The Rewatchables ‘American Gangster’ With Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Van Lathan
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Sep 2, 2025 Dive into the gritty world of 'American Gangster' as the discussion unfolds with reflections on Denzel Washington's impactful legacy. Discover Russell Crowe's career parallels and the film's cultural significance, especially its influence on hip-hop. Hear about production challenges, character dynamics, and the artistry behind its storytelling. From provocative critiques of character portrayals to nostalgic Vegas tales, the hosts weave humor and insightful analysis, celebrating the film's place in cinematic history.
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Movie As Collage Of Classics
- American Gangster feels like a mash-up of classic crime films, offering five movies' worth of beats in one package.
- That density makes it rewarding to rewatch scene-by-scene rather than as a single focused narrative.
Long Rumored, Recast Production
- Chris Ryan and the hosts recall long, rumor-filled production history with directors and casting changes before Ridley Scott made the film.
- That backstory shaped audience expectations and partly explains why the finished film feels like multiple visions stitched together.
Misbalanced Protagonist Focus
- The film's tonal split leans toward Frank Lucas but gives big weight to Richie Roberts because of star-power and story choices.
- More focus on Lucas alone might've produced a tighter biopic with clearer moral orientation.
