Here is the synopsis of our sample research paper on Issues Explored in American Gangster. Have the paper e-mailed to you 24/7/365.
Essay / Research Paper Abstract
This 5 page paper discusses some of the social and cultural issues that arise in the film “American Gangster,” starring Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. Bibliography lists 4 sources.
Page Count:
5 pages (~225 words per page)
File: KV32_HVamgstr.rtf
Buy This Term Paper »
Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
bring him down. This paper explores whether or not the film confronts any significant social issues, whether they are psychological, social, cultural, historical or economic. Discussion Perhaps the most
intriguing thing about this movie is its casting: Denzel Washington plays the gangster, Frank Lucas. This is a great departure for Washington, who is usually cast as the hero of
any film he does. But while Lucas is certainly the protagonist, he is in no sense a hero: hes a drug runner, murderer and ruthless businessman who will do whatever
is necessary to make it to the top of the drug world. What Washington brings to the role is his charisma and charm, which have the effect of making a
lawless killer likeable. This is a troubling issue that doesnt really arise from the plot of the movie, but from the casting of Denzel Washington as the lead. But it
does speak to a vital social problem: the inability most people have to refrain from judging others by their appearance and personality. Denzel Washington brings his charisma, charm and intelligence
to his portrayal of Lucas, making a murderer attractive. Many of the critics have remarked on this: "American Gangster does glamorize the gangster as icon ... you dont cast Denzel
Washington unless youre willing to accept that charisma is often the secret weapon of the successful crook" (Zacherak). The man on the opposite
side of the law, and who is determined to bring Lucas down, is Richie Roberts, played by Russell Crowe. Crowe is a substantial actor, but he is outclassed here, possibly
because we as a society are far more fascinated by "bad guys" than by those who are trying to obey the law. But the film draws parallels between the two,
...