, and intellect "from the underbelly," enforcing ideas akin to those being espoused by some of those who raised their fists in black power and as those who walked the streets in protest.

Lucas, unfortunately, exhibited these qualities at the expense of his people. He--in capitalist fashion--saw a weakness and preyed upon it, and there we have it: The American Gangster. I'm glad there was redemption for Lucas--Can we hope the same for America???

Those with critical eyes and probing minds will see the diamonds in this movie--sometimes you just gotta dig. I hope more movies like this one are made that show the complexities of black America's experiences-- how our history really is an American history. I'm glad it's got us thinking and talking!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

V Smith, Sonoma County, California — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 04:17:18 GMT

I did think this was a good movie. I do think Lucas was glorified and he was surely rich for a time. But he caused his family so much pain and loss....but poverty does that doesn't it? Poverty and racism are the bigger crimes in this country. Poverty causes people to go for the quick dollar. But big corporations go for the big quick dollar and the result is also huge damage....oil spills, lung diseases from cigarette smoke and pollution and much more. But Richie Roberts and Lucas did an amazing thing in the process of Lucas' conviction. They brought down the crooked, criminal, drug dealing police ring in the NY Police Department.....maybe drug ring is the wrong word when 75%, 3 out of 4 policemen in New York were implicated. This is such an important point of this movie. With so many black men in jail, and precious years lost to prison doesn't this police corruption show us again how terribly wrong this "justice" system is. What is "just" about so few having so much and so many having not enough to live? What is "just" about police taking advantage of the racism in the prison system and putting black men and women in jail disproportionately while wearing a badge and terrorizing black, latino, gay and other oppressed communities. I'm not saying we don't need police but we need better oversight of their actions. I'll bet these actions of Richie Roberts and the Essex County New Jersey Police Department were essential to having a more "just" police system. For years to come the investment that this police department made in cleaning up its ranks has no doubt had a profound effect on how police think about getting away with this crap!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Cleveland, Ohio — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 04:27:03 GMT

Everyone deserves forgiveness people. We will all need it one day in some form or another. Give people a chance to change for goodness sake! Geez.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Cleveland, Ohio — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 04:30:04 GMT

Julie Lucas is a second wife. Miss Puerto Rico was Eva Lucas.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

RODNEY DAVIS — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 23:57:57 GMT

I have enjoyed reading the comments from various individuals,and what I've discovered and taken from all the different opinions is the fact that all of you are right in your comments. As an African-American male I think I can shed a little light on maybe why there is this bias when differentiating between certain ethnic groups as it pertains to certain things. For instance,let us not forget that the Dred Scott case was never truly settled and therefore,as in the case of Frank Lucas,he was not supposed to be smart enough to accomplish what he did especially not having obtained a so-called higher education and been recognized as having done so in some peoples eyes. We as African-Americans are constantly devalued and underappreciated so much and so often is it any wonder as to the effects that will have on our psyche's. Wouldn't it be nice for all criminals and criminal conduct to be put under the same microscope as I am seeing here. I too am a U.S Marine who served this country honorably and I am sick and tired of continually seeing this crap played out again and again,but, as someone once said you have to consider the source.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Roland Savlak, New York, NY — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 02:35:19 GMT

The movie is a piece of crap. I was on the scene in the days when Bumpy's product was being retailed and it wasn't like that at all. Frank Lucas and Nicky Barnes with his big mouth burned it down. And then of course the public required a diversion to prevent any reflection on this country's military adventure in South-East Asia. Haven't been able to find any information about how many high-ranking military people had to eat it. The only real moral message comes from Crowe's character who asks, rhetorically, "maybe they don't want this thing to end because everybody's making money off of it. The cops, the judges, the bail-bondsmen and the correctional facilities".

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Kendra Clarke — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 04:17:34 GMT

I think Denzel Washington is a phenomenol actor to say the least. I am worried however, of the effects that this film will have on our youth. For some reason or another African American males are easily influenced by the wrong things. I am a parent of twin 12 year old Afrifcan American males and have decided to let them see this film. I was born and raised in Harlem New York. I was born in 1970 and know first hand what the Heroin epidemic has done. Both of my parents were addicted to Heroin and my mom passed away in 1994 and my dad this Sept. Heroin is a horrible drug and we are still feeling the effects of what Frank Lucas and his crew have done. After heroin they were addicted to Methadone and guess what all of that shit was part of the conspiracy to destroy our Black Men and Women. I decided to let my children see the film after giving them in depth conversation and this was my way of making sure they got the message.I didn't let them go see the movie with a bunch of pre-teens who can't even pee straight yet alone interpet a movie. I think the key to keeping our children safe is dialouge. It's not Denzel's responsibility it's ours. Denzel is not to blame for Frank Lucas drug tyrade. We have to embrace our youth and talk to them. Teach them the Truth and Pray with and for them.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Faith M.Nairobi,Kenya — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 07:12:25 GMT

The movie is simply brilliant..Denzel..Crowe..superb.an eye opener to the real deal that is 'the government'..yes,Frank Lucas ruined lives but they made their own choices.choices made because the powers that be refused the black man to work in legit jobs in the maxim of..'let them kill their own'..same thing is happening back in Africa..give em guns,steal their resources..n highlight how wasted n dark Africa is..oh please!!we r rich..even if we r down.so, how come no-one attacks Nicholas Cage for his role in that movie, Lord of War?maybe coz his white?let us see that movies are just a mirror thru which society is represented..the man Lucas did his crime,did his time and now only God can judge him..lets stop throwing the Biblical first stone and look within ourselves and wonder how we can allow it to happen to our children,to ourselves..the media need not babysit ur families..u r way more powerful than that.the onus is on u..i say let Black History n African History,both the good,the bad n the ugly be told.let it be rewritten..its about time.Denzel has just paved the way..the real issue is that the white man is getting way too much credit,its time the Blacks stood up n were counted..that's all am sayin'

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Gmoney, Baldwin Park, Califas — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 22:38:53 GMT

Entertaining, but Tonisha from East Orange, New Jersey said it right, We know right from wrong. It was informative, and its in the past, hopefully these new kids learned something. There will always be crime, and crime fighters, Good and Evil, may the strong one win, (hopfully crime fighters/Good, not evil:-)

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Viewer, York, PA — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 00:34:29 GMT

Interesting conversation. The truth is those possessing a lethal balance of hopelessness and lack of integrity will see he may become a successful gangster if he is low key. Whereas, law-abiding people will see the message crime doesn't pay. History and today's social reality prove good and bad comes in all races. Someone already said it. The bad will be such with or with this movie. And, others point out – drug dealing would not flourish if the government did not want it to. It's just a good movie. No more, no less.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

DIANE DOE — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 06:26:00 GMT

tHE POINT IS, THE AMERICAN GANGSTER DID THE RIGHT THING IN THE END. DUH. LET'S ALL DO THE RIGHT THING, AND STOP JUDGING EVERYTHING!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Calethia Hill Richmond, VA — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 08:01:12 GMT

I missed this interview, but I did see the movie and Denzel was awesome as usual. After reading some of the other postings, I wonder when people are going to stop blaming everything and everyone except the parents of children for what they mimic. And I am also very tired of every "good" film about Blacks or every Black actor is going to be "the Black (whoever the white actor is)" this or that. the film was not a "Black Godfather or Sopranos"; Please! Frank Lucas was himself, not a "Black Capone" or anyone else as Denzel is a great actor on his own; not a Black "anybody" this was a great film. and Denzel, again outstanding.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

KNOW ONLY AS SPACE MOUNTAIN. — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 21:20:08 GMT

yOU THINK fRANK WAS SOMETHING, THEN HOLLYWOOD YOU NEED TO COME AND DO A STORIE ABOUT MY LIFE, I DID NOT DEAL DOPE, NOR DID I STEAL, IM A COP, A REAL COP THAT PUT GUYS LIKE THIS AWAY FOR REAL, DON'T CARE WHAT COLOR YOU WERE, I WOULD DROP YOU OFF THE PLANET. IF THE COURTS COULD NOT PUT YOU AWAY FOR GOOD THEN I DID. PHILADELPHIA PA YOU KNOW WHO I AM.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

jackie t. aberdeen md. — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 06:40:43 GMT

you know we all have choices we can choose to do drugs or we can look at the drug addit and know that this is not the life we want so I say this to say that you can lead a horse to walter but you can't make him drink it. I don't recall Frank Lucas owning a plane.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

tony nelson bronx new york — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 15:38:20 GMT

Frank made it possible for Black people in that game to make money.Just like the Italians wanted to put a cap on what a Black person made in numbers and or the drug business. It reflects the true thoughts on what America really stands for.Just look at the clown in the hanger who can't phantom the the thought of Black man running an organization above the Mafia.This type of thinking is still typical in the mindset of are Caucasoid brothers today across the board legal or illegal.

The message that you can get from this movie is self empowerment.Frank empowered himself.But he wasn't the only one doing it.How about Frank Matthews? You can look at this country like the movie and realize that chances are that good job or that union you will be excluded from like the good prices on Pleasant Ave dope in reality its the same as the picture.

Dope game may continue go on but we are not in the epidemic proportions of the 60s and 70s.Drug testing has eliminated a large portion of that business.

How about a movie on those who didn't flip.How about a Pee Wee Kikland movie a (New York Fred) Freddy Meyers or Frank Matthews movie. Frank told them in Sheepshead Bay where his privite yacht was moored that he had the biggest boat down here with a white captain on it.And the house across from Paul Castallano with Masaraties and Lambergineas in the drive way.

People can use the ideas from this movie to do legit things today.Start Your own Bussiness.Human beings have been doing dirt since the Roman days.People were thrown to the lions for the entertainment of others.

Lets not be so hard on Frank.If it wasn't him it would be someone else.Drugs is part of the national economy.Its economics.Millions of jobs from the cars ,helecopters ,agencies,and etc.As the movie said its a cash cow.And it's a fix it society always in need of servicing.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

adam scott — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:37:30 GMT

i think that lucas is a waste of space

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

John Fitzpatrick, Tulsa, Oklahoma — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 04:13:31 GMT

It's our baby and we must claim it. When there are male children of any color, brought up with a strong can-do positive male, the boys will want to be like men. When grown women are loving and responsible, girls see it and think that's how they should behave. We all need to grow up, because our children are watching.

Some boys can grow up without a father, but not as well as if they had a good (not perfect) loving one. Never the less, there are some other boys who will have a hard time learning to respect authority figures (like a loving father), and if they don't learn to respect a father, they will NEVER respect an authority like the police or government.

We need men to behave and act like men. Stop watching sports and start playing sports with your kids. Show your children what it's like for a man to be in love with his wife. Let them know, that if they screw up, you'll take them out, and make some more! Just kidding.

Forget about government, or bad people. There will always be parasites. Live, live well. Play the hand that you're dealt and your kids will be a blessing to you and everyone else.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Deines GC KS — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 20:24:54 GMT

Frank Lucas followed a trade that he was taught by the closest thing he had to a father figure just like millions of americans do everyday. It must be easy for somebody sitting in a nice big house with everything handed to them to come out and despise him. he played the cards he was dealt, God gave him lemons and he made lemonade. Hate him if you want but put yourself in his shoes before you make judgement.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

LALEE , CRIMELAND NJ — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 22:09:27 GMT

I THINK AMERICAN GANGSTAR IS ONE OF THE BEST MOVIES OF OUR TIME. IT SHOWS BOTH POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE THROUGHOUT THE MOVIE. POSITIVE BEING YOU DO THE CRIME YOU GET THE TIME. I BELEIVE FRANK LUCAS LEARNED A VALUABLE LESSON, EVERYTHING THAT SHINES ISNT LIGHT, AND EVERYTHING THATS DARK ISNT NIGHT. THE NEGATIVE WOULD BE ALL THE LIVES THAT WAS RUINED IN THE PROCESS OF BUILDING HIS MURDEROUS/DRUGLORD EMPIRE. YOU HAVE TO BE OVERLY TRIUMPH TO KNOW WE HAVE A FORGIVING GOD! GOD IS LOVE!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

phattygirl chocolate city d.c. — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 01:20:37 GMT

I haven't seen the movie and I could give a rats tail if I ever see it. The movie depicts a criminal who had and still has a criminal mind. O.K.......so he is in a wheelchair and he is still demanding and still a coward. I think that criminals should not be placed on the silver screen and then given somewhat credit for his accomplishments!!!!!!!!!!! Killing man kind.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

quincy, clinton MD — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 04:55:26 GMT

I think this man should be forgiven for what he has done. yes he was a drug dealer and a thug, but we all fall short sometimes, the bible says no one sin is greater than another. im quite sure everyone commenting has sinned before but u dont see me judgin u. in the end there will be only ONE judging and thats God..

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

John Re — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 21:00:36 GMT

Once again, the media has served the evil doers in society, by making them seem interesting. One only hopes that the journalist has a moment when he/she is confronted by a member of some crime gang, whether it be the New York Cosa Nostra, The Chicago Oufit, or whichever. Perhaps they won't be propping up these criminals when it happens to them.

Now if you want to include the criminals in our Government, fine. I couldn't agree more with comments directed towards our Government(s).

Glorify these people? I've gone chest to chest with organized criminals as well as dirty cops as well as dirty building and fire inspectors. That's what living and working in Chicago is like for all of you thinking about moving there. Want a gun pointed at your head by a cop for no reason? Move to Chicago.

Want to stick a screwdriver in the stomach of a dirty fire inspector, open up a store in Chicago.

Want a member of organized crime to threaten you with destroying everything in your store, move to Chicago and then write a story about how wonderful family men these people are.

I don't give a dams what happens to their children. These criminals certainly don't. That's why they are criminals.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

atilano limon....salisbury md.... — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:56:45 GMT

man frank lucas did good things also he think about wat he did for thanx givin......

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Kimberly Young, Springdale, Ar — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 20:39:43 GMT

I agree that we shouldnt protray him in a good way but if our youth today can get something out of this movie and make them better people then I say why not see it. Its not our place to judge, and if you dont believe in what this movie has to offer than dont see it. I have read several comments that he should be hung or fed to the lions, but honestly he is no different than ALOT of people in our world today that need a swift kick in the butt. As a parent its our job to make sure that our children dont grow up to be that way or have doings with people that are. Remember its OUR DOING, not someone elses. Your the parent so make a stand and actually act like a parent instead of saying this is goin to give our children ideas, well if your a good parent and dont let them associate with people like this, they wont.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Brianna M. New York, NY — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 03:58:55 GMT

There are more issues at hand here than just the criminal case of Mr. Lucas. Not only is it about the absolute incompetency within the police force, it is also about the shocking corruption within the police force. Believe it or not - it's worse today. The everyday citizen in America/Canada has absolutely no clue just how corrupted our police forces are. Why do you think the drug trade is STILL so active? You think the cops are blind? Nope! They have some form of "incentive" to turn the other cheek. So you can't place all of the blame on Frank Lucas, when he was being supported by his local PD, as well as federal forces. Most of the people writing comments here are just listening to their own opinions, when realistically - they don't matter one way or another (and I fully realize that mine doesn't either). So long as your ignorance is static, no changes will be made in our society. So don't bombard intelligent people with your views that are far more conservative than is consistent with the times - and make an effort to make changes! The sad reality is, people, that the drug trade is such a detrimental portion of the Western economy, that by whiping out the trade entirely - the economy would fall. Take away the crooked cops, and what then? Then what can you complain about;)?
American Gangster was a food for thought movie - one that took a man's story and glorified it for one purpose: to show today's society just how corrupted we are, and in places people have yet to look.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Brianna M. New York, NY — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 04:08:07 GMT

And for the record, for those of you worried about the "youth of tomorrow," I am 18 years old (1st year Criminology student in University). I appreciate the boost of confidence in the youth when some people say we are going to 'idolize' a drug lord. That's comforting that you would think that your own children don't have the sense enough to learn from what they are shown and be better - rather than emulate what they see Denzel portray (no matter how good the performance was:P).
Have faith in the youth of tomorrow - we're the ones fixing the mistakes of our elders (IE: GLOBAL WARMING!)

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Tony Nelson Bronx ,New York — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 01:06:09 GMT

I actually wonder how many people on this blog saw this movie.This movie was not made about the guy on the corner,or the over zealous cop ,or the neighborhood bully who is one of many that kicks up money to a guy who then kicks up his share to the bosses.

This is not about a man who sold 10 or 15 keys but a man who dominated the the northeastern seaboard with dope making millions upon millions and brought it here in goverment planes including Henery Kissenger plane to boot.

If you look at movies like the greatest bank robberies ever told the greatest gold robbery ever told,Gold Finger Bond, Live and let Die,Mr Bigg heroin dealer,The Italion Job.

Well Frank Lucas was Mr Bigg even though he didn't have his own island growing poppy like Yaaphet Koto in the first James Bond with Roger Moore or coco farms access like Pablo Escobar with yeaho he accomplished an engineering fete.

He actually did it and its a true story like anyother.There movies about Son of Sam,Charles Manson (Healter Skleter)I am not interested in those movies cause there cold blooded animals but it happened.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Rocky, Walla Walla, Wa — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 17:51:53 GMT

A good movie is a good movie, everybody likes entertainment. A rat is always a rat, and nobody, not even a cop likes a rat. To live in fear of death is what the rat does.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Peggy High Point N.C. — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 21:43:02 GMT

We were all given free will. It is a personal choice to use drugs. Lets not blame all the Frank Lucas's of the world. I don't recall him forcing dope down anyone's throat. Life is a matter of choices and concenquences. It is about time people start taking responsibility for their own actions and stop trying to find someone else to blame it on. We are ALL accountable for our own actions.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

J, New Jersey — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 01:25:08 GMT

all you people complaining about how this movie glorifies a drug dealer need to shut the hell up and go see it. In the end, his family deserts him as a result of his lifestyle and he leaves prison with nothing but a few coins to his name, how the hell is that glory?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

hayden mishler — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 07:10:42 GMT

ok this was a great movie but the story was all wrong Denzel was a great actor but what i dont get is why you made frank sound so great yeah he did what no man will do in there life probely. this story was only 20% true Frank could barily read or write. and yes he got by but hes no hero. yes a respected man maybe but a drug trafficing murder is not a hero if you want a hero find a ohnest man or women. and if you did your backround check you would know about his sister and the true story is his sister and how she showed hope for people strugling with addictions and you can overcome it.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

midnight brother, Dallas Texas — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 11:59:59 GMT

Every one is talking about this man like he caused all this drama and termoil in many promising lives and good families, while overlooking the fact that we all are responsible for our actions WE!! make the decisions for our lives. This man is by no means responsible for any drug dealer, addict or henchmans death. ALL those people should know the risk involved with their decisions, if not, they aren't that smart or good

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

jane louisville ky — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 15:03:13 GMT

excellent movie i have read all the comments that have been posted...it is amazing to me ther is not of discussion about the corruption that was going on..do you really think it has changed . i think like drugs have gotten worse so has our judical system..police in every state i believe are still as corrupt or worse, a badge to let us all know they are above the law. when you have the most inportant man running our country constantly breaking the law ,responsible for the kiling of our young men and women and not being held accountable what can be expected of acommon man.mr bush should be impeached...should be in jail and his whole administration for all the crimes they have committed...when our we going to open our eyes. frank lucas is a saint compared to our president.VOTE for RON PAUL.. time for a change.

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Dennis Rowe, Evansville IN — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 02:35:00 GMT

I just saw the movie. It was very well done and with actors like Washington and Crowe I think it will be a hit. I also think that it does not glorify the ganster lifestyle. Rather it shows the reality of it and in the long run "crime never pays". It also shows the ugly side of drugs and what it does to people. In the end Lucus helps bring to justice many other gansters and cops on the take.

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doug stranger — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 18:09:01 GMT

hey Hollywood, how about starting to make movies about people that have done good and enlightened the lives of millions without breaking the law?. It's about time for the "Walt Disney Story". Think about it.

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Samuel Barnes, Chicago Illinois — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 19:53:45 GMT

I loved the Movie and the way Dezel Washington played the part of Frank Lucas. The only thing i see wrong with this movie is it's another way to get young Black kids wanting to get into the Drug Game even more.

With jobs being hard to find and more and more Blcaks living below the poverty level, it's seems kind of funny how with all the thingd happening in the world that they would make a movie about a Black Drug Dealer. I look at Chicago and how Beautiful it's becoming now that they have and still are knocking down most of the gettoes (faivelas). What are most of these people going to do with there lives. They don't have any money to start anything. Therefore, movies like this only give the that look at what they themselve can do to try an become rich.

What the hands that be are doing is just what Bumpy said in the film. " they are taking control of everything, knocking the little man out" This is what's happening here in America and it's worst for Blacks now in America then in the times of Frank Lucas.

The US government isn't doing anything to help and this is way a movie like this, which was good is also, very DANGEROUS BECAUSE YOUNG BLACK MALES see this and want to live this life. I see lots of problems in the Black community every day. Me being Shot once at the hands of another Black person for what is what's happening in the community. A lot of these crime are a result of the CRACK BABIES that come out of the start of the bigger Drug trade of the 80's.

We need more Blacks owning businesses and going to College, not seeing Drug Dealers show them how to kill another Black person and get Rick. Yes Frank Lucas wanted to become rich and did but sometimes it's better to quite while you're a head then to be a quiter and thet's what Frank couldn't understand. I see lots of young Black males falling into the same trap.

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SHAWN SMITH ORLANDO FLORIDA — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 03:55:18 GMT

HOW MANY LIVES DID THIS MAN EFFECT IN A NEGATIVE WAY??.....HE IS NO HERO....HE ONLY HELPED THE POLICE TO SAVE HIS OWN FUCKING SKIN...HIS ACTIONS ARE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEMS IN THE BLACK COMMUINTY THAT STILL EXIST TODAY!!!!!!SHAME ON YOU FOR GLORIFYING THIS COWARD OF A MAN.

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Mcmoney, Laurel, Maryland. — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 04:53:21 GMT

Unbelievable. Well the movie has come and it's in the market. Sad it got this far well the best that can be done to show that at least we still something that can be called a government is to take it off the market and condemn it in strong term.

The security system presently may be better than when this criminal was out there but the empty heads around watching this tale of how not to educate a society will leave the movie halls with the hope of "I CAN DO IT TOO."

Americans should please show with this piece of s--t called American Gangs--t that they deserve some respect from hollywood for their unending patronage.

I don't see any good thing following the release of this trash but horror.

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Tired of complainers — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 10:03:07 GMT

You know, when Hollywood makes movies about serial killers who have died from getting the electric chair and we go see those movies; we leave saying "that was a good movie" just because this guy is still alive, we say that his life is glorified because he killed people. It amazes me how some people can seek redemption from things they've done in their past and they are forgiven, but society can't forgive when someone takes a life. The man is OLD!!! He's going to die soon, and he's been out of prison since 91!!!! Let it go!!! Denzel played a part in a movie! He was brilliant. It was a GREAT movie!!! It may have been a true story, but so what? He can't change his past, and calling him a scum now isn't making any of you sound like you have any sense. He's not thinking about you all... He's a man who did terrible things in his life and is still alive to tell the story that SOME people evidently still wanted him to tell... If he says he's changed, then maybe he is. He has a God to answer too, just like you and I. Only God can judge him. Denzel, you always look good in movies, and your acting abilities are superb!!!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

john harrington boise idaho — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 06:43:45 GMT

i have absolutely no respect for him. i have knowin some bad men in my life and he would not make a pimple on there ass. kind of sad hollywood is so desparate it has to make movies about chumps like him . but we all no how desparate hollywood is any more to make a dollar.

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Vilma Jones, New Haven, Connecticut — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 16:23:14 GMT

Although Frank Lucas did do wrong, he also did good when the time came, he stepped up to the plate. He did the crime and did his time. Everyone is soooo quick to judge him but what he did, he did for his people. Yes, it's true that some may have overdosed but just because the supply is out there doesn't mean you have to take it. That is a personal choice that only one can make. The tobacco company's make cigarettes every day but does everyone smoke? NO! Well, it's the same here. Did anyone ever stop to think, I mean really think of how things were back then, it's not like you could put your trust in the Police, I mean really. Anyway, I can only speak for myself but sometimes a person does alot of good in a not so good way but that doesn't make them a monster... It makes them human. Mr. Frank Lucas, much respect to you for realizing that good comes in many forms and you still did your peeps justice when you helped put away all those low down cops.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Heather K. Ocala FLorida — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 17:16:57 GMT

It was GREAT movie but should have been told as it was.Frank Lucas was a Drug King Pin that killed children,men and woman all for the pure joy of Money. He sold a product that killed he should have paid for that. No ammount of money is worth a life!!!!

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arthur michael — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 08:13:13 GMT

Frank Lucas committed treason by providing aid and comfort to an unseen, unknown enemy that benefits from America's lawlessness. There is no doubt he broke the law some times by killing people and contributing to the breakdown of the social fabric of this country. I say in all seriousness for those crimes, he should be shot.

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Angela J, Billings, Montana — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 12:20:46 GMT

I think if people watch the movie then they will see it is not just about the man who commited the crimes but about the man who brought him down. If he would not have gone down and turned informant then think of all the other people who would have died because he didn't "snitch". In this movie there is one hero and that was the cop and I say great job to Mr. Washinton for being brave enough to play the bad guy and know that he was not going to come out on top like he usually does.

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Grayson Wright, Atlanta, Georgia — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 21:47:11 GMT

I haven't seen the movie, But I grew up in the area where Mr Lucas and Mr Barnes operated in the 70's. For people old enough to remember, there was no infusion of capitol in Harlem and other major black urban communities after the riots in the late 60's. There was no job for blacks; black vietnam vets were considered the scum of the earth in black and whites communities. With this blackdrop, people like Lucas can thrive and survive. People like him were the only ones spending money in these areas. Drug abuse, whether with legal or illegal drugs is a scrounge on american society. Lucas and Barnes were no heroes, they were the only game in town. Today blacks have the opportunities and choices to create the wealth to build their communities. If your children are in awe of the gangster culture, the blame is on us. We need to teach our children about the way we want them to achieve greatness, and not relying on the media to be their teachers. The media is going to put out what it thinks it can sell. Let them know, that we rather see movies about Parsons and Johnson than Barnes and Lucas.

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RICH WILLIAMS CAMDEN NJ — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 12:21:17 GMT

I SAW THE MOVIE HOODLUM WHICH FOCUSED ON BUMPY JOHNSON .I WAS WONDERING LONG WAS MR.LUCAS IN THE COMPANY OF HIM BEFORE HE PASSED. ONE PART OF THE MOVIE STRUCK ME KINDA WEIRD WHERE HE HAS ALL THE PEOPLE CUTTING THE HEROIN NAKED DEJA VUE NEW JACK CITY.

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Dave Thoman — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 13:40:52 GMT

I have read almost every message, and no one mentions about how this scum bag did his deal and profited by transporting his dope along side those who who gave their lives for peace in the world. This gangster was no way near an American. How dare they put that title on that piece of Crap. Shame on the studio and all involved on that title. I hope when he dies some one uses the inside of his coffin to transport some horse manure,and he gets put next to a couple of vets. I hope he rots in HELL !!!!!!

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Andre Ewing, Los Angeles, CA — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 15:27:24 GMT

Why is it that people in America are so fascinated with highly successful criminals? Is it because so many of us just don't care how we get rich? Or is it the so called excitement that goes along with being a violent, unpredictable and feared man, like Frank Lucas. In the end its all a waste of life or lives as is the case with selling dope. I grew up with a real gangster myself, one too considerate (yes you can do crime without actually destroying lives) to sell dope. He also stopped doing crime when I was born because he said "I couldn't go to jail and leave you here without a father." My dad was one of the most feared men on the Los Angeles streets (born in 1922) "no doubt". My uncle Lummy who just finished his last time in Folsom prison at the age of 68 said my dad was the most treacherous man he ever knew. With all that said my father worked a nine to five job from the time I knew him and he never told me one thing about his past. My dad said "you are going to be better than me son." Today, I am an example (Thank God) of sacrifice and proper upbringing from parents that cared enough to try and do the right thing. I understand to some extent the pain that Frank Lucas's daughter may have felt with a mother and father that went to prison. Thank God my dad knew better. May God forgive him his sins.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Life M St.Louis MO — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 16:23:52 GMT

I love the movie and although Frank Lucas was a gangsta I believe that made me more attracked to him.. I almost cried when they took him to jail...

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a very strong black man — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 19:20:50 GMT

since American Gangster wasn't a movie about lucky luciano or mya lanskey everybody who's white dont like it.as an example didn't u see the part in the movie after they searched the caskets the head police officersaid "so who's behind this what family is it" then he heard it was a black man who was behind that kind of transportation what did he say......he was outraged a black man accomplished such a thing.so the same way denzel played malcom x he had every right 2 play frank lucas.why cause all 3 were & are some stand up strong black men which is something white society hates 2 see.so denzel if u see this man u played that part 2 the T........

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LouLou deerfield beach fl — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 19:24:02 GMT

well,frank lucas you did what you had to do for your family to have i'm not mad at you,you care about your family if i had to choice i would have did the same thing you did to survive. people who uses drugs is killing them selfs not you i don't think you should have been blame for the deaths of the people who used ur products man you good people i would have told on everybody who had something to do with helping you cause 70 years is a long time to be sitting in jail i wish i had a chance to meet you to shake your hand to let you know must people don't care about their family to take them from poor to rich better what out you'll be hearing the next female gangster who took over south flordia

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Lucas Child, Grosse Pointe Farms Michigan — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 20:03:14 GMT

get real, frank lucas was not responsible for the ruined lives of the countless junkies his business supplied. he didn't force the needles into the arms of the fucked up kids who decided to do heroin.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Greg kalamazoo Michigan — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 21:02:28 GMT

Nohtings wrong wiht Frank Lucas he did what anoyone woudl do if they wnated money it sjust like a business jsut with violenceits a way to make money fast and quick what other job can you make as money as he did wihtout working your but off thta why dealing is a federal crime the goverment dosent want peopel to get ahead in life

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JD, Blue Bell, PA — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 23:48:03 GMT

American Ganagster sends a vivid message to young americans looking to find themselves.....drug dealing is a crime that ultimately leads to death. Although the move did glorify this way of life, it has taken the soul of both the "Drug Dealer" and "Drug Abuser." Depending on the character of the person, this movie could either push them away from this type of life, or encourage an individual to head down the same path as Frank Lucas did.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

tony montana — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 04:07:47 GMT

first of all Frank Lucas is not being Idolized as a hero at all.... the movie is simply a portrayel of the life of Frank lucas. Being a youth of today i would have to disagree with anyone who said that frank lucas ruined peoples lives... If you state that he ruined peoples lives by bringing herione into this country then you are truly ignorant. Frank Lucas know as the notorious drug dealer of the late 60's and early 70's did not force anyone to shoot up a needle in there arm. the junkies took care of that for themselves. By stating frank lucas ruined many peoples lives is comparing Frank to Ronald mcdonald. Since the start of the fast food industry in 1950, the obesity among americans has grown. No one forces people to eat fast food and yet they still sew the fast food industries for being what they truly are a fat a**. The fast food industries kill way more people with there fatty, artory clogging, greasy burgers, and french fries than frank lucas every killed.

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Patricia Gonzales, Las Cruces, New Mexico — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:08:46 GMT

I guess none of these people have EVER made a bad choice in their lives. When a Family has nothing LOVE for your Family can drive you to do anything to take care of them any way possible. At times a bad choice is made from that drive. It's bad choice made many times by a good person.

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Spacegold, Apache Junction, AZ — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 16:47:02 GMT

Hollywood will be Hollywood, where the moguls correctly assess our culture's fascination with evil doers. Denzel Washington is a "professional" actor who does not make moral discriminations about the roles he accepts. When you think about heroes and role models, try to imagine John Wayne playing the part of a gangster.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Innocent.A,Nairobi, kenya — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 12:28:55 GMT

the movie was nice, biuld up was poor but the ending was tremendous..yes.. its the reflection of the modern nacotics and crime..cops want to eat from mouths of the dealers..(bollocks).lets face reality, people are hating just coz denzel is exposing the truth in the ground..here in africa, we see that day by day but wat to do?? nothing..,goodluck mr. washington.

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Pat Humes, Schuyler, Virginia — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 00:45:20 GMT

This movie is long overdue. These things had to be said. Perhaps exposing this kind of depravity to the light will enable healing. And I'm not just talking about the drug lords and other criminals - I'm talking about all of the rest of us who just sit around looking innocent while things like this go on around us every day and in different ways. It's so easy to be judgmental - but so hard to get out there and try to do something about "it" as Frank Lucas' daughter is trying to do.
As for Frank Lucas himself, he has paid his debt in accordance to our laws. There's no reason to single him out. As even he said (in the movie) when he was talking to Roberts/Crowe, "If it's not me it will just be someone else." Or words to that effect. I am wondering if (just maybe) God has used this tragic life for a greater purpose? As I have said, this story is one that had to be told. I continue to hope for the "beauty from ashes".

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Judy, Royal Oak, MI — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 16:39:07 GMT

Instead of blaming the powers that be, look into the mirror and ask if you're doing what you can to help and educate the people of your community. Stop playing the blame game!

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Deborah, New York City — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 19:06:35 GMT

IF FRANK LUCUS DIDN'T DO THIS BUSINESS, SOMEONE ELSE WOULD HAVE DONE IT. SO WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BLACK MAFIA AND A WHITE ONE? HARLEM WAS BEING SUCKED IN ANYWAY, HE CREATED EMPLOYMENT AS MUCH AS HE DID HARM. NO ONE SEEM TO BE TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION THINGS HE WITNESSED AS A CHILD WITH REGARDS TO COPS. HE PROBABLY HAD NO RESPECT FOR THE LAW DUE TO THESE INSTANCES AS A CHILD. WHO ARE WE TO JUDGE ANYWAY. LET GOD BE THE JUDGE OF MAN. NOT MAN BE THE JUDGE OF MAN. WE ALL HAVE GOOD BAD WITHIN US. WE ARE ONLY HUMAN AND WERE NOT CREATED PERFECT. THINKS OF THE MANY NASTY THINGS THAT ARE BEING DONE OUT THERE WITHOUT EVER BEING UNCOVERED.

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Carol Smith, Woodbridge, VA. — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 18:08:37 GMT

Well my heart ached much as I watched this movie. I was so saddend and move at how GOD's people were destroyed by one of their own Frank Lucas who not only watched his people suffer thru poverty, anguish and despair but he help to physically destroy them and their destiny. It's time for him to come out, redeem himself to GOD and give back to the people. He still has time...

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Colette John, Richmond VA — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 23:54:40 GMT

I am completely enamored by the whole American Gangster movie/story. Just the thought that someone could have that much clever thought to do something like that. Even if you think Frank Lucas is a punk or criminal, his entire tactic was brilliant and no one can take that away from the man. Yes, Frank Lucas' bussiness took many lives but is he really the one to blame? The PEOPLE who bought his "product" are the ones who killed, or destroyed themselves NOT Frank Lucas. He never held guns to their head's and made them Shoot up his Blue Magic. he simply made it available. Yeah it was illegal, but his entire bussiness tactic was amazing and he deserved every penny he earned.

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Purity Ngema, Johannesburg, South Africa — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 18:09:56 GMT

Just saw the movie and I couldn't believe it. Just how many craks are there in the system? How many people had to be bribed and how many more turned a blind eye to what was happening? If it was happening all those years ago then I'm pretty certain it's still happening today.

Seeing that I am not American and didn't know the story behind Lucas Frank it was very informative.

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Courtney Hayes, Selma, Alabama — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 05:27:28 GMT

Let's look at the real moral of this story. What you ALL have obviously missed.
This story is not glorifying anyone in any sort of way. If that is how you took it, then you're another ignorant person who just went to the movies as an average movie goer and didn't take the time to decipher the message in the movie.
Yes, Frank Lucas murdered (allegedly), conspired and destroyed lives. Just as fast as his empire rose, it fell, and he has nothing to show for it. That is what we should receive from this movie. Just like all good things must come to an end, bad things must do the same.
In the END what did you see? A old, worn down (no disrespect) man who has nothing but his story. Where's the fame and fortune, glory, glam, lights, camera and action in that?
Yes, he did get to see his family grow up but at what cost? There's resentment and tension there. Who would be proud to say, "Yes, my father is Frank Lucas. The notorious drug lord." Get it together people.
Let it also show, the real reason that Frank Lucas was pursued was not because he was commiting crimes, it was because he was a blank man taking over "The Man's" world. He wasn't paying off the cops and other figures who are supposed to serve and protect. He wasn't keeping the "man" in the loop.
He created a monopoly which is what people and companies such as, Donald Trump, GE, Time-Warner fight for anyway they can. Yes, it may not be through murder, but they DO have their way.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Ya-Ya — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 16:09:47 GMT

lol, Love it or hate it and him, he did things that no one else thought about. Imagine if he put all that intelligence toward something that whould have benefit the community? We shall never know

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Al Wright Cumberland, New Jersey — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 23:54:37 GMT

we cant eliminate illegal drugs without eliminating thousands amd thousands of jobs. Every day I read the news paper about some young black male being arrested for selling narcotics. I rarely see a truck load, plane load, or boat load of narcotics being siezed. Blacks don't own the ships, planes, or trucks that are bringing in the narcotics. Why don't we take all of the narcotics cops from the inner cities, and place them on the borders of America, to stop the narcotics form entering the country in the first place. That would be the solution. Oh, I forgot, we can't do this because it would eliminate thousands and thousands of jobs. Drugs hurt everyone> poor, rich, white, black, etc... We have to think rationally and work together to solve the problem, or else the whole country is going to go down. Has anyone looked at the value of the dollar lately. How about the stock market. I love America, and all of the cultures encompassed within it. There ar good and bad in every group. But us good have to make an attempt to do the right thing, and stop ignoring the truth....

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T. E. W. Young, Jacksonville, FL — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 03:39:28 GMT

I just finished viewing the movie "American Gangster". I also read the real life events (outside of the hollywood) version of Frank Lucas' life. I truly don't think any young man or woman is looking up to any of the criminals depicted in the film. They (the criminals) all "got in trouble" - either by ending with a violent death, going to prison and ending with sudden poverty.

Kids who are already in the streets and who have no hope of doing anything else but being in the streets, see their lives ending in violent deaths or going to prison. If anything, from this movie and what I know of true life events of Mr. Lucas, the moral is violence begets violence and violence begets death. Violence and drug use or selling does not beget anything lasting or good.

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Ralph, Bronx, New York — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 04:31:19 GMT

I think that Frank Lucas made a bad choice in life and took the easy way out. He didn't even care about poisioning his own people with junk. The only thing he is sorry about is that he got caught or he never would have stopped. I believe that he made a deal with the prosicution to save his ass because he was week inside. Like Sammy "the bull" Gravano. He acts tough but when the law gets to you, you crack and crumble.Good Luck Frank.Your still going to HELL...

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Ana B, Tucson, AZ — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:05:29 GMT

I saw the movie this past weekend and having been a drug trafficker at one time myself was sad that such a movie was made glorifying the wrongs we do. Denzel was magnificent as ever, but there was not a lesson to be learned in this movie except for how much money you can make and we all know money/greed and destruction go hand in hand. I applaud his daughter for her work, but if Frank Lucas really wants to make an impression he should speak out against the useage of drugs. This country is falling apart due to all the addicts there are out there and no war on drugs is ever going to stop unless you solve the problem causing it. People you use drugs have low self-esteem due to unemployment, lack of education, and the way caucasian american society treats is minority citizens. Has Frank Lucas opened up any drug treatment facilities, donated monies to scholarship funds, build better low cost housing so people don't live in the devestation or filth? It's not enough that he turned in a lot of dirty cops. I grew up in Douglas, AZ where every cop was dirty, dealing, trafficker. I saw a great place to grow up in turn to a hallow place of existence. If I had this man's money, I would do what I had to do to repair all the damage I had done and not sit and bask in the glory of a movie that just shows what a bad person he was.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Destra,Sando,Trinidad — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:44:49 GMT

spectacular film! Fabulous performance by Denzel! As for comments that Denzel shouldnt have starred in such a film. In an interview Denzel stated that he told the directors of the film that he would only play the role if it came with consequeces, which it did. So leave my Denzel alone! Frank Lucas and his family paid the consequeces for his life course. Altho he contibuted to the death of others, he is not solely to be blamed for their death, he made a product available, it was up to the consumer to buy and use the product. I am almost certain he didnt put a gun to nobody head and force them to inject drugs in their body. He's now 77,let him live the remainder of his life in peace.

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John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 07:24:46 GMT

In this country, anyone can become anything and anything can become anyone, it doesn't matter what race you are, it matters what brain substance you have.

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Rhodee Washington — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 08:54:23 GMT

Mr. Lucas, The widow of Bumpy Johnson disputes everything you said in reference to her husband. Were you really his employee? I thought the movie was informative, but please tell me not fiction?

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will, California — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 06:24:16 GMT

I just watched the movie and then read up a little on the life of Mr. Lucas. Its a pretty interesting story I think. He did have a pretty brilliant idea and made millions from it. I think he was just a little greedy, because I would have called it quits after the first 100 million haha. Now don't get me wrong what he did was highly illegal but he also has paid his debt to society. If he is a changed man then good for him. I guess being the cause of your family falling apart will tend to do that. I thought it was a good movie, long though.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

J.Callegari Evergreen,La — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 13:02:00 GMT

Deazel is an actor. Frank Lucas never once put a gun to anyone head and said use my product. No matter who you take off the street from saling drugs someone will always follow. People use grugs. Yes drugs kill, destroy families, and even ruin children lives. the people use druds do it because that is what the want. It do not make sense to judge man when you are who you are. Have you looked in a mirror lately.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Randy,Gainesville,Georgia — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 05:50:50 GMT

I am sixty five and have gone to many movies over the years and Denzel and Russell are as good and better than most ever get.I liked american gangster and thought of it as history and the truth.I would pay to see any movie either of these guys appeared in cause there is no doubt that it would be enjoyed.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Muhammad Ewing, Los Angeles California — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 15:38:36 GMT

Is a dope dealer anything more than an UNCLE TOM? Don't you see that a man like that is like the Africans that sold Africans into institutional slavery? Some people are afraid to be real or don't know enough about the streets or life to call it what it is. The fact is we blame governments for bringing in the dope but we want to excuse a poor black man? Oh, because he wanted to come up. PLEASE. Frank Lucas doesn’t need your pity. And if you think he made a better choice for his family by selling dope instead of working an honest job; Why don't you ask his daughter? Look; towards the end of the movie when Frank somehow realizes that he played a part in the death of someone's child that he finally realized he was wrong. PLEASE, that was all HOLLYWOOD because the real Frank Lucas just like any other Uncle Tom dope dealer knows WAY, WAY before that what they are doing and who they are doing it to. If I was the writer's English teacher I would have given him a D+ for mocking human intelligence with that blazingly fake rationale of How Frank Lucas "found the truth". All people connected at that level of crime are entirely too sinister for most people to understand. The fact is they are not normal people at all. They are touched by a level of evil that would blow back a treacherous man’s wig.

As a teacher of various academic subjects and Martial Arts for the last 11 years working with AT RISK YOUTH and incarcerated youth and coming from a background that gives me authority on this subject the method should always be to reprimand and punish those in society that do wrong (helping them when we can) and to reward, recognize and uplift those that do right.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Muhammad Ewing — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:58:06 GMT

ALLMIGHTY DOLLAR

People who want to make the statement of how smart and “genius” Frank Lucas was for creating some empire of drugs, come again. I was 16 years old in 1985 Los Angeles, California when “The Crack” was thrown at us. 20 years later I look back and the effect is as clear as my hand in front of me. I ASKED “Freeway” Ricky Ross (do an internet search) in 1996 how he did it and he told me “You could have done it too Dre” it’s all about drive and opportunity. In other words you have to have supply (so much supply that you GIVE people kilos and if they don’t come back with the money it don’t really matter because you got it coming from THE SOURCE) Besides that just like the Mafia are in with the police if you got people calling you before the bust goes down and prices that beat everybody else’s (just like “Freeway Rick”)

(IN OTHER WORDS PEOPLE HE WAS JUST THE BLACK MAN THAT WAS THERE AT THE TIME THEY WERE LOOKING FOR SOMEBODY TO RUN IT) (THEY LET HIM DO IT) (AND THAT IS HOW GENOCIDE CRIME WORKS) (RICKY ROSS WAS THE BLACK MAN OF HIS GENERATION AS WELL AS FELIX MITCHELL AND OTHERS) Sure they are smart guys and SO WHAT? And so was Charles Drew and George Washington Carver as well as Paul Robeson a multi-lingual American actor , athlete , bass-baritone concert singer, writer , civil rights activist. WHERE ARE THEIR STORIES?

Did you SOMEHOW forget that black people really can achieve? That we don’t need to recognize FRANK LUCAS and others like him to say “OH WE CAN DO IT”
DO WHAT? Compete with the MOB? The MAFIA? Is that something for us to achieve? Oh that’s right some black people won’t be satisfied until people can see that we can do EVERYTHING that WHITE people can do. SAD

THEY were finally able to KILL Harlem with the Heroin. One of our BEST COMMUNITIES of the 20th century didn’t make it to the 21st in one piece. THANKS FRANK BABY.

THANKS TO FREEWAY RICK TOO FOR ASSISTING IN THE DEATH OF LOS ANGELES. WE JUST COULDN’T TAKE THE CRACK. YOU DID ONE HELL OF A JOB BRO.

As for the actors no excuse there but who said they were anything but actors in the first place. A profession that when it first started was ill reputable. NO WONDER. If you search your history you find that acting was considered disrespectable because of the obvious lies inherent in it. IN TIMES gone by in God fearing societies a liar was the worst type of citizen. JUST PAID LIARS. At least we can start over with each new generation of children. The problem is we have people like those above that as the O’JAYS say can’t help them selves but “FOR THE LOVE OF MONEY.”

TO THE CHILDREN: Don’t let money rule you. Don’t let money fool you. Save your soul.

AMERICAN SELLOUTS

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Concerned US — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 07:57:37 GMT

Wake up America, if God were to roll back the scrolls so that we could really see who the drug dealers are we would not be able to handle it. We all have freedom of choice and it depends on how we use it. Let us stop hating and start loving one another and we can make a change for the next generation of youth, be they black white chinese japanese korean mexican blue yellow or green. We as a society except too much from our leaders. These things can't happen without our governments approval everything and everyone that comes through the US must have their approval. Mr lucas did no more than he was allowed to do. He is no diffirent than any other mob gang or terroist. Children learn what they live and if we are not teaching them than don't complain cause we are all to blame by our behavior and actions. Let us get along America, we are one of the richest nations, yet We are also one of the most selfish we should not have homeless(most of whom are vets,hungry malnurished children/adults) If we all take a stand to make our society a better place we can make a change together.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Shade Ladipo, Lagos Nigeria — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 15:37:59 GMT

I am not an American but I think this is a fabulous way foe history to be told....cos weather we like it or not It is history and we also have to commend Actors like Denzel for portraying such a role and also Frank Lucas for contributing to the making a movies that has the sole purpose of correcting the past and making sure it odesn't happen in the future.....\i loved the movies and would gladly watch it over and over again

Kudos to Frank Lucas (who did some good even though surrounded by bad....If God wanted him dead..trust me he would be dead RIGHT NOW....but he is alive so this is probably the reson why)

Kudos to Denzel Washington and Russel Crowe (for being such fantastic actors)

Kudos to the family of Frank Lucas (for being brave anough to live through a nightmare no many of us can imagine)

Kudos to Ridley Scott and his Crew (for being bold enough to tell the story)

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

E Morgan, Chicago, Illinois — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 22:28:15 GMT

"Forgive them Father, for they know not what they do." said Jesus. Who are we to pass judgement? When is one sin greater than the other. How many commandments do we break in a day. How many of the seven deadly sins do we commit. No one sin is greater than another. We all shall be judged. How can you expect God to forgive you, if you cannot forgive. Have you ever heard of unconditional love. You do not have to like the things that people do, but you can still love them as God loves you. "He who is without sin cast the first stone." I didn't think so. The two most addictive drugs are legal, caffeine and cigarettes. By the way, I lost my father to a heroin overdose at age 3 in October of 1977.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

legal eye frank c — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:14:27 GMT

many hard working american's serving time for petty thing like 1 cent candy or for being born with the wrong name but her is a man did very bad crime's in every way & even a maybe murder & he did only five years& to top it off he is going to be glory fied this is knot right we got people doing 9to life just driveing with out a licence.maybe it time all red blooded american take to arm's & reclame the u.s.a back?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Muhammad Saadiq Ewing — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:27:16 GMT

THE ORIGINAL MULTI-LEVEL MARKETING

Do you believe that if you teach someone something good that you will receive a reward from God? And that every time the person you taught something good to teaches someone else that you receive another good deed on your account with God.

So in other words your good deeds are multiplied (exponentially) because goodness has a ripple effect and the person who passes on a benefit in some form keeps receiving the reward for it as long as his initial action stays in the society. It’s like catching and passing a cold until the whole city gets sick, but in a good way.

OK, if you believe that your good deeds like inviting someone to church are multiplied by two (meaning you get your reward from God for going to church with a good intention and you get the reward for inviting someone to church) Then what if the person you invited invites some one else? You get three good deeds! This is how deeds of action and knowledge work. It’s the same if you pass on a good word that someone puts into action (You get the good deed of the good word and the good deed of the all the results of your one good word) I mean someone might dedicate their life to teaching the word of God based on your initial invitation and you get all the rewards related to that one simple act. Isn't that beautiful.? That is the ORIGINAL multi-level marketing but in the best way. Storing up good deeds for the NEXT LIFE.

OK, now flip that and do the same math with BAD DEEDS. BECAUSE THAT IS THE REALITY.

SELLING DOPE
TEACHING PEOPLE TO SELL DOPE
TEACHING PEOPLE THAT DOPE IS GOOD
TEACHING PEOPLE TO DISOBEY THE LAW
TEACHING PEOPLE TO KILL

NOW ALL THOSE PEOPLE YOU TAUGHT TEACH SOMEBODY ELSE
THE BAD DEEDS CAN GO ON FOREVER.

YOU SEE ITS NOT ABOUT ME AND YOU FORGIVING PEOPLE FOR WHAT THEY DO. SURE WE CAN DO THAT NO PROBLEM. THE PROBLEM IS THEIR ACCOUNT WITH "THE MOST HIGH".

I REALIZE THESE DAYS THAT THE METHOD OF TEACHING RELIGION ESPECIALLY CHRISTIANITY HAS GONE THE WAY OF TOTAL FORGIVENESS AND THAT’S ALL IT’S ABOUT. WOW! HOW CAN ANYONE KEEP FEAR IN THEMSELVES TO DO OR NOT DO AN ACT IF THEY DON’T HAVE FEAR OF THE CONSEQUENCES, BECAUSE THEY BELIEVE THEY WILL BE FORGIVEN. THAT’S REALLY NO WAY TO TEACH RELIGION. Cause ain't nobody going to be scared no more. They just do bad deeds and think they will be forgiven. HEAVEN AND HELL ARE A REALITY. THEY ARE A REALITY. WILL YOU RECEIVE YOUR ACCOUNT IN YOUR RIGHT HAND OR YOUR LEFT HAND?

Like I said before the method should always be to reprimand and punish those in society that do wrong (helping them when we can) and to REWARD, RECOGNIZE and UPLIFT those that do right.

ALL THE BEST!!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

WE THE PEOPLE — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 00:00:24 GMT

MR.LUCAS SHOULD HAVE GOTTON 2MILLION YEAR'S WITH OUT PAROL INSTEAD HE GOT RELEASED IN FIVE.THERE ARE PEOPLE DOING 200 YEAR STREACH FOR DWI OR FOR 4TH OFFENCE OF NO INSURENCE WHY HELL THERE IS A MAN WHO JUST DID 26YEARS FOR DOING NOTHING WERE IS HIS MOVIE

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

michele jones jackson MS. — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 19:15:38 GMT

denzel is an actor he is suppose to play parts so dont critisize him for doing his job besides he is just playing a character he isnt the real frank lucas frank lucas is himself so please people stop picking.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Dajana, Zagreb, Croatia — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 14:50:23 GMT

I really liked the movie, although I'm not quite sure what its moral is. I don't think it gives a wrong message to youth because in the end, Frank Lucas was punished. He was given a choice and he chose to help the good guys. Of course, that suited him better because it was the only way he could go out of prison. Besides, he had nothing to lose - he was sentenced to death(70yrs).
Anyway, this movie shows the real thing: it shows how the real business is made even today.
And you really gotta admit, whether a bad guy or a good guy, Frank Lucas is a true businessman.
He lived in an age where honesty wasn't appreciated and when there was no point of being fair because if you are - you are stupid.

It's not like Lucas forced people to take dope. If they didn't get it from him, they would've got it from somebody else. If they're stupid enough to take drugs, why wouldn't he make a profit of that?
Lucas had people he loved. All he wanted was to get rich so he took advantage of a situation and made it. Who can blame him for that?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Samir Toronto Ont — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 03:33:12 GMT

Everyone makes mistakes, he openly did illegal things unlike the cops who hid behind their uniforms helping our society get in ruins with drugs. The greater part is Frank understood his mistakes and helped the agency to stop other criminals and corrupt officers. Only God can judge him !

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Uchenna Anosike- Ilechukwu. Lagos Nigeria — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 12:11:35 GMT

I haven't seen this movie but have read about it. I think that Denzel is trying to potray both the positive/negative story of what Lucas did in his hey days. We don't need to badmouth Denzel for doing a good job but to learn from it & speak to our wards on why they shouldn't get close to drugs/ gangterism.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

The Truth — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 04:22:42 GMT

American Ganster was great...Real Life, Real Peole, real S&^*, Once again, America, U Can't Handle The True.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

James Williams Cincinnati,Oh. — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 14:24:12 GMT

Before the Frank Lucas story which some people are upset that he is glorified, before him the French Connection which is a true store not only had gangsters involved,those other guys the police were ruining peoples lifes too.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Linderluu — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 19:12:02 GMT

Son of Sam Law question:
Is Mr. Lucas profitting any way from his crimes? If so, the money should be taken from him and given to the families of the victims whose lives he destroyed.

A true story is a true story and should be told, the objective should not to glorify the subject matter, but to tell the tale.

I believe it is up to the parents of the children to teach them values and to look at the consequences of Mr. Lucas' actions and allow them the power and skills to judge what type of life they choose to lead.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Geraldo otis,kampala,Uganda — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 05:42:06 GMT

ma man,aint seen natin lyk it b4....smooth and silky..Denzel and the whole crew brought all they gat to make this history..big up..bo

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niki john, north carolina — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 13:01:19 GMT

frank lucas such an inspiration to my younger brothers, because he turned from a drug lord to a very well respected person and for that i really envy him. and by the way american gangster is such a great movie. ITS A CLASSIC!!!!!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

daniel hughes, Melbourne, Australia. — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 11:57:40 GMT

i think the movie was great! Lucas was a smart man, but did not use his smarts in the right way.. a man who loved his family, money and power.. this was a big part in American history, witch is why i think it's great that they mad this movie.. yes he may not be a hero, or a role model but a great leader. and what ken was saying up there, Lucas didn't make the public take drugs, so they must of had a problem to start with.. also celebrity status, he has done his time, helped police with over 100 crimes by cops.. i thing he can have a bit!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Gwen Atlanta, Ga — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 02:05:55 GMT

Denzel...keep doing what you do baby. GREAT MOVIE! I will always support you.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Nick Okinawa, Japan — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:39:10 GMT

Okay, here goes. This movie just came out here in Japan, so I know this post is a little late, but who cares. Here we go. Before you can proceed with the future you must learn of and from the mistakes of those who came before us. No, Frank Lucas was not a role model, but he was human just like all of us. We all make mistakes. Parents, (yes I am one myself) if you feel that this movie is not something that your kids should see, then don't let them watch it. Some of you said that this movie is not something that you want your kids to get the idea of what they could become in life. Well, would you prefer they try to find the water horse?? Or how about the wizard of OZ. Of course this applies to a specific age group. This movie shows how the world really is or at least a small part of it. Many will try, but there is nothing anyone can do about drugs. People are innovative and will find new and improved ways to do what they want. Look at Stanley "Tookie" Williams (the creator or the Crips street gang) who, while in prison, was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to stop gang violence. Eventually we have to learn to forgive, maybe not forget, but forgive non-the-less.
Great Movie!!!

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Lucy Lucas New Haven CT — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 18:30:15 GMT

I am writing to fine out if Frank Lucas was kin to my father Anson Lucas who was from the south and in lived Red Bank New Jersey

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joe — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 12:41:24 GMT

Awful. In so many ways.

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peter — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 21:51:45 GMT

The best movie i have seen of late .washington is a great actor and played the role to a tee. Iam a movie fan and any movie based on true events,gets my attention. Great movie great story, and for those that want to comment on the bad this man lucas caused,have a look around its going on all over the world. His story is truley amazing. Ill see it again 5 stars

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Jim L Aldinga Beach Adelaide — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:48:08 GMT

hey guys watched the movie last night i thought very good however i think it should only be viewed by people over 21. even though the movie was great i think gloryifing a drug issue (white or black ) really wont help our world crisis on drugs. Im sure if Mr Frank Lucas if he could go back in time he would change his ways as we all would if we had the chance no criminal should be glorified however it is hollywood it will sell and the circle continues, what it does do however is give us perfect brain inbedding storie of helping our children weather they are ours or not. Wel done to hollywood well done to Mr Crowe and Mr Washington may your careers always be as sucsesful as this movie will be.

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John, vallejo, california — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 04:39:08 GMT

Everyone is out there to make money whether its by selling drugs or making a movie about a man selling drugs. People make there own choices and it is not up to anyone else to judge whether they are right or wrong. This movie was very well made and Denzel Washington portrayed Frank Lucas very accurately.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

nunya business, stl, mo — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 16:19:30 GMT

i don't care what any of you think, i think to overcome who you were and change should be noticed by everyone. he messed up, who hasn't? give him a break. he has to live with it.

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DOLLY MISSION TX — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 17:58:48 GMT

WELL I THINK THIS MOVIE WAS GREAT! I AM GLAD THAT FRANK LUCAS IS A CHANGED MAN! AND DENZEL ....PERFECT LIKE ALWAYS, GREAT ACTOR!!!! AND SOOOO ANDSOME

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

adnan kaleemi — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 06:21:18 GMT

What a contrast of characters in the movie. Both trying to prove for their own self righteousness. The movie was well made. Just left me thinking who was right or wrong.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Grace, Gilroy, CA — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 09:33:04 GMT

I think this movie shows that people can change you see you can be a bad ass killer/druglord and learn from it and them turn around your life you learn from your mistakes I know from experience and I enjoyed the movie because it shows the world that even Frank who was who he was made a complete turn aroung and was a better man so Congrats on that Frank!

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A Fan, Castres, France — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 23:53:13 GMT

I thought that this was a really good thought provoking movie. Coming from a small country and being somewhat sheltered from the devastation drugs has on lives, I thought this movie did a great job in exposing what really goes on behind the drug scene and the kind of people that are involved.

For me, this movie was very informative but I also know that its not 100% fact. I liked the way the movie portrayed all aspects of drug life, the rich untouchable, and then the desperate, ruined lives.

I took it for what it is, a good movie that forced me to ask questtions about life and myself.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Shinigami Seth E. Mercury, US of Isreal — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:59:13 GMT

Sometimes the only thing that can defeat evil is a different kind of evil. Because truth in America (the lie) has less valour then the honesty of the evil.

I'm the product of a two parent household, perfect attendence for 7 years, 4.0 for five including my first year of college (Dual Major). The only person to ever win more then 3 events in the US Math & Science Olympics. Devout christian as a youth, as an adult I have abdoned the curupt church but not my love of God it's still intact (but I follow no man, or man made).

For high school graduation went to Great America on the way I got stopped by the police for 5 miles over the speed limit. I was with 2 friends we had pagers and cell phones so the cop decide that we we're drug dealers and brought the dogs in to search, mean while his partner was bouncing my friends face off the hood of the car.

For new years 2 years later I witnessed police beating an older blackman in an alley. When they noticed me observing them I was detained, hit and faced threats including surprise visits to my house. Almost cost me my job.

1 years later I was stopped entering my apartment because I fit some description, so they held me while they ilegally searched my house. Almost cost me my apartment, landlord want to renew said I must be a drug dealer or something.

I have applied for jobs denied as not being qualified, so as a test we sent my white high school drop out friend to apply and what do ya know he got some of those same positions.

It's not images of people like Frank Lucas, it's the attitude of the people in power it's the fact that not just in NYC but all of America governing body that is 75 to 85% corrupt.

I've tried and with great success have achieved everything I was told a man should do to make it in America. But with no true reward, as have most great Blackmen in America Criminal or otherwise.

So hey it must be the American dream to be a criminal and hey some of us get a way with it. Can you guess what I ended up doing for a living. Good job Frank you and I do a most excellent job as pawns in the fulfillment of the founding fathers dream of a white america...

Oh, Yeah can you tell I'm a Blackman. Had to do something with my intellect. He should have been smart enough to retire you have to know went to get out.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Elli Harvey, denver, Colorado — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 17:51:49 GMT

I just watched the movie. I am sadly surprised that Denzel did this character.
Also I was not pleased with the ending. I felt that Frank became a kind of "folk hero," as portrayed by the director and Denzel. Sad, sad, sad.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Eric Castillo, Fresno, Ca — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:33:06 GMT

I just watched the movie last night and I have to say that this is one of the best performances by all the actors in this movie. This movie was incredible. I loved it and even had to watch it again this morning. It amazes me how these movies make something that I've never new existed into something I will always remember, just like scarface and the godfather.

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Richard Tast — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 12:24:00 GMT

I found a certain irony in the movie towards the end when it depicted that 75% of New York City's Drug Task Force was corrupt. Seventy Five percent of those caliming, in the name of the law, to put catch and put away bad guys were themselves as evil, in in some manner more evil, than Frank Lucas himself. Lucas was, granted, a drug dealing felon; but were the law enforcement(??) officers who for the sake of pure greed, they were also felons. How many police today are carry a badge and violate the ery laws themselves that they claim to enforce. How many higher officals in government are as corrupt, in one fashion or another, as Frank Lucas? Greed, pure unadulterated greed is the common thread. In lucas's case oppression as a black and poverty. But what about the good ole middle class kids that grew up and became the corrupt cops, politicians and bureaucrats. The nature of man has not changed since the beginning of time, and perhaps never will. There are those disposed to act out of lust/greed and no amount of equality is going to make the world sing Kum-By-Ya while holding hands. As much as I might dislike the lieks of Frank Lucas I despise even more the frauds and phonies in government, be they the cops, or a governor, or even president who lie to the people and they, the highest offices in government, are perhaps the worst of the lot because they NEVER get their hands dirty hurting just as many, if not more people in this antion than Lucas did but they always do it in the name of the law. OUR governemnt, specifically the CIA used Viet Nam and dead soldiers coffins to funnel as much heroin into this nation, if not more than Frank Lucas ever did. Where's the condemnation of them, those in governemnt who used the law from their own vantage point to destroy American lives? I've often wondered in my sixty years of life if the primary reason that government claims to fight organized crime is because organized crime is literally a form of competition to government; because afterall, donesn't organized crime siphon off that money from the sytem, in cash, that the government would steal from it's citizens, but unlike the Mafia, the government always does it legally(??) in the name of the law and for the greater good of all. Perhaps a movie should be made about the corruption in government, because it, govt. corruption and graft, equasl and exceeds all the money any of the bad guys ever made. The true American Gangsta's reside in a realm called Washington, D.C., more aptly called, District of Criminals!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Kevin Thorstenson, Presque Isle ME — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 18:02:26 GMT

All of these comments make no sense. The story doesn't celebrate the art of becoming a drug dealing killer. It merely tells a true story of a drug dealing killer. The fact is children will not become this person just by watching this movie, but they will become this when the system and parents fail. This story if it taught me anything it's tnot always to asume that the police and detectives have our best interest when it comes to inner city crimes that involve somebody who can afford to pay them off. Yes I do agree that Frank Lucas may now himself be a celebrity due to this movie, but not a hero in anyones eyes. Law going citizens won't like him because of who he is and criminals won't Idolize him either because he became a snitch. Either way like I said before this movie does nothing more than tell a great story about a cop chasing down drug lords in the New York City area.

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wasiu lagos nigeria — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:34:04 GMT

just seen the movie. As a nigerian living in Lagos Nigeria i was tempted to believe that the society glorifies crimmanality until i further inquired into the present life of frank lucas.
For me i believe the lesson in the end is crimminality does not pay. However when values are eroded and society respects materialism it becomes inevitable.

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Louie, WI — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:17:03 GMT

Great movie! Superb acting by Denzel & Crowe. I agree look at the GOVERNMENT! Crooked cops, there is no end in sight for how corrupt things are.

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paris davis charlotte nc — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 17:29:08 GMT

this is the realest movie made i luv denzel washington in the movie and frank lucas was the realest gangsta

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

jacob gerrish, spring hill florida — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 04:45:18 GMT

you know what all you people who dissagree piss off. he did a good thing he took care of his family you gotta see where he came from what he went threw. i like him if i could i would be him. he makes you upsey because your jealous. you wanna be him but you dont have what it takes.besides are law system is more corupt then him he is a civilian..they are supposed to serve and protect us and instead they take pay offs yeah why to go lol. he is the man no matter what he loved his wife and mother more then anything. he took care of them and listened.. even got his family out of there poor life.

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John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 23:02:03 GMT

The hero is the honest cop that took 3/4 of the police headquarters straight to jail.

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Dylan Valentine Sidney Ohio — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 14:39:59 GMT

This man was a hero to some, but for the most part he was a murderer.

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Reu Bassille — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 21:49:14 GMT

It's amzing how time flies and changes. One day you're on top dominating and feared, the next day your old and weak. I actually can slap him like a bitch right now but honestly if I would have been in Harlem back in the days and knew about his game, I would have stayed as far away from him as possible but then thinking about that period in time, where is safe? Well, just a thought. Have a good day and and stay in school out of trouble kids.

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Leslie, vancouver canada — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 22:58:45 GMT

I saw the move too and I love it. I looked at the story the actors. Yes he was not a nice person but as some of said he FRANCHISED on his product-a business man. Whether black, white, native ,red or green it was a movie not to disgrace anybodies race.No one is happy of any portrail of the nationality get over it it that why pople are racist we are ALL one!!!!

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jerry crabb jackson tn — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 19:49:01 GMT

one pathetic human being.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

SD, Kinston, North Carolina — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 20:37:00 GMT

I saw the movie, read articles about Mr. Frank Lucas read interviews before the movie came out know people that know him. He was a bad man but being from the south and seeing what he saw at a young age makes you bitter for a long time that is PTSD(post trumatic stress syndrom) the same thing a soldier endures during war, but he constantly see images of his 9 year old cousin with a shotgun in his mouth and his brains blew away, by the KKK and no one went to jail for it. A lot of people have made a lot of money with the sell of drugs from you politicians to rappers, and some CEO, and world leaders, but the little man is the one that is hurt by their use. As an American we are quick to point fingers, think about Robert Kennedy's son overdosed on drugs, Rich and spoiled, President Bush did Coke, the family had some involvement with the drug trade as well, just check history, a lot of crime goes unnotices because people will not get involved our law protect the criminals a lot better than the whistle blower. In most cases that make him out to be the criminal. The laws need to be revamped to be fair and the government should be govern fairly, and parents should learn to parent don't let the childern get away with anything that will harm them and you later on if you don't know right from wrong how will you child know.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Rebel w/ a Cause, Fredericksburg, Virgina — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 20:59:12 GMT

What isnt promoted is the Genius of a criminal mind. The business techniques, a lot never used before, are simply that persons easiest way of survival. Its genetics. The question is not why are we showing these horrible poeple to children, its why that we dont explain WHY. the most influential people ive ever met had parents that didnt beat aroudn the bush.. what people need to understand is that with kids, like each of us, as soon as someone lies to us the bond of trust is broken. Why build a relationship on hiding the truth?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Melissa Johnston, Laguna Beach, CA — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 21:12:12 GMT

Lucky Frank he got to wake up and have breakfast that morning. He made sure many others did not. Whether you commit the murder or not...if you order it, or watch it happen you are just as dispicable.

Shame on you for writing about this piece of garbage! He should be in prison at the very least and I am sure he knows it and is laughing as people put the shine on him. Laughing all the way to the bank. Disgusting.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

LIz Adams — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 02:35:05 GMT

That right, steal a whole nation of people,take away their names,culture, religion and and then complain about what they become, Sorry America ! We did not ask to come here remember ? Where did we learn to kill, steal and destroy???????????????????

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Anonymous, South Carolina — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 04:29:06 GMT

I believe that this movie was excellent, Im not saying that we should put this man on a pedestal because he was so influential in the drug world but I for one know that you can't blame the man for the lives that were ruined. Only you have the power to control yourself! Frank Lucas did not force people to do drugs people chose to do drugs therefore I dont see anything wrong with a black man trying to make his way anyway he can! If our school systems of inner cities were better then maybe the black man's "American Dream" wouldn't be to sell drugs and make alot of money but to have a ligitimate job and suceed. But someone is always trying to keep the black man down so props to Frank Lucas for trying to live a dream!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Eli Fraser UK — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 14:47:11 GMT

I haven't yet seen the movie, but I assume it will be the hollywood version. I have seen many movies made about bad guys. I have never thought of them as being glamorous.It is up to the individual what he/she makes of it. An intelligent person will see, not the glamour, but the misery such people cause. Only a neanderthal will think it cool.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Daniel Johnson, Regina, Sask. Canada — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 18:48:38 GMT

The teary eyed tale of the overdosed addict changed his mind? B.S. Vodka and beer executives hear those all the time and don't even blink. It's very typical for people at the bottom levels of the drug trade to get long sentences while the worst of the worst, the top level gangsters, get off easy because they're rich and powerful people and so they are friends with with powerful people. They pretend not to have been friends before, but this is very very common. Every single aspect of the drug war, and everyone who supports it, is sick and corrupt.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

KRYSTAL JONESBORO LOUISIANA — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 06:13:13 GMT

I am a 27 year old black woman from the south. American Gangsta was a damn good movie. I don't agree with drugs any shape, form, or fashion. However I wonder if any of the people that have said all these crittcal things have ever been POOR and work your fingers to the bones trying to build a better life for you and your family and can't because this racist ass country don't want to give you the same opportunity as white Americans. While I don't agree with everything Mr.Lucas did he did what he had to do to make a better life for his self and his family and I commend him for that and I am glad that God allowed him the opportunity to get right with God he doesn't owe America an explanation as long as he got his self right with God he can live in peace

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Jay Rawles Jr., Marietta, GA — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 17:53:52 GMT

I wish people would stop thinking that movies are just glorifing ones past. It's not glorifing a persons past. It is telling what went on in some neighborhoods and lives of others. This is the only way that some people will ever know. It's hard to know what goes on in other places when you're sitting in your cozy homes thinking everything everywhere else is the same. Stop bashing people for their past and be thankful that they were caught doing bad and in their time in prison they seemed to change their lives. It is a good thing that they don't mind telling their stories. I had a uncle who was strung out on drugs and he didn't mind telling people what it did to him and how it messed up his life because he wanted people to see what he had before and what he was left with after. All in the hopes that people won't make the same mistake. People on the blog are talking about what a bad thing Mr. Lucas did, but no one is mentioning the movies that were made about the Al Capones, Lucky Lucianos, Meyer Lanskys, Carlo Gambinos, John Gottis, or even the Tony Sopranos. Which HBO is still running season after season. Let's be fair Frank Lucas or the others didn't put a gun to anyones head and make them use drugs. The choice was theirs to make. The addiction is what made these men MILLIONAIRES...

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Toya Williams, Nashville, TN — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 21:39:50 GMT

Honestly i can't be mad at the brother because he did what he had to do in order to take care of his family but during the time he was doing this, america would not recognize him as an intelligent man because he was black and as we all know blacks are considered lazy and stupid. He manipulated the drug business and basically became the top dog in the industy. If he was smart enough to do that and if he was given the chance to do anything else then who knows what he would have done. Hell he probably would have been the first black president or something. So i don't blame Frank Lucas for nothing,I give him props! I blame society for how he had to live his life!

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

s. johnson , Duluth, Ga. — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 15:28:22 GMT

It is amazing how, Denzel is getting so much flack for portaying Frank Lucus in a movie. Remember he is bonifide actor. We "All" love him, as he represents a strong man, strong father, and I believe his wife would agree a beautiful strong husband. What about the God ather and Al Pacino's role as an actor in the movie. Not much to with much- happens when Italians or other nationalities play such roles and make such movies. Yes, Frank Lucus can change is life and become a loving and blessed man. unfortunetly, he was such a confused and lost man when he running scared, and poisioning his own people and community for generations to come. Thanks, to his daughter as she tries to right the wrong her dad was largely responsible for in New York City. May God bless you Frank Lucus.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

C. Vernon. Highland, In. — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 22:11:40 GMT

I just recently bought AG. Good movie. After viewing bonus CD, I came to conclusion that Mr. Lucas' heart has not changed.....just his circumstances. He has no remorse for his behavior..... just hate he got caught. I hope and pray for more people like police officer Richie who won't fall prey to temptation and end this evil of drug trafficking and all its ramifications.... All must be stopped, not just trafficking by non-Caucasians!!!.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Tiffanie, Beaverton, Oregon — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 13:37:23 GMT

Why is everyone so irate about this guy? I completely understand that he did horrible things, but he changed right? He helped the police to ensure that it would be very difficult for others to pick up where he left off. He risked his life to put hundreds of others behind bars. He still lives in fear of retaliation from this. What more will it take for him to make ammends? Nothing will bring back the people lost from what he did, but he tried to make it som no one else died because of what he started....

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

david,tracy f D.B. fla 32114 — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 15:40:22 GMT

the movie shed light on the ills of drugs and corruption comes with it v.i.a. the drugg dealers and murderers or the corrupt police that took part all in the name the almighty dollar.mr. Denzel Washington played an inspirialing role in the making of the movie,but i hope the average person don't think that's the way to go about everyday life

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Josh Lewis , st.cloud MN — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 17:37:31 GMT

frank lucas is my personal idol. He was so smart how he set up his whole operation. If the people are already using it thats there problum hes there to serve them. He was doin what he knew how to do, he was living his life. He is a genious and i hope to meet him one day

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

nunyabiznezzz — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:22:40 GMT

Everyone can bad mouth this guy all they want. But he did something no one has ever done. And no one will probably ever do again! And accumulated more money in a few days than u can in a lifetime. The true american dream.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Corey Cutshall, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:39:51 GMT

He didn't put a gun to anyone's head to force them to inject themselves with heroin. He simply provided a means to an end, one that people wanted and one that people would have found elsewhere anyways. He capitalized on an opportunity so that he could give his loved ones the life he believed they deserved. Anyone who died from his product (not unlike an automobile, weapon, or even alcohol) used it with consent and out knowledge that it was harmful, addictive, and possibly even deadly. Not to mention the fact that he was gracious and giving to many of the people in Harlem that he lived around. Frank Lucas was a businessman who ran his business "the American Way"(not at all unlike McDonalds or WalMart), but just happened to offer a product the ever hypocritical American Government didn't agree with, or is it they couldn't profit from it?

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Sid Jr. — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 05:18:01 GMT

you earn it the easy way, you loose it the easyway. People should take lessons from this. This is reality.
Dont do drugs.

popdoggame@yahoo.com

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Kize, Seattle, Washington — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 22:31:53 GMT

Frank Lucas. Yes, a bad bad man.But not anymore.Ruined thousands of peoples lives, yes. Why do the bad guys live on and on, their kids too?dont know. But why shouldnt this era be learned from again and again? We all forget about the evils that drug abuse than do on a daily basis, the film american gangster does glorify the nastiness of the drug trade but excuse me, YOU HAVE TO if you want to remind the average american citizen what it did to people. Shoot Denzel has seen with own eyes what it was like to watch 116th to the river swarm with dope fiends. No better person than him to do it, and someone has to.

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

chris holder woodland park,CO — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 23:04:31 GMT

franks a good man he did some things though that were horrible. but whats amazing is that he was sentanced to 70 years but got out in 5

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

OLIVIA, detroit Michigan!! — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 23:48:16 GMT

In my eyes frank lucas is not a figure to be hated upon he has paid for his mistakes , learned from them , and moved on !! he is obviously a changed good person her worked with the cops not against them and raised 2 amazing kids from what i have read !! if he can raise a daughter to be the way she is than he has nothing to be ashamed of. sure he sold a product that kills people but maybe the kids who buy it should start making their own decions more carefully and think about what their doing !! Frank lucas is an amazing person and i am so jealouse of any person who has gotten to sit down and talk to him !! I am a teenager and i was not influencesd to do drugs by this movie it just makes me want to stay further away from thenm !! Denzel Washington was the best man for the part no doubt about it !!! he nailed it just as any other part he plays !! I would give anything to meet either of these men !

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

kimmie schafer malibu, california — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 01:09:36 GMT

lovly how half of these comments aren't about the movie or frank lucas himself. but, i believe that this movie is actually a good representation of how drugs influenced our lives so greatly in the late 70's early 60's. this isn't a movie to be heartfelt & loving, regardless of how many people lucas may have killed or his "county boys" may have murdered. this movie shows us the past. & we all know what they say, never foget history because it always repeats itself. do we want to foret about the holocaust or 9.11. didn't think so. history can suck & may be cruel. just like john locke said, we are naturally reasoning & caring, yet we are influenced by the power hungry world around us. a colored man in the 60's 70's had a tough time living at the same status as a white man. lucas was had a natural human state to him & obviously realized that what he did was absolutly terrible. he is proud of his daughter & he turned in many people. just that puts him at a certain risk. frank lucas already put himself on the chopping block when he decided to take over bumpys business. that he chose. & he also chose to turn his life around & vear away from the drug life. we all deserve a second chance. & judging frank lucas on some high pedistal is absolutly contradicting all mankind. i doubt to many people know lucas personally & can sya that he is a terrible man now. the man that persecuted him is now his good friend & godfather to his son. that says a bit right there about how frank lucas now isn't the same fank lucas. change has indeed taken place. :]

Breakfast with the real 'American Gangster'

Kimberly, Akron Ohio — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:32:18 GMT

I just saw this movie for the first time and I would like say that it took me for a ride and a bit scarry because it felt so real. The sad part about it is that it is real and it happening everyday on our streets. Just imagin the master mind behind the empire of business if it was legit. Would Mr Lucus still have been a hated man because of his brillant plan to become a well paid black man at that time. That is something to think about. I don't condone what was done but in reality for a black man it takes a lot of courage and will power to over come what socitey has made for a black man to be. That is why having more black owned business is so important to have so that it gives a lot more blacks and other minority people hope. If you only put you mind to it you can accomplish any thing. As long as it is done the right way. I would like to give hats off to Denzel Washington and Russell Crow for there oustanding performance. I just hope all of our men and women of all walk of life and learn and lesson that has taught me a valuble lesson about the desicions that we make.