
American Gangster
Movie • 2007
There are two sides to the American dream.
Loosely based on the criminal career of Frank Lucas, a gangster from La Grange, North Carolina, who smuggled heroin into the United States on American service planes returning from the Vietnam War, before being detained by a task force led by Newark Detective Richie Roberts.

American Gangster
Movie • 2007
There are two sides to the American dream.
Loosely based on the criminal career of Frank Lucas, a gangster from La Grange, North Carolina, who smuggled heroin into the United States on American service planes returning from the Vietnam War, before being detained by a task force led by Newark Detective Richie Roberts.
Bara says...
Ages 17+, but every child is different
This film features pervasive graphic violence, explicit language, and detailed depictions of drug distribution. The intense adult themes regarding systemic corruption and criminal life require a high level of emotional and social maturity.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
The film features scenes of sexual intimacy, partial nudity, and the depiction of characters visiting brothels. These elements are presented in a gritty, realistic manner consistent with the crime drama genre.
Violence & Gore
The movie contains frequent scenes of realistic and brutal violence, including shootings, executions, and the aftermath of gang-related conflicts. Some scenes feature bloody injuries and high-stakes criminal confrontations.
Profanity
The dialogue is extremely coarse and features near-constant use of strong language. This includes frequent use of 'f*ck' and its derivatives in aggressive and casual contexts, as well as regular use of 'sh*t', 'n*gga', and various other harsh profanities throughout the film.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
Drug distribution and usage are central to the plot, depicting the manufacturing, smuggling, and widespread abuse of heroin. Characters are frequently shown consuming alcohol, smoking cigarettes, and participating in the illegal drug trade.
Frightening Scenes
The film maintains a heavy, tense atmosphere throughout, focusing on the corrupting nature of the drug trade and the constant threat of lethal violence. The realistic portrayal of criminal lifestyle creates a high level of psychological intensity.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This movie is a heavy drama about real-life crime and police investigations; it is meant for mature audiences who can handle intense scenes and complex moral dilemmas.
Content Warnings
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
Expect frequent use of profanity, brutal physical violence, and themes centered on the heroin trade. The film depicts high-stakes investigative work and criminal organizations.
What Kids Can Learn
Viewers can observe the complexity of historical legal systems and the dangers inherent in organized criminal activity.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
It offers a sophisticated, well-acted examination of historical crime and the tension between personal ambition and societal responsibility.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
The narrative emphasizes the inevitable consequences of criminal enterprise and the importance of professional integrity in law enforcement.
Positive Role Models
While the detective character demonstrates dedication to the law, both central figures exhibit significant moral compromises that complicate their status as role models.
Diverse Representations
The film centers on the experiences of Black and immigrant communities in the 1970s, providing nuanced portrayals of power dynamics and systemic barriers.
Educational Value
Provides historical context regarding 1970s urban American life and the geopolitical impact of the Vietnam War on domestic crime.
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