Movie was ok, seem to have bits of Goodfellas, Blow and other Gangster movie and Cop movie clichés.
Maybe there have been too many Gangster movies made, but I think it's more to do with the story.
It just lame and then the ending is too quick.
Russell Crowe was good as was Josh Brolin, but Denzel Washington played the Gangster as tho he was a saint,
Although in real life he wasn't, he was a very nasty piece of work.
The whole True Story thing wasn't true either .Anyway Disappointed, not recommended.
Instead watch Goodfells, Godfather, Casino, The untouchables, Donnie Brasco, Scarface, Blow, Carlitos Way,

this is a 'ridley scott' film, that alone probably gives you a hint of it's pedigree.
i'm not going to go into great detail of the films plot, it may spoil this 'fact based' ( true story ) set in 'harlem' late sixties, early seventies.
the film contains- 'corruption' 'betrayel' 'drug abuse' 'ruthless violence' 'gang rivalry' and it also has a 'heart'
'russell crowe' plays an 'honest' cop 'ritchie robert's' who struggles throughout to identify the 'main man'
'denzel washington' plays 'frank lucas' a major player in the
'drug' scene based in 'harlem'
i believe this to be the best role i've seen 'denzel washington' play for some time.
the fact is both men are 'giants' in the roles played.
this is a powerfull drama, that a few years down the line could well be seen as a classic.
if you like 'gangster' like movies, the film is without question a ....must buy.

This movie compelled me to write a review, this really was a stunning piece of work, unlike anything we have seen on our screens in recent years. This film is an intelligent masterpiece that like its predecessors "scarface, Godfather" will retain its greatness well into the future. If your looking for a mindless shootem up, with glorified gangsters, this isnt a film for you. It takes a look into the psycological profile of a rising ganglord, filled with intense scenes, incredible acting, brilliant directing, and a great soundtrack.