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Preview: American Gangster (2007)


Poster: B-; B-

Review:

Obviously designed to be put next to one another. These posters match identically except for the direction of the character's head and the color of the outfit. While there is some stylishness to the design, I can't help but be concerned about the start contrasts each possess. Certainly this is appropriate to the film, but the black-white-red style that's been rampant in this year's artwork is getting quite tiring.

Trailer: C

Review:

This film looks like every other mafia film that's been made blended with every othe street gangster film ever made. The decision to model the film after these styles isn't surprising considering how the term Gangster is given a dual meaning. However, the film doesn't look as promising as it might have had Denzel Washington not shown us more of his same work in the trailer.

Oscar Prospects:

It is quite possible, with the pedigree attached to the film (Ridley Scott, Washington, Russell Crowe, Brian Grazer), that this will be a huge contender this year. However, with the trailer presenting such an unoriginal glimpse at the genre, I can't help but feel this one could be completely ignored. Scott doesn't have the greatest track record, but could see a directing Oscar if nothing else. The film may get nominated, but hot on the heals of Martin Scorsese's mafia film, I highly doubt it will earn the recognition for which Grazer's hoping.

Release Date:

November 2, 2007

Synopsis Review:

I have not seen this film.

-Wesley Lovell (June 9, 2007) Original
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