Frank Lucas(Washington) is a self-made drug lord in Harlem, New York in the 1970’s. He surpasses his predecessor and becomes known as an intelligent, tough and suave gangster boss. Building on the business practices of more (legally) viable businesses, he realizes the profitable future in drug trade when cutting out the middle-men. He travels directly to Vietnam and imports high-quality heroine while selling it on the street for half the price.
Quickly, his success lands him in the sights of the newly formed police division sworn to battle in the war on drugs. This elite team of cops is led by Richie Roberts(Crowe), a good cop with a reputation for turning in a million dollars of free money. (more…)